I'm about to give up on my current grass-cutting solution. It's old, and just doesn't cut the mustard (or the grass, heh) anymore. I need a mulching mower with self-propulsion capabilities. I have a small yard, so I'm not concerned with HP too much, but I'd like something that's halfway reliable. I realize that many on this board will have brand-specific recommendations off of what's worked for you in the past, so it's not really worthwhile to ask for rec's. However, I would as for deals - does anyone have any insight into where I can get the best deal? I'm okay with refurb, too, if it's a good deal. I'd rather not give HD or Lowe's their markup, if I can avoid it. Thanks!
I hate to tell you this but if you go ahead and "invest" a little money into a great lawnmower, then you won't regret it and it'll last 15 years. I went ahead a shelled out the $299 for the Toro 6.5HP at Home Depot. Consumer Reports lists the Toro 6.5 as their #2 lawn mower. Here it is.... The Link Talk about a great ******* lawnmower. I laugh as I watch my neighbors struggle using their POS mowers with their "smallish" lawns. My Toro cuts grass like a hot knife thru butter as it pulls me along. However, taking a quick look at Consumer Reports, the Toro sells for $299 while the #3 rated lawn mower, the Yard-Man 11A-435D, sells for #200 and got almost just as good ratings and is also 6.5HP. You might want to check that one out as well. Stay away from Murray, Craftsman, and Black&Decker....those are some major POS mowers...don't be tempted by their inexpensive price. Good luck.
Oh yeah, I shopped around a little looking a Walmart, Sears, HD, and Lowes. All have comparible prices with cheap lawn mowers to more expensive ones. You might want to try out AAA Lawn Mowers on Burnet for a refurbrished mower.
Cool! Thanks for the information. I certainly don't mind spending the money, I just want to make sure the cost/benefit ratio is maximized . It sounds like your Toro does just that. If that's the answer, I'll get it at HD and put it on the no-interest plan thing they have. I'll need the LOC for the deck and sprinkler system later in the year anyway. thanks again!
Bought a mower at a pawn shop 5 or 6 years ago. Self-propelled, don't know the horsepower, but it is more than enough. It was $50 and I have no complaints, still use the mower today. That would be your cheap option.
Since you obviously dont know dung about Briggs and Stratton engines I will give you the link to the B&S website with guess what, Toro mowers with B&S engines on them! of course B&S only makes engines. It appears that your mower may be on the very website. link My Deere has a B&S engine too.
Just bought a new lawnmower myself and was in the same situation you were in. I ended buying a Craftsman from Sears that has a Honda engine. It''s self propelled (front wheel), rear bag, optional side discharge, and it's HP is 5.5. The thing mulches as well....great cut and it's actually enjoyable to mow the lawn now. I paid about $300ish after tax. So I guess if you see this model at Sears...here's a happy endorsement for it.
My hubby just bought me a Sears Craftsman mover with a Honda engine. Here is the link: The Link I really like it. He spoils me rotten!!!
if your yard isn't too large, even if it is a good size... you might consider an electric one COA (saw in your profile your hometown) gives rebates... good 12 or 14 gauge 100' cord and your set, you also won't have to worry about ozone days (if you worry about them).... B&D has some pretty good ones I've had mine for 8 years
Just bought the Toro 6.5. Nice mower, very light, good blade. $300 at the Home Despot. Old mower went to the GF's house for spot duty. Thanks to all for the input.
Good choice. As long as you don't cut your grass too low and keep your deck high, then your lawnmower should last a very long time. People wear the mowers out too fast when they "scalp" they lawns and put alot of stress on the engine. I keep my deck almost on the highest level to keep my grass nice and healthy. Healthy, taller cut grass will smoother out weeds and last longer during times of drought.
I need to be cutting my yard higher, too. Only scalp once a year, to remove dead/dying and ugly grass .
