Summary:
The first 2 yard blowers I owned made it to the junk heap after just a couple years of use. The 3rd yard blower was a Stihl, that was 4 years ago and still start on the third crank EVERY time!!!

Strengths:
Dependable!!! What more do you need?

Weaknesses:
None that I'm aware of.

Summary:
I think it is fine when you get it running but a POS since it costs an extra $75 each year to get running the first time.

Strengths:
Once you get it started it works great. Easy to start after you take it to the shop once a year.

Weaknesses:
If you let the thing sit even without fuel in it for a couple of months good luck in getting it to start.

Summary:
Used for 3 years

Strengths:
Fantastic!!!! You just have to know how to start it. Choke on, throtle on full & pull until you get a slight engine sputter. Turn off choke, pull a few more times & there you go.

Weaknesses:
None

Summary:
A durable blower that can still get the job done

Strengths:
The landscape company I work for has Stihl BR400's still in service from the early 90's they are extremely durable and easy to work on. These blowers get tossed in and out of trucks and are just plain tough!

Weaknesses:
If you start them properly there is no problem you must set the throttle to atleast half open when cold and flip the choke off after it pops then another pull or two it's running. The BR 400/420's havr been surpassed in volume and velocity by newer designs.