A new Stihl HS 45 gas hedge trimmer typically costs about $230-$300 before tax, with the 18-inch and 24-inch versions priced differently by dealer and location. The total budget can rise with fuel, maintenance, delivery, or a repair, while used units may cost substantially less depending on condition.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New HS 45, 18-inch | $230 | $250 | $280 | Typical pre-tax dealer price |
| New HS 45, 24-inch | $240 | $265 | $300 | Longer blade may carry a higher price |
| Used HS 45 | $80 | $140 | $200 | Price depends on age and running condition |
| First-year operating supplies | $15 | $35 | $65 | Fuel mix, chain or blade lubricant where specified, and basic care items |
What a new Stihl HS 45 costs by blade length
Most buyers can budget $230-$300 before sales tax for a new HS 45. The lower end generally reflects an 18-inch model or a dealer price near the lower end of the market. The 24-inch version may cost more, though local inventory and dealer pricing can narrow or reverse the gap.
The HS 45 is a homeowner-oriented, gas-powered hedge trimmer sold through Stihl dealers. Prices are not necessarily uniform across stores, and a dealer may quote a different amount based on location, inventory, or included items. A quote should identify the blade length, whether the unit is new, and any delivery or setup charges.
Assumptions: U.S. retail purchase, new standard HS 45, before sales tax, with no paid delivery or extended service plan. State and local sales tax can add roughly $10-$30 to a purchase in this price range, depending on the local rate.
Compare the complete checkout price rather than relying only on a listed machine price. A dealer quote may include a small amount of setup or advice at no separate charge, while another store may itemize delivery or accessories. Confirm what is included before comparing two offers.
How blade length and dealer service shape the quote
The purchase price is mostly the trimmer itself, but dealer charges and useful supplies can change the amount paid on day one. The table separates typical purchase components from optional expenses; it is not a manufacturer price list, and dealers may combine some charges.
| Cost component | Low | Typical | High | What changes the amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS 45 machine | $230 | $250-$270 | $300 | Blade length, dealer, and local stock |
| Setup or delivery | $0 | $0-$20 | $40 | Store policy and delivery distance |
| Fuel and mix supplies | $10 | $20-$35 | $50 | Fuel quantity and storage needs |
| Protective equipment | $0 | $20-$45 | $80 | Whether the buyer already owns eye, ear, and hand protection |
| Sales tax | $0 | $15-$25 | $30 | Taxable total and local tax rate |
For a machine listed at $250, a buyer might pay about $285-$320 after fuel supplies, basic protective gear, and tax. Someone who already has safe equipment and fuel-mixing supplies could stay closer to the taxed machine price.
Dealer service can matter even when it does not appear as a separate line item. Ask whether the quote includes assembly, a basic operating walkthrough, or any initial inspection. Labor estimate: 0.25-0.75 hour × $75-$125 per hour = about $19-$94 if a shop separately bills setup or inspection. These are general small-engine shop rates, not a required HS 45 purchase fee.
Why 18-inch blades, 24-inch blades, and hedge size matter
Blade length is the clearest model choice reflected in the price. An 18-inch blade typically suits routine trimming of smaller shrubs and tighter areas; the 24-inch blade reaches farther across longer hedges and may reduce repositioning. The actual price difference is dealer-specific, so compare both versions at the same store when possible.
Hedge dimensions also affect whether the HS 45 is an economical fit. A homeowner trimming a few short hedges may not benefit from paying extra for a longer blade. Conversely, repeated work on hedges 6 feet or taller can make reach and handling more important than a small initial price difference.
Growth thickness is another practical constraint. A hedge trimmer is designed for trimming, not for cutting large woody branches. If stems are consistently thicker than roughly 3/4 inch, check the tool’s operating instructions and cutting capacity rather than assuming the longer blade will handle them. A separate lopper or pruning saw may be needed, adding approximately $20-$80 depending on quality.
Type and condition matter as much as nominal model price in the used market. A lightly used trimmer with a clean start, smooth idle, intact blade, and documented maintenance may justify a premium over a machine that needs sharpening or engine work. Before buying used, test a cold start and inspect the blade, guards, and throttle controls.
How much do HS 45 repairs and routine upkeep add?
Operating costs are modest for occasional homeowner use, but gas equipment needs care even when used infrequently. Follow the owner’s manual for the specified fuel mixture, storage procedure, air-filter service, and blade maintenance. Using the wrong fuel or leaving old fuel in the unit can create repair costs that overwhelm a small purchase-price saving.
