Best Push Reel Mower US

The best reel mower for your small lawn

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Summary

Best Push Reel Mower

When it comes to maintaining a neat and tidy lawn, push reel mowers offer a quiet, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance alternative to their gas-powered counterparts. Selecting the right push reel mower involves considering various factors such as the size and topography of your yard, the type of grass, and your personal physical comfort. My experience with these mowers has taught me that the best choice is one that not only aligns with the practical dimensions of your lawn but also with your dedication to lawn care.

Choosing a push reel mower means understanding the importance of blade quality, cutting width, and height adjustment features. While these mowers are often favored for their simplicity, it’s crucial to find a model that can handle your lawn’s specific demands without causing unnecessary strain. Weight and ergonomic design play a vital role in ensuring ease of use, and opting for a mower with sharp, durable blades will lead to a cleaner cut and a healthier lawn. The intricacies of your garden’s landscape, including any slopes or uneven terrain, will also influence your decision, emphasizing the need for a mower that maneuvers easily and efficiently.

Key Takeaways

  • Opt for a mower that suits the size and complexity of your lawn.
  • Prioritize blade quality and adjustable settings for a precise cut.
  • Consider ergonomic design for comfort and ease of use.

Best Push Reel Mower List

Best Push Reel Mower Reviews

LawnMaster 18 LMRM1801 Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 18cm
Cut Heights: 0.75" to 2"
Lawn Size: Medium, Small

Features:

Larger Rear Wheels

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Larger Rear Wheels

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

First, let's get the LawnMaster unboxed and see what comes in the package. After unboxing, I'll guide you through each step of the assembly, demonstrating how to piece it together seamlessly. Then, we'll cover the mower’s specifications and finally, put it to the test.

I’m Mark, and today I'll be evaluating the LawnMaster 18-inch push reel lawn mower. By the end of this video, you'll be able to decide if this mower is right for you and your lawn. We'll begin with an unboxing, check what's included, go through the assembly process, and review its specifications. Subsequently, we’ll put it to the test on my front lawn to see how well it performs.

First, let's get the LawnMaster unboxed and see what comes in the package. After unboxing, I'll guide you through each step of the assembly, demonstrating how to piece it together seamlessly. Then, we'll cover the mower’s specifications and finally, put it to the test.

Main Features

  • 1 x LawnMaster 18 Inch 5 Blade Push Reel mower
  • Handles
  • Handle padding
  • Nuts and bolts for assembly
  • Grass catcher
  • User manual

Lawnmaster’s five-blade cylinder provided a clean and precise cut. I noticed a significant difference in how evenly the lawn appeared after using this mower compared to others I’ve tested. For storage, the push reel mower’s handlebars stayed upright well, although adding the grass catcher made them a bit tippy, easily fixed by readjusting.

When transporting the mower, I found that wheeling it backwards prevented the blades from spinning, avoiding potential damage from stones or steps. This mowing experience was smoother and more efficient, largely due to the well-thought-out design and functionality of the Lawnmaster 18-in push reel mower.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Easy height toolless adjustment
  • Sharp, clean cut
  • Cuts lawns up to and beyond 1000 square feet
  • Easy to assemble
  • Large rubber wheels
  • Very Good choice of cutting heights
Cons
  • No frills which may not be suitable for all users
Great States 304-14 14 Lawn Mower Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 14cm
Cut Heights: 0.5" to 1.7"
Lawn Size: Medium, Small

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Rear Discharge

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Rear Discharge

Summary

In my Great States 304-14 push reel mower YouTube review, you’ll be able to see this model in action, while in this guide, I’ll be talking through all of the most important details and features to help you decide if this is the right mower for you and your lawn.

In recent weeks I’ve been testing out a few push reel mowers and I have been really impressed with the modern version of this classic type of lawn mower. One of the models I’ve been looking at is the Great States 304-14 push reel mower which is designed for small lawns and provides a scissor-sharp cut for a healthy lawn.

