I had used an Exmark w/b for many years. Last May I added a JD 717A, with 7 Iron II deck, and used it on part of my properties (terrain, gates, etc prevented me from using it everywhere). My Exmark put down a pretty good stripe. My JD puts down almost no stripe. After making the mower change, I had several customers approach me, "... your new mower does a much better job of cutting than your other one."

In other words, those people who had not said anything for years about the quality of my work, came to me to offer compliments AFTER I started mowing with the JD. Stripes, nor no stripes ....? My disappointment of the JD putting down no stripes was rewarded with compliments and satisfaction from my customers.

I use OEM blades on my 7 Iron II deck.

 

I don't have a 7 Iron II deck but I can tell you that the OEM blades are much thicker and heavier than most of the Aftermarket blades that I have purchased for my 777. They are also a lot more expensive. My 777 stripes pretty well with the Stock blades and a roller:waving:

Jason