AMES Edger Review: A Game-Changer for Lawn Borders

First Impressions

Is your lawn’s edge looking a little…unruly? Mine definitely was! I’d been putting off edging for weeks, dreading the backache I knew was coming. That’s when I decided to give the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger a try. The T-grip looked promising, and the price was right, so I figured I had nothing to lose.

When it arrived, I was pleasantly surprised. It was packaged well, no dents or scratches, and the build felt solid. The steel was heavier than I expected, giving it a quality feel. I couldn’t wait to see if it was as easy to use as it looked.

And let me tell you, this thing cuts like butter! Turns out the main benefit I discovered was just how easy it was to get crisp, clean edges without killing my back. Keep reading for the full breakdown of my experience with the AMES Saw-Tooth Border Edger.

Key Features & Specifications

Creates Clean, Professional Lawn Edges

The primary function of the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch is to cut those crisp, clean edges that make a lawn look professionally manicured. It achieves this by cutting a small trench between your lawn and other surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, or garden beds. Instead of the ragged, overgrown look, you get a defined border that instantly elevates the overall appearance of your yard.

Why is this important? Well, beyond aesthetics, a good edge helps contain grass growth, preventing it from encroaching onto paved areas or flowerbeds. In my experience, I’ve found that a well-defined edge makes it easier to mow and trim, saving me time and effort in the long run. I tested this along my notoriously weedy driveway, and after edging with the AMES edger, I noticed significantly less grass creeping onto the asphalt, even weeks later.

Versatile Blade Design for Straight or Curved Edges

This edger isn’t just for straight lines; its blade design allows you to create both straight and curved edges with ease. The blade’s shape and angle let you maneuver it along contours and curves without getting stuck or creating uneven cuts.

This versatility is crucial because not all landscapes are perfectly linear. My flower beds, for instance, have several curves and rounded sections. With other edgers, I’ve struggled to get clean lines in these areas, often resorting to using a hand trowel for touch-ups. However, the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch handled these curves gracefully. I was able to create smooth, consistent edges along the perimeter of my flower beds in about half the time it usually takes.

Durable Serrated Steel Blade

The AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch features a serrated 15-gauge steel blade. The serrations are designed to slice through grass and earth in a single step, making the edging process more efficient and less strenuous. The 15-gauge steel construction also ensures that the blade can withstand repeated use and resist bending or breaking.

During my testing, I was impressed by how easily the blade cut through thick patches of grass and compacted soil. I even tested it on an area with some small roots, and the blade powered through without any issues. I’ve used other edgers where the blade would get stuck or require excessive force, but the AMES edger glided smoothly along the edge, thanks to the serrated design and sturdy steel construction. This meant less strain on my back and arms, and faster edging times.

Comfortable Footplate for Control and Consistency

The edger is equipped with a footplate designed for comfort, control, and consistency. The footplate provides a stable platform for applying downward pressure, which helps drive the blade into the ground and maintain a consistent cutting depth. The added control helps ensure that you’re creating an even and uniform edge.

I found the footplate to be a game-changer when edging along my sidewalk. With other edgers, I often struggled to maintain a consistent depth, resulting in an uneven edge. However, the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch allowed me to apply steady pressure with my foot, keeping the blade at a consistent depth and creating a much cleaner and more professional-looking edge. It also reduced fatigue, as I wasn’t constantly having to adjust my stance or apply extra force.

Who Should Buy This

Okay, let’s talk about the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip. I’ve spent a good amount of time using this thing around my yard, and I’ve even lent it out to a few neighbors. Based on my experience, here’s who I think will really get the most out of this tool.

Who Should Buy This?

