Answering the best type of old-fashioned hand push mower for your lawn needs: a manual reel mower delivers clean, precise cuts with low maintenance and zero emissions, making it ideal for small yards and quiet neighborhoods. This guide highlights five top models, each suited to different grass types and user preferences—whether you want ultra-light handling, adjustable cutting heights, or a broader 16–18 inch deck for faster mowing. The buyer profiles below help you choose the mower that fits your lawn size, terrain, and preferred mowing rhythm.
Summary at a glance: the following table compares key attributes to help you compare quickly.
| Product | Deck Width | Blades | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 | 14″ | 4 | Smaller lawns, lightweight handling | Not ideal for tall grass |
| Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S | 20″ | 5 | Medium yards needing wider cut | Heavier than compact models |
| LawnMaster LMRM1602 | 16″ | 5 | Balanced performance and maneuverability | Composite wheels can feel slick on wet turf |
| American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 | 14″ | 5 | Stability with more cutting blades | Still limited on tall grass |
| Earthwise 1715-16EW | 16″ | 7 | Versatile for mixed grasses | Heavier than small-deck models |
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The 1204-14 combines a compact 14-inch deck with a 4-blade reel for a clean, scissor-like cut ideal for small lawns. It weighs about 19 pounds, aiding portability and quick maneuvering around flower beds. The height can be adjusted from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, supporting varied grass conditions. Best for homeowners with smaller plots who value quiet operation and a simple, eco-friendly mowing experience. A potential limitation is reduced effectiveness on tall or thick grass.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
This Scotts model features a 20-inch cutting width and a 5-blade reel with ball bearings and 10-inch dual tracking wheels. Height adjustments range across a wide 1 to 3 inches, allowing a crisp cut on varied grasses. It is best for small-to-medium yards that require a faster pass and dependable blade longevity due to heat-treated alloy steel blades. Choose this if you want a broader deck and robust tracking; avoid if your yard is very tight or irregularly shaped.
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1602 emphasizes precise cutting with a 16-inch deck and a 5-blade reel. It features a scissor-like cut and customizable height in multiple positions. Its 10-inch front wheels aid maneuverability, particularly on small to medium lawns with tight corners. This model suits owners who want a good balance of width and control. A caveat is that the front wheels may feel less stable on very uneven surfaces.
American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The 1304-14 expands to a 14-inch deck with a 5-blade configuration and includes a 1 to 2.25-inch adjustable height. This setup aims to deliver a stronger cut than smaller 4-blade reels and remains suitable for compact yards. It’s best for homeowners who want slightly more blade coverage without stepping up to a larger deck. The main limitation is similar to other reel mowers: less efficiency in tall or tough grasses.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
The Earthwise 1715-16EW offers a 16-inch deck, a 7-blade reel, and 10-inch wheels designed for durable operation. This model supports cutting across Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, and Seashore Paspalum—making it versatile for mixed grasses. It is a solid option for homeowners with uneven lawns who still want a clean, even cut. A noted limitation is its weight relative to smaller, simpler reels, which could affect ease of use for some users.
Buying Guide
What size yard is best for a reel mower?
Reel mowers excel on small to medium lawns, typically under 1/4 acre. Narrow decks (14 inches) are very maneuverable for tight spaces, while wider decks (16–20 inches) reduce mowing time on larger small yards. If your lawn has tight corners or frequent obstacles, a smaller deck with good weight and balance is preferable.
How important are blade counts and cutting height?
More blades can deliver a crisper cut, but the real impact is the blade quality and height range. Adjustable height ranges allow tailoring to grass type and season. Look for at least a 1 to 2 inch adjustment range on conventional models. For people with finer grasses, taller blades and precise reel geometry can improve overall lawn health.
What maintenance is required?
Manual reel mowers require minimal maintenance compared with gas mowers but do need occasional sharpening of the reel blades and keeping bearings clean. Wipe down after use, oil the reel lightly, and check wheel alignment. Avoid mowing through heavy weed patches where the blades may dull quickly.
Which model balances ease of use with performance?
Models with 16-inch decks and 5-blade reels provide a strong balance between cutting efficiency and maneuverability for typical suburban lawns. A robust wheel design also reduces effort on uneven terrain. If your lawn is mostly flat and small, a 14-inch deck can be lighter and easier to push.
What about grass type considerations?
Sturdy species like Bermuda and Zoysia respond well to clean, scissor-like cuts. For thicker fescues or tall grasses, ensure your mower has adjustable blade height and adequate blade density to avoid tearing rather than slicing. In tall grass, you may need to raise the cut height and mow more frequently to avoid clogging.
FAQ
- Are reel mowers better for the environment?
Yes. They require no fuel, produce no emissions, and are generally quieter than powered mowers.
- Can I use a reel mower on damp grass?
Light dampness can be okay, but very wet conditions increase the risk of clumping and reduced effectiveness. Wait for dry conditions when possible.
- Will a reel mower cut long grass well?
Reel mowers perform best with shorter, well-maintained turf. For taller grass, mow in stages or raise the blade height to avoid bogging down.
- How often should I sharpen the blades?
Sharpen when you notice a decline in cutting quality. Regular inspection keeps the cut clean and the reel aligned.
- Is height adjustment necessary for different grasses?
Yes. Different grasses require different cutting heights for optimal health and appearance. Adjust to match grass species and growth season.