Kcav

                       I bought the MM-55 in April '06. I wanted to plant grass under overgrown hedges and cut back branches that were 4' to 5' long. The ground had never been broken up before and was hard packed northern New Jersey soil. I hosed down the area a couple of times and let it soak in to soften it. I waited long enough so I would not be throwing mud all over, the soil was just moist. With a couple of passes on the area (about 20' by 6') using a little pressure, after all it is a light weight machine, I was able to break up the ground enough to mix in peat and manure. I spread some seed and a little TLC later I had grass. For me this was big, I've never grown grass before. I plan to buy the thatcher attachment because most of my lawn is zoysia and it makes a lot of thatch. I found the machine to be light, easy to maneuvre and powerful enough to do the job. The handles give a good grip and the controls are easy to use. Mine came with a wheel kit ( a promo ) which I found very useful. Of course it does not have the weight and power of a big tiller, but it is not as expensive and stores in less space. You could hang it on the wall. Plus it can be used for more than one purpose. It was $330 at my local Stihl dealer. I really like it and am very satisfied with it. I hope this helps, good luck.