RedMax HB281 (Discontinued)
The RedMax HB281 is a gas-powered handheld leaf blower delivering up to 425 CFM and 170 MPH. It features a 2-stroke 28-cc engine. (Read full specs)
This product has been discontinued. We've kept this page live for reference.
You might still find it second hand on eBay, by clicking on the button below.
Page Content
Description
The HB281 is the ideal blower for the operator looking for high performance and durability in a handheld. The HB281 handheld blower features a 28.0 cc, 1.1 horsepower engine that produces a maximum air speed of 170 mph. This high power to weight ratio enables the operator to complete the job quickly with minimal fatigue. A gutter kit is available as an optional accessory.
Zoom on the RedMax HB281
The RedMax HB281 is a gas handheld blower that is appropriate for homeowners with smaller home areas like patios, walkways, or compact front and back lawns under a quarter acre.
It sports a max air speed of 170 MPH and a max air volume rating of 425 cubic feet per minute (CFM). For the user, this translates into a blower that should move leaves effectively across lawn sections and hard surfaces, while also being capable of shifting compacted leaves or light yard debris like twigs.
A 28-cc 2-stroke engine powers the HB281, which needs a 50:1 fuel-to-oil mixture. With a fuel tank of 18.5 fl. oz., it offers above-average capacity compared to other gas handheld blowers.
In order to afford more control to the user, this unit has a variable speed control. No matter the size of the job, the user can adjust the airflow of the RedMax HB281 to match.
This gas handheld blower has a dry weight of 9.4 lbs and is intended for one-handed operation with controlled airflow.
Product Videos
The RedMax HB281's performance versus other blowers
The following charts are provided to give you an idea how the key specs of the RedMax HB281 compare with similar leaf blowers.
- In its category of gas-powered handheld blowers, the RedMax HB281 stands out for its lighter build at only 9.4 lbs. Should weight be a deciding factor, the Stihl BG 50 is worth a look at just 7.9 lbs.
- Upon exiting the nozzle, the air can reach speeds of up to 170 MPH, which is pretty much what is to be expected for gas-powered handheld blowers. If you wish to benefit from air expelled at the fastest possible speed, the Poulan Pro PPBV25 and its 230 MPH could be an option to consider.
- Regarding its air volume, the airflow of the RedMax HB281 can reach 425 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), which is on par with other gas-powered handheld blowers. If air volume is important to you, the Ryobi JET FAN RY25AXB, with 520 CFM, could be in your good books.
The bottom line
- Large tank (18.5 fl. oz.)
- Lightweight (9.4 lbs)
- Decent CFM (425 CFM)
- Decent MPH (170 MPH)
The RedMax HB281 doesn't have any notably low specs.
Features and Specifications
| Type | Gas-Powered |
|---|---|
| Handling | Handheld |
| Air volume | Up to 425 CFM |
| Air speed | Up to 170 MPH |
| Engine type | 2-stroke |
|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 28cc |
| Fuel/oil ratio | 50:1 |
| Fuel tank capacity | 18.5 fl. oz. |
| Speed settings | Variable |
| Noise rating | 109 dB |
|---|
| Weight | 9.4 lbs |
|---|---|
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Other model numbers | 967008301 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it. For full technical details on the RedMax HB281, the user manual is available here (opens in a new tab).
About RedMax
RedMax is an established power equipment brand in North America, known for its trimmers, chainsaws and, of course, leaf blowers. Interestingly, the company traces its roots back to Japan, where it was founded in 1910 as the Tokyo Gas Kogyo Company. TGCK went through numerous name changes and settled with the names Komatsu Zenoah (globally) and RedMax/Zenoah (North America), under which they sell their products to this day. The company was acquired by Husqvarna in 2007. RedMax has a somewhat extensive portfolio of more than 10 leaf blowers, both backpack and handheld, and has recently launched a battery powered product line. RedMax products are produced in various plants over the globe, which are not limited to Japan.
Warranty Information
The RedMax HB281 is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may not cover all parts of the blower.
For more information about the warranty of RedMax blowers, please consult RedMax's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-487-5951.
RedMax also has an extended warranty program (opens in a new tab) for 2-stroke handheld blowers like this one.
Questions & Answers
Doed it take 2 cylce oil with gas (Asked March 20, 2021)
The engine is 2-cycle. Gas-oil ratio should be 50:1.

