If it doesn't sport a T-bar, I don't operate it.
Far as deck size, I find the 44-48" is the most universal fit. These are the largest decks that will still fit through MOST single gates. The 52" is the first size will NOT fit through anything except double gates. In addition, the 48" is the ONLY size comes as a fixed deck and also does NOT come as a float deck. The fixed deck is sturdy and built like a tank, there is no clatter when curb-jumping, no springs and clips come flying off when you hit a bump, and it sports the 5-speed transmission. It is lighter, faster, and is to float-decks what a straight razor is to scissors. Most barbers cut hair with scissors, only a pro knows how to cut hair with a straight razor (and if it hurts, he ain't a pro). And of course, the straight razor is cheaper, as is the fixed deck.
Far as 3-foot gates? Sorry, I don't cut those yards because it takes longer to cut with a smaller mower and folks are not willing to pay the extra it costs when it does.
The pistol-grip 30-36" mower can be found left and right, these machines get handed down from one broke business owner to the next year after year. I know this because I see the same machines used by one guy after the other, yup, year in and year out.
Try and find a used 40+" Toro sometime, and you'll see what I mean - If a machine is ueber-rare, that tells me it is the machine to get.
Everything else is a POS.
