Choosing the right reel mower for tall or thick grass means prioritizing cutting performance, adaptability to various grass types, and ease of maneuverability. The following selections emphasize models with multi-blade reels, adjustable heights, and sturdy build designed to handle Bermuda, bent, zoysia, and other dense grasses. All are manual, eco-friendly options that avoid gasoline and cords. Use this guide to compare features and find a mower that keeps your lawn looking pristine without harsh maintenance.
| Product | Cut Width | Blades | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earthwise 1715-16EW | 16 inches | 7 blades | Designed for tough grasses; durable steel side plate |
| American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC | 16 inches | 7 blades | Newly designed 10″ wheels for maneuverability |
| Fiskars Push Mower 18″ 1N7K4BNX | 18 inches | InertiaDrive 5-blade | Best-in-class cutting power; StaySharp system |
| Great States 815-18 | 18 inches | 5 blades | Adjustable height; alloy steel blades |
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 | 18 inches | 5 blades | 10″ front wheels; high maneuverability |
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Earthwise 1715-16EW is a hand-push reel mower with a 16-inch cutting width and a 7-blade ball-bearing reel. Its 10-inch composite wheels enhance stability and control on uneven turf, making it suitable for tall or dense grass types such as bent grass, Bermuda, and Zoysia. The all-steel side plate design adds durability for frequent mowing across varied properties. This model targets homeowners seeking a robust manual mower that minimizes maintenance while delivering a clean, scissor-like cut. Its alloy-steel blades stay sharp longer, contributing to consistent performance over time.
Key features include a 16-inch deck, a sturdy reel designed for precision without tearing blades, and compatibility with tough lawns. The mower’s manual operation reduces noise and emissions, supporting eco-friendly lawn care. For tall grass, consistent feeding of the blade and proper height adjustments help avoid clogging and ensure a smooth pass across thick patches. Despite its compact footprint, it offers reliable cutting power and maneuverability for medium-sized yards with challenging grass varieties.
Overall suitability: This model suits homeowners who value durability, a sharp, even cut, and a mower that can handle a variety of dense grasses without relying on motorized power. It performs best with properly prepared lawns—mow in dry conditions, and maintain a regular mowing schedule to prevent excessive thatch buildup. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring occasional blade inspection and height adjustments to match grass growth patterns.
American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
The 1725-16GC is a 16-inch 7-blade reel mower designed for specialty lawns that prefer a shorter, finely cut appearance. It features a newly designed durable 10-inch wheel to improve maneuverability around obstacles and across uneven terrain. The 7-blade configuration is touted for grasses comparable to Bermuda, Tif, bent, and Zoysia types, delivering precise cuts that promote healthier turf with less tearing. This mower targets the active lawn enthusiast who values a clean, uniform cut for short thick grasses and wants a reliable, easy-to-push tool.
Considerations for tall grass: While this model excels at delivering a crisp, even cut on dense grasses, taller growth may require more passes or a pre-trim to prevent clogging. Height settings are essential; evaluate your lawn’s typical height and adjust to minimize resistance. The absence of a motor reduces noise and maintenance, but users should periodically inspect the reel alignment to maintain optimal cutting efficiency. For those who need a precise edge along borders, this 7-blade setup provides a controlled cut across narrow or tricky sections.
Fiskars Push Mower 18″ InertiaDrive 5-Blade
The Fiskars 18-inch push mower features InertiaDrive technology and a StaySharp cutting system, delivering enhanced cutting power with a 5-blade reel. This design aims to provide a more efficient cut on dense or tall grass compared to conventional reel mowers. The StaySharp system minimizes blade sharpening needs, while the ergonomic handle offers height adjustments for comfort during longer sessions. The 18-inch width helps cover more ground per pass, making it well-suited for larger yards with thick turf.
Considerations for tall grass: While the 5-blade setup provides strong performance, extremely tall or wiry growth may still slow progress. For best results, set the cutting height to match grass length and perform several passes if needed. The mower’s lighter weight and nimble design improve maneuverability around flower beds and obstacles, reducing user fatigue on extended mowing days.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
The Great States 815-18 is an 18-inch, 5-blade push reel mower with adjustable cutting height from 0.5″ to 2.75″. The mower uses high-quality alloy steel blades that stay sharp longer and rollers on the 10-inch wheels to improve stability on uneven terrain. This model emphasizes a practical, maintenance-light approach to mowing tall or dense grass with a reliable, motor-free design. It is well-suited for homeowners who want a straightforward, durable mower for routine lawn care and edge-to-edge trimming on flatter sections.
Considerations for tall grass: Taller growth can slow reel mowers by increasing resistance. When tackling such grass, choose a cutting height that minimizes drag while still delivering a clean cut. Regular maintenance, including blade checks and wheel alignment, helps sustain performance across the season. The mower’s simple, robust construction makes it a solid choice for those prioritizing longevity and predictable results over feature complexity.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 features an 18-inch deck and a 5-blade reel with 10-inch front wheels for improved maneuverability. The scissor-like cut helps prevent tearing and supports lawn health, especially in taller growth. This model emphasizes ease of use with a comfortable handle layout and simple height adjustments. The 9 to 2.5-inch variable cut positions allow users to tailor the lawn’s appearance to seasonal changes or grass varieties, making it versatile for mixed-species lawns often encountered in American yards.
Considerations for tall grass: This mower’s design prioritizes clean cuts and simple operation, which can be advantageous when dealing with moderately tall grass. For quickly growing patches, consider a slightly higher cut setting early in the season and gradually reduce height as growth stabilizes. The mower’s lightweight construction and 18-inch width can help you cover more ground efficiently, while the 5-blade reel maintains a crisp edge with minimal maintenance.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a reel mower for tall grass, consider the following factors to balance performance, maintenance, and value:
- Cutting width: Larger widths cover more area per pass but may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces. For medium to large lawns, 18 inches is a sweet spot; 16 inches works well for tighter yards.
- Blade configuration: More blades can deliver cleaner cuts, but require precise alignment. Seven-blade and five-blade reels offer a balance of power and reliability for dense grass.
- Height adjustment: Look for multiple height positions to accommodate different grass types and seasonal growth. A range around 0.5″ to 2.5″ is common.
- Wheels and maneuverability: Larger or dual-bearing wheels improve stability on uneven terrain and reduce effort during long mowing sessions.
- Material and durability: Steel reels and side plates resist wear; lightweight alloys improve portability, but ensure the build stands up to frequent use.
- Maintenance: StaySharp or similar systems minimize blade sharpening needs. Regular checks ensure consistent cutting quality and reduce clogging in tall grass.
- Grass type compatibility: Some models explicitly advertise performance on Bermuda, Zoysia, bent grass, and St. Augustine. Match the mower to your lawn’s dominant species for best results.
- Noise and emissions: Manual reel mowers are quiet and eco-friendly, making them suitable for neighborhoods and sustainable lawn care.
- Storage and handling: Consider weight, handle ergonomics, and whether the mower fits your storage space.
In selecting a reel mower for tall grass, prioritize models with robust reels, reliable height options, and wheels that provide stability across variable turf. While no single mower is ideal for every lawn, the options above emphasize durability, cutting quality, and ease of use in challenging grass conditions. For best outcomes, pair mowing with proper lawn care practices, including mowing at the correct height, maintaining a consistent schedule, and addressing thatch buildup to sustain healthy turf.