HSE 52
English
5
WARNING
Always release the trigger switch and 
front handle switch lever, disconnect the 
unit from the power supply and fit the 
scabbard over the cutter blades before 
transporting the power tool over long 
distances. When transporting it in a 
vehicle, properly secure it to prevent 
turnover and damage to the unit.
Preparation for Use
WARNING
Never use a power tool that is damaged 
or not properly maintained.
WARNING
Before connecting the hedge trimmer to 
the power supply, always check it for 
proper condition and operation, 
including the trigger switch, front handle 
switch lever, cutting blades with integral 
blade guard and hand guard. The trigger 
switch and front handle switch must both 
move freely and always spring back to 
the off position. Never attempt to tamper 
with the switches or to modify the other 
controls or safety devices.
WARNING
Inspect the power supply cord, plug and 
extension cord before and after each 
use for signs of damage or aging.
WARNING
WARNING
Your hedge trimmer is equipped with a 
mechanical sprocket brake designed to 
bring the cutting blades immediately to a 
stop when one or both switches are 
released. To reduce the risk of cut 
injuries, do not operate your hedge 
trimmer if the cutting blades do not stop 
immediately. Have your unit repaired by 
a servicing STIHL dealer.
WARNING
Keep the handles clean and dry at all 
times; it is particularly important to keep 
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease 
or resin in order for you to maintain a firm 
grip and properly control your power 
tool.
WARNING
The cutting tool must be properly 
tightened and in safe operating 
condition. Inspect for loose parts (nuts, 
screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent, 
warped or damaged blades. Regularly 
check the condition and tightness of the 
cutting blades – with the hedge trimmer 
disconnected from the power supply! 
Replace damaged cutting blades before 
using the power tool again. Always keep 
blades sharp.
STIHL recommends that you always 
spray the cutting blades with STIHL 
resin solvent before connecting the 
hedge trimmer to the power supply! You 
can obtain this protective spray from 
your dealer. Apply generously.
During Operation
Dual Switch System
Your hedge trimmer is equipped with a 
dual switch system for two-handed 
operation. It has a trigger switch on the 
rear handle as well as a front handle 
switch lever. It is designed so that the 
cutting blades will only engage if both 
switches are simultaneously in the 
depressed position.
Disconnect plug from the 
power supply immedi
-
ately if the cord is 
damaged or cut. Inspect 
the power supply cord, 
plug, extension cord and 
housing before use and 
periodically during use. In 
order to reduce the risk of 
serious injury from elec
-
trocution, never use your 
hedge trimmer if the 
power supply cord, 
extension cord or plugs 
are cut, cracked, worn or 
damaged or if the hous
-
ing is broken or cracked. 
Disconnect the plug from 
the power supply and 
have a dealer replace a 
damaged power supply 
cord and/or repair a bro
-
ken or cracked housing. 
Immediately replace any 
damaged extension 
cords.