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

Hey Guys,
A friend of mine is looking for a new walk behind mower.......he told me the following;

Doesn't need self propelled, doesn't really need a bagger
Mainly wants it to be a nice cut, and to perhaps mulch well.
He does not really need all the bells and whistles, but appreciates quality, and also value.

Does any brand stand out as a good basic quality unit with exceptional  cutting?

I'm not really too up on these.....my 25 year old 3.5 hp front propelled Toro still works for what I need it to do, just trimming.

thanks,
 Frank  D.

I don't know what your friend's budget is, but if money was no problem, I'd be looking at the Deere JA62 self propelled with lockable front caster wheels at around $550. Also the Cub Cadet SR621 at around $459. As a guy that has pushed a LOT of mowers in the last 40 years, I would want at least a 2 speed self propelled feature for those days I'm walking a little slower than usual, comfortable handle bar height, one lever wheel height adjustment (no fiddling with each wheel, or accidently haveing one wheel different causing a rotten looking cut), and the ability to bag, mulch, or side discharge with out too much fuss swapping parts. Also the Toro Super recycler 20055 model at around $549 is an excellent mower but with individual wheel height adjustments. These are not the most expensive models out there, but they are high end mowers, and should last 10-20 years with good maintenance and if not abused by running over metal pipes, etc. If he was looking to spend less than $250, then whatever is on sale at any given week at the local box store with the most features he can get for his money.

Thanks everyone....
I will pass on to my friend your wise counsel........

Frank D.