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Introduction
'Combisystem' range
'Multi-change' range

Introduction
The concept of having a range of toolheads to fit to different handles has been around for many years now. The main advantage is that less space is required to store your tools and you can use the same tool on a different length handle. The budget ranges offer some cost savings over conventional tools, whilst the higher quality German ranges can be relatively expensive, depending on which tools you select from the enormous range. There are a few minor drawbacks also. A tool that is designed to come apart will be inherently weaker than a similar quality one piece. It is here that the high quality ranges show their worth. For the gardener with a disability each range has worthy features.

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'Combisystem' range
The Gardena range has several handle lengths including very light aluminum ones. The multitude of toolheads are extremely well made and designed. A wider range of accessories are available in France and Germany at lower prices. The distinguishing features of this range is the fact that it is possible to change the toolheads using one hand only. This is a major advantage for amputees and people who have had strokes. The tools are secured in place with a screw-in knob that when tightened will not work loose. Care must be taken with Gardena 3515, the handtool extension, which is prone to breaking if misused. A new version of this handle is due soon.

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Multi-change range
This range is the most widely available in the UK and is of the highest quality. Indeed some of the tools are over-engineered and will easily outlast their owners. The steel toolheads can be too heavy for some people and two hands are required to change toolheads. Balanced against this is the fact that Wolf have some unique and well designed tools, and are constant innovators. See the Soil miller.

The new aluminum handles and plastic Multi-change Light range overcome the above problems except having to use two hands to change heads.

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