Best Wood Chipper for Small Gardens: Forest Master FM6DD Review

I recently had the chance to try out the Forest Master FM6DD Wood Chipper, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my garden maintenance routine. Priced at approximately $617.50 (or £504.95), this compact and portable wood chipper packs a powerful punch with its robust 6HP engine. Designed for both homeowners and professionals, it promises to make quick work of branches and garden waste up to 50mm in diameter. 

Notable Features and Benefits

One of the standout features of the FM6DD is its 6HP, 208cc 4-Stroke LCT Maxx Series engine. This engine delivers impressive performance directly to the drive shaft, eliminating the need for belts and ensuring maximum efficiency. I found that it started on the first pull most of the time, which is a huge plus when you're eager to get started on your yard work.

The dual reversible blades are another fantastic feature. They not only extend the life of the blades but also provide economic benefits by allowing for extended use without the need for frequent replacements. I was amazed at how effortlessly the chipper devoured everything I threw at it, from thick branches to stubborn brambles.

The compact and portable design is perfect for my small garden. The foldable hopper and chute make it easy to store, and I appreciate how lightweight it is. I can easily maneuver it around my yard without feeling like I’m wrestling with a beast of a machine.

In-depth Analysis and Performance Evaluation

My experience with the Forest Master FM6DD has been overwhelmingly positive. After assembling it (which took me less than an hour), I was eager to put it to the test. I had a pile of prunings from my raspberry bushes, and I was curious to see how well it would handle them. I was pleasantly surprised when it pulled the branches right from my hands with minimal effort. The engine barely changed tone as it chewed through everything, producing perfect chips that I could use for mulch.

I did notice that while it claims to handle branches up to 2 inches, it seemed to prefer slightly smaller ones, around 1.5 inches. However, this didn’t detract from my overall satisfaction. The chipper's ability to handle a variety of materials, including green garden waste, made my life so much easier. I no longer had to make trips to the recycling center, which saved me both time and fuel.

Maintenance is a breeze, too. I only need to check the oil level and the cutting blades, both of which are easily accessible. I appreciate that I can keep it in good working order without spending hours on upkeep.

Recommendation for Buyers

If you’re in the market for a wood chipper, I wholeheartedly recommend the Forest Master FM6DD. It’s perfect for anyone with a small garden or those who need a reliable machine for professional use. The power, efficiency, and ease of use make it worth every penny. Just be sure to keep an eye on the blade clearance and run the engine at full speed for optimal performance, as some users have suggested.

Buyer’s Guide

When considering the Forest Master FM6DD or any wood chipper, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Power and Engine Type: Look for a chipper with a robust engine like the 6HP LCT Maxx Series. This will ensure it can handle tougher materials without bogging down.

2. Blade Quality: Dual reversible blades are a significant advantage. They extend the life of the chipper and reduce the frequency of replacements.

3. Portability: If you have limited storage space, a compact and lightweight design is essential. The FM6DD’s foldable hopper is a great feature for this.

4. Ease of Maintenance: Check how easy it is to access the engine and blades for maintenance. The FM6DD makes this process straightforward, which is a huge plus.

5. Customer Support: Having access to dedicated customer support can make a big difference if you encounter any issues. Forest Master offers UK-based support, which is reassuring.

6. User Reviews: Always read user reviews to get a sense of real-world performance. I found the feedback on this chipper to be overwhelmingly positive, which influenced my decision to purchase it.

Overall, my experience with the Forest Master FM6DD has been nothing short of excellent, and I’m excited to see how it continues to enhance my gardening efforts!

Pros:

1. Powerful Engine: The 6HP, 208cc 4-stroke engine provides strong performance, ensuring efficient chipping without loss of power due to belts.

2. Self-Feeding Feature: Users report that the chipper effectively pulls in branches, making it easy to operate with minimal effort.

3. Compact Design: The foldable hopper and chute make it easy to store in small spaces, ideal for those with limited storage options.

4. Durability: The build quality is robust, with thick steel construction that withstands extensive use, making it suitable for both homeowners and professionals.

5. Easy Maintenance: Access to the drum for maintenance is straightforward, with minimal upkeep required, such as checking oil levels and blade conditions.

6. Good Customer Support: Dedicated UK customer support is available, which is reassuring for users who may need assistance.

7. Versatile Usage: Capable of handling various types of wood, including branches up to 50mm in diameter, making it versatile for different gardening tasks.

8. Quick Start: Many users report that the chipper starts easily, often on the first or second pull, enhancing user experience.

9. Lightweight and Portable: Despite its power, the chipper is manageable to move around, making it convenient for various job sites.

Cons:

1. Assembly Issues: Some users experienced difficulties during assembly, particularly with oil access, requiring additional tools or adjustments.

2. Limited Branch Size Handling: While it claims to handle 2-inch branches, some users found it struggled with anything over 1.5 inches, leading to clogging.

3. Lack of Ergonomic Features: The absence of a handle on the feed hopper makes it challenging to move the chipper around comfortably.

4. Potential for Clogging: Users have reported clogging issues, especially if the feed is not managed properly or if thicker branches are fed too quickly.

5. Packaging Concerns: Some customers received damaged packaging upon delivery, which raised concerns about the product's condition before use.

6. Noise Level: While not excessively loud, the chipper does produce noise, necessitating the use of ear protection during operation.

7. Customer Service Experience: A few users had negative experiences with customer service, particularly regarding issues with defective units and return processes.

8. Oil Dilution Issues: There have been reports of oil dilution due to fuel, which required users to be vigilant about maintenance and checks.

FAQs:

1. What is the maximum branch diameter the FM6DD can handle?

   - The chipper can handle branches up to 50mm (2 inches) in diameter.

2. How easy is it to assemble the Forest Master FM6DD?

   - Most users find assembly straightforward, taking less than an hour, although some have noted minor challenges.

3. Is the chipper portable?

   - Yes, its lightweight and compact design make it easy to move around and store.

4. How often does it require maintenance?

   - Maintenance is minimal; users typically need to check oil levels and blade conditions periodically.

5. Does it come with customer support?

   - Yes, Forest Master offers dedicated UK customer support for assistance and inquiries.

6. Can it handle wet or green wood?

   - Yes, the chipper is designed to handle various types of wood, including green garden waste.

7. What type of fuel does it use?

   - The FM6DD operates on petrol (gasoline), specifically using a 4-stroke engine.

8. Is ear protection necessary while using the chipper?

   - Yes, due to the noise level produced during operation, standard ear defenders are recommended.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Forest Master FM6DD Wood Chipper stands out as an exceptional tool for both avid gardeners and professionals alike. Its powerful 6HP engine, dual reversible blades, and user-friendly design make it a reliable choice for efficiently handling garden waste. While it excels in performance and portability, potential buyers should be mindful of its limitations regarding branch size and assembly intricacies. Overall, if you're seeking a durable and effective wood chipper that simplifies garden maintenance, the FM6DD is undoubtedly worth the investment. With its robust features and positive user feedback, this chipper has the potential to transform your yard work into a more manageable and enjoyable task.