**Lets Talk Zero Turn Mowers**

[Don231s]

When I cut my grass I had a Ferris. Loved it...most comfortable brand I had. The four wheel springs makes a ton of difference in the ride.

One of the best zero turns on the market. A commercial grade monster. But OP stated budget cap is $2500. That won't even buy half of an entry level Ferris.

 

[GeauxLSU]

A critical piece of of info would be how much you need to cut.
I bought a 42" Cub LTZ and kept it for many years before the deck gave out (my own fault for not being able to store it inside, but outside covered). The 17hp Briggs Intek never missed a beat and was an absolute work horse. Sold it with a rotted deck for $500.
The residential Cubs don't have a good rep apparently. It was the best "piece of junk" I ever owned.

 

[Targetmaster]

I have several acres to cut, Sears isn't the store it once was, but Craftman Mowers have done very well for me, I love the Koler engines.

 

[Benhad]

I've been in the industry for 25 years the best lawnmowers out their commercial are exmark and Scag. Hydro either sit down or standup.

 

[Jholdbrooks]

i have around 2.5 acres to cut

 

[Don231s]

I've been in the industry for 25 years the best lawnmowers out their commercial are exmark and Scag. Hydro either sit down or standup.

Scag is another beast. But it's same problem for the OP. An entry model seated Scag is twice his budget.

 

[bigt61]

I suggest a welded deck and individual hydro pumps for each wheel

I would stay away from stamped residential mower decks or residential zero turns

But that's just my opinion

 

[Just1more]

The key is finding something commercial grade at the OPs range. DEFINATELY want a welded deck vs. a stamped steel deck. Most of the zero turns on the market that are for light home use will only last about half the life of a commercial mower. Then you're left buying another one.

 

[webicknell]

I have about 5 acres that I cut... Has hills and holes... Former pasture....
What I got was a used Exmark.... They are built like tanks.
I got a used low-hour (not heavy commercial lawn service use) with a 44" deck... Paid about $3K for it.

If you have flat Bermuda or Fescue... Another would be OK....

 

[Jholdbrooks]

I have about 5 acres that I cut... Has hills and holes... Former pasture....
What I got was a used Exmark.... They are built like tanks.
I got a used low-hour (not heavy commercial lawn service use) with a 44" deck... Paid about $3K for it.

If you have flat Bermuda or Fescue... Another would be OK....

This is what I think I need to find. Mine will be pasture land as well. I really think exmark is what I'm gonna "try" and go with