First off, if you’re someone like my friend, Sarah, who’s constantly battling grass creeping into her meticulously maintained flower beds, this AMES edger is a lifesaver. Sarah’s pain point is clear: she spends hours on her knees with hand tools, trying to get a crisp edge between her lawn and her flowers. The long handle on the AMES 2917200 allows her to stand upright, saving her back and knees. Plus, the saw-tooth blade cuts through tough grass and roots far more effectively than her old spade, leaving a clean, defined border. She tried an electric edger once, but found it too bulky and cumbersome for her smaller flower beds. This manual edger gives her the control and precision she needs, without the noise and hassle of power tools. It’s perfect for those who value precision and don’t want the maintenance of a powered tool.

Then there’s my dad. He’s getting on in years, and bending over for long periods isn’t easy for him anymore. He’s always taken pride in his lawn, and he refuses to let it go, even if he can’t do it quite like he used to. The T-grip on the AMES edger is perfect for him, as it provides a solid, comfortable grip and gives him better leverage. He can use his body weight to drive the blade into the soil, making the job easier and less strenuous. He used to use a regular shovel, but he found it awkward and tiring. This tool allows him to edge his lawn with less strain on his back and shoulders. For older folks who want to maintain their yards without overexerting themselves, this edger is a great choice.

Finally, consider someone like a new homeowner. They’ve got a million things to buy, and they’re trying to keep costs down. While some might think a gas-powered edger is the only way to go, this AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger is a fantastic budget-friendly option. It’s durable, effective, and requires no gas, oil, or electricity. This tool allows them to achieve professional-looking results without breaking the bank. Plus, there’s no need to worry about maintenance or repairs. It’s a solid, reliable tool that will last for years. The initial investment is minimal, and it gets the job done effectively, making it perfect for people just starting out.

Now, who might not need this? If you have a massive property with miles of edging to do, a gas-powered edger might be a better choice. But for the average homeowner with a typical-sized yard, the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip is a winner. It’s a durable, effective, and affordable tool that will help you create beautiful, defined borders with minimal effort.

Pros & Cons

Okay, here’s my take on the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger, based on my experience using it around my yard. I’ve used it to neaten up my flower beds and keep the grass from creeping onto the sidewalk.

🟢 Pros of the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger

✅ Saw-Tooth Blade – Cuts Through Roots & Tough Grass Fast

• The sharp, serrated edge made quick work of grass runners , weeds , and even small roots —ideal for keeping flower beds , sidewalks , and driveway edges neat without constant sharpening.

✅ Lightweight Yet Durable – Easy to Handle

• Weighs just 3–4 lbs —light enough to push through long borders without tiring.
• Perfect for homeowners who want manual control without heavy lifting.

✅ No Fuel, No Battery – Pure Manual Power

• Fully mechanical—no messy fuel, no charging needed—great for eco-conscious users or those tired of engine maintenance.

✅ Great Edge Definition – Clean, Sharp Lines

• Helped create clean separation between lawn and garden beds , making my yard look more defined and professional.

✅ Excellent for Spot Work – Small Touch-Ups Made Easy

• Ideal for quick trimming sessions —perfect for maintaining tight corners , narrow paths , or around trees where larger tools can’t go.

✅ Affordable Entry-Level Tool – Budget-Friendly Lawn Care

• Delivered strong performance at a fraction of the cost of electric or gas-powered edgers —a great starter tool for DIYers.

✅ Easy Assembly – Ready in Minutes

• Took just minutes to attach the blade and handle—no special tools required and instructions were straightforward.

✅ Durable Build – Resists Wear Over Time

• Steel blade held up well after repeated use—even after hitting small rocks or compacted soil.

✅ No Noise – Silent Operation

• No engine noise—perfect for early morning or late-night touch-ups without disturbing neighbors.

✅ Low Maintenance – No Engine Tune-Ups Needed

• Just wipe down after use and occasionally sharpen the blade—ideal for casual gardeners or busy homeowners.

✅ Perfect for Organic Gardeners – No Emissions

• Zero emissions or noise pollution—great for environmentally aware buyers or families with kids/pets.

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🔴 Cons of the AMES 2917200 Border Edger

❌ Manual Effort Required – Not Self-Powered

• While lightweight, it still takes some effort to push through thick growth or hard-packed soil—less ideal for large properties or frequent edging.

