The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Reel Mowers

Best Reel Mowers

Are you looking for an efficient and eco-friendly way to mow your lawn? Look no further than reel mowers! These manual lawn mowers have been around since the early 1800s and are still popular today thanks to their ability to cut grass cleanly and evenly without the use of gas or electricity. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at some of the best reel mowers on the market and help you choose the perfect one for your lawn.

The Benefits of Using Reel Mowers

1. Environmentally Friendly

Reel mowers don't emit any harmful fumes, making them an excellent choice for those who are environmentally conscious. They also don't require any gasoline or electricity to operate, which means they won't contribute to carbon emissions.

2. Low Maintenance

Since reel mowers don't have any engines or motors, they require very little maintenance. You won't need to worry about changing the oil, spark plugs, or air filters. All you need to do is keep the blades sharp and lubricated.

3. Easy to Use

Reel mowers are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them a great choice for those who struggle with heavy machinery. You won't have to worry about ing an engine or dealing with complicated controls. Simply push the mower along the grass, and let the blades do the work.

Top 5 Reel Mowers on the Market

1. Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower

The Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower is a top-of-the-line option that features an innovative design that reduces friction and allows for clean cuts. It also has a 17-inch cutting width, making it ideal for medium to large lawns.

2. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Push Reel Lawn Mower

The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 Push Reel Lawn Mower is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on performance. It has a 14-inch cutting width and five blades that provide a precise cut.

3. Great States 304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Great States 304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is another affordable option that's perfect for small lawns. It has a 14-inch cutting width and five heat-treated blades that stay sharp for longer.

4. Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower

The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option for those with larger lawns. It has a 20-inch cutting width and five blades that can be adjusted to different cutting heights.

5. Sun Joe MJ501M Manual Reel Mower w/ Grass Catcher

The Sun Joe MJ501M Manual Reel Mower w/ Grass Catcher is a user-friendly option that comes with a detachable grass catcher for easy disposal. It has a 16-inch cutting width and four blades that provide a clean cut.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Reel Mower

1. Cutting Width

The cutting width of a reel mower determines how much grass it can cut in one pass. If you have a large lawn, you'll want a mower with a wider cutting width to save time.

2. Blade Quality

The quality of the blades is essential when it comes to reel mowers. Dull blades can make your lawn look patchy and uneven, so be sure to choose a mower with high-quality blades that stay sharp for longer.

3. Adjustability

Some reel mowers allow you to adjust the cutting height, which is useful if you have different types of grass on your lawn. Look for a mower that has multiple cutting heights to accommodate all of your grass types.

4. Grass Catcher

If you don't want to leave grass clippings on your lawn, look for a reel mower that comes with a detachable grass catcher. This will make it easy to dispose of the clippings without having to rake them up.

5. Weight

The weight of a reel mower can affect how easy it is to maneuver. If you have trouble pushing heavy objects, look for a lightweight mower that won't strain your muscles.

How to Use a Reel Mower

1. Check the Blades

Before using your reel mower, make sure the blades are sharp and lubricated. Dull blades can damage your lawn and make it look patchy.

2. Adjust the Cutting Height

If your reel mower allows you to adjust the cutting height, set it to the appropriate level for your grass type.

3. Mowing

Push the mower along the grass in a straight line, overlapping each pass slightly. Make sure to mow at a steady pace and avoid going too fast or too slow.

4. Empty the Grass Catcher

If your mower has a grass catcher, be sure to empty it regularly to prevent clogs and ensure proper disposal of the clippings.

5. Clean the Blades

After mowing, clean the blades with a soft cloth to remove any debris or grass clippings. This will help keep them sharp and in good condition.

FAQs

1. Are reel mowers better than gas-powered mowers?

Reel mowers are an excellent choice if you're looking for an eco-friendly option that requires very little maintenance. They may not be as powerful as gas-powered mowers, but they can still provide a clean and even cut.

2. Can reel mowers handle thick grass?

Reel mowers work best on thin, fine grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia. If you have thicker grass, you may need to make several passes or invest in a more powerful mower.

3. How often do I need to sharpen the blades?

It's recommended to sharpen the blades of your reel mower at least once a year. You can also sharpen them more frequently if you notice that the mower isn't cutting as cleanly as it used to.

4. How do I maintain my reel mower?

To keep your reel mower in good condition, make sure to keep the blades sharp and lubricated, clean the mower after each use, and store it in a dry place.

5. Can reel mowers be used on uneven terrain?

Reel mowers work best on flat, even terrain. If you have a bumpy or sloped lawn, you may need to invest in a different type of mower that can handle those conditions.

Choosing the best reel mower for your lawn can be a daunting task, but with this guide, you should now have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Remember to consider factors like cutting width, blade quality, adjustability, and weight when choosing a mower, and don't forget to take proper care of your mower to ensure that it lasts for years to come.