I decided on a 24" Ariens. I wanted to get the 28" model but thought my wife and son could handle the 24" better when I am not home.
I think you made the right choice Tom. I have the 24" Ariens as well and I see how the neighbors struggle with the bigger ones. Plus when there is that 2-3" snow the 24" will throw snow farther than the larger one due to more pressure. I've never wished I had a bigger one and that includes going through 12"-16" of snow. It handled it fine. What kind of engine and what HP do they put on them now? Tecumseh is out of business.
I'll have to check, I am not sure where's it made. I assumed China because everything is made there these days, but I'll let you know later.