Are Bush Hog Mowers Good? (Explained for Beginners)
I own a large 10-acre property in rural New York State and as you can imagine, landscaping and property maintenance takes up a lot of my time. I have used Bush Hog Mowers for more than 10 years, and I’m happy to share my experiences.
So Are Bush Hog Mowers Good?
Bush Hog mowers are a good investment and will give you the cut and finish you’re looking for. Its Robotically Welded 7GA Steel Decks and keyless start/stop make the job of mowing even more convenient. While all models come with a limited one-year warranty, they will last many years with minimal maintenance and can be used for other jobs like snow and leaf removal. Brush cutting and farm tilling tasks can also be achieved with their line of products.
Whether you need a rough cut mower for your thick brush or you want a smooth and perfect cut for your landscaping clients, Bush Hog mowers are up to the task. They’ve built their reputation over the past 65 years as a company that stands behind their products and provides quality and durability.
The old adage, “you get what you pay for” definitely applies here; but, once you purchase a Bush Hog mower, you can depend on it to get your jobs done right the first time. The prices range from $2,500 to more than $10,000 for heavy-duty machinery. The company offers financing plans to suit most budgets. Used models are also available from select dealers both online and offline.
How Do I Choose the Right Bush Hog Mower?
There are several models and types of Bush Hog mowers, and the one you choose will depend on your needs. If you have a large property with plenty of rough and hard-to-mow areas, as I do, the zero-turn HDZ-4 Professional Series ZT Mower will do nicely.
If you want a mower for commercial use, to mow things like landscapes, golf courses, schools, sports fields, etc., then the commercial ZT 61” deck width should be all you need.
Bush Hog makes a variety of mowers that will do just about anything you need it to. From snow blowing to tilling to cutting around your rock garden, there’s a Bush Hog that will suit your needs.
When I bought my property two years ago, I wanted something that was relatively easy to use, durable and cost-effective. I chose the HDE-4 Estate Series ZT Mower with the 49” deck width. The mower comes with deck options of 55” and 61”. The bigger deck size, obviously, the faster you’ll get your mowing job done. I chose the 49” because of my budget, but next time I may opt for the 55”.
What is the Difference between a Rough Cut Mower and a Finishing Mower?
Bush Hog is one of the few companies that provide consumers with heavy-duty mowers to cut just about anything. If you’ve got roughage or a pasture to clear, the BH100 series single-spindle rotary cutter mowers are great. The entire cutter is robotically welded, giving you a superior cut and a blade that is both durable and reliable. With a range of 2-11 inch cutting height, and cutting widths of 4-6 feet, you can be assured of a great cut every time.
A finishing mower, on the other hand, is a great option when you want your lawn to look impeccable after every cut. If a manicured lawn is important to you, the “Turf Hog” models may be more to your liking.
There is a great article here on the difference between a bush hog and finishing mower
Can I Convert my Rough Cut Mower to a Finishing Mower?
Yes, all you have to do is switch the blades for your desired purpose. If you find you are switching blades often, or you want to just ride and go, consider buying a Bush Hog mower for each type of cut. It may be more expensive, but you won’t have to waste time switching back and forth.
Are Bush Hog Mowers Durable?
Yes. Bush Hog mowers are solidly built with durable materials and patented equipment/methods. They are built to last. I’ve had mine for several years, with more than 100 hours used. It’s still going strong and I am confident I’ll have it for many more years. I’ve replaced certain parts along the way. Small things like belts, bolt kits, etc. I also change the oil on a regular basis, which takes me no more than 30 minutes.
Where Can I Get Replacement Parts?
Parts such as belts, bolt kits, gearbox seals, and cutter blades can be found online at Amazon, as well as select dealers, both online and offline. You can also buy parts directly from the Bush Hog parts website.
Some general hardware and big box stores like Home Depot may also carry certain parts.
How Much do Bush Hog Mowers Cost?
Because there is a wide range of Bush Hog mowers and models, the price range is also broad. A zero-turn mower can cost on average $2,500 – $5,000, while bigger models meant for larger jobs, such as backhoes and tilling equipment can cost upwards of $10,000 – $15,000 or more.
Used models can cost much less, depending on wear and tear and age.
Some dealers offer financing options for those who need it. Financing is also offered directly on the website at bushhog.com.
Are Bush Hog Mowers Easy to Use?
Bush Hog Zero Turn models like the one I have are fairly easy to operate compared with other brands I’ve used. All driver controls are easily accessible, and I especially like the keyless start/stop feature. The 8-gallon fuel tank is enough so I don’t have to refill halfway through mowing.
The safety features give me peace of mind when my teenage daughter uses them. It didn’t take her long to get used to the controls and handling of the mower. I chose a zero-turn mower because we have several gardens and two ponds on our property. She loves the comfortable seat and never complains about being sore or stiff after using it (mind you, she’s only 16!) Moving around these obstacles is fairly easy with my HDE-4 Estate Series ZT Mower.
What Standard Features are Included with the Bush Hog Mower?
Some of the standard features on most models include:
· Electronic Control Module
· Electronically welded 7GA Steel Decks
· Keyless start/stop
· Center Mounted 8-gallon fuel tank
· Full suspension, high back embroidered seat
· LED lights
· Welded steel frame
Optional features include deck sizes, and engine sizes (up to 35HP for zero turn mowers).
You have a choice of engine type: Kohler or Kawasaki. Both are quality engines, and is just a matter of personal preference as to which one you choose.
Bush Hog has patent pending features on select models:
· Rotary Controlled Deck Height Adjustment
· Front Suspension
What Else Can I use My Bush Hog Mower For?
If you live in an area with harsh winters, as I do, you’ll appreciate using your Bush Hog for snow removal. Fall leaves are also easily removed. Simply put, there is a Bush Hog model for just about any job you have. From plowing fields to removing fence posts to simply cutting your lawn for a manicured look, you’ll find a Bush Hog mower to suit your needs.
What do the Reviews Say About Bush Hog Mowers?
I reviewed two different sites to get reviews on different Bush Hog Mower models.
Forestrymower.com
Consumerreports.org
We found 100 reviews from consumers, with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5. Consumers love the diversity of jobs that can be done with a mower, from simple mowing to roughage. Some were deterred by the price, while others were impressed with the engine size of 25HP and keyless start/stop feature.
What does a Bush Hog Warranty Cover?
Bush Hog has a limited warranty that covers parts and materials for one year on all new mowers used in residential settings. The warranty covers 90 days for commercial use.
The company has a 10-year gearbox warranty, which is the longest in the industry. All gearboxes have a 10-year limited warranty, which breaks down to 6 years on parts and labour, and another 4 years on parts.
Is a Bush Hog Mower a Good Investment?
Yes, Bush Hog mowers are a good investment and well worth the money. They provide a superior cut, are easy to use and maintain, and are up for the challenge of whatever job you need to be done. Whether you buy new or used, you’ll get plenty of hours’ worth of hard work.
With anything, Bush Hog mowers require regular maintenance and care. The better you care and maintain them, the longer they will last. On average, about 30 – 60 a week on maintenance is needed to keep your Bush Hog mower in good running shape.
I have used Bush Hog mowers for 10 years and I will continue to use the brand for all of my mowing needs, big and small.
References
https://www.backyarddigs.com/landscaping/bush-hog-vs-finish-mower/
https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?topic=14925.0
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/lawn-mowers.html
https://bushhog.com/mower/zero-turn-mowers/