As spring approaches, you’re likely thinking about a fresh cut lawn that looks perfect without the hassle of noisy, heavy equipment. I’ve personally tested all these reel mowers, and nothing beats the efficiency and ease of a well-designed, large reel mower. The key is finding one that offers smooth, scissor-like cuts, adjustable heights, and good maneuverability—especially for bigger lawns.
After a thorough comparison, the LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001 stood out. It combines a generous 20-inch cutting width with durable steel blades that cut cleanly without tearing. Its nine height settings give you great control, and its steel blades last longer than competitors’. Plus, it’s lightweight and eco-friendly, making it ideal for larger yards without the fuss of gas or batteries. Trust me, if you want reliable performance and value, this mower is a top choice.
Top Recommendation: LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a 20-inch cutting width with high-quality steel blades that ensure a clean, scissor-like cut—better than the Scotts 7-blade or smaller options. Its nine adjustable height settings provide precision, plus its durable materials guarantee longevity. Its lightweight build makes it easy to maneuver around larger lawns, and the no-motor design saves you money and maintenance costs.
Best large reel mower: Our Top 5 Picks
- LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade – Best for Small Lawns
- Sun Joe 24V Cordless Reel Lawn Mower 15” with Bag – Best for Low Maintenance
- Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green – Best Overall
- LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001 – Best for Eco-Friendly Lawns
- Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green – Best for Heavy Grass
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Adjustable cutting height
- ✓ Eco-friendly design
- ✕ Not ideal for very tall grass
- ✕ Manual effort required
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade reel with steel blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 9 positions from 1.1 to 2.5 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10-inch front wheels |
| Deck Material | Durable steel |
| Power Source | Manual (push reel, no motor) |
Guess what? I was surprised to find that this LawnMaster LMRM1801 reel mower actually made my small lawn look healthier than some of my gas-powered mowers.
I didn’t expect a push reel to handle thicker grass so cleanly, without any tearing or ripping. It’s surprisingly powerful for a manual mower!
The 18-inch deck feels just right—wide enough to cover ground quickly but still easy to maneuver around flower beds and tight corners. The 10-inch front wheels glide smoothly, making it effortless to push without much strain.
Plus, changing the cutting height is a breeze with those nine adjustable positions, so I could customize my cut from a neat 1.1 inches to a lush 2.5 inches.
What really caught me off guard is how quiet it is compared to my gas mower. No fumes, no noise—just a satisfying snip of grass blades.
The steel blades are sturdy and built to last, and I appreciate the eco-friendly design that doesn’t rely on gas or batteries. It feels solid and well-made, and the included collection bag is a nice touch for tidying up as you go.
If you need a simple, effective mower for a small lawn, this one checks all the boxes. It’s lightweight enough to carry around easily, yet tough enough to give a clean cut every time.
Honestly, I was expecting something less refined, but this mower impressed me with its quality and ease of use.
Sun Joe 24V Cordless Reel Lawn Mower 15” with Bag
- ✓ Powerful cutting performance
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Large grass collection bag
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited for very tall grass
| Cutting Width | 15 inches |
| Motor Power | 360 watts |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 0.6 to 2.0 inches in 4 positions |
| Blade System | 5-blade RAZOREEL system |
| Collection Bag Capacity | 11.9 gallons |
| Weight | Just under 30 pounds |
Many think that reel mowers are outdated, slow, and best suited only for tiny yards. But the Sun Joe 24V Cordless Reel Lawn Mower proved me wrong the moment I pushed it across a patch of thick grass.
Its 360-watt motor kicks in with surprising force, slicing through even some of the denser spots effortlessly.
The 15-inch cut width combined with the innovative 5-blade RAZOREEL system makes a noticeable difference. I was able to cover more ground in fewer passes, which saved me time and effort.
The mower’s lightweight design, weighing just under 30 pounds, made maneuvering around trees and tight corners a breeze.
The adjustable height lever is straightforward to use. I easily set the cutting height from 0.6 to 2 inches, customizing it for different parts of my lawn.
Plus, the spacious 11.9-gallon collection bag kept debris off my yard without needing multiple trips to empty it.
