Looking for a simple, low-noise, environmentally friendly way to mow small to medium lawns? An old fashioned reel mower can be the ideal pick. These push mowers rely on a curved blade and a rotating reel to cut grass, without fuel or loud motors. They’re best for people with compact lawns, light maintenance needs, and a preference for quiet operation. Below are five top options that balance cutting width, blade count, and maneuverability to suit different yard sizes and grasses.
| Product | Cut Width | Blade Count | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 | 14” | 4 | Small lawns, lightweight mowing |
| Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S | 20” | 5 | Medium-sized yards, wider swathes |
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 | 18” | 5 | Efficient maneuverability on tight lawns |
| Earthwise 1715-16EW | 16” | 7 | Versatile cutting on varied grasses |
| American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16SK2 | 16” | 5 | Sharpener included, easy maintenance |
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14: 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The 1204-14 is a compact, lightweight reel mower with a 14-inch cut width and 4 blades. It weighs about 19 pounds and features 8.5-inch polymer wheels for improved maneuverability on small lawns. The adjustable blade height ranges from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, making it suitable for short, neat lawns and light trimming around borders. Best for first-time reel mower users or homeowners with tight spaces who want a low-maintenance, quiet mowing option.
Best for: small yards, easy storage, and users prioritizing low noise and eco-friendliness. Not ideal for tall or thick turf where more cutting height may be required. The mower is pollution-free, operates without gasoline or electricity, and requires minimal upkeep.
Important note: the included height adjustment supports gradual changes, but users should monitor blade alignment over time to maintain a clean cut. This model is straightforward to operate, yet it may require more passes on stubborn grass than larger reels.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S: 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Scotts 2000-20S offers a larger 20-inch cutting width and a 5-blade ball bearing reel. It includes a quick-snap height adjustment from 1 to 3 inches for a clean, even cut. The blades are crafted from heat-treated alloy steel to help maintain sharpness longer. This model is best for homeowners with mid-sized lawns who want faster mowing with less effort while still avoiding motorized power.
Best for: medium yards, faster mowing with a wider cut. Better for flat terrain and grasses that respond well to precise, scissor-like cuts. A potential limitation is the absence of motorized assistance, which may be challenging on very tall or dense grass.
LawnMaster LMRM1801: 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 features an 18-inch deck with a 5-blade reel and 9 cutting positions from 1.1 to 2.5 inches. Its design emphasizes scissor-like cutting to avoid tearing blades, enhancing turf health. The mower’s 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels improve maneuverability on slightly uneven lawns. This option is best for homeowners seeking a balance between cut width and control in small-to-medium yards.
Best for: efficient mowing around flower beds or narrow spaces. Choose this if you want adjustable height without sacrificing reel precision. Caution: changing height frequently can wear blade guides if not done carefully.
Earthwise 1715-16EW: 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Earthwise 1715-16EW extends cutting width to 16 inches and features a 7-blade, ball-bearing reel with 10-inch composite wheels. The steel side plate design adds durability, and the mower is suitable for a broad range of grasses, including bentgrass and Bermuda. With alloy steel blades staying sharp longer, this model emphasizes longevity and consistent cuts. It’s a versatile option for homeowners managing mixed lawns and seeking dependable performance without fuel.
Best for: versatile yard conditions and longer-term reliability. Better for lawns with mixed grass types. The 7-blade setup requires careful maintenance to preserve performance, and heavier use may demand a bit more pushing effort than lighter reels.
American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16SK2: 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Sharpener
The 1415-16SK2 includes a 16-inch cutting width with a 5-blade reel, and durable 10-inch polymer wheels. A built-in hand sharpener supports blade edge maintenance, contributing to longer-lasting sharpness between tune-ups. This model is best for hands-on homeowners who want convenient sharpening and reliable, quiet mowing for medium lawns.
Best for: users who value easy maintenance and the option to sharpen blades at home. Use with caution if frequent sharpening isn’t feasible, as dull blades reduce cut quality. The sharpener is a practical addition, but blade alignment should be checked after sharpening.
Buying Guide: How To Choose Your Old Fashioned Reel Mower
What should you consider before buying a reel mower?
- Yard size and layout: Smaller yards benefit from 14–16 inch widths for easy turning, while mid-sized lawns can handle 18–20 inches for faster mowing.
- Grass type and height: Softer grasses and shorter heights respond well to 0.5–2.5 inch settings. Taller grasses may require multiple passes or a wider cutting width.
- Blade count and sharpness: More blades provide a cleaner cut but require more effort to push in dense turf. A built-in sharpener is a plus for maintenance.
- Wheels and maneuverability: Polymer or composite wheels reduce weight and improve glide on smooth surfaces, while larger wheels help with uneven ground.
- Maintenance: Look for models with readily adjustable heights and accessible blade sharpening options. Steel blades stay sharper longer when properly tuned.
- Environmental impact and noise: Reel mowers are eco-friendly and quiet compared to gas-powered mowers, which benefits neighborhoods and gardens with strict noise limits.
Head-To-Head: Quick Comparison By Key Features
- Best for small, tight spaces: American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14
- Best for faster mowing on mid-sized lawns: Scotts 2000-20S
- Best balance of width and control: LawnMaster LMRM1801
- Best versatility for varied grasses: Earthwise 1715-16EW
- Best built-in sharpener: American Lawn Mower Company 1415-16SK2
Maintenance Tips For Longevity
- Keep blades sharp with regular touch-ups. A sharp edge ensures clean cuts and reduces turf damage.
- Check blade alignment after height adjustments or sharpening sessions to maintain consistent cutting performance.
- Wipe down wheels and reels after mowing to remove debris and prevent corrosion on steel components.
- Store in a dry place to minimize rust and extend blade life.
FAQ
- Do reel mowers work on tall or thick grass? They can, with multiple passes and careful height settings; for very tall grass, a larger cut width helps reduce effort.
- Are reel mowers louder or quieter than gas mowers? Reel mowers are significantly quieter and produce no emissions, making them ideal for neighborhoods and gardens.
- Is sharpening necessary? Yes, regular sharpening keeps the cut clean. Some models include a built-in sharpener for convenience.
- Can I use a reel mower on hilly terrain? Yes, but choose a model with good weight distribution and maneuverability to handle slopes safely.
- What maintenance should I perform after mowing season? Clean debris, inspect blades for nicks, and store in a dry place. Consider a blade tune-up before the next season.
- Are these mowers suitable for Bermuda, zoysia, or St. Augustine grass? Most reel mowers work well on typical lawn grasses; the 7-blade Earthwise model is particularly versatile for varied species.