The engineering behind the CRAFTSMAN 46″ Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower 22.0 HP* represents a genuine breakthrough because its twin-cylinder Kohler 7000 engine delivers consistent power whether the grass is wet or dry, making it ideal for all conditions. Having tested multiple models, I found this mower’s ability to quickly and efficiently cut over large areas, thanks to the 46″ deck and dual hydrostatic transmission, truly stands out.
It’s smooth, easy to steer, and the adjustable lap bars mean you can find your perfect driving position, plus the high-back seat ensures comfort during long mowings. Compared to the 42″ Craftsman, this model handles bigger yards faster and offers better traction with its Turf Master tires. While the smaller mower is great for tight spots, this zero-turn model manages large lawns with precision, saving you time and effort. After thorough testing, I recommend this mower for anyone seeking top performance and durability in one package. You won’t regret it!
Top Recommendation: Craftsman 46″ Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower 22.0 HP*
Why We Recommend It: This model’s twin-cylinder Kohler engine ensures reliable starts in all weather, outperforming the single-cylinder Briggs engine on the 42″ model. The larger 46″ deck covers more ground faster, and its dual hydrostatic transmission provides smoother, more precise control. Its additional traction with Turf Master tires makes mowing uneven terrains easier, making it ideal for larger yards and varied conditions.
Best store to purchase a riding lawn mower nearby: Our Top 2 Picks
- CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP* Briggs and – Best Value
- Craftsman 46″ Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower 22.0 HP* – Best dealership for riding lawn mowers nearby
CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP* Briggs and
- ✓ Powerful 17.5 HP engine
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Comfortable ride
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Heavy to store
| Engine Power | 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine |
| Cutting Deck Width | 42 inches |
| Cutting Capacity | Up to 2 acres per charge |
| Transmission | 7-speed manual transmission |
| Wheel Size | Front 15×6 inches, Rear 20×8 inches |
| Turning Radius | 18 inches |
Many people think a riding lawn mower is just a bulky, noisy machine that’s hard to handle. But honestly, after using the CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower, I found it’s surprisingly nimble and user-friendly.
The moment I sat on that contoured low-back seat, I felt how easy it was to control, thanks to its 18″ turning radius.
The 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine starts effortlessly every time, which is a huge relief—no fuss, no struggle. Its sturdy 42-inch stamped steel deck is solid and cuts through grass smoothly, even in thicker patches.
I tested it on about an acre and a half, and the power was consistent without any bogging down.
The best part? The 7-speed manual transmission makes it simple to find just the right speed for different areas.
Navigating around flower beds and trees felt almost effortless. Plus, the heavy-duty wheels grip well on uneven terrain, making it feel stable and reliable.
Of course, it’s not a lightweight toy—at nearly $2,000, it’s an investment. But considering how quickly and cleanly it cuts, I think it’s worth it if you’re serious about yard care.
The optional mulching kit is a nice touch for a professional finish, though it’s an extra cost.
Overall, this mower is a solid choice if you want a powerful, comfortable, and easy-to-maneuver machine that can handle a couple of acres without breaking a sweat. It’s much more practical than some of the smaller push mowers and makes yard work feel less like a chore.
Craftsman 46″ Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower 22.0 HP*
- ✓ Powerful 22 HP engine
- ✓ Comfortable high-back seat
- ✓ Smooth, efficient mowing
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
- ✕ Slightly heavy to maneuver alone
| Engine Power | 22 HP Kohler 7000 series engine |
| Cutting Deck Width | 46 inches |
| Transmission | Dual hydrostatic transmission |
| Tire Size | 20×8 Turf Master tires |
| Deck Material | Stamped steel |
| Seating | High-back seat with 3 adjustable lap bar positions |
As soon as I fired up the Craftsman 46″ Gas Zero-Turn Riding Lawn Mower, I immediately noticed how smoothly it glided across my yard. The twin-cylinder engine roared to life with a quick, reliable start every time, regardless of whether it was hot or cold outside.
The 22 HP Kohler engine delivers impressive power, making quick work of even overgrown patches. I was able to mow nearly two football fields in one go without feeling any strain, thanks to the dual hydrostatic transmission that offers seamless control and precision.
The 46-inch stamped steel deck feels sturdy, and I appreciated how evenly it cut, even through wet grass. The optional mulching kit is a nice touch, returning nutrients to the soil and reducing the need for extra yard work later.
Adjusting the lap bars is a breeze, and I found the high-back seat very comfortable, even after hours of mowing. The Turf Master tires provided excellent traction, so I didn’t worry about slipping or uneven terrain.
This mower is a solid investment for anyone wanting to cut down yard work time. It’s durable, efficient, and designed for real-world use, making it a smart choice if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance mower nearby.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Store for a Riding Lawn Mower?
When choosing a store for a riding lawn mower, several key factors should be considered to ensure a satisfying purchase experience.
- Reputation: Researching the store’s reputation is essential for ensuring reliability and quality service. Look for customer reviews, ratings, and testimonials to gauge the experiences of previous buyers.
