For that money (actually just slightly more) the John Deere stuff is going
to make you happier than the Craftsman. I'm speaking from my own experience.
I have a 3 year old John Deere that is now the L110 and costs about 1650 at
home depot. It's a 17.5hp Kohler single with a 42 inch deck that mulches,
blows or bags (bagger of course is extra if you want it). I mow about the
same size yard as you and I am very pleased with the mower. Smooth and quiet
for a single cylinder mower. I've owned Craftsman and this is just far
better. It's not going to be like the heavier more expensive JD's but still
a far better product for the money.

John

"Dave R" wrote in message
...
I am new to this group so I don't know if this subject has been covered. I
would like some opinions on which riding lawn mowers are best for around
$1500. We've been looking on the net at Sears and Lowes and I'm kinda of
going towards Sears. We live in the east and our yard is only about 1/2
acre. I'm disabled so the old push mower must go. Any information would be
helpful. Thanks.