Six blade reel mowers are ideal for gardens. This 14-inch wide mower has five steel blades and 8.5-inch rubber wheels. Sun Joe MJ500M Manual Reel Mower w/ Grass Catcher, An Array of Organic Fertilizer Options for Your Plants, What to Consider When Shopping for a Manual Reel Mower. A reel mower is like cart a with a long handle. The instructions for this process are below! Ten blade reel mowers serve a particular purpose. This is a product that does a decent job for a decent amount of … Since there are no engines, spark plugs, mechanical parts, or other issues, they are safe to use. Her fierce love for the outdoors fuels everything she does. It’s critical that you understand how … This REEL mower is ideal for a homeowner looking to get their lawn in tip top condition. You can be confident in your purchase with a limited three-year warranty. The Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower provides 50% more cutting power, makes it easier to cut, and is appropriate for all grass types, including denser varieties like Bermuda. Best Gas Powered Reel Mower. The five-blade design and 1.06 inch to two-inch cutting height provide versatility and adaptability, allowing this mower to cut various types of grass and lawns. Fiskars has put a lot of energy into revitalizing the technology of the classic reel mower. This factor could end up saving you more energy in the long run if you have to make fewer passes across your lawn but will require more effort output in that short time. This mower measures 28 inches by 18 inches by 10 inches, a cutting width of 20-inches, and weighs just 34 pounds. More than 75,000 Americans each year are injured by rotary lawnmowers. It’s made by Amish craftspeople in the United States and comes with an impressive 10-year warranty. Best Commercial-Ariens 915223 IKON-X Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower. A reel mower generally has three to seven blades. Every mower is a little different but in general, you’ll remove one wheel and the gear under it, then insert the crank handle into that same hole. However, you will need fewer passes with a wider path. A grass catcher is included, making this a budget-friendly choice if you wish to pick up clippings (such as when you let the lawn get too long before cutting). It’s light and maneuverable and a good value. While they follow the same principles and design as your grandpa’s mower, modern reel mowers have evolved for more comfortable use, less maintenance, and more versatility. This mower costs $199, the most expensive of our list, and weighs 51.7 pounds. Then, apply the lapping compound to the very edge of the blades. Rotary mowers also come with additional maintenance, parts, and hazards. When storing your reel mower, make sure it is covered, so it does not rust in the rain. They also work well for those who want to keep their grass under an inch and are open to mowing one to two times per week. Why You Should Mulch Leaves, Not Rake Them, replacing at least some of it with native plants and flowers. At $107, this mower specializes in cutting bentgrass. It comes with a three-year limited warranty, one of the longer in the industry. A kit typically contains grinding compound, application brush, and a back-lapping crank. Available in both the standard height(H) cutting 1/4″ to 1-7/8″, and the all new high cut(HC) model which cuts from 5/8″ to 2-1/4″. The Greenworks 16-Inch Reel Mower provides a 16-inch cutting path and an adjustable 4 stage cutting height of 1 1/8 inches to 2 ¼ inches. Most reel mowers need sharpened every year or two. You can rest easy knowing your purchase also comes with a 2-year warranty to protect your mower, making it a nice gift for gardeners. They’ve developed the StaySharp cutting system for contactless cutting that increases the blades’ life and the time between sharpening them. Her professional pursuits include writing, creating art, and photography. Push lawn mowers are reliable, handy to have, and can accommodate a range of lawns and terrain types. After MANY models and much testing, Doc finally made his top pick for best reel mower. ", " At 21 pounds, this mower is lightweight and maneuverable so it’s ideal for smaller lawns. If you own a landscaping company and you’re searching for an affordable riding lawn mower that can handle heavy daily use, then the IKON is it. If you’re looking for the best reel mower for Zoysia grass, you would be glad with FiskarStaySharp Max Reel. Reel mowers cut grass like scissors instead of lobbing off the top of the grass. They’re also not great on lawns that aren’t completely level because the wheels can lose contact with the ground so it may miss spots. You can opt-out at any time. While reel mowers cut does make for a healthier lawn, which is, in turn, better overall, they aren't suitable for all yards. This five-blade mulching mower makes a 16-inch-wide cut and has a lever height