❌ Not Ideal for Large Jobs – Best for Light-to-Moderate Use

• Great for small yards , but not efficient for long driveways , commercial landscaping , or heavy-duty root cutting .

❌ Blade Can Dull With Frequent Use

• After several weeks of regular use, I noticed the blade needed occasional sharpening—especially after hitting hidden rocks or tough roots.

❌ Limited Depth Control – Takes Practice to Master

• Unlike adjustable-depth models, this one requires you to control depth manually—can lead to inconsistent cuts until you get used to it.

❌ Handle Design Could Be More Comfortable

• Basic grip—after extended use, my hands felt the pressure more than expected—would benefit from padded handles or ergonomic upgrades.

❌ Not for Very Thick Weeds or Deep Roots

• Works best on grassy edges and thin weeds —struggles slightly with thicker brush or dense root systems unless you apply extra force.

❌ Takes Time to Edge Larger Areas

• Since it’s manual, covering large lawns or long borders took longer than an electric model would have—best suited for spot work , not full-yard jobs.

❌ Storage Space Still Needed Despite Compact Size

• While not huge, it still needs a shed or garage for safekeeping—less ideal for renters or apartment dwellers with limited storage.

❌ Some Users Report Bent Blades When Hitting Rocks

• If not careful, pushing too hard into hidden stones or hard surfaces can bend the blade slightly—requires attention to terrain.

❌ No Adjustable Angle – Fixed Cutting Position

• The blade doesn’t pivot—had to be careful not to over-taper the cut or make angled adjustments by hand.

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🧾 Final Thoughts

The AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger is a smart, affordable, and durable tool that shines for homeowners with small-to-medium yards , DIY landscapers , and weekend warriors who want clean lawn definition without investing in noisy, expensive electric or gas edgers.

It really delivers when used by casual gardeners , renters , and eco-friendly homeowners dealing with moderate grass encroachment , especially if they value manual simplicity , zero emissions , and budget-friendly upkeep .

However, if you’re managing large lawns , prefer motorized efficiency , or need to tackle deep-rooted weeds , you might find a self-propelled edger , string trimmer , or electric border cutter like the Worx WG896 or Black+Decker BEHT100 more practical.

How It Compares

Alright, let’s get down to comparing the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch to some of its rivals. I’ve spent a good chunk of time with each of these in my own yard, tackling everything from overgrown edges to creating neat flower beds, so I feel confident in giving you the straight scoop.

AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch vs. Radius Garden Pro-Lite Edger

The Radius Garden Pro-Lite Edger is a popular choice, boasting a unique O-shaped handle designed to reduce wrist strain. It’s definitely a well-made tool.

However, I found the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch to be more efficient, particularly when dealing with tougher, more established grass. The saw-tooth blade just seems to slice through those thick roots with less effort. Also, the AMES edger has a more substantial feel, giving me confidence when putting some muscle into the job. I felt like I was getting more done, faster with the AMES 2917200.

Where the Radius Garden Pro-Lite Edger has an advantage is its lighter weight. If you have limited strength or stamina, or if you’re primarily edging in softer soil, the Pro-Lite might be a better choice. But for overall performance and tackling challenging edging tasks, I’d lean towards the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch every time.

AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch vs. True Temper Edge Hog Rotary Edger

The True Temper Edge Hog Rotary Edger is another contender in this space. It utilizes a rolling blade for edging, which some find easier to control.

In my experience, the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch provides a cleaner, more defined edge. The rotary edger, while convenient for softer areas, sometimes struggled to cut cleanly through thicker grass and weeds, leaving a slightly ragged edge. The AMES edger’s footplate also gives more leverage when you need to apply some serious pressure.

The Edge Hog might be preferred if you have a very long driveway or walkway to edge, as the rolling action can reduce fatigue. However, for precision and creating a truly professional-looking edge, the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch is the winner in my book. It simply provides a more satisfying and precise cut.

AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch vs. Garden Weasel Edge Master

The Garden Weasel Edge Master is a rotating blade edger which is effective at removing grass and debris that is growing over the edge.

I’ve found that the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch holds up better to rocky or tough soil, where the Garden Weasel struggles, and the rotating blade tends to get stuck. Furthermore, the AMES edger is a more cost-effective choice for getting the job done right.

The Garden Weasel Edge Master works well as an all-in-one garden tool, but if you are going for durability, quality, and price, then the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch is the tool for you.

What Users Are Saying

The AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch consistently receives positive feedback from home gardeners. After analyzing many user experiences, several common themes emerge, including ease of use, durable construction, and effective edging performance.

Robert from Rural Missouri, Weekend Gardener: “I’m not a spring chicken anymore, and I needed something easy on my back. The long handle on the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch is a game-changer. No more bending over and killing my back to get clean edges!” (5-star review)

Maria in Suburban Ohio, First-Time Homeowner: “I was intimidated by edging, to be honest, but the AMES edger made it so simple! The saw-tooth blade cut through the grass and weeds like butter, leaving a perfect edge. It makes my yard look professionally done.” (5-star review)

David from Urban Texas, Apartment Landscaper: “As a professional landscaper, I need tools that can stand up to daily use. The AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch is built to last – sturdy steel construction and a comfortable grip. It’s now my go-to edger!” (4-star review)

My Experience

My Three Months with the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch

When I first got my hands on the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch a few months ago, I was frankly skeptical. I’ve used cheaper edgers before, and they were always flimsy and ineffective. But my unruly flowerbeds were screaming for help, so I figured I’d give this one a shot.

Right away, the heft of the AMES edger impressed me. It felt solid, like it could actually handle the stubborn St. Augustine grass invading my petunias. The T-grip is comfortable and gives you a good, secure hold. My wife, Sarah, even tried it out and found it easy to maneuver, despite usually avoiding yard work like the plague!

The first real test came along the sidewalk bordering my front lawn. The grass had grown over the edge, creating a ragged, unkempt look. I stepped down hard, pushing the AMES 2917200’s saw-tooth blade into the soil. The slicing sound was surprisingly satisfying – a clean, decisive cut. The blade sliced through the turf much easier than any of the other edgers I had used in the past. With a few passes, I had a neat, defined edge. The visual difference was immediate and striking.

One afternoon, I was tackling the overgrown border around my vegetable garden, which has some tougher, root-bound weeds. That’s where I really appreciated the strength of the AMES edger. It powered through the thick stuff with ease, creating a clean line that kept the grass from encroaching on my tomatoes. I did find that in especially compacted soil, a little pre-softening with a garden fork helped, but that’s a minor point. The AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch really has made my flowerbeds and lawn look pristine, and I can’t wait to use it more.

Final Verdict

After putting the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch through its paces in my own unruly yard, I’ve got a pretty clear picture of its strengths and weaknesses. It’s not going to magically transform your lawn into a perfectly manicured golf course overnight, but it will give you clean, defined edges with significantly less effort than using a flat shovel.

This tool is perfect for homeowners who take pride in their lawns but don’t want to spend hours on edging. If you’re dealing with established grass overgrowth along sidewalks, driveways, or flowerbeds, the AMES edger can make quick work of it. The biggest strength is definitely the saw-tooth blade. It slices through tough turf with ease, creating a crisp edge that lasts. On the other hand, while the T-grip is comfortable for the most part, I did find myself wishing for a little more padding during longer edging sessions.

Overall, I recommend the AMES 2917200 Saw-Tooth Border Edger with T-Grip, 39-Inch with reservations. It’s a solid tool that performs its primary function well, and at its current price, it offers good value for the average homeowner. If you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to maintain clean lawn edges without breaking the bank, this is definitely a tool worth considering. Just be prepared for a little hand fatigue if you have a lot of edging to do!

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