The Beaufort scale is a method used for relating wind speed to observable conditions on land and at sea, providing a Beaufort number ranging from 0 to 12 depending on the severity of the weather conditions at hand. A Beaufort number of twelve is required for a storm to count as a hurricane, with wind speeds beginning at 118km/h qualifying for such an epithet. We mention this here only because ECHO’s PB-770, the most powerful backpack mounted leaf blower available in ECHO’s range, is capable of achieving an incredible maximum airflow of up to 1302m³/h at speeds of 91.3m/s, which, for the sake of comparison, translates to roughly 328.6km/h. Thus, even compared to a hurricane, the power of the PB-770 is literally off the scale.

This is, of course, a slightly misleading comparison as leaf blowers and hurricanes are very different things, but nevertheless it should illustrate quite how impressive the power produced by this magnificent machine truly is. This is primarily attributable to the PB-770’s incredible 63.3cc two-stroke petrol engine, which features ECHO’s clever Air Infusion Vortex system. This system improves combustion and thus simultaneously boosts performance, reduces emissions and increases fuel efficiency, thereby offering significantly better results than just about any conventional two-stroke engine. A high capacity 2.02 litre fuel tank, moreover, increases the run time of the PB-770 to save on the time, effort and hassle otherwise spent on refuelling.

With this imposing power behind you you’ll be especially glad of the ergonomic qualities of the PB-770’s sturdy backpack harness. Designed to be durable but lightweight, the harness distributes the weight of the engine and blower evenly and thus prevents strain during prolonged periods of operation. Fitted with adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit, the harness also makes it easier to negotiate rough or uneven ground and so makes even the toughest landscaping work much more manageable. For even greater comfort the PB-770 is also equipped with ECHO’s Super Anti-Vibration system, utilising vibration cancelling spring mountings to help prevent user fatigue. Along with the easy access controls and joystick-style handle mounted on the flexible blower tube, this makes using the PB-770 a genuinely pleasurable experience even when taking on tough clearance jobs.

Built to the highest possible standards, with additional features such as the high quality air filter and a clever ‘Posi-Loc’ system which ensures the secure connection of the blower pipe, the PB-770 is also reassuringly robust and more than capable of withstanding the rigorous demands of daily professional use. To help ensure complete peace of mind, however, ECHO also offers either a five year domestic warranty or a two year commercial warranty as standard with every machine. As such, with the PB-770 you can be totally assured of many years of superbly dependable service and truly exceptional performance.

Undecided on what to buy? Be sure to read our free advice article about choosing the best leaf blowers and vacuums for clearing-up in the garden.