adjustment with nine positions ranging from .75 inches to 2.5 inches. The 10-inch dual-track wheels and ergonomic handle with a cushioned grip make it easier to steer and move around your lawn. Even if you have a large lot that you mow with a riding lawn mower, a push mower is pretty important to get into the nooks and crannies of your lot. A: Reel mowers are safer than regular rotary motors. If your lawn is small that needs weekly mowing, you may get an affordable model. Weight - The weight of a reel mower will determine how hard it is to push. This mower weighs in at just 26 pounds and is lightweight for all users and can fit into any storage shed. This mower has a 16-inch cutting path and boasts dimensions of 44 inches by 19 inches by 22.5 inches. Enjoy our selection below of the best reel mowers. This prevents stress on the lawn. A decent mower usually ranges between 70 to 300 dollars. Certain grass types are also more difficult for a reel mower to cut like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine. That depends on several factors, including your fitness level and the mower's size. After a while, you should start seeing the shiny edges appear with a bit of corrosion. Other features include reversible grass chutes that adjust to send clippings forward, backward, or downwards and away from your feet, keeping you cleaner. If you just want your grass cutting, you may decide on a rotary machine, but if you want a beautifully presented lawn like those you see at Major League baseball or EPL football grounds you should choose an ALLETT cylinder-reel mower. Most reel mower blades are alloy steel. When Kirby is indoors, she enjoys tea, whisky, old films, cooking, and baking. The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower offers the most extensive cutting width of our selection of mowers. The STIHL MS 271 – Farm Boss Chainsaw – Beshomegear.com . Reel mowers are not designed for large yards unless you have ample spare time and plenty of energy; most manufacturers suggest these mowers are best for lawns no larger than a quarter to a half acre. Manual Walk Behind Reel Lawn Mower, Best for Small Yards: If you choose to mow your lawn with your reel mower while the grass is wet, you will experience increased resistance, and you will burn more calories for sure. [responsivevoice_button voice=”UK English Female” buttontext=”Listen to Post”] How Reel Mower Helps Us In Gardening. What if we head back to the 1950s, but just for our machinery? This mower weighs in at a shocking 2.2 pounds, the lightest device on our list by far. ", "It’s pricey, but this mower is built for durability with heavy commercial-grade parts. The company has been around for 125 years and was acquired in 1936 by American Lawn Mower Company, which makes nearly identical reel mower models under other brand names including Earthwise and Scotts. You'll want to double-check each blade and make sure it's clean before storage. So, it would be best if you didn’t break your bank trying to get a premium lawn mower when a reel mower can do the job even better. Watch your fingers and wear gloves! If you can't lift or move your mower with ease, you'll struggle to push and utilize it. The downside? To keep your garden looking perfect, make sure to have a reliable hedge trimmer, too. This cordless lawn mower is an excellent and versatile mower with lots of new technology at a higher price tag. If you leave your mower out in the elements to rust or don't clean the clippings off your mower after you mow your lawn, you'll end up with a mower that doesn't last you long at all. There’s also resistance from the wheels, which are what cause the reel blades to rotate. If you have a hilly yard, it’s definitely a challenge to mow uphill! These grasses include Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, and St. Augustine grass. The company says the steel blades stay sharp for several years, so you’ll be able to go a while in between sharpening tasks. It has a 14-inch cutting path and measures 20 inches by 24 inches by 42.5 inches. This five-blade mower has a wide 20-inch cut so you’ll get the job done in fewer passes. Reel mowers, which don’t require electricity, batteries or gas, are what previous generations used. It's a high-quality machine and has a heavy-duty feel, meaning it should last a lifetime. After a while, your arm may tire, so it might be a good idea to have another person who can take over cranking duties. Naturally, the more expensive options are equipped with great features. You should consider your lawn size, terrain, and height before deciding if a reel mower will cut your grass better. There’s an optional grass catcher available at additional cost, and it has a limited three-year warranty. While this mower might be a little trickier to maneuver than some of its counterparts, it covers an unmatched surface area, making your mowing go by faster. This mower is