I bought a Kubota L3800 in 2013 with shuttle shift. Love it. A neighbor at my cabin had 2 L3400s - one HST and one shuttle shift. I got a chance to try both and liked the SS better. Both have advantages. Use the Grapple more than anything. I own 10 acres near Catoosa. For 45 acres, I would look at 50 HP and up. I would also get a used one that does not use DEF.