Cub Cadet 1X (21″) HP 179cc Single-Stage Snow Blower

The Cub Cadet 1X HP is an entry-level single-stage blower: a 179cc OHV engine clears a 21-inch path, with chute direction adjusted by hand across roughly 190 degrees of swing.

What single-stage and manual chute control mean

There's no separate impeller stage and no powered chute motor here, which keeps the machine simpler and lighter than two- and three-stage designs, at the cost of reaching over to adjust the chute yourself rather than turning a crank or joystick. Electric start is included, so starting doesn't depend on a pull cord.

Who it suits

A 21-inch single-stage machine fits light, frequent snowfall on a shorter driveway or walkway rather than deep accumulation on a long one, and it stores more easily than a wider two-stage machine.

Surface to run it on

Single-stage augers contact the ground directly rather than riding above it, so this style of machine suits smooth pavement and is not meant for gravel surfaces, where loose stones can be thrown along with the snow. A paved driveway or a concrete walkway is the setting it was designed around, and keeping it there avoids wearing down the auger's edge faster than normal.

How far does the chute swing? Up to roughly 190 degrees, adjusted by hand.

Does it have electric start? Yes, standard on this model, with no recoil cord to pull.

Tank, model, coverage? .5 gallons, model 31PS2S5C710, 3-year consumer warranty, new.

Colour and intake height? It comes in the factory yellow and black finish, and the intake opening is 13 inches tall.