[Seahawk]

I have two MF GC2300s, both each over 14 years old with a few thousand hours.

The two CUT's you are looking at will be great and you will really enjoy the experience and marvel at how useful they are.

I hopefully will not be in the market for many more years, but if I was (brand independent) the capabilities that would be a discriminator for me based on over 14 years with CUTS:

- Ease of belly mower deck attach/detach. When I bought my tractors belly mower decks were a pain to get on and off all the available CUTs. Now, however, ease of belly mower attachment on some models is simple and easy. Make sure whichever one you buy that is the case. Ease of attaching and taking off implements is key.

- Available implements for the tractor. That should not be an issue for you - both companies treat their tractors like Swiss Army Knife's.

- Dealer rep and proximity. I already had a large MF tractor when I bought the little ones and was very familiar with the dealer, parts availability, service, etc. That helped seal the deal.

- Routine Maintenance. The MF's are very easy to maintain. I would think that the Deere and K are the same, but ask about grease points, where they are, periodicity, etc. Grease is your friend.

- Must have a hydrostatic transmission.

That is about it. Both of those brands will last forever if you keep after them. I did not mention price since the other factors are more important. If the two are equally as capable, price can be the tie breaker.

My next farm purchase is going to be a big Kubota Zero Turn mower.

Enjoy!