Designed for occasional domestic use, this powerful vacuum-shredder from Stihl quickly and efficiently picks-up large quantities of leaves, hedge-clippings and grass-cuttings, before reducing them to around a tenth of their original volume (the resulting mulch has the perfect consistency for rapid composting).

It’s fitted with a 1hp (27.2cc) stratified-charge two-stroke engine, which offers vastly improved fuel-economy and reduced emissions when set against standard two-stroke power-units.

The employment of Stihl’s ErgoStart recoil ignition-system means that only a gentle, two-fingered pull is needed to get the engine going; while the incorporation of a manual fuel-pump works to eliminate starting headaches after periods of downtime.

The Stihl SH 56-CE Vacuum Shredder comes equipped with a shoulder-strap and weighs-in at only 5.2kg; a combination that will enable you to complete the task in comfort. All the main controls are grouped on the handle for ease-of-use.

Optional accessories include a blower conversion kit; a 3m long gutter-cleaning kit; and a dust-reducing vac-bag for use in dry, dust-laden conditions.