"luriko" wrote in message
...
I am thinking of getting a mantis tiller. It seems a bit small to me
to do everything claimed. They look like they would work well in
cultivated soil, but I am not so sure how they would fare in clay or
uncultivated soil.
Anybody own one or have any advise?


I have rented the Mantis and two Honda models. I didn't like the Manis
because it was too loud and bounced around a lot. By the time I was done my
arms and back were tired just from trying to control the thing and my ears
were ringing from the sound. It might be fine if your soil has already been
cultivated, but not for tilling a new bed for the first time or a job of
moderate size The similar sized Honda was a bit better, but only marginally
so. I found the next size Honda to be superb for a small job. It was quiet
and easy to handle, not bouncing all around. It also did a much better job.
Here is a link:
http://www.hondapowerequipment.com/M...ModelName=f220

I don't know how it compares in price to the Mantis, but it sure was a lot
better. For as much as I use a tiller, it is cheaper to rent an adequate
one than to buy an inexpensive, but unsatisfactory model.