Best Gas Two Stage Snow Blowers for Long Driveways
A long driveway after a foot of wet snow is where a two stage gas blower earns its keep. The auger breaks up the pile and a separate impeller throws it well clear of the edges.
Battery blowers have come a long way, but for big driveways, gravel, and the heavy pile the plow leaves at the end, gas still wins on runtime and raw power.
We picked five gas two stage machines, from a commercial grade Ariens to budget friendly options that still start with the push of a button.
Best Overall: Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO
The Ariens Deluxe 28 SHO is the machine snowbelt homeowners recommend to each other. Its 28 inch clearing width and high output engine handle a long driveway in fewer passes.
Ariens builds these with heavy steel housings and a reputation for lasting decades with basic care. Electric start means a cold January morning starts with a plug and a button.
It is big and heavy, so make sure you have the garage space and a level spot to park it.
Ariens ST28DLE Deluxe SHO 28 in. Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower
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1,000+ reviews
A 28 inch two stage gas snow blower with a high output engine and electric start for big driveways and deep snow.
Shop on Amazon →Best for Extra Wide Driveways: Husqvarna ST230
Husqvarna's ST230 clears a 30 inch path with a 301cc engine. That extra width adds up fast on a three car driveway or a long rural lane.
It is built for the kind of storm where you go out twice in one day. The wide bucket also makes quick work of a big parking pad or a shop apron.
Measure your gates and garage door before you buy. A 30 inch machine needs room to turn.
Husqvarna ST230 30-in 301-cc Two Stage Gas Snow Thrower
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A 30 inch two stage gas snow thrower with a 301cc engine for extra wide driveways and heavy storms.
Shop on Amazon →Best Mid Size Pick: Husqvarna ST124
The ST124 is a 24 inch two stage blower with a 212cc engine. It is a good fit for a typical suburban driveway that gets real snow but not lake effect totals.
A 24 inch machine is easier to steer around parked cars and walkways than the big 28 and 30 inch models. It also stores in a smaller corner of the garage.
It is a solid step up for anyone moving from a single stage blower that bogs down in wet snow.
Husqvarna ST124 212cc 24" 2 Stage Snow Blower
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A 24 inch two stage gas snow blower with a 212cc engine for average size driveways in snowy climates.
Shop on Amazon →Best Value with Comfort Features: PowerSmart 26 Inch
PowerSmart's 26 inch model pairs a Briggs and Stratton engine with electric start and heated handles. That is a lot of machine for the money.
The 26 inch width is a nice middle ground for long driveways where you want fewer passes without wrestling a giant blower.
Warm hands make a bigger difference than you would think when you are out there for an hour.
PowerSmart 26-Inch Self Propelled Two-Stage Snow Blower 208cc Briggs and Stratton
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1,000+ reviews
A self propelled 26 inch two stage gas snow blower with a Briggs and Stratton engine, electric start, and handle warmers.
Shop on Amazon →Best Budget Two Stage: Yard Force 24 Inch
Yard Force's 24 inch dual stage blower uses a 208cc Briggs and Stratton engine with both electric and manual start. It also has an LED light for clearing before sunrise.
It is a sensible pick if you want two stage performance without stepping up to a premium brand price.
Keep a bottle of fuel stabilizer on the shelf and it will be ready for the next storm.
Yard Force YF24-DS21-GSB2 24-Inch Dual-Stage Gas Snow Blower
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1,000+ reviews
A 24 inch two stage gas snow blower with a Briggs and Stratton engine, electric and manual start, and an LED light.
Shop on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a two stage snow blower?
If you regularly get more than 8 inches at a time, have a long driveway, or deal with the heavy pile from the street plow, a two stage blower is worth it. Single stage models struggle in deep or wet snow.
Can a two stage snow blower be used on gravel?
Yes. Two stage machines have adjustable skid shoes that lift the auger off the ground, so they do not throw stones like a single stage blower can.
What size snow blower do I need for a long driveway?
A 24 inch machine works for most two car driveways. For long or extra wide driveways, a 26 to 30 inch model saves a lot of passes.
How do I store a gas snow blower in summer?
Run it dry or fill it with stabilized fuel, change the oil, and store it covered in a dry spot. Check the shear pins and belts before the first storm.
Snow Blower Tips for Long Driveways
- Stake the edges. Driveway markers keep you off the lawn and away from hidden edging and sprinkler heads.
- Go early in big storms. Clearing twice at 8 inches is easier on you and the machine than once at 16.
- Throw with the wind. Plan your passes so the chute points downwind and you are not wearing the snow.
- Stabilize the fuel. Add stabilizer to every can. Old gas is the top reason a blower will not start.