Finding the best high quality reel mower means prioritizing clean, scissors-like cuts, low maintenance, and suitability for your lawn size. This guide highlights five top reels that suit small to medium lawns, emphasize easy height adjustments, and deliver precise results. Each option is chosen for versatility, durability, and ease of use for American homeowners seeking an eco-friendly mowing method.
| Product | Cut Width | Blade Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| LawnMaster LMRM1602 | 16 in | 5 blades | Small to mid-size lawns; easy maneuverability |
| American Lawn Mower 1204-14 | 14 in | 4 blades | Lightweight, simple maintenance |
| Great States 815-18 | 18 in | 5 blades | Uniform, wide cuts; best for moderate lawns |
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 | 18 in | 5 blades | Heavier use; more height options |
| LawnMaster LMRM2001 | 20 in | 5 blades | Best for slightly larger, flatter lawns |
The selections above emphasize clean cuts, adjustable cutting heights, and maneuverability. For buyers, consider lawn size, grass type, storage space, and tolerance for physical effort when choosing a reel mower. The following sections detail five strong options, with clear, practical reasons to choose each one, plus a buying guide and FAQs to help you decide.
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Mower
Best For: Small to medium lawns where maneuverability matters. This model features a 16-inch cutting width and 10-inch front wheels for tight turns around landscaping and obstacles. The 5-blade system provides a clean cut with minimal grass tearing, supporting a healthy lawn over time. Height is adjustable with four positions, ranging from 1 to 2.5 inches, enabling custom turf maintenance based on grass growth and season.
Why selected: The combination of a compact deck, adjustable height, and scissor-like action makes it a practical choice for traditional residential yards. The 16-inch width strikes a balance between cutting efficiency and ease of use for users with limited storage space.
Limitations: May require more passes on taller or thicker turf. Best results come from regular mowing rather than infrequent, aggressive sessions.
American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch
Best For: Small lawns where light weight and easy handling are priorities. This 14-inch, 4-blade reel mower weighs about 19 pounds and offers a 0.5″ to 1.75″ adjustable blade height. It is effective on grasses up to about 4 inches tall and is a quiet, environmentally friendly option for routine maintenance.
Why selected: It is a classic, minimal-maintenance choice ideal for users who want a straightforward, traditional reel mower without extra frills. The lighter weight improves user control in tight spaces and around garden beds.
Limitations: Not ideal for overgrown or tall grass; performance declines as grass height increases, requiring more passes or an alternative mower for tall lawns.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch
Best For: Yards that benefit from a wider cut without sacrificing portability. The 18-inch deck with a 0.5″ to 2.75″ height range provides a versatile mowing window for midsize lawns, especially where flat, even coverage is desired.
Why selected: A motor-less design reduces maintenance complexity and noise while the 5-blade system keeps grass cuts clean. Ten-inch composite wheels aid maneuverability across typical suburban lawns.
Limitations: Slightly heavier than the smallest models; plan for moderate storage space and ensure flat terrain for best results.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Mower
Best For: Homeowners with small lawns seeking broader cutting width and more height options. This 18-inch deck features 9 cutting positions from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, combining flexibility with strong cutting performance. The 10-inch front wheels improve navigation around shrubs and curved borders.
Why selected: It merges a generous cutting width with a wide height range, giving users more control over lawn height and health across seasons. The 5-blade arrangement ensures a quick, consistent cut.
Limitations: Taller, tangled grass may require multiple passes, though results improve with proper mowing frequency and blade sharpness.
LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Mower – LMRM2001
Best For: Users with slightly larger, flat lawns that still desire easy push mowing and extended height options. The 20-inch width, 9-position adjustability from 1.3 to 2.6 inches, and 10-inch front wheels deliver efficient cutting for mid-sized properties.
Why selected: It combines a wide deck with precise height control, reducing mowing time while maintaining healthy turf through a clean, scissor-like cut. This model is a good all-around pick for regular maintenance on typical suburban lawns.
Limitations: May be less effective on tall or very thick grass; regular mowing is recommended to preserve fine turf quality.
Buying Guide: Reel Mower Essentials
What to consider before buying a reel mower?
- Lawn size and terrain: Smaller yards benefit from lighter, narrower decks, while medium yards can leverage 18–20 inch widths for efficiency.
- Cutting height range: Wider ranges give more flexibility across seasons and grass types. Height affects turf health and mowing frequency.
- Blade action and maintenance: Five-blade systems with quality steel offer clean cuts. Regular sharpening improves performance and longevity.
- Weight and maneuverability: Lighter mowers are easier to lift and push but may struggle on uneven ground. Larger wheels improve navigation on slopes.
- Environment and noise: Reel mowers are quiet and emission-free, ideal for neighborhoods with strict noise or air-quality concerns.
- Storage and space: Narrow profiles and foldable handles save space in small garages or sheds.
Practical Tips for Best Results
- Mow frequently at the recommended height to maintain blade sharpness and turf health.
- Keep blades sharp; a sharp edge prevents grass tearing and promotes a neat finish.
- Maintain consistent mowing patterns to avoid scalping or uneven cuts.
- Check cutting height after changing seasons or grass growth.
- Use push mowing in dry conditions to minimize soil compaction and maximize blade efficiency.
FAQ
- Q: Are reel mowers suitable for tall or thick grass? A: Reel mowers perform best on regularly mowed lawns; for tall grass, use a larger mower or trim first.
- Q: Do reel mowers require fuel or electricity? A: No, they are manual, producing no emissions and minimal maintenance.
- Q: How often should I sharpen the blades? A: Check periodically; sharpen when you notice tearing rather than clean cuts.
- Q: Can I use a reel mower on damp grass? A: It is possible, but dry conditions typically yield cleaner cuts and easier pushing.
- Q: Which height setting is best for new lawns? A: Start at mid-range height and adjust based on grass health and mowing frequency.
- Q: Do reel mowers work on all grass types? A: They work well on most common turf grasses; some specialty grasses may require height adjustments or different mowing strategies.