Well, judgelog, you're seeking opinions, so you'll probably get a number of responses. Those responses likely will run the gamut.

Somebody is sure to suggest that you spend more money. Somebody is gonna say you should buy used. There's a good chance somebody will suggest something that you never heard of.

Here's this one guy's opinion: Of the 4 brands you mentioned, buy the Husqvarna or one of the John Deeres in that price range. (Disclaimer: I have never owned a Snapper lawn tractor, nor a Cub Cadet; I am the owner of a Deere and a Husqvarna - both good, reliable machines.)

do not i repeat do not buy a huskey. i made that mistake and out of 36 mowing weeks it has been in the shop for 24 weeks. blown head,deck fell off,blots loosened up on fly wheel and broke, to many leaky gaskets to count, oil leaking and all the bolts on the deck broke.

Both the Husky and the Snapper are solid "old line" names and should give you good service. Snappers, "historically" are very hard to kill.

The question I'd be asking is where do you go for warranty work and after the warranty? If you're buying "big box" check and see who does their warranty work.

IMHO, the "consumer" JD and Cub aren't what made those two brands famous.

Good luck,

Ev

I said it on another vs. thread and Ill say it again here. While my snapper has provided me with good service (the mower part not so much the engine). The parts supply has become a bit difficult. The guy at the local shop told me they have changed their parts policy to make shipping exorbitant thus requiring a large order to "split" the shipping costs and make it more reasonable. SO I can wait months for them to get enough orders to get a part at a reasonable price, or pay ridiculous shipping, if I remember correctly it was like $40-50 on a $16 part. Just my $0.02 take it or leave it.