Stihl lawn mowers, specifically the zero-turn models, are manufactured by Briggs & Stratton. This company is a leader in the outdoor power equipment industry. Known for building engines that power many brands, Briggs & Stratton brings decades of experience in performance, reliability, and innovation. They manufacture Stihl’s lawn mowers under a strategic partnership, combining their mower-building expertise with Stihl’s reputation for outdoor tools.
Brand History
Stihl began in 1926, best known for its chainsaws. Over the years, it became a trusted name for handheld tools like trimmers, blowers, and hedge cutters. With a strong foundation in power equipment, Stihl saw an opportunity to expand. In 2023, they announced a partnership with Briggs & Stratton to enter the zero-turn mower market. This move allowed them to offer a full solution for lawn care—from edging and trimming to mowing large properties.
The decision to partner rather than build in-house allowed Stihl to enter the market quickly. It also ensured that their mowers would meet high standards right from the start, thanks to Briggs & Stratton’s manufacturing capabilities and deep knowledge of ride-on mowers.
Product Range
Stihl’s zero-turn mowers are built for power and performance. They’re available in different models to meet the needs of both homeowners and professional landscapers. Here are the main categories:
Residential Models
Designed for property owners with 1-5 acres.
Comfortable seating, user-friendly controls, and reliable engines.
Equipped with durable decks and good maneuverability.
Professional Models
Built for commercial landscapers.
Larger cutting widths, faster speeds, and reinforced frames.
Long-lasting components, better suspension, and high-output engines.
Each model features a zero-turn radius, which means it can pivot in place. This allows you to mow faster and more precisely around trees, flowerbeds, and landscaping features.
Manufacturing Location
Briggs & Stratton is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and their production facilities are located across the U.S. The Stihl zero-turn mowers are primarily built in Statesboro, Georgia, where Briggs & Stratton operates a modern plant focused on lawn equipment. This location is known for high-quality standards and a skilled workforce.
Stihl’s decision to have its mowers built in the U.S. adds to its appeal, especially for buyers looking to support American manufacturing.
Brand Reputation
Stihl is one of the most respected names in the outdoor power tool world. For nearly a century, they’ve delivered reliable, high-performance products. Their tools are commonly used by professionals, government agencies, and homeowners alike. The move into lawn mowers builds on this reputation.
What sets Stihl apart is their focus on:
Durability: Their equipment is built to last, even in harsh working conditions.
Innovation: Stihl often introduces new features to improve safety and efficiency.
Service Network: Thousands of local dealers provide service, parts, and expert advice.
This strong reputation makes people more confident when buying a Stihl mower, knowing the brand stands behind its products.
Warranty & Customer Support
Stihl backs its lawn mowers with a 3-year limited warranty for residential users and 2 years for professional use. Extended warranty options are sometimes available through dealers. The warranty covers parts and labor for manufacturer defects, giving peace of mind to buyers.
Support is offered through the authorized Stihl dealer network. This means if something goes wrong, you don’t have to deal with a call center overseas. Local experts handle repairs, maintenance, and parts. Many dealers also offer pick-up and delivery services.
Briggs & Stratton also stands behind the manufacturing quality, which adds another layer of reliability.
Where to Buy & Pricing
Stihl zero-turn mowers are not sold in big-box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s. Instead, they are sold exclusively through authorized dealers. This ensures buyers get personal support, proper setup, and expert advice before taking their mower home.
You can find a local dealer through the Stihl dealer locator.
Pricing
Residential models start at around $5,000 to $7,000.
Professional models range from $8,000 to $14,000, depending on features and engine size.
Pricing includes features like commercial-grade decks, adjustable suspension seating, and digital fuel gauges.
Innovation & Technology
Stihl’s zero-turn mowers feature advanced technology aimed at improving both efficiency and user comfort. Notable features include:
- Fabricated decks for durability.
- Smart Choke Systems for easy starting.
- High-back seats with adjustable suspension.
- Ergonomic control panels with intuitive layout.
- Hydro-Gear transmissions for smooth operation.
- LED lighting packages for early morning or evening mowing.
- Fuel-efficient V-Twin engines from Briggs & Stratton’s Vanguard line.
Stihl is also working on integrating more digital tools, like maintenance alerts and smart tracking, in future models.
Maintenance & Longevity
Proper care is essential to keep your mower running smoothly for years. Here are a few tips:
Regular Maintenance
- Check the oil every 25 hours of use.
- Clean the deck after every mow to prevent buildup.
- Change the air filter every season.
- Sharpen blades every 20-25 hours or as needed.
Seasonal Storage
- Run fuel stabilizer through the engine before storing.
- Keep it indoors or under a weather-resistant cover.
- Disconnect the battery to prevent drain.
- Elevate the deck to relieve pressure on tires and belts.
With proper care, a Stihl mower can last 10 to 15 years, even under regular use. Replacement parts are easy to find through dealers, and many technicians are trained specifically on these models.
Conclusion
Stihl lawn mowers are the result of a powerful collaboration between two leading brands—Stihl and Briggs & Stratton. Manufactured in the United States and backed by strong dealer support, these mowers are designed for performance, comfort, and long-term reliability. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional, Stihl offers a zero-turn mower that can meet your needs.
Their entrance into the mower market is backed by nearly 100 years of outdoor equipment experience and powered by some of the best mower-building experts in the business. With premium features, American-made quality, and a trusted name, Stihl is quickly becoming a top contender in the zero-turn mower market.
If you’re shopping for a new mower, don’t overlook what Stihl brings to the table. Visit an authorized dealer, take one for a spin, and see how it stacks up for your lawn care routine.
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