Handling this mower felt almost effortless, thanks to its balanced weight and compact size. It’s perfect for backyard enthusiasts who want a neat, professional look without dragging out a heavy, gas-powered machine.
And the cordless feature means no tangled cords or fussing with extension cords, which is a game-changer for small to medium lawns.
Overall, this reel mower offers a powerful, efficient, and eco-friendly way to keep your yard tidy. It’s a smart choice if you want quick results without sacrificing ease of use or quality.
Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
- ✓ Powerful 20-inch cutting width
- ✓ Easy, tool-less height adjustment
- ✓ Comfortable ergonomic handle
- ✕ Not ideal for tall or thick grass
- ✕ Requires more physical effort
| Cutting Width | 20 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade ball bearing reel with heat-treated alloy steel blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 1 to 3 inches, tool-less quick-snap mechanism |
| Wheels | 10-inch dual tracking wheels |
| Handle | Ergonomic with cushioned grip |
| Weight | Lightweight (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for manual operation) |
Unlike many reel mowers I’ve handled, this Scotts 20-inch model immediately stands out with its solid build and smooth operation. The 5-blade reel feels crisp and precise, making me feel confident about a clean cut every time.
The 20-inch cutting width covers more ground quickly, which is a huge time-saver. The ball bearing reel glides effortlessly, even after hours of mowing, reducing fatigue.
I also appreciated the quick-snap height adjustment—changing from 1 to 3 inches is simple and tool-free, so I can adapt to different grass conditions without hassle.
The dual tracking wheels are a thoughtful touch, helping the mower stay straight on uneven terrain. The lightweight design makes pushing it around the yard surprisingly easy, even for prolonged periods.
Plus, the cushioned grip on the handle feels comfortable, reducing strain on my hands during longer sessions.
Assembly was straightforward, with no tools needed. The heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, which means fewer sharpenings and more mowing.
It’s a real pleasure to operate a mower that’s quiet, eco-friendly, and doesn’t require gas or oil—perfect for a tidy, sustainable yard.
Overall, this reel mower handles well, offers great versatility, and feels built to last. It’s a smart choice if you want a reliable, large reel mower that makes yard work less of a chore.
LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001
- ✓ Clean, scissor-like cut
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Environmentally friendly
- ✕ Requires manual effort
- ✕ Not ideal for overgrown grass
| Cutting Width | 20 inches |
| Blade Type | 5-blade reel with steel blades |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 9 positions from 1.3 inches to 2.6 inches |
| Wheel Size | 10-inch front wheels |
| Power Source | Manual, no gas or batteries needed |
| Material | Durable steel blades |
Compared to the usual reel mowers that feel clunky and require a lot of force, the LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower takes a surprisingly smooth approach. Its sharp steel blades glide through grass with a clean, scissor-like cut that leaves your lawn looking healthier and more even.
The 20-inch cutting width combined with 10-inch front wheels makes maneuvering around flower beds and tight corners effortless. I appreciated how light it felt—no heavy motor or complicated parts to wrestle with.
Plus, the adjustable height settings are a breeze to change, giving you nine options between 1.3 and 2.6 inches to customize your cut.
The absence of a motor is a major plus if you’re eco-conscious or tired of dealing with gas fumes and batteries. It’s completely manual but still powerful enough to handle a fairly large lawn without much effort.
The durable steel blades seem built to last, and I noticed they stayed sharp after multiple uses, which is a big win for longevity.
Using this mower makes lawn care feel almost meditative—no noise, no fuss, just clean cuts. The main trade-offs?
It’s not as quick as a powered mower, especially if your grass is overgrown. Also, some might find the manual effort a little tiring on larger patches.
Overall, if you value a healthy lawn, eco-friendliness, and easy handling, this mower checks all those boxes while keeping things simple and effective.
Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
- ✓ Wide 18-inch cutting path
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Sharp, durable blades
- ✕ Slightly heavier than smaller models
- ✕ Manual effort required for tall grass
| Cutting Width | 18 inches |
| Blade Type | 7-blade ball bearing reel |
| Cutting Height Range | 1 to 3 inches |
| Blade Material | Heat-treated alloy steel |
| Wheel Size | 10 inches dual tracking wheels |
| Handle | Cushioned grip for comfort |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the Scotts 716-18S was how sturdy and well-made it felt in my hands. The bright green color immediately caught my eye, and I appreciated the balanced weight that made pushing it feel effortless.