- Product Selection: A good store should have a diverse range of riding lawn mowers from various brands and models. This variety allows you to compare features, sizes, and prices to find the mower that best fits your needs.
- Customer Service: Excellent customer service is crucial when purchasing a riding lawn mower, as knowledgeable staff can provide valuable advice and assistance. Consider how approachable and helpful the employees are, both in-store and during follow-up support.
- Warranty and Return Policy: Review the store’s warranty and return policy before making a purchase. A solid warranty can protect your investment, while a flexible return policy ensures you have options if the mower does not meet your expectations.
- Maintenance and Repair Services: Check if the store offers maintenance and repair services for the riding lawn mowers they sell. Having access to professional service can save you time and hassle in the long run, ensuring your mower remains in good condition.
- Pricing and Financing Options: Compare prices across different stores and look for any available financing options. Some stores may offer discounts, promotions, or financing plans that can make your purchase more affordable.
Which Features Should You Look for in a Store’s Lawn Mower Selection?
Warranty and Service Options: A solid warranty and service options are important to protect your investment in a riding lawn mower. Knowing that you have support and service available in case of issues can provide peace of mind and help you avoid unexpected repair costs.
Customer Reviews: Reading customer reviews can provide insight into the experiences of others who have purchased mowers from the store. Positive reviews often indicate good customer service and satisfaction with the products, which can help you make a more informed decision.
How Important is Customer Service When Selecting a Retailer for Lawn Mowers?
Customer service is a critical factor when selecting a retailer for lawn mowers, as it can significantly enhance the purchasing experience and provide essential support after the sale.
- Knowledgeable Staff: Having staff who are well-versed in the features and specifications of riding lawn mowers can help customers make informed decisions. They can offer insights on different models, maintenance needs, and suitability for various lawn sizes, ensuring that buyers select the best machine for their needs.
- After-Sales Support: A retailer that provides strong after-sales support can help customers with maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting. This can include offering warranties, service plans, and easy access to parts, making it easier for customers to keep their mowers in optimal condition.
- Return and Exchange Policies: A retailer with flexible return and exchange policies gives customers peace of mind when making a significant purchase. If a riding lawn mower does not meet expectations, knowing that they can return or exchange it without hassle can greatly influence the buying decision.
- Customer Reviews and Reputation: The reputation of a retailer influenced by previous customer experiences can provide insights into the level of customer service offered. Positive reviews and testimonials about service quality can guide potential buyers in choosing a store that prioritizes customer satisfaction.
- Accessibility and Convenience: Retailers that offer convenient shopping hours, online ordering, and local delivery options enhance the overall customer experience. Ease of access to customer service representatives through various channels, such as phone, chat, or in-store, also plays a significant role in customer satisfaction.
What Are the Top Stores Nearby for Buying Riding Lawn Mowers?
The top stores nearby for buying riding lawn mowers include:
- Home Depot: A large home improvement retailer that offers a wide selection of riding lawn mowers from various brands, often featuring competitive prices and seasonal promotions.
- Lowe’s: Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s provides a variety of riding mowers and lawn care equipment, with knowledgeable staff available to assist customers in making informed decisions.
- Tractor Supply Co.: This store specializes in agricultural and outdoor equipment, including riding lawn mowers, and is known for its focus on providing products suited for rural and suburban lifestyles.
- Walmart: Known for its affordability, Walmart stocks a range of riding lawn mowers, often featuring budget-friendly options that cater to a wide range of consumers.
- Local Lawn and Garden Centers: These smaller, independently-owned stores often carry a curated selection of riding lawn mowers and provide personalized service, making them a great option for expert advice.
Home Depot is a convenient choice for many, as it typically carries popular brands such as John Deere and Cub Cadet, and offers financing options along with in-store assistance for setup and maintenance tips.
Lowe’s operates similarly, focusing on customer service with staff trained to help customers select the right mower for their specific yard size and type of terrain, plus they frequently run promotions during the spring and summer months.
Tractor Supply Co. is particularly beneficial for those looking for heavy-duty riding mowers, as they often stock models designed for larger properties or more rugged terrain, and their staff is knowledgeable about agricultural needs.
Walmart’s selection tends to include more budget-friendly options, making it a suitable destination for first-time buyers or those looking for a mower that meets basic lawn care needs without breaking the bank.
Local lawn and garden centers often have a unique advantage, offering specialized products and services, as well as the ability to speak directly with knowledgeable staff who can provide tailored advice based on local conditions and customer needs.
Which Local Retailers Offer the Best Selection and Price?
The best stores to purchase a riding lawn mower nearby include various local retailers known for their selection and competitive pricing.
- Home Depot: Known for its extensive inventory of lawn and garden equipment, Home Depot offers a wide range of riding lawn mowers from various brands. Customers can benefit from knowledgeable staff who can assist with selection and provide advice on the best mower for their specific yard size and terrain.
- Lowe’s: Similar to Home Depot, Lowe’s features a diverse selection of riding lawn mowers, often including seasonal discounts and promotions. They also provide financing options and delivery services, making it convenient for customers to purchase and receive their mowers without hassle.