With exceptional build quality, easy assembly, and features that make regular lawn maintenance a breeze, this is certainly a tool I’d recommend to the avid gardener.

In fact, while testing out the Great States 304-14 push reel mower, there was very little I found to complain about and, since this is such an affordable piece of equipment, you don’t have to worry about forking out for something that you worry you won’t get on with.

In my Great States 304-14 push reel mower YouTube review, you’ll be able to see this model in action, while in this guide, I’ll be talking through all of the most important details and features to help you decide if this is the right mower for you and your lawn.

Main Features

  • 14 inch cutting width
  • 4 cutting heights
  • Alloy steel blades
  • Padded handles
  • Lightweight design
  • Large wheels
  • No tool assembly

Conclusion

As far as simplicity goes, you can’t get much simpler than a push reel mower. These traditional tools have got a bad reputation but that’s often based on the ancient models used by our grandparents that were impossible to push and didn’t do a great job at cutting.

But by today’s standards, the Great States 304-14 push reel mower really is a cut above the rest with coated steel blades that are super sharp and deliver a clean and immaculate cut. With excellent manoeuvrability and user comfort, this model really was delightful to use.

I found the assembly to be incredibly quick and simple and the Great States 304-14 push reel mower is definitely a tool I’ll return to in the future.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Easy to move
  • Great for small lawns
  • Tool-free assembly
  • Good range of cutting heights
  • Excellent build quality
  • Stable wheels with good grip
Cons
  • No grass catcher included
Amazon Basics Push Reel Lawnmower
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 18cm
Cut Heights: 0.8" to 2.4"
Lawn Size: Medium, Small

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

I really like that the Amazon Basins Push Reel mower is so easy to assemble and moves around the lawn smoothly and freely. If you thought that a push reel mower would be difficult to use, give the Amazon Push Reel mower a try and you won’t be disappointed.

Back in the day, push reel mowers were a real challenge to use and after the dawn of the electric lawn mower, many people turned away from their manual counterparts. But over time, the push reel mower has undergone some impressive changes. There are now many on the market that are incredibly easy to push and deliver an excellent cut quality.

With this in mind, I’ve tested a few pull reel mowers and today, I’d like to talk about the Amazon Basics 18 Inch 5 Blade Push Reel mower. I tried this mower on my front lawn and I have to say that I was really impressed with how well it performed.

Yes, there is a lot of tech available these days but sometimes, getting back to basics is a real pleasure and that’s certainly the case with the Amazon Basics 18 Inch 5 Blade Push Reel mower. In this review, I’ll be exploring the features and giving you my thoughts on how this nifty little mower performed on my lawn.

Main Features

  • 1 x Amazon Basics 18 Inch 5 Blade Push Reel mower
  • Handles
  • Handle padding
  • Nuts and bolts for assembly
  • Grass catcher
  • User manual

With robotic lawn mowers and advanced tech taking over the market, I thought it was time that I brought it back to basics and I’m so glad that I did. Having tested the Amazon Basins mower, I can say with certainty that this is an excellent tool that’s user-friendly and reliable.

While the features are minimal, it does what it promises; cuts your lawn evenly and neatly without stress to the grass.

I really like that the Amazon Basins Push Reel mower is so easy to assemble and moves around the lawn smoothly and freely. If you thought that a push reel mower would be difficult to use, give the Amazon Push Reel mower a try and you won’t be disappointed.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Sharp, clean cut
  • Cuts lawns up to and beyond 1000 square feet
  • Easy to assemble
  • Large rubber wheels
  • Good choice of cutting heights
Cons
  • No frills which may not be suitable for all users
Great States 415-16 Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 16cm
Cut Heights: 0.5" to 2.5"
Lawn Size: Medium, Small

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

This is a 5-blade manual lawn mower that has a cutting width of 16 inches. There is the option to purchase only the reel if you need a replacement, which is great if you are in it for the long haul. And I do not doubt that this will be a long-term investment since it is made from incredibly durable alloy steel designed to withstand everything that you will put it through.

