FS 56 RC-E - $219.95 DSRP
A straight-shaft grass trimmer with a fuel-efficient engine and STIHL Easy2Start™.
Designed with a low-emission engine, the versatile straight
shaft FS 56 RC-E STIHL loop handled
trimmer is smooth running to help reduce operator fatigue.
With a simplified new starting procedure, and featuring a semiautomatic
choke that helps prevent flooding, you get a trimmer that’s ideal for homeowners with heavy grass to trim in hard-to-reach
places. Couple this with the Easy2Start™ syst...Read More
Model Features
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Adjustable front handle
The front handle is easily adjustable (360-degree rotation) for comfort.
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Shoulder Strap / Carrying System
Using a shoulder strap or carrying system helps distribute the weight of the equipment for increased operator comfort and improved maneuverability. -
Support strap (4130 007 1020)
Support strap provides additional support while working. -
Fully Lined Drive Shaft
Provides smooth operation and less vibration. -
High Tech Polymer Housing
Housings are lightweight, withstand greater impact and are corrosion-resistant. -
Start/Run/Stop Controls on Handle
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Protected Choke Lever/Knob
Helps prevent damage. -
Throttle Trigger Interlock
Must be depressed before the trigger can be activated. -
Air Filter Cover
Easily removed for fast and easy filter cleaning or replacement. -
Protected or Enclosed Control Cables
Eliminate dangling and loose wires. -
Heavy-Duty Steel-On-Steel Clutch
Centrifugal clutch is designed to reduce slippage. -
Protected Spark Plug
Protected yet easy to change. -
Protected Spark Arrestor Muffler
Has large baffles which reduce noise level and contains a screen designed to reduce the emission of sparks. -
Upright Translucent Fuel Tank
Allows operator to easily check fuel level before starting work. Upright position makes it easier to refill. -
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. -
Loop Handle (R)
Loop handle grass trimmers and brushcutters are ideal for trimming between bushes and shrubs and other areas where space is limited. -
Cutting Heads & Blades Selection Chart
Need help selecting a cutting head or blade for your STIHL trimmer or brushcutter?
Click here to view the Cutting Heads & Blades Selection Chart (PDF Format). -
Multi-Function Control Handle
Having easy access to all of the controls on one comfortable handle makes it easy to complete tasks so the operator’s hand never has to leave the handle. -
Built in the USA
Indicates products that are built in the United States from domestic and foreign parts and components. -
Reduced-Emission Engine Technology - Caring for Nature
The STIHL Inc. “Caring for Nature” seal identifies its powered products that are more environmentally conscious, producing zero or low exhaust emissions. STIHL Inc. defines “low exhaust emissions” as being cleaner than EPA and/or CARB exhaust emission standards. -
STIHL Easy2Start™
The STIHL Easy2Start™ system makes starting STIHL outdoor power tools almost effortless, eliminating the need for a strong pull of the starting cord. This advanced starting system is designed to make starting STIHL products easier. The specific system may vary by model, but in each case, a quick pull overcomes the engine’s compression to minimize the strength and effort required to start. Available on selected products.
See it in action! -
Simplified Starting Procedure
To get started, simply pump the fuel primer, set the choke and pull the starter cord. The built-in stop switch allows the user to turn off the engine with a simple press of the button. When the engine is off, the throttle lock automatically returns to the “start” setting. Your power tool will be ready to be started when you’re ready to get back to work.
See it in action!
Standard Features
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Common Features for Trimmers
View the features common to many STIHL trimmers.
Important Information
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.
Note: STIHL engine products with the Caring for Nature logo are cleaner than EPA Standards for exhaust emissions.
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. Learn More…
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.
Click to view the STIHL Limited Warranty Time Periods
STIHL products sold through U.S. STIHL Dealers are for distribution in the United States only.
We Also Suggest
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HP Ultra 2-Cycle Engine Oil
HP Ultra is a fully synthetic 2-cycle engine oil specially suited for high performance chainsaws and power tools. This oil has outstanding engine cleaning characteristics, plus “ultra” superior lubricating qualities in comparison to other 2-cycle engine oils. It is ideal for use in STIHL 4-MIX® engines. This oil is biodegradable, degrading by 80% in 21 days.•2.6 oz. bottle makes 1 gallon mix
•5.2 oz. bottle makes 2 gallon mix
•6.4 oz. bottle makes 2 1/2 gallon mix
•12.8 oz. bottle makes 5 gallon mix
STIHL recommends a mix of 50:1 high-quality 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline to STIHL engine oil. This same mix ratio should be used during break-in.
