Going in deep Mustachian here, anyone have any experience using a scythe? Seems like it could handily replace the weedwacker. I want to eliminate as many tools with small motors as I can.
Replace, yes. Handily replace, No.
Want to keep your mower & weed whacker operational for a LONG time?
Use Ethanol free gas ONLY, 90 octane or higher. Start it Every week to 10 days, even when its 10 below out. Replace the air filter regularly - these things can get incredibly clogged up, and replace the spark plugs every few years. FL is rough on everything and my last mower and weed whacker have several years on them with no ill effects on their operation. I've actually had to replace the cord magnet clutch, but no carb work on the engine.
Sharpen the blades as well Dremel makes a sharpener guide for their little rotary tools -very handy to keep the correct angle of the dangle while sharpening.
To cut down on multiple tools you can get a common motor with the interchangeable ends. I have a trimmer, heavy duty trimmer, edger and air blower that all fit the 4 stroke gas powered motor end. Most of these brands are interchangeable with a 1/8 or so square drive shaft.