Main Features

  • 5 steel blades
  • Lightweight at 51 lbs
  • Cutting width of 16”
  • 10" composite wheels
  • Easy assembly
  • T handle design
  • Adjustable blade height of 0.5”- 2.5”
  • Cuts grass up to 4 inches tall

The mower weighs less than any other design I have reviewed, weighing just 20lbs; if you need something easy to use, this is it!

The alloy steel design also extends to the blades which are intended to stay sharper for longer. They are able to cut grass up to a length of 4 inches, so this makes an ideal choice for anyone whose yard has seen better days.

The mower is easily put together in as little as ten minutes and requires no special tools, so you can get started pretty much right out of the box.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 5 blades
  • 16-inch cutting width
  • Lightweight
  • Made from strong materials
  • Easy to put together
Cons
  • No grass catcher bag (optional extra)
Snow Joe MJ500M Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 16cm
Cut Heights: 4 (0.79" to 1.81")
Lawn Size: Medium, Small

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

If you are looking for a manual mower that has a generous cutting width with a grass catcher box to match, then this makes an excellent choice. It comes with a 6.6-gallon catcher bag and a 16-inch cutting width that makes it perfect for both medium and large-sized yards.

Main Features

  • 5 steel blades
  • 6.6-gallon grass catcher
  • Lightweight at 22 lbs
  • Cutting width of 16”
  • Loop handle design
  • 8.8” polymer wheels
  • Adjustable blade height of 0.79”- 1.81”

The mower sits on two 8.8” wheels that offer an excellent amount of stability and make the device a dream to push around. What’s more, it is super lightweight at just 22lbs making it really easy to move without having to have the strength of a Greek God (or Goddess.)

This push reel mower is manufactured using high-quality steel which is one of the most durable materials where yard equipment is concerned. Moreover, it will resist rust and corrosion.

One of the best things about this lawn mower is that it has a choice of four cutting heights which is not something we see in all mowers, especially manual ones. This is easy to alter giving you much more diversity with how you use the mower during the varying seasons and conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 18-inch cutting width
  • Padded handle
  • Rot-resistant grass catcher box
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to assemble
  • Can purchase the reel only
Cons
  • A plastic deck is less durable than steel
American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 18cm
Cut Heights: 1" to 2.5"
Lawn Size: Large, Medium

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

This American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 is a great choice for bigger yards since it comes with an impressive cutting width of 18 inches. The blades are effective and sharp as well as being incredibly robust. Furthermore, the entire deck is fashioned from an extremely durable plastic which gives you the confidence that this is a machine that will stand the test of time.

Main Features

  • 5-blade reel
  • Lightweight at 27 lbs
  • Cutting width of 18”
  • Loop handle design
  • 10” polymer wheels
  • Adjustable blade height of 1”- 2.25”
  • Cuts grass up to 4 inches tall

It comes with a large grass catcher box that is made from rot-resistant fabric, so no matter what the weather or if it gets wet, you won’t need to worry about replacing it. Storing the American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 couldn’t be easier either, thanks to the compact design.

Putting the mower together can be done in as little as ten minutes and the entire process is completely tool-free making it super-simple.

The American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 is fitted with a looped handle that comes with a soft cushioned grip for a more comfortable mowing experience and a pair of ten-inch strong and stable wheels for improved maneuverability.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 18-inch cutting width
  • Padded handle
  • Rot-resistant grass catcher box
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to assemble
  • Can purchase the reel only
Cons
  • A plastic deck is less durable than steel
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 14cm
Cut Heights: 0.5" to 1.7"
Lawn Size: Medium, Small

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Rear Roller (Stripes)

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

There is the option to purchase the reel only or reel with the grass catcher for this American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 mower, if you are looking for a replacement. However, for the entire mower, you are getting a very robust and sturdy machine. What’s more, it weighs just 20lbs, which is great for a manual mower as you will not be tackling a significant weight when moving it around the yard. To further aid with maneuverability, the mower sits on two 8.5” polymer wheels, which give it incredible stability.

