Well, this is more of a "first impression" than a true review. I've had the unit for a very short period but I've been able to use it some. For those in the same situation I was, i.e. wanting a no-frills economy shredder at a low price, then this is the bill. My concerns? Weight of material and how smoothly it operated. The metal on the econ Howse is not as thick as many you might see and it has a little more of a tinny clang as opposed to a "solid thud" when you bang it with your boot heel. Nonetheless, it seems fairly tight and the other parts like the 3 pt and tail-wheel frame are plenty stout for it it seems. If you are cutting grass and anything up to the rated 1", then you should be just fine. The construction seems okay with seams and welds that are pretty uniform and no glaring quality control gaffes. If you try to use it to reclaim overgrown brushland, then you might have a problem. Second, I had heard it said that many of the cheaper shredders have balance and vibration problems due to looser tolerances in design and production and this was probably my biggest concern of the two. But, using it just a few times the little Howse runs very smoothly, quietly, and the pan/blade setup seems to be as balanced as possible.
All this being said, if you know what you're buying for the money then you should be fine with it. I had no illusions that this unit was in the same class as the heavier brand name models, no sir. But, for general use and the occasional rougher spots, it should get you by just fine if you're not looking to spend too much money.

Date Purchased: 4/2005
Purchased: New
Price Paid: US$510
Pros: Cost, smoothness, quietness.....
Cons: Lighter construction....
Rating: