Hustler hits 60
Hustler is celebrating its 60th anniversary in the lawncare industry, beginning with its introduction of the world’s first twin-lever zero-turn mower in 1964. Inventor John Regier, while working for Hesston Corp., recognized the need for a riding mower that could maneuver irregular landscapes. He did not have an engineering background, but Regier set to work creating the mower he envisioned from farm machinery and mower parts. Eventually, Regier created the world’s first twin-lever zero-turn mower.
When deciding what to name his innovation, he recalled a story from an issue of Popular Mechanics magazine about the U.S. Air Force B-58 Hustler fighter-bomber, an aircraft unlike anything at the time due to its speed, agility and efficiency. Noting the similarities in his own invention, Regier deemed Hustler fitting for his new mower.
“For 60 years, Hustler has been focused on the daily hustle – the work our customers do day in and day out to provide for themselves, their families and their communities. That’s why we’re committed to creating products that work as hard as they do. We develop new technologies and innovate our mowers to make the pro’s job easier and more efficient,” said Karen Behm, Group Brand Manager, Hustler.
To keep up with strong production demand, Regier brought his design to Excel Industries, which was looking to expand its product line at the time. Excel began production at its plant, located in Hesston, and introduced the Hustler in 1964.
Today, Stanley Black & Decker owns the Hustler brand. Attendees at this year’s Equip Expo, held in Louisville, Kentucky from October 15-18, can visit Hustler at indoor booth 5116 and see its products in action at the outdoor demo area in booth 7822D.
Additionally, attendees will have the chance to bring Hustler home by entering the Hustler Mentality trailer giveaway for a chance to win a 18-foot utility trailer loaded with two Hustler units – the X-RIDE and Super S.