Main Features

  • 4-blade reel
  • Lightweight at 20 lbs
  • Cutting width of 14”
  • T handle design
  • 8.5” polymer wheels
  • Adjustable blade height of 0.5”-1.75”
  • Cuts grass up to 4 inches tall

The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is fitted with four sharp blades which are extremely durable. So much so that they will only need to be sharpened once every 3 to 5 years. There is the option to purchase a sharpening kit, so that you do not have to fork out for this type of maintenance when the time comes.

Furthermore, the blades are capable of working with grass up to four inches, so even when your yard is overgrown, it will make light work of it. You have a 14-inch cutting width which is suitable for most small to medium yards.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Can handle long grass
  • Four sharp, durable blades
  • Can buy reel separately
  • Easy to assemble
  • Made from durable materials
  • Long, T-shaped handle
  • Stable wheels
  • 14” cutting width
Cons
  • No grass catcher box (optional extra)
Fiskars Stay Sharp Max Reel Mower Review
Mower Type: Manual
Cut Type: Cylinder
Deck Size: 18cm
Cut Heights: 1" to 4"
Lawn Size: Large, Medium

Features:

Larger Rear Wheels

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Features:

Larger Rear Wheels

Cutting Functions:

Cut and Collect - Rear Discharge

Summary

While this mower has a cutting width of 18 inches, which is excellent for slightly larger yards, there is a smaller version with a cutting width of 17 inches if you have something a little smaller.

Main Features

  • 5 steel chain-drive blades
  • 60 Percent Easier to Push
  • Clippings forward chute
  • Weight at 51 lbs
  • Cutting width of 18”
  • Loop handle design
  • Single height adjustment lever
  • Adjustable blade height of 1”- 4”

It also features a choice of cutting heights which can be easily adjusted using just one hand. If you are in the market for something that operates easily, you may have just found it. Furthermore, it is easy to assemble and takes barely any time.

The manufacturer claims that this manual mower is up to 60% easier to push than other mowers of the same type. I can back up this claim since the inset wheels give you greater freedom of movement and will also allow you to cover more grass in one pass.

The InertiaDrive means that this mower is suitable for all types of grass and the StayShape blades almost never need any maintenance.

One of the best things about this lawn mower is that it has a choice of four cutting heights which is not something we see in all mowers, especially manual ones. This is easy to alter giving you much more diversity with how you use the mower during the varying seasons and conditions.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Easier to use and push
  • InertiaDrive
  • Designed to cut longer grass (Including southern varieties like St. Augustine, Zoysia, Bahia and Bermuda.)
  • StaySharp blades
  • 18” cutting width
  • Easily adjustable cutting height
  • Made from robust plastic
Cons
  • Heavier at 51.7lbs

Key Considerations for Choosing a Push Reel Lawn Mower

Push Mowers Cutting

In selecting a push reel lawn mower, it is essential to evaluate various factors ranging from the mower’s functional attributes to environmental implications. I will guide you through what you need to consider to make an informed decision.

Understanding Reel Mowers

Reel mowers, unlike their gas or electric counterparts, operate with blades that spin vertically to provide a scissor-like cut to the grass. This ensures a cleaner cut that promotes healthy lawn growth. I focus on mowers that match the specific needs of your lawn, considering grass type, and whether your yard is flat or sloped.

Features and Specifications

The number of blades in a reel mower will dictate the quality of the cut; more blades typically mean a finer cut, especially for thick grass. Look for a cutting width that suits the size of your lawn; a wider mower covers more area but can be harder to push. Cutting height adjustment is crucial for dealing with different types of grass and for achieving the desired length. Consider models with a convenient height adjustment feature.

