Infographic of FS 38 pointing out the Purge Pump Primer, High-Tech Polymer Housing, Translucent Fuel Tank and Tapaction Autocut Cutting Head

Man starting up FS 38 up in front of home

Woman trimming along fence line with the FS 38

Man standing on lawn in front of house holding the FS 38 trimmer

FS 38 placed on lawn next to STIHL protective gear

Man trimming along fence line using the FS 38

FS 38

Name: FS 38
Brand: STIHL
SKU: fs38
Rating: 3.5328 (1434 reviews)

Ask a Question

Lightweight and reliable, this trimmer is ideal for cost-conscious homeowners.

Features

TapAction™ AUTOCUT® Cutting Head
Loop Handle (R)
Air Filter Cover
Protected Spark Plug

Designed for those seeking a great entry-level string trimmer at a value price, the FS 38 is ideal for homeowners. Weighing just 9.3 pounds, the lightweight design surprises users with a powerful output. Its high cutting speeds and 15" cutting width help complete trimming tasks in a short amount of time. Combined with optimized balance, an ergonomic loop handle, curved shaft, and low vibration, the FS 38 offers exceptional handling and maneuverability around landscaping obstacles.

Note: Not available for purchase or delivery in California.

Cutting Heads & Blades Selection Chart (PDF)

Features
- TapAction™ AUTOCUT® Cutting Head -
  TapAction™ allows users to adjust the line length simply by tapping the cutting head against the ground.
- Loop Handle (R) -
  Loop handle grass trimmers and brushcutters are ideal for trimming between bushes and shrubs and other areas where space is limited.
- Air Filter Cover -
  Easily remove the cover for fast and easy filter cleaning or replacement.
- Protected Spark Plug -
  The spark plug is protected yet easy to change.
- Protected Choke Lever/Knob -
  The choke is protected to help prevent damage.
- High-Tech Polymer Housing -
  Housings are lightweight, withstand greater impact, and are corrosion-resistant.
- Heavy-Duty Steel-On-Steel Clutch -
  Centrifugal clutch is designed to reduce slippage.
- Purge Pump Primer -
  By pressing the bulb, this small fuel pump delivers fuel to the carburetor, reducing the number of starting pulls needed after an extended break between uses.
- Upright Translucent Fuel Tank -
  Easily check the fuel level before starting work. If fuel is needed, the upright position makes the tank easier to fill.
- Fully-Lined Drive Shaft -
  Lining provides smooth operation and low vibration.
- Throttle Trigger Interlock -
  This safety feature must be depressed before the trigger can be activated.

Specifications

Questions And Answers

Reviews

Warnings And Safety
How to Wind a STIHL Trimmer Head - Video
Cutting Heads & Blades Selection Chart (PDF)
Product Instruction Manual (PDF)
Product Safety Manual (PDF)
STIHL Limited Warranty
Contact Us

Note: STIHL recommends use of fuel with no more than 10% Ethanol content. Using fuel with greater than 10% Ethanol content may cause damage to your equipment and may void your STIHL warranty.
WARNING! Improper use of any trimmer/brushcutter can cause serious or fatal injury. Read, understand, and follow all safety instructions in your instruction manual. To reduce the risk of injury from blade contact, circular saw blades may be used on FS brushcutters that have a limitstop, a bicycle handle, and double shoulder harness and not on FS brushcutters with a "J" handle or loop handle. Other rigid blades may be used on FS brushcutters having a bicycle handle, a "J" handle, or a loop handle equipped with a barrier bar. To reduce the risk of eye injury always wear proper eye protection. Always use the appropriate deflector for the type of cutting attachment, as explained in your instruction manual.
WARNING! Improper use of any power tool may cause serious or fatal injury. Read, understand, and follow carefully the operating and safety instructions in your instruction manual before using such products.

STIHL products sold through U.S. STIHL Dealers are for distribution in the United States only.

SERVICE AND TIPS

Operating Instructions

The operating instructions for your STIHL product are available right here 24/7. Please review your instructions carefully and often.

Get Operating Instructions

FAQ

Have a question? We have the answer you need. Browse our most frequently-asked questions and get information right here.

Get Answers In The FAQ

Guides And Projects

Discover projects with step-by-step instructions, find advice and tips related to your product and check out helpful how-tos.

View Guides And Projects

POWER SOURCE	Gas
WEIGHT	9.3 lbs.
CUTTING WIDTH	15 in.
ENGINE POWER	0.87 bhp
FUEL CAPACITY	11.2 oz.
DISPLACEMENT	27.2 cc