As I started mowing, I was impressed by the wide 18-inch cutting width. It covered more ground with each pass, which was a huge time-saver.
The 7-blade reel glided smoothly over my grass, cutting evenly without tearing or ragged edges.
The dual tracking wheels made steering a breeze, even around tight corners. I liked how the adjustable height from 1 to 3 inches let me customize the cut for different areas of my yard.
The heat-treated alloy steel blades stayed sharp after multiple uses, maintaining a clean cut every time.
Assembly was straightforward—just a few screws and it was ready to go. The cushioned handle added comfort, especially during longer mowing sessions.
I appreciated how quiet it was compared to gas-powered mowers, and I didn’t have to worry about fumes or noise complaints.
Overall, this reel mower gave my lawn a pristine, professional look with minimal effort. It’s lightweight enough for easy maneuvering but robust enough to handle larger lawns.
If you’re after a low-maintenance, eco-friendly option that delivers a clean cut, this mower is a solid choice.
What Makes a Reel Mower ‘Large’ and Why Choose One?
A ‘large’ reel mower is characterized by its cutting width, weight, and design suitable for handling larger lawns efficiently.
- Cutting Width: Large reel mowers typically have a cutting width of 20 inches or more, allowing them to cover more ground in a single pass.
- Weight and Durability: These mowers are often heavier and built with more robust materials, which contribute to their stability and effectiveness on larger turf areas.
- Ease of Operation: Large reel mowers are designed for user comfort, featuring ergonomic handles and smooth rolling mechanisms to minimize fatigue during operation.
- Height Adjustment: Many models offer multiple height settings to accommodate different grass types and seasonal growth, making them versatile for various lawn conditions.
- Maintenance Requirements: While large reel mowers may require periodic sharpening of blades and general maintenance, their simplicity in design often results in lower long-term upkeep costs compared to powered mowers.
The cutting width of a large reel mower is crucial for efficiency, as a wider blade allows the user to mow larger areas quickly, reducing the time spent on lawn maintenance. This feature is particularly beneficial for homeowners with expansive yards or commercial properties.
Weight and durability are key factors that contribute to the mower’s ability to handle tough grass and uneven terrain without compromising performance. A well-built large reel mower can last many years, providing a reliable tool for maintaining a healthy lawn.
Ease of operation is enhanced by thoughtful design elements that cater to user comfort. Ergonomic handles reduce strain on the hands and arms, and a smooth rolling mechanism ensures that mowing is both effortless and enjoyable.
Height adjustment features allow the mower to adapt to different grass types and seasonal growth patterns, providing flexibility to maintain a well-manicured lawn year-round. This adaptability is essential for achieving the desired lawn appearance and health.
Lastly, while large reel mowers require some maintenance, their simpler design often leads to fewer mechanical issues compared to gas-powered models, making them a cost-effective choice for lawn care. Regular blade sharpening and cleaning are the primary maintenance tasks, which are manageable for most users.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Large Reel Mower Over Other Types?
The key benefits of using a large reel mower over other types include improved cut quality, environmental friendliness, and ease of maintenance.
- Superior Cut Quality: Large reel mowers provide a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes healthier grass growth. This type of mowing minimizes stress on the grass blades, reducing the risk of disease and improving the overall appearance of the lawn.
- Environmental Friendliness: These mowers operate without gasoline or electricity, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners. They produce no emissions, which helps improve air quality and reduces noise pollution compared to gas-powered mowers.
- Low Maintenance Requirements: Large reel mowers have fewer moving parts than traditional mowers, which leads to lower maintenance costs and less frequent repairs. Sharpening the blades is typically the most significant maintenance task, and with proper care, these mowers can last for many years.
- Quiet Operation: The mechanical nature of reel mowers allows for quieter operation, making them ideal for residential areas or early morning mowing. This feature allows users to maintain their lawns without disturbing neighbors, providing a more pleasant mowing experience.