  • Cutting Height: 1-3 inches
  • Mower Width: 14-20 inches
  • Number of Blades: 4-7 blades
  • Options: Grass catchers, mulching attachments

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

Tips For Using A Push Reel Lawn Mower

Ease of use is largely determined by how light and maneuverable the mower is. A lightweight mower with a comfortable handle makes lawn mowing less straining, especially when navigating through twigs and weeds. I prioritize ease of use to ensure lawn mowing is not just a chore but a pleasant activity, considering the design’s intuitiveness and the required physical effort.

  • Maneuverability: Enhanced by lightweight and wheel design
  • Handle Comfort: Ergonomic design
  • Assembly: Simple assembly with minimal tools

Environmental Impact and Health Benefits

Push reel mowers are laudable for their environmental and health advantages. They produce no emissions, making them an environmentally friendly option compared to gas-powered mowers. With a manual mower, you can enjoy fresh air and exercise during mowing, contributing to better health.

  • Emissions: None
  • Noise Level: Significantly lower than engine mowers

Maintenance and Upkeep

The simplicity of push reel mowers equates to less maintenance. Without an engine, there’s no need for oil changesspark plugs, or air filters. You’ll need to sharpen the blades periodically, but you’ll save time and money on the usual repair and upkeep associated with more complex lawn care tools. Durability is also essential; thus, choosing a mower with robust construction is vital for long-term use.

Additional Accessories and Lawn Care Considerations

When purchasing a push reel lawn mower, considering the right accessories and understanding how they interact with your yard’s landscape are critical. I’ll guide you through the importance of attachments, suitable selections for different landscapes, and how brand and budget decisions can impact your lawn care routine.

Attachments and Accessories

Grass Catcher Size

A push reel mower can come with various options to enhance its functionality. Grass catchers are common accessories that I find useful for keeping clippings off the lawn. For those interested in lawn nourishment, mulching blades are an excellent addition; they cut grass clippings finely, promoting their breakdown and nutrient recycling back into the soil. It’s also important to consider how easy these accessories are to attach and remove since it affects the overall ease of use.

Popular Accessories:

  • Grass catcher
  • Mulching blade
  • Sharpening kit

Selecting for Your Landscape

The effectiveness of a push reel mower often depends on your yard size and the terrain. For small to medium-sized lawns with minimal obstacles, standard reel mowers are usually sufficient. However, for yards with treesweedsdebris, and uneven terrain, a model with higher wheels may be beneficial to navigate around obstacles and over sticksleaves, or dandelions with ease.

Yard Feature Recommended Feature
Flat Terrain Standard Wheel Size
Rough Terrain Larger Wheel Size
Obstacles Enhanced Maneuverability

Brand and Budget Decisions

When it comes to brands, options like Great StatesGreenWorksHusqvarnaHondaToro, and American Lawn Mower Company offer a range of models with varying features. A self-propelled reel mower can be costlier but might provide ease for larger lawns, although for the authentic push reel experience and exercise, a manual model can be quite effective. My advice is to balance cost considerations with your specific lawn care needs. Remember, higher price doesn’t always equate to better quality, but investing in a reputable brand can often lead to better durability and after-sale support.

Brand Known For
Great States Affordability
GreenWorks Eco-friendliness
Husqvarna Durability
Honda Performance
Toro Innovation

Conclusion

While a lot of modern landscapers like to use the latest in powered tools and equipment, it can be nice to go back to a simpler time and make the most of a push reel mower. More and more people are seeing the benefits of this type of equipment and manufacturers have brought us some viable products recently.

There are, of course, pros and cons to using these types of push reel mowers but overall, I would say that if you want a quiet mower that is efficient, provides a superior close cut and is environmentally-friendly, you can’t go far wrong with a push reel mower.



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