Best Reviewed
Snow Blowers
- Electric snow shovel Toro Power Shovel *Est. $100
- Single-stage electric snow blower Toro 1800 Power Curve *Est. $300
- Budget single-stage gas snow blower Craftsman 88780 *Est. $500
- Best single-stage gas snow blower Toro Power Clear 621 QZE *Est. $750
- Small two-stage gas snow blower Craftsman 88957 *Est. $700
- Large two-stage gas snow blower Troy-Bilt Storm 3090 XP *Est. $1100
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- Power steering
- Electric push-button starter
- Headlight
- Joystick chute adjustment
- One-handed operation
- More size and power than some may need
- Some owners report mechanical problems
The Craftsman 88791 replaced the top-rated Craftsman 88999 for 2009, and the only change from the earlier model to this one is a slightly larger engine -- 277 cubic centimeters instead of 250 cubic centimeters. With a 28-inch clearing path and maximum intake of 21 inches, the 88791 can handle moderate-to-heavy snowfalls with ease. It has the extra features that make a large snow blower easy to use, though it lacks heated hand grips for added comfort on cold mornings. The comparable Troy-Bilt model is the Storm 2840 (*Est. $1,000), which does have heated hand grips. If you want a wider clearing path and more power, reviews point to the Troy-Bilt Storm 3090 XP 31AH55Q5711 (*Est. $1,100) as a good choice.
ConsumerReports.org includes the Craftsman 88999, which the 88791 replaced, in its latest ratings chart. This remains the most credible review we found, since it's based on objective tests. Paul Sikkema at MovingSnow.com reviews the 2010 version of the 88791 based on an analysis of its features and price, while owners review the Craftsman 88791 at Sears.com.
Troy-Bilt Storm 2840 Snow Thrower
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24" Two-Stage, 179cc OHV Engine, 6/2 Speed, 21" Intake Height, 13" tires
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Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
ConsumerReports.org tested the Craftsman 88999, which the 88791 replaced in the Craftsman lineup, for its latest ratings of snow blowers. The ratings chart ranks eight two-stage blowers as well as four single-stage gas and four electric blowers. The Troy-Bilt Storm 2840 is identified as comparable to the Craftsman 88791.
Review: Snow Blowers Ratings, Editors of ConsumerReports.org
Reviewer Paul Sikkema writes, "The Craftsman Model 88791 is designed to clear lots of snow quickly." He likes the extra features that, along with its size and power, make this snow blower a good bargain for the price.
Review: Craftsman 28-Inch 277-Cubic Centimeter Snow Thrower Model 88791 With Power Steering Review, Paul Sikkema, Oct. 16, 2010
3. Sears.com
About 25 owners review the Craftsman 88791 here and contribute to the snow blower's average rating of 3 out of 5 stars. Many owners seem happy with this snow blower, but others cite mechanical problems, a poorly designed chute and problems with the placement of the headlight.
Review: Craftsman 277-Cubic Centimeter Snow Blower 28-Inch Path Two-Stage, Contributors to Sears.com
Snow Blowers Runners Up:
3 picks including: HomeDepot.com…
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Cub Cadet (21") 208cc Electric Start Single Stage Snow Blower w/ Headlight - 221LHP
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