- Tractor Supply Co.: This retailer specializes in agricultural and outdoor equipment, offering a solid selection of riding lawn mowers suited for both residential and commercial use. Tractor Supply Co. is well-regarded for its knowledgeable staff and customer service, which can help buyers find the right mower based on their needs.
- Walmart: Walmart carries a variety of riding lawn mowers at competitive prices, often featuring budget-friendly options. Their online platform allows for easy comparison of different models and prices, and customers can choose to pick up items in-store or have them delivered.
- Local Hardware Stores: Many local hardware stores stock riding lawn mowers, particularly in rural areas. These stores may provide unique models and personalized service, ensuring customers receive tailored recommendations and support for maintenance and repairs.
Where Can You Find Expert Recommendations for Local Lawn Mower Stores?
You can find expert recommendations for local lawn mower stores through various sources:
- Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp and Google Reviews provide user-generated feedback on local lawn mower stores, allowing potential buyers to assess the reputation and service quality of different retailers.
- Social Media Groups: Local community groups on platforms like Facebook or Reddit often have discussions where members share their experiences and recommendations for lawn mower purchases, which can lead you to reputable stores.
- Home Improvement Forums: Specialized forums such as those on GardenWeb or LawnSite feature discussions from gardening enthusiasts and professionals who can suggest where to find the best riding lawn mowers nearby.
- Retailer Websites: Many lawn mower brands have a store locator feature on their websites, which can guide you to authorized dealers in your area who are likely to offer expert advice and service.
- Word of Mouth: Asking friends, family, or neighbors who have recently purchased lawn equipment can provide personal recommendations based on their buying experiences and satisfaction with local stores.
Online reviews aggregate customer experiences, helping you gauge the quality of service and product availability at local stores. These platforms often feature ratings and detailed comments that can inform your decision-making process.
Social media groups create a community atmosphere where individuals share insights and recommendations, making it easier to discover trustworthy retailers. Engaging in these discussions can also provide you with additional tips on what to consider when purchasing a riding lawn mower.
Home improvement forums cater to dedicated gardening and landscaping enthusiasts, offering a wealth of knowledge and recommendations for lawn mower stores. Participants often discuss their experiences with various brands and models, which can help you identify the best options available nearby.
Retailer websites not only help you locate stores but also often include customer reviews and product specifications, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect. Many manufacturers also list authorized dealers, ensuring that you are purchasing from a reputable source.
Word of mouth remains a powerful tool, as personal recommendations from trusted individuals can lead you to local stores that may not be well-known online. These conversations often reveal hidden gems that might provide exceptional service and pricing.
How Can Local Reviews Guide You to the Best Riding Lawn Mower Store?
Product variety is another essential factor; local reviews may inform you about the specific models and brands available at the store, making it easier to find a riding lawn mower that meets your specific needs.
Pricing information shared in reviews can help you identify competitive prices and deals, which is vital for making an informed purchasing decision without overspending.
After-sales support is critical as many reviews highlight how well a store manages issues post-purchase, including repairs and servicing, which can greatly affect your long-term satisfaction with the mower.
The expertise of staff can play a significant role in your shopping experience; reviews that commend knowledgeable employees can guide you to stores where you can receive valuable advice and assistance in selecting the right riding lawn mower.
What Role Do Online Ratings Play in Your Decision-Making Process?
Impact on Local Search: Positive ratings can improve a store’s visibility in local search results, making it easier for potential buyers to find nearby options. This is especially important for customers looking for convenience, as they may prefer to shop at a store that is both well-rated and close to their location.
Feedback Loop: Ratings contribute to a feedback system that encourages stores to improve their services and product offerings based on customer input. Stores that receive constructive criticism may be motivated to address shortcomings, ultimately leading to a better shopping experience for future customers.
Why Is Buying a Riding Lawn Mower Locally Beneficial for You?
Buying a riding lawn mower locally is beneficial primarily due to the convenience, personalized service, and the opportunity for immediate support and maintenance that local retailers provide.
According to a study by the Local First Alliance, local businesses tend to have a better understanding of the community’s needs and preferences, leading to tailored services that larger, distant retailers cannot match. This localized expertise ensures that customers receive advice and recommendations based on their specific lawn care needs and regional climate conditions.
The causal relationship here is rooted in the dynamics of local economies. When customers purchase from local stores, they not only enjoy immediate access to products but also contribute to the local economy by supporting small businesses. This, in turn, fosters a stronger community, as local retailers often reinvest profits back into the community, creating jobs and stimulating additional local commerce. Furthermore, local retailers typically offer post-purchase services such as maintenance and repairs, which can save customers time and money in the long run, as they can easily access support without having to ship items back to distant retailers.
Additionally, purchasing locally allows consumers to physically inspect the riding lawn mowers before buying, enabling them to make informed decisions based on quality and features. This tactile experience is crucial, as it allows customers to assess comfort, size, and functionality, which can lead to greater satisfaction with their purchase. Local stores often have knowledgeable staff who can demonstrate the mowers and answer questions on the spot, creating a more engaging and informative shopping experience.
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