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 One suggestion that we often give to potential backyard greensmasters is to go speak to golf courses in your area, and find out if they have any used mowers available. All courses turn over equipment every few years and a good well-maintained greensmower can last for decades. Modern walk-behind greenmowers haven't changed dramatically in design for many years, and there is a large industry dedicated to aftermarket support and parts. Precision (800 345-1960) and R&R Products (800 528-3446) are good sources. There is also the reseller industry. Many areas have companies that take trades or purchase old turf gear from golf courses, refurbish them and sell them to lower-end golf courses. These are great places to look for used gear. Pro mowers do require special maintenance (mostly sharpening and adjusting) so if you plan on purchasing a used mower, also find out where you can get it serviced. Making friends with the local golf course mechanic is a GREAT IDEA! You can learn a lot about the business from them and their experience. User gear is available all over the internet. Check our Links page for links to turf equipment resellers and you can even find them on eBay. On the putting-greens.com weboard you can find (and post) FREE classified ads for used putting green gear. In the professional product category there are three major manufacturers; John Deere, Toro and Jacobsen. All sell a variety of products to the golf course industry and each have walk-behind power mowers selling in the $4,000-$5,000 range. Jacobsen is the oldest and most common equipment provider and has been selling turf gear since 1921. Toro and John Deere also offer top-of-the line walk-behind greensmowers. A good conditioned used Toro or Deere will cost you several grand, and a Jac can be had for $500-$2000 used depending upon the condition.
Some links to past reviews of various mowers: Other manufacturers such as Locke, Cal Trimmer, and Qualcast (UK) offer semi-professional quality reel mowers that can be used for golf course applications and are several thousand dollars cheaper and don't require special equipment or training to maintain. Hudson Star mowers, a new entry into the marketplace fills the void with a professional quality mower that is affordable. Below are some links to company websites.
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