A well-maintained outdoor space is essential in today’s fast-paced world, and one tool that has transformed the way we care for our yards and gardens is the leaf blower. As interest in quality leaf blowers increases, many consumers are seeking leaf blowers made in USA to support local businesses and enjoy the benefits of homegrown craftsmanship.
This article will guide you through the world of American-made leaf blowers, highlighting their distinctive features, the companies behind their production, and the advantages of choosing a domestically manufactured option.
So without further ado, let’s explore the finest leaf blowers made in the USA and pave the way for a cleaner, greener future.
Quick Answer: The two brands that sell USA-made leaf blowers are Stihl and MacKissic.
List of American-Made Leaf Blower Brands
Stihl Leaf Blower
STIHL is a renowned German manufacturer of power tools, primarily known for its chainsaws, trimmers, and leaf blowers. The company was founded in 1926 by Andreas Stihl, an engineer who aimed to develop innovative forestry tools that would ease the labor-intensive process of logging and cutting trees.
In 1927, Andreas Stihl introduced his first electric chainsaw, and the company quickly gained a reputation for quality and innovation.
Over the years, STIHL expanded its product range, manufacturing not only chainsaws but also other power tools like trimmers, edgers, and leaf blowers. The company continued to grow, and in the 1970s, it established its first international manufacturing facility in Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA.
Even though, STIHL has manufacturing facilities in various countries, including the UK, the United States, China, Japan, etc. STIHL leaf blowers that are sold in the USA are made in the USA.
MacKissic Leaf Blower
MacKissic is an American manufacturer of outdoor power equipment, specializing in the design and production of a wide range of products such as chippers, shredders, stump cutters, leaf blowers, and other lawn and garden tools. The company was founded in 1947 by Elton MacKissic in Parker Ford, Pennsylvania.
The brand is known for its commitment to building durable, reliable, and powerful machines that are made in the USA.
MacKissic offers a range of leaf blowers, their most popular models are the Mighty Mac LB800 and LB1450ICEZ. The Mighty Mac LB800 is a walk-behind leaf blower with a powerful 205 Engine CC and an MPH of 160, making it perfect for tackling large areas of leaves and debris. The LB1450ICEZ is a slightly heavier walk-behind leaf blower with an engine cc of 305 and an MPH of 200.
Here is a list of leaf blower brands that are often mistaken to be made in the USA.
While Stihl and MacKissic are excellent examples of American-made leaf blower brands, there are others that are often mistakenly believed to be manufactured in the United States. Some of these brands include Cub Cadet, Billy Goat, and CAT (Caterpillar Inc). Let’s take a look at each of them.
Billy Goat
Billy Goat is a renowned American manufacturer of specialty turf and outdoor cleaning equipment, including leaf blowers, lawn vacuums, and other outdoor maintenance machinery.
The company was founded in 1967 by Bill “Billy Goat” Coates in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. He started the business with the aim of providing better solutions for landscape maintenance and turf care. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing lawn aerators and sod cutters. Over the years, Billy Goat expanded its product line to include a wide range of outdoor power equipment.
Even though the company has plants in Missouri, Georgia, and Alabama, according to my research, their leaf blowers are just assembled in the USA with parts sourced from different countries where the company has manufacturing facilities like China, etc.
Cub Cadet
Cub Cadet is an American company that specializes in producing outdoor power equipment for both residential and commercial use. Its product line includes lawn tractors, zero-turn mowers, utility vehicles, and various yard and garden equipment such as leaf blowers.
Cub Cadet was founded in 1960 as a brand under International Harvester (IH), an American agricultural machinery manufacturer. The company started with the introduction of the first Cub Cadet garden tractor, which was designed to cater to the burgeoning suburban market.
The Company offers a wide range of products, including lawnmowers, tractors, snow throwers, utility vehicles, and yard and garden equipment. The company’s leaf blowers are particularly popular for their performance, durability, and ease of use.
While Cub Cadet is an American company, and many of its products are designed and engineered in the United States, its leaf blowers are not entirely manufactured in the USA. The components of the leaf blower are made in Asian countries, and only the assembly is only done here in America.
CAT (Catterpillar Inc)
Caterpillar Inc., commonly known asCAT, is an American multinational corporation that designs, manufactures, markets, and sells heavy machinery, engines, and financial services. The company was founded in 1925 as a result of the merger between the Holt Manufacturing Company, led by Benjamin Holt, and the C. L. Best Gas Traction Company, founded by Clarence Leo Best.
Caterpillar is best known for its heavy equipment, such as excavators, dozers, and loaders, it also offers a wide range of products such as leaf blowers. However, it is important to note that CAT collaborates with Chinese corporation Positec, for producing their leaf blower range. With operations in Suzhou, China, and Charlotte, North Carolina, it is likely that these blowers are not entirely manufactured in the United States of America.
How to choose a leaf blower?
Choosing the right leaf blower can make the task of clearing your yard of leaves and debris much easier and more efficient. With various types, features, and power sources available, here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision when selecting a leaf blower:
- Consider Your Yard Size: The size of your yard and the amount of debris you need to handle should influence your choice. For smaller yards with light debris, a cordless electric or handheld gas blower may suffice. Larger yards with heavy leaf cover might require a backpack gas blower or a powerful corded electric blower.
- Power Source: Leaf blowers come in three main power sources: gas, corded electric, and cordless electric (battery-powered). Gas blowers provide maximum power but emit emissions and can be noisy. Corded electric models are eco-friendly and powerful but have a limited range. Cordless electric blowers are convenient, quiet, and environmentally friendly, but their runtime is limited by the battery capacity.
- Airflow and MPH: Pay attention to the airflow volume (in cubic feet per minute, CFM) and airspeed (in miles per hour, MPH). A higher CFM and MPH typically mean better blowing capability. Consider these factors in relation to your specific needs.
- Ergonomics and Weight: Choose a leaf blower that is comfortable to handle. Look for models with ergonomic handles, adjustable straps, and a balanced design to reduce fatigue during extended use.
- Noise Level: If noise is a concern in your neighborhood, opt for a quieter electric blower. Gas blowers tend to be louder, so consider this when making your choice.
- Variable Speed and Nozzle Options: Leaf blowers with variable speed settings and adjustable nozzles offer more control. You can adjust the power according to the task, making them versatile tools.
- Maintenance and Durability: Check the maintenance requirements of the leaf blower. Gas models typically require more maintenance than electric ones. Look for models with durable components and easy access for cleaning and maintenance.
- Brand Reputation and Warranty: Choose reputable brands with a history of quality and reliability. Check for a warranty that covers potential issues.
- Budget: Set a budget before shopping. Leaf blowers come in a wide price range, and it’s essential to find one that meets your needs without overstretching your budget.
- Environmental Considerations: If you’re environmentally conscious, consider electric models, which are cleaner and more sustainable than gas-powered alternatives.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right leaf blower for your specific needs and make yard maintenance a breeze. Whether it’s a small electric blower for light debris or a powerful gas model for heavy-duty tasks, the right leaf blower can save you time and effort while keeping your yard looking clean and tidy.
Conclusion
So that’s it for today’s blog on leaf blowers made in the USA.
In a nutshell, leaf blowers made in the USA are becoming increasingly popular among consumers who want to support local businesses and enjoy the benefits of homegrown craftsmanship. While Stihl and MacKissic are two American-made leaf blower brands, leaf blowers from other brands like Billy Goat, Cub Cadet, and CAT are often mistakenly believed to be manufactured in the USA.