Common small-engine service prices vary by shop and region. A basic inspection or tune-up may run about $60-$120, while a carburetor cleaning or adjustment can fall around $75-$150. Blade sharpening is often approximately $20-$50; blade replacement or significant engine repairs can cost more and should be quoted before work starts.
Assumptions: Independent repair shop, ordinary access, and no major engine failure. Ask whether a diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair. If a used unit needs a $100 tune-up plus a $140 purchase price, its $240 pre-tax total is already close to a new entry-price unit.
For light seasonal use, routine supplies may total roughly $15-$45 per year, excluding repairs and fuel consumed during operation. Heavier trimming, poor storage, and neglected blade cleaning can increase upkeep. Keep receipts and ask the selling dealer what warranty coverage applies to the specific new unit and its intended use.
What three HS 45 purchase budgets look like
These examples show how blade choice, tax, and condition change a realistic checkout total. Local taxes, dealer pricing, and included supplies differ, so the figures are planning estimates rather than guaranteed quotes.
| Buying scenario | Machine price | Other costs | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-inch new unit, supplies already owned | $240 | $0-$20 tax-related estimate plus local variation | $250-$265 |
| 24-inch new unit, new basic supplies | $270 | $35-$80 fuel, protection, and tax | $305-$350 |
| Used unit, inspected and lightly serviced | $125 | $25-$90 inspection, supplies, and tax | $150-$215 |
In the used example, a pre-purchase shop inspection could add around $25-$60, but it may reveal a failing engine or damaged cutting assembly before payment. Ask the seller to demonstrate the trimmer starting both cold and warm, and verify that it accelerates and cuts without unusual vibration.
Where U.S. dealer prices run higher or lower
Regional differences are usually less dramatic than they are for large equipment, but labor, freight, taxes, and dealer competition still affect the final HS 45 price. A reasonable planning allowance is about 5%-10% below the national middle in a competitive market with several dealers, and 5%-15% above it in a higher-cost metro or an area with limited stock.
For example, a $250 base price could land around $225-$238 in a lower-priced market or $263-$288 in a higher-priced one, before tax. These are comparison estimates, not fixed regional price schedules. Rural buyers may find fewer nearby dealers or pay delivery costs, while a dense urban area may have more sellers but higher operating overhead.
Sales tax is separate from regional price variation. A $270 trimmer taxed at 6%-10% adds about $16-$27. Check whether a quoted total includes tax, accessories, or delivery, and compare like-for-like blade lengths and new-condition machines.
Can a used HS 45 beat the price of a new trimmer?
Used HS 45 units commonly list around $80-$200, with roughly $120-$160 a more useful target for a running, reasonably maintained machine. Prices below $100 may signal an older unit, cosmetic damage, or a repair need; a clean machine with a demonstrated start and recent service may approach $180-$200.
Compared with a new unit at about $230-$300, a used trimmer saves money only if it does not need immediate work. Budget another $25-$60 for a mechanic’s inspection and potentially $20-$50 for blade sharpening. A worn starter, fuel-system trouble, or damaged cutting parts can make the apparent bargain more expensive than buying new.
Battery-powered hedge trimmers are another comparison. A basic tool-only model may cost roughly $100-$250, while a kit with battery and charger can run about $180-$450, depending on battery capacity and brand. Buyers who already own compatible batteries may spend less than the HS 45 price; buyers starting from scratch should compare the full kit price and expected runtime.
Use a simple break-even check: purchase price plus inspection and likely repairs should remain clearly below the cost of a comparable new unit. Ask for the model label and a receipt if available, and do not value an untested machine as if it were ready to work.
Which HS 45 price cuts are worth taking?
Choose blade length based on the actual hedge rather than paying for reach that will rarely be used. Ask local dealers for an out-the-door price on both versions, including tax and delivery, and compare the same model condition and accessories. A difference of $10-$20 may not justify a longer blade if the smaller version fits the job.
Buying at a quieter time may improve availability or help a dealer offer a small discount, but seasonal promotions are not guaranteed. Check local stock before traveling, and ask whether a displayed price requires a bundle or promotion. Avoid buying unnecessary accessories just to qualify for a discount if their cost exceeds the savings.
Reduce setup expenses by collecting the unit from the dealer when practical and using protective equipment already owned, provided it is suitable and in good condition. Do not skip eye and hearing protection to save money. For a used purchase, test the machine and get a repair estimate before agreeing on price rather than discovering faults after the sale.
Compare repair with replacement when a current HS 45 develops a problem. A $60-$100 straightforward service may be reasonable, while a $150-$250 repair on an older machine should be weighed against the purchase price of a new unit and any warranty terms. The best savings come from comparing the total ready-to-use cost, not just the lowest advertised number.