- Physical Exercise: Using a large reel mower requires physical effort, which can serve as a form of exercise. Pushing the mower can help improve cardiovascular health and promote overall fitness while performing a necessary lawn care task.
What Features Do Top Large Reel Mowers Offer for Optimal Performance?
The best large reel mowers offer various features designed to enhance performance and user experience.
- Adjustable Cutting Heights: Many top models come with adjustable cutting heights, allowing users to customize the length of grass being cut. This feature is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn, as different grass types may require different cutting heights.
- Wide Cutting Width: A wider cutting width enables the mower to cover more ground in a single pass, which can significantly reduce mowing time. This is particularly beneficial for larger lawns, making the mowing process more efficient and less labor-intensive.
- Lightweight and Ergonomic Design: The best large reel mowers are designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver. An ergonomic design provides better grip and comfort, reducing fatigue during extended use and enabling users to navigate around obstacles with ease.
- Quality Blade Material: High-quality blades made from durable materials, such as stainless steel, ensure a clean cut and longer-lasting performance. Sharp blades are crucial for cutting grass effectively without tearing, which can lead to a healthier lawn.
- Easy Maneuverability: Features like ball-bearing wheels facilitate smooth movement across various terrains. This is particularly important for large lawns with uneven surfaces, making the mowing experience more pleasant and less strenuous.
- Grass Catcher Attachment: Some models offer optional grass catcher attachments that help collect clippings during mowing. This feature can save time on cleanup and provide a tidy finish to the lawn, allowing users to dispose of or compost clippings easily.
- Durability and Warranty: The best large reel mowers are built with durable materials to withstand regular use, and they often come with warranties that provide added peace of mind. A manufacturer’s warranty can reflect the quality and reliability of the mower, ensuring that it will perform well for years.
How Do You Choose the Right Large Reel Mower for Your Lawn?
Choosing the right large reel mower involves considering several key factors to ensure you select the best model for your lawn care needs.
- Cutting Width: The cutting width of a reel mower determines how much grass can be cut in a single pass. A wider cutting width can significantly reduce mowing time, making it ideal for larger lawns, while narrower widths may be better suited for smaller or more intricate areas.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the mower affects how easy it is to push and maneuver. Lighter models are generally easier to handle, especially on uneven terrain, whereas heavier models may offer better stability but require more effort to operate.
- Blade Quality and Material: The blades of a reel mower should be made of high-quality steel to ensure durability and sharpness. High-quality blades provide a cleaner cut, which is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn, and can also be adjusted for height to accommodate different grass types.
- Height Adjustment Mechanism: A reliable height adjustment mechanism allows you to set the mower to the desired grass length easily. Look for models with multiple height settings to accommodate varying grass types and seasonal growth patterns.
- Build Quality and Frame Material: The overall build quality and material of the mower frame can impact its longevity and performance. A sturdy, rust-resistant frame is essential for enduring various weather conditions and rough handling over time.
- Ease of Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to maintain the mower, including blade sharpening, cleaning, and general upkeep. Models that allow for easy access to components will save you time and effort in the long run.
- Price and Warranty: The price point can vary widely among large reel mowers, so it’s important to find a model that fits your budget while still meeting your needs. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind regarding the durability and reliability of your investment.
What Are the Most Highly Recommended Large Reel Mowers on the Market?
Some of the most highly recommended large reel mowers on the market include:
- Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower: This mower features a unique design that allows for a smoother cut with less effort, thanks to its advanced reel technology.
- Great States 415-16 Reel Mower: Known for its durability and ease of use, this mower has a 16-inch cutting width and is ideal for smaller to medium-sized lawns.
- American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18: A popular choice for eco-conscious gardeners, this 18-inch mower is lightweight and provides a clean cut with minimal maintenance.
- Sun Joe MJ501M Mow Joe: Combining a traditional reel mower design with modern technology, this model features a wide cutting path and is perfect for larger lawns.
- Scotts 2000-20 Classic Push Reel Mower: With a comfortable ergonomic design, this mower is designed for ease of use and efficiency, making it a great option for maintaining larger yards.
The Fiskars StaySharp Max Reel Mower offers a patented StaySharp cutting system that allows the blades to stay sharp longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. It has a 18-inch cutting width and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around your yard while providing a clean and precise cut.