a seven-blade ball bearing reel mower with a 16″ cutting width. The weight may make it more difficult to push, but the 18-inch cutting path makes for fewer passes as you mow. Blade cutting height - Number of Blades- Reel mowers come with various blades; the most common range is five blades to ten blades. A reversible grass chute allows you to direct where clippings go. The cutting height adjusts from 1 inch to 2.5 inches. If you are looking for a do-it-all mower at an affordable price, this is the mower for you. For just $75, the DuroStar 16-Inch 5-Blade Height Adjustable Reel Mower provides an exceptionally versatile cutting ability for a low cost. Earthwise outfitted this mower with an unbreakable steel side plate, alloy steel blades, and ten-inch composite wheels. It weighs about 52 pounds so you’re going to work hard. At 21 pounds, it’s lightweight and maneuverable so it’s ideal for small yards. For example, Bermuda grass should be cut at 1.5 to 2.5 inches while tall fescue should be mowed at 2.5 to 4 inches. Best with Grass Catcher: Sun Joe MJ500M Manual Reel Mower w/ Grass Catcher Buy on Amazon Buy on Home Depot This five-blade mower has a … This mower also comes with a four-year warranty, leaving you with confidence in your purchase. If you own a small yard and looking for a budget-friendly lawnmower, then the American lawn As the reel spins, the grass is caught in between the reel blades and the cutter bar, or blade, which is at the back of the mower. A: Reel mowers are lawn mowers with blades that spin vertically and use a scissoring motion to cut the grass. However, turf isn’t all bad. It’s great for a small yard but don’t let the grass get taller than 4 inches or you’ll have to make multiple passes. Reel mowers typically have cutting widths from 14 inches to 21 inches wide. Blade durability - The durability of reel mower blades is generally impressive. Alloy steel does not dull quickly, and you should only have to sharpen your reel mower blades every few years based on use. In the video below he tells you the rules you should follow which include certain reel mower features to look for. The weight may also affect the storage and transportability of your reel mower. Tuesday Kirby Kahl is a contributor at Gear Hungry. The Scotts 2000-20 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is the reel mower to get. Reel Lawn Mower at Walmart, Great States 14 Inch Wide 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower at Walmart, Greenworks 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower at Walmart, Sun Joe Manual Reel Mower w/ Grass Catcher at Amazon, Clipper USA 19" Reel Mower at Lehmans.com, Best Overall: The American home has more than doubled in size since the 1950s; this means our lawns have increased in size as well. This mower has the same cutting-edge InertiaDrive and StaySharp technology as its counterpart earlier in this list, but with a slightly smaller cutting width and lighter weight. However, the widest reel mowers need fewer passes because of the size of your cutting path. During the hot summer months it’s often a good choice to reel mow later in the day when the temps are dropping and the sun is dropping. We have filter more than 100+ of product to give you top […] This walk-behind mower evenly cuts all … At just 22 pounds, it’s a lightweight option that will work well for most small yards. ", Fiskars Stay Sharp Max Reel Mower at Amazon, Remington 16 in. These grass types are traditionally difficult for reel mowers to cut, making this reel mower an impactful player for yards with these types of grass. The person who is interested in keeping their lawn perfectly manicured without any kind of hassle or mess and expense on reel mower I think for all this task Reel mower is the perfect option. With the right lawn mower, cutting your grass can be much less of a chore. The helical contact-free blades also provide silent cutting and will save you from rotary mower headaches. You can utilize the included bag for catching all your lawn trimmings or use the grass and leaf blower to move them to a more appropriate location. The price tag of $105 sits in the mid-range of reel mowers’ prices, but the included blower makes this package a steal. Some of the heavier reel mowers are heavier because of their width and cutting path. