Recently used a beat up old 430 that had been commercially used for many years… I was pretty surprised how well it did for a smaller model. The 450 is the same engine and platform with a larger blower and housing… I recently picked up 2 450s that need the engines rebuilt. The specs on the 450 are remarkably close to the br600, which I already own. The appeal of the 450 vs the 600 is that it’s a traditional 2 stroke engine vs the 600 being a new design Stihl 4-mix… great design, but more moving parts that can fail over time… I will compare my 600, 450s and my echo Pb403t when the 450s are repaired and decide which ones to sell. All to say, the 430/450 platform is no joke, they get it done well and for many years of service. Stood the test of time for commercial use and abuse👍
You are so correct! I wanted to grab a br800 but with the four mix system nar they are no good really over time if you have lots of money and willing to buy them new regularly well fine. Other than that stick with the 450s for longevity a bit less powerful but a better engine long term.
I just came home from Northern Tools and I bought the 430..it looks like it blows those leafs pretty good.....my first Gas Powered blower so probably next time I'll get the bigger one..I also bought a Ego battery powered backpack blower and that thing is powerful
Thanks for the video. I sold a BR450 for the BR800 almost a year ago and was initially somewhat surprised the 800 wasn't much more powerful but it was there. 10 months on and my lower back gas been killing me for months now so considering going back to a 450. I do like the 800 but the additional bulk is just really tough on my frame using it every day for work. I think it's the straps being higher on the 800 and the motor hanging much further out the back just kills me. The hip strap did more harm than good for me
430 is great for those who like true 2 stroke not a 4 mix. It has narrow tip great for gutter cleaning and definitely cleaning up after edging sidewalk or driveway. But for leaf season we go all 800x and fradan walkbehinds and leaf plow when piles become a wall.