Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I live in Calgary - we get a moderate amount of snow, rarely more than 8 to 10inches at a time, usually in the 2-4" range. The issue here is snow drifts.  I live in a north facing house at the south end of a cul de sac and get drifts all the time on the bottom half of driveway.  My driveway is for a 3car garage - not super long (probably 25ft, but easily 40 ft wide. I have been reading lots about single stage throwers - i like the fact they clean to the pavement, but am concerned if they can throw the snow far enough or can chew through a foot deep snow drifts a few times a year.  The other option of course is the 2 stage throwers - they seem a bit big and I've read they don't get down to the pavement. I am also not the  most mechanically inclined individual in the world...

Help?? Any thoughts on what my best bets would be?  I need something that my wife would be comfortalbe using as well. Any comments are appreciated...

This video illustrates pros and cons of single and two-stage snowblowers. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI-AFIA56yo&feature=related

MN_Runner wrote:

That's definetly a skewed test. How about in actual condition of a residential property with sidewalks, walkways, and shorter driveways. Homeowners dont have huge commercial parking lots. All that was shown was cons of single stage versus pros of 2 stage. The price comparison wasn't fair , high end single versus low end 2 stage.

aa335 wrote:

Its absolutely a skewed test. However, my observation last year with my tracked MTD and the neighbor's toro single stagers last year in deep snow: The single stage is fine as long as the snow doesn't get too high. That means in practice for large storms you'll go out several times. This is not a criticism, simply an observation. I was impressed by the single stage toro, and I could see having one in places where it might be tight to take the Honda 1132. I have a large area to cover and a single stage isn't for me, but for most suburanites and city dwellers around me, its probably the right choice. For me in the country with a long road, the single stage is just outmatched with the conditions I get.

Most people don't own four snowblowers or even more than one.  For me, I just prefere owning one snowblower so a two-stage is the best option given my situation.  When the snow is light and dry (i.e., 1-2"), a shovel is very effective and quick.  I use my blower for EOD or when snow is higher than 3". 

I would accept a single stage blower if someone wants to give me one.

MN_Runner wrote:
I think you're trying to be slight.  :)  .  I own just 3 snowblowers.  I just don't get enough playtime with 3 single stage snowblowers.

Owning multiple snowblowers isnt portrayed in Arien's video.  Otherwise, a 24-28" snowblower would embarass the little 22" 2 stage in the wide open field and EOD.  And the little 21" Toro single would embarass that 22" 2 stage in tight quarters and 6 inch deep snow.  But thats apples to oranges comparison.

That 22" Ariens 2 stage was designed as an in-betweener.  For certain homeowners, this product is a perfect "compromise" to deal with EOD and deep snow.  However, if anyone have big areas to cover, a 22" is tiny and would take too long.  And if that EOD is packed and crusty, the 22" would barely do the job. 

I'm sure I can get a long fine with the 22" too.  It comes down to technique. 

MN_Runner wrote:
I'm thinking about letting go of the HS621, but I will have remorse if I do.  I have put in quite a bit of money and time into restoring it.  It's one of those things.

I have been thinking about buying a new Honda HS621 but the price is a bit too steep and will have to drive 6-7 hours to Winnepeg to get one.  So I am not sure if HS621 will perform that much better for additional $700.  A new HS520A is going for $550-600.

MN_Runner wrote:
It's not worth that price huge differential.  I can tell you that since I had both 621 and 520 last winter.  Also, the price of replaceable consumables like paddles and scraper blade is higher on the 621 too. 
But if you get a chance to see a brand new 621 in person, it's a beautiful machine and may close the deal right there. 

The 520 actually has longer throw distance most of the time.  The 621 is much better built, awesome engine, and a lot more gutsy dealing with EOD and heavy snow. 

Are there any differences between your HS621 and the current year model HS621?  I am assuming probably no or minimal differences just like HS520.