A long throwing distance can help place snow beyond a wide driveway or an existing snowbank. The right machine must also suit the surface, available space and snow conditions.
This guide compares two two-stage snow blowers with manufacturer-rated maximum throwing distances of 55 and 56 feet. These are specifications, not a claim that either machine always throws farther than every alternative.
Read on.
The Farthest throwing snow blower: product reviews
Compare the Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO and Honda HSS1332AATD below. Maximum distance varies with snow density, wind, chute position and operating technique.
1. Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO Model 921048
For smaller paths, see our cordless electric snow-shovel guide.
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO, model 921048, combines a 28-inch clearing width with a 14-inch Super High Output impeller.
Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO Model 921048
- 306cc Ariens AX gas engine; two-stage clearing
- 28-inch clearing width; 14-inch SHO impeller
- Manufacturer-rated throwing distance: up to 55 feet
- Auto-Turn steering; electric and recoil start
Its 306cc Ariens AX gas engine powers the two-stage clearing system. Match the travel speed and cut width to the snow rather than forcing a full-width pass through dense accumulation.
Ariens rates this model for throwing snow up to 55 feet. Wet snow and slush may travel a much shorter distance; the maximum is not a guaranteed result.
Ariens lists a maximum snow-moving capacity of approximately 72 tons per hour. That is a snow-throughput rating under suitable conditions, not a claim that it processes that weight of solid ice.
The 14-inch SHO impeller works with the auger and discharge chute as a system. Impeller diameter alone does not establish which machine throws farthest.
The dual-handle interlock permits the chute controls to be adjusted without continuously holding both operating levers, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Auto-Turn steering helps with turns at the end of a pass. Electric and recoil starting are available on this gas-powered model.
Pros
- 28-inch clearing width with a 14-inch SHO impeller
- Manufacturer-rated maximum throw of 55 feet
- Auto-Turn steering and electric start
Cons
- Maximum distance falls with unfavorable snow or wind conditions
- Gas-engine maintenance and substantial storage space required
2. Honda HSS1332AATD Track-Drive Snow Blower
Honda’s HSS1332AATD is a larger track-drive option with a 389cc GX390 engine and a 31.9-inch clearing width. It belongs to the HSS1332ATD electric-start series.
Honda HSS1332AATD Track-Drive Snow Blower
- 389cc Honda GX390 gas engine; two-stage clearing
- 31.9-inch clearing width; track drive
- Manufacturer-rated throwing distance: up to 56 feet
- Hydrostatic transmission; DC electric and recoil start
Its two-stage system is manufacturer-rated to discharge snow up to 56 feet. The one-foot difference from the Ariens rating does not establish that Honda will throw farther in every real-world condition.
Honda also lists a maximum clearing capacity of 2,750 pounds per minute. Actual throughput depends on the snow and the pace of operation.
The infinitely variable hydrostatic transmission controls forward and reverse travel. Tracks and adjustable auger-housing height offer a different handling setup from the wheeled Ariens.
Steering clutches help maneuver the machine. For a separate type of yard equipment, see our guide to zero-turn mower steering adjustments; those instructions do not apply to this snow blower.
The electric joystick adjusts chute direction and deflection. Set the discharge path away from people, vehicles, windows and other hazards.
The ATD version has DC electric starting with recoil backup. It still runs on gasoline; electric start is a starting feature, not the machine’s operating power source.
Honda lists the ATD dry weight as 298 pounds. Plan access, storage and loading arrangements before choosing this larger tracked machine.
Pros
- 31.9-inch clearing width and hydrostatic track drive
- Manufacturer-rated maximum throw of 56 feet
- Electric chute control and DC electric start
Cons
- 298-pound dry weight and a large storage footprint
- Tracks do not remove the manufacturer’s terrain restrictions
Related mower controls: zero-turn mowers with steering wheels.
The farthest throwing snow blower: buying guide
Choose a machine that places snow where you need it while remaining practical to operate and store. Throwing distance is only one part of that decision.
1. Decide the type of snow blowers to pick
Snow blowers are available with single-stage, two-stage and three-stage clearing systems. Power source and stage count are separate choices; two-stage machines are available with gas or battery power.
Below is what you should know:
Single-stage snow blowers
On single-stage snow blowers, an auger (those blades found in front of your blower) throws the snow out via the discharge chute in one move.
Two-stage snow blowers
Two moves (hence the name two stage) take place in this category of snow throwers when moving snow:
Stage 1: The auger collects the snow
Stage 2: An impeller expels the snow via the chute.
Many larger two-stage machines have higher rated throwing distances than compact single-stage models, but compare exact specifications rather than relying on stage count alone.
Three-stage snow blowers
Three-stage snow blowers have an accelerator in addition to the impeller and auger.
The accelerator helps move and break up snow before it reaches the discharge impeller.
The extra component changes how snow is processed; it is not a separate discharge chute.
A three-stage model may be useful for some heavy-snow jobs, but its suitability depends on the exact design and conditions.
Three stages do not guarantee the longest throw. The two-stage models discussed above already have rated maximum distances above 50 feet.
2. What features do you need?
The following features could be advantageous…
- Powered drive: Check steering controls, travel speeds and the effort required to maneuver the machine.
- Travel-speed choice: Slower forward movement can help keep the clearing system from being overloaded in dense snow.
- Headlights: Improve visibility, but do not make an unsafe or poorly visible route suitable.
- Starting system: Some gas models use a plug-in starter; others use a battery-powered starter. Both differ from pull-cord starting.
- Controls and grips: Check reach and operation with winter gloves. Heated grips, if fitted, supplement suitable clothing.
- Interlocking controls: Follow the manual when adjusting the chute while the machine is operating.
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3. What clearing width do you desire?
Bear in mind that each model offers various clearing widths and you’ll need to choose wisely.
A wider housing can reduce the number of passes across a driveway, but it also makes the machine larger. In heavy snow, narrower cuts may still be necessary.
4. Think about the impeller diameter
Impeller diameter, rotational speed, clearance and chute design all affect discharge performance. The Ariens model here uses a 14-inch SHO impeller.
A larger diameter alone does not prove faster clearing or a longer throw; compare the complete machine and its rated performance.
The Farthest throwing snow blower: Frequently asked questions
How far can a snow blower throw snow?
A: It varies by model and snow conditions. Ariens rates the Deluxe 28 SHO up to 55 feet, while Honda rates the HSS1332ATD series up to 56 feet. Treat these as maxima rather than expected distances for every type of snow.
How do I make my snowblower throw snow farther?
A: Start with the maintenance and operating steps in the manufacturer’s manual: check the chute, scraper, belts and other specified wear parts, and adjust travel speed to the snow load.
Use only modifications or accessories approved for the exact machine. An aftermarket impeller kit does not have a universal or guaranteed percentage improvement.
Keep the discharge path clear and address corrosion or damaged parts as directed by the manufacturer. Stop the engine and wait for moving parts to stop before clearing a blockage with the specified clean-out tool.
Wrapping it up
Choose the required throwing range together with clearing width, maneuverability, terrain limits and storage space.
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO offers a 28-inch wheeled setup; the Honda HSS1332AATD provides a wider tracked setup. Both publish maximum throwing distances above 50 feet.
A suitable discharge location and a manageable pace matter more than chasing an extra foot in a specification.