Take a Look at the BR380 Stihl Backpack Blower

This is a really powerful tool. It has the same engine as the 420 model, which is a capacious 56.5 cc engine. It gives out more than three and half horsepower and this is put to good use in creating a blower air velocity of 181 miles per hour with a volume of air blown of 465 cubic feet per minute. These measurements are made at the end of the tube which means that this is certainly what hits the leaves when you aim the machine at them. The major difference between this machine and the 420 is that it has a smaller tube diameter. This has the result of making a quicker air velocity.

This quicker air velocity means that it can break up lumps of leaves and then the 465 CFM keeps them moving. It doesn't matter if the leaves are wet or dry this machine moves them all the same. As well as leaves this tool is perfect for blowing grass cuttings. It can easily shift large piles of fresh grass cuttings even if they are damp.

It is a very high quality tool which should last a long time. The two stroke engine is made with dual piston rings, chrome lined cylinder bore and a forged crank shaft. These all help to provide it with a long service life. It is also made to be simply and quickly serviced.

The machine has a translucent fuel tank so that the amount can easily be viewed. The tank holds 1 1/2 liters of fuel. This is made up to the usual fifty to one gas to oil mixture ratio for 2 stroke engines. A full tank will give approximately 90 minutes of work time, even if the engine is run at full throttle. Compared with other smaller engine models it could be considered as being a bit of a gas guzzler. Even so the engine has reduced emissions compared to earlier versions.

The BR380 Stihl backpack blower is reasonably easy to start. When cold it can take four to 5 pulls and when warm one to 2 pulls. There is no primer for the fuel and this may explain the extra pulls needed. Once going it runs very smoothly and accelerates rapidly without delay, even when cold. despite its ability it is reasonably quiet producing a noise level of 73db. You can buy a vacuum kit and a spray conversion kit to make this machine even more useful.

As far as ergonomics are concerned the straps and back pad are very comfortable and it is easy enough to put on. The blower weighs just a little more than 20lb which means that it can get to feel a little heavy after you have used it for a while. The easy grip throttle is trigger operated and is located on a handle attached to the down tube for easy access. There is also an on/off switch and cruise control which means that you can set the throttle you want to use and don't have to maintain the trigger held all of the time. There is a built in top carry handle and tool holder. It can be a little difficult to use in restricted spaces. However in wide open areas it is very easy to use and very powerful.

If you are searching for a professional, powerful, comfortable and easy to operate backpack leaf blower that provides you with the most blow for your buck then this could be the one for you. It easily copes with grass cuttings and light to moderate leaf blowing and is produced using quality parts which give it a long service life. Yes, you really need to feel the force of this one!


A leaf blower is for working and not resting in the corner of your garage broken or useless. Making the right choice is therefore important. For full details on leaf blower choices and the ratings that are important you should take a look at TJS Vincent's web site. You should then be able to choose your leaf blower with confidence STIHL backpack Blower