For Your Safety
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Sleek Line Glasses
A lightweight frame made of nylon offers the ideal combination of durability and comfort. Rubber temple tips and nosepiece offer a pressure-free fit behind the ears and protection from slippage on the nose bridge area. Protective lenses filter 99% of harmful UV rays. -
Tune Up
Hearing protectors with AM/FM tuner and MP3 capable. -
STIHL Landscaper Series™ Gloves
Exclusive deerhide leather provides fantastic wear properties and excellent sense of touch and feel. Naturally soft leather provides all-day working comfort. Sizes available S, M, L, XL.
FS 56 RC-E is rated out of 5 by 608.
Rated 5 out of 5 by Shadow211995 from This machine is amazing I took this homeowner grade machine to do a commercial job it done wonderful I burn three tank of gas full throttle for all of it this is a excellent machine I highly recommend it
Date published: 2017-07-17
Rated 5 out of 5 by Rick1974 from Love this thing! I had a stihl fs 44 since 1998 she finally went on me. 19 years that was enough to buy a second stihl. Love how light weight it is only problem so far is it starts so easy my 8 yr old can start it. Absolutely love this thing.
Date published: 2017-07-16
Rated 5 out of 5 by Chris82 from a low cost workhorse I've used this weed eater going on two seasons and it is the best one I've ever owned. It takes care of everything from fine detail work to brush hogging small patches with ease. Maintenance is simple if you follow the recommendations in the manual
Date published: 2017-07-15
Rated 5 out of 5 by champ198 from Great quality, excellent power I just picked up an FS 56 RC-E. Buying a trimmer is a big deal because of how long we keep them. For the money, this trimmer is a great choice. I wanted a trimmer with a one piece shaft to reduce vibration, it had to be light because we have almost an acre of trees, fences, and driveways, it had to be stout, and the design had to be such that the hot exhaust would not burn my arm.I'm 5'6" and us short folks have to hold trimmers with long straight shafts at a higher angle so the head is level. Doing this sometimes forces your arm to be in contact with the trimmer engine cover. I've owned other trimmers that the engine cover would burn the inside of my elbow after long periods of use. This trimmer DOES NOT have this issue. It has lots of low end torque which means you can trim through some thick growth without screaming at super high RPM. The only major con I see is that the fuel tank is too small (11 oz) and requires us to fill up three times for our yard size and trimming needs.
Date published: 2017-07-13
Rated 5 out of 5 by Stretch66 from It is a beast. Excellent. Plenty of power. Runs perfect. The amount of work you can do with one tank is impressive. I love the strap. The length of the trimmer is great for extra tall people. I'm 6'6" and barely need to bend while using it. It exceeds my expectations.
Date published: 2017-07-13
Rated 5 out of 5 by don1963 from what a unit! purchased this from my local dealer and since the day i have had it love it!!! have a 1/4 acre of trimming along a fence and handles the job with ease and the shoulder strap also makes it easier to hold it!! i am sold on Stihl!!
Date published: 2017-07-12
Rated 5 out of 5 by David23 from Does everything you would want it to, and then some. Even though it is not the lightest trimmer on the market it is not so heavy to be cumbersome and the performance yu get is well worth the added weight.
Date published: 2017-07-12
Rated 5 out of 5 by Honest457 from Bottom Line: The best trimmer I've ever owned! I needed a trimmer that i can use 3-4 times a week so I looked at stihl. This trimmer is about $100-200 cheaper than other brand trimmers with the same power. I've had this unit for about 3 years now and still have not had any problems with it what so ever. It starts with 2-3 very easy pulls every time. This unit is also very hard to flood as it starts before it does flood. I do highly recommend using the Stihl HP Ultra oil insted oh using other conventional brands as this has made my equipment run without any problems where as my other equipment fails. This trimmer would also be a great choice for seniors that have troubles getting trimmers started.
Date published: 2017-07-12
