What should I buy?

[creeper]

You really did describe a 790, it may be hard to find a Deere made in USA. Some of them are put together here, but most are from overseas. The 41xx series would be nice also, but again they are not made in the USA.I have 12 acres and 3 horse and take care of it with a 790. You probably don't want anything smaller than a 5' cutter. If you go smaller, you could get 4' bush hog and a 5' finish mower.I think its great you want to buy american, but I would read some post on here , so you won't kid yourself about where your tractor is made. Hopefully some more veterans can chime in about origin of Deere compacts.Good Luck in your search.

 

[FordTruckGuy]

I recently went through a similar decision as yours, looking at the 2210, 4000 series, and the 90 series 790 and 990. I bought the 790 and have not regretted it. I had never owned a tractor either, and have not found the gear transmission difficult nor cumbersome. In fact, I rather enjoy it. And for the money it is a great deal (around $12K for the MFWD unit). I also bought the LX5 cutter and have found that it will cut plenty, and be enough for what you describe.

You will have a hard time buying an American made CUT, even if you want a Deere. It just doesn't happen. And I too looked hard at it.