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. It's an affordable option, but that it tends to bend, rather than cut some tall weeds, which actually is typical for many reel mowers. Our buying guide on the top zero turn lawn mowers features some more amazing tools like this one, so make sure to check it out, too. Reel mowing lawns and Doc explains his top pick for reel mowers. You will need three items, a crank or object to turn the blades, a lapping compound, which is an abrasive suspended in a thick goo, and something to apply the lapping compound with, like a paintbrush or other instrument. The t-style handle is cushioned, and it’s the only part you’ll have to assemble out of box, though you won’t need any tools. It’s dimensions measure 20″  by 42.5 inches by 24 inches. The one-touch height adjustment ranges from 1 inch to 4 inches so it can accommodate different types of grass including tough species such as St. Augustine, Bermuda and Zoysia. This mower also requires no tools for assembly so you can put this mower right to work. With nine cutting height adjustment levels from 1.75 inches to 2.75 inches, you’ll find the right one for most grass types. Five blades tend to be the most common offering in reel mowers, as it provides better versatility and adaptability to the terrain and grass. review process here. Most turfgrass experts recommend you leave the cuttings on the lawn as organic fertilizer. The advantage of using a reel mower on Zoysia instead of a rotary one is that it prevents clipping clumps and stops potential scalping. Arricca SanSone specializes in writing about home, shelter, and gardening. Manual mowers usually range from 20 to 50 pounds so they do require effort to push, especially if your grass is long or you have a large yard. The T style handle sits at a comfortable height for most users and features a cushioned grip for comfort while mowing. Ahead, our picks for the best reel mowers: With an 18-inch-wide cut and two sets of wheels for cutting closer to edges, this five-blade mower is a good size for most medium yards. Once you think your mower is sharp, test it with a piece of paper, it should cut like scissors. This mower’s unique feature is a knob for adjusting the blade height, ranging from .5 inches to 2 inches. If you have quick-growing, tall grass, a reel mower will be less effective. This mower has a four-blade reel, making it capable of cutting dense lawns and grass up to four inches tall. The brush bar at the bottom front of the mower presses the blades of grass downward as you push the mower forward. The five steel blades cut grass and deposit it into the included grass catcher, so it doesn’t end up all over you or your lawn. American Lawn Mower Deluxe Hand Reel Mower, Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Inch 5-Blade Reel Mower, DuroStar 16-Inch 5-Blade Height Adjustable Reel Mower, Sun Joe 14-Inch Quad Wheel Manual Reel Mower, GET THE VERY BEST OF GEARHUNGRY STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX, I confirm I wish to sign up to the Gear Hungry mailing list, Editorial Guidelines: How We Create Reviews and Buyer’s Guides. Combining the power of a 20″ chainsaw bar with a whopping 50.2cc engine, the MS271 is for serious timbering. Its dimensions are 45.7 inches by 20.5 inches by 31.9 inches, so it rivals its competitors in size. Heavily watered and chemically treated lawns can have a big negative impact on the environment, and some pesticides used on lawns can even pose a health risk to children and pets. The adjustable cutting height ranges from .5 inches to 2.5 inches. Cutting heights can be adjusted from .5 inches to 1.75 inches. BEST VALUE: Great States 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower For affordability and mowing ease, the Great States 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is … The heavier a reel mower is, the harder it will be to push. Best Reel Mower: Sun Joe 18-Inch Quad-Wheel Push Reel Mower This old school-style mower has a five-blade system and a five-position adjustable cutting height for hassle-free maneuvering. To check the progress of your blades, remove the compound. After you apply, you can use a crank or other instrument to move the wheels backward and continue applying until each blade has some lapping compound. This reel mower is definitely the gold standard. High quality, luxury grade lawns and sports surfaces are mown with ALLETT reel mowers. This is one of the best products on the market, making it one of the most popular mowers available. Apply the compound with a brush on the edge of each reel blade and turn the reel in a counter-clockwise direction (this is opposite of the normal mowing rotation). Pay attention to this feature so that you choose one that will allow you to cut your grass at the correct height for its species to keep it healthy. Overall, fewer blades are better for taller grass, and more blades are better for shorter grass. Regular rotary lawn mowers have evolved to help us manage these lawns and the regulations many homeowners’ associations have placed on them. Homeowner Range Today the Allett brand of walk-behind garden cylinder mowers from our homeowner mower range are leaders within their various market sectors, providing users with expertly-built, reliable, well-proven grass-cutting cylinder mowers which produce a seemingly effortless first-class finish to every lawn on which they are used. ", "Rest easy with this budget-friendly mower's two-year warranty. Reel mowers