which strimmer/hedge trimmer petrol multi tool?

[Muzz]

Need to get an articulating long reach hedge trimmer, as i will only need to use this twice a year i want to get one that doubles as a strimmer.
(will be cutting a beech hedge right now but in the future will also include privet and leylandii)

obviously something from Stihl would be great but that will come in near £650

i could get somthing from Ryobi for about £200 but no idea on he quality/durability.

have also priced up a similar setup from Efco for £375 or Shindaiwa for £500

i know nothing about Efco, Echo, Shindaiwa and some of the other makes so can't decide and not really sure how much I need to spend?

 

[Burnerman]

The Ryobi expand it range will suit you just fine, but go for the larger engine if you can. If you go for the touch start one, the battery has to be charged manually so thats a bit of a waste - they start well anyway.
Stihl and Husqvarna are undoubtedly the best but as you say, you do pay for it.
Echo and Efco are ok too - apart from the spare parts supply situation which is hopeless.
John