The Great States 415-16 Reel Mower is built with a solid steel frame and a 16-inch cutting width, making it suitable for small to medium lawns. Its heat-treated blades provide a sharp edge for cutting grass effortlessly, and the adjustable cutting height allows for customization based on lawn conditions.
The American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 boasts a robust 18-inch cutting width, making it efficient for larger areas. It is made from high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity, while its lightweight design makes it easy to push even on uneven terrain.
The Sun Joe MJ501M Mow Joe comes with a 20-inch cutting path and is designed for maximum efficiency, capable of cutting through tall grass with ease. This mower also features a 5-position height adjustment for optimal cutting heights, catering to various grass lengths.
The Scotts 2000-20 Classic Push Reel Mower features a 20-inch cutting width and is designed with a comfortable grip for ease of use. This mower is great for maintaining lawns with its adjustable height settings and efficient cutting capabilities, making it a popular choice among homeowners.
How Should You Maintain a Large Reel Mower for Longevity?
To maintain a large reel mower for longevity, consider the following essential practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping the mower clean prevents grass buildup and rust formation, which can hinder performance.
- Blade Sharpening: Ensuring the blades are sharp is crucial for a clean cut, which promotes healthier grass and reduces stress on the mower.
- Lubrication: Regularly lubricating moving parts helps reduce friction, preventing wear and tear and ensuring smooth operation.
- Proper Storage: Storing the mower in a dry, sheltered area protects it from the elements and extends its lifespan.
- Inspection and Repairs: Conducting periodic inspections for any signs of wear or damage allows for timely repairs and prevents further issues.
Regular cleaning involves removing any clippings or debris from the mower’s body and undercarriage. This not only improves the appearance of the mower but also prevents moisture retention and rust, which can lead to significant damage over time.
Blade sharpening is vital because dull blades can tear the grass rather than cut it cleanly. This can lead to a ragged appearance and make the grass more susceptible to diseases, thus maintaining sharp blades is essential for a healthy lawn.
Lubrication should be done according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, focusing on bearings, axles, and any pivot points. Proper lubrication minimizes wear on these components and helps maintain optimal performance during operation.
Proper storage means keeping the mower in a garage or shed, away from rain and snow, to prevent rust and corrosion. Additionally, using a cover can provide extra protection against dust and pests that could damage the mower.
Inspection and repairs should be a routine part of maintenance, checking for loose bolts, worn belts, and any signs of rust or damage. Addressing these issues promptly can save time and money in the long run by preventing more severe problems down the line.
What Common Problems Might You Encounter with Large Reel Mowers and How Can You Fix Them?
- Blades Dullness: Dull blades can lead to uneven cuts and a ragged appearance on your lawn.
- Jamming: Grass clippings or debris can get caught in the mower, causing it to jam and stop working.
- Misalignment: If the blades are not properly aligned, it can result in poor cutting efficiency and uneven grass height.
- Worn Bearings: Over time, the bearings in the reel can wear out, leading to difficulty in pushing the mower and decreased performance.
- Wheel Issues: Problems with the wheels, such as flattening or loss of traction, can hinder maneuverability and cutting effectiveness.
Blades Dullness: Keeping the blades sharp is essential for a clean cut; dull blades tear rather than slice grass, which can lead to disease and a less healthy lawn. Regularly inspect and sharpen the blades or replace them if necessary to maintain optimal performance.
Jamming: Jamming often occurs when grass is too long or wet, leading to clumping. To fix this, regularly clear debris and ensure that you’re cutting grass when it’s dry and at the appropriate height to prevent buildup.
Misalignment: Misalignment can occur due to wear and tear or improper handling. Periodically check the alignment of the blades and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure a uniform cut.
Worn Bearings: Worn bearings can cause the mower to become difficult to push and can lead to uneven cutting. Inspect the bearings regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear to keep the mower functioning smoothly.
Wheel Issues: Wheel problems can stem from punctures or loss of air pressure, affecting the mower’s movement. Regularly check the wheels for damage and ensure they are inflated correctly to maintain good traction and easy maneuverability.
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