are powered by you so you won't create planet-heating emissions or other pollutants while you cut the grass. This reel mower features a 17-inch cutting width, dimensions of 23.5 inches by 18 inches by 13.8 inches, and weighs in at 40.1 pounds. This mower’s size makes it easy to use and excellent for younger folks and teenagers to use, too, as they learn to cut the lawn. It weighs 32.4 pounds, has 10-inch front wheels, and 2-inch rear rollers, making it maneuverable for most users. Most will, quite honestly, get jammed and require you to stop to remove the obstruction. To keep lawn cuttings off your feet, this mower also has rear bag capabilities. The Scotts 2000-20 Reel Mower features large wheels (10” front and 6″ back) to give you additional stability that helps to increase the mower’s maneuverability overall. What's the Most Environmentally Sound Way to Care for My Lawn? The adjustable cutting height from 1.5 inches to 3.5inches is one of the more extensive ranges on our list. Reel mowers with wider cutting paths may be heavier and harder to push. It has 10-inch wheels in front and 6-inch wheels in back for better maneuverability, and it comes with a two-year warranty. In fact, this scissor action produces a clean, even cut, which is beneficial for turf health. These professional passions allow her the time to live life outside as a rock climber, skier, runner, backpacker, paddle boarder, swimmer, and explorer. Assessing your lawn's size and what you can reasonably push is essential before deciding on a reel mower. 20” Classic Reel. The 8 Best Outdoor Compost Tumblers and Bins of 2021, Everything You Need to Know About Lawn Fertilizer, The 9 Best Patio Umbrellas and Stands of 2021, The 8 Best Biodegradable Trash Bags of 2021, The 7 Best Energy-Efficient Vacuum Cleaners of 2021, The 7 Best Sustainable Adirondack Chairs of 2021, The 6 Best Sharpening Stones to Maintain Your Knives, The 8 Best Eco-Friendly Dog Collars of 2021, The 8 Best Zero-Waste Travel Items of 2021. This mower is quiet with contactless cutting, no more loud engines droning out the rest of the world as you mow. For 90% of homeowners, a push mower is the ideal type of lawn mower. Consider the size of your lawn and how many passes you'll need to make with each mower before you make your purchase. Typically, the only maintenance necessary is occasional lubrication of the bearings and blade sharpening every few years. Now, crank for about ten minutes or so, still backward. In fact, the first U.S. patent for a reel type mower was 1868, and it looks almost identical to today’s version! She has written for Dotdash since May 2019. After you finish mowing, make sure you wash off any remaining grass clippings. Using a reel mower is a workout, especially on a steamy summer day. If you want to buy the best manual reel lawn mower that also doesn’t cost you a huge amount, you may want to consider the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower. They don't have the same maintenance issues as rotary mowers. It’s pricey, but it’s built for durability with heavy commercial-grade parts. The push reel mower is making a comeback for lawns across the United States. If you’ve long wanted a reel mower but haven’t found one suitable for your dense lawn, this choice is your answer. To start, you want to adjust the blades so that they are as close to coming into contact with the bed knife as possible without actually touching it. For more details, see our Privacy Policy. Use a rag to remove the compound. There are a few things you should do to care for your reel mower. This reel mower is easy to assemble and inexpensive at just $89.99, making it an excellent choice for any household, lawn, and grass type. Like all things in life, if you don't take care of your reel mower, it won't last as long. A: This topic is quite the debate! Lastly, it comes with a quick adjustment range of 1-inch to 3 inches for a vast range of grass heights. Best Cordless Lawn Mowers of 2021: Whisper-Quiet Lawn Care, This product guide was written by Tuesday Kahl. It weighs in at 31 pounds. Its dimensions measure 27 inches by 23 inches by 47 inches, and it weighs 26lbs, making it heavy duty but maneuverable. At $139, this mower provides a lot of power for just a hair more money than some of our other selections. This length can range from 14 inches to 20 inches: the shorter the range, the more passes you'll need to finish mowing your lawn. This package gets you some serious bang for your buck with this combo reel mower and blower package. Some newer reel mowers also have new technology that makes them easier to push. Size - Reel mower size plays a factor in how easy it is to mow your lawn. The additional technology behind this mower does come with a heftier price tag and weight. This five-blade mower has a 16-inch wide cut and 8.8-inch wheels with four adjustable cutting heights from .88 inches to 1.81 inches.