Thought I'd update what I decided. I went with a standard mulching blade, like I had on my old ride on. Lowes had an excellent selection of all types of blades, including a two pack set of 21" mulching blades with 5 point star center for my mower. Home Depot didn't have much selection.
The cutting surface on the mulching blade is at least twice as long. The clippings are much shorter now than the 2-1 OE standard blade. I have no intention of using the side shoot cover and using it as a true mulcher.
Only problem now, this mower came with, free blades for life. You get a new set once a year, shipped free. They will be the standard blade though. They would work fine if I were bagging. I'll figure something out though.
Even though there seems some varying opinion on the Gator blades, I might give them a shot next time. And I learned about Agri Supply, looks like a good place for blades and all kinds of mower parts.
Thanks to all.
J