10 Best Reel Mowers 2025 in the United States

The American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is designed for those who enjoy maintaining short, thick grass types such as Bermuda, tiff, bent grass, and zoysia. One of its strengths is the 7-blade reel, which provides a precise cut and is especially effective on these specific grass types. The cutting width of 16 inches ensures that you can cover a decent amount of lawn with each pass, and the adjustable cutting height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches offers flexibility to achieve your desired grass length.

The 10-inch wheels make the mower easy to maneuver, and the T-style handle with a cushioned grip adds to the comfort during use. The mower is made of heat-treated alloy steel, which keeps the blades sharp for years, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Weighing 21 pounds, this reel mower is relatively lightweight, making it easy to push without much effort.

However, being a manual mower, it requires physical effort to operate, which might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with larger lawns or physical limitations. Additionally, while the grass catcher is a useful feature, it may need frequent emptying if you have a large lawn. In conclusion, this reel mower is ideal for lawn enthusiasts with small to medium-sized lawns and specific grass types who appreciate the eco-friendliness and quiet operation of a manual mower.

The American Lawn Mower Company 20-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower is a solid choice for those looking for an eco-friendly, manual lawn mower. Its 20-inch cutting width is on the wider side for reel mowers, allowing you to cover more ground quickly, which is helpful if you have a medium-sized lawn. The 5-blade reel design offers precise cutting, which usually means a cleaner and healthier cut for your grass compared to rotary mowers. You can adjust the cutting height between 2 and 3 inches, giving you some flexibility to keep your lawn looking neat and promoting good grass growth.

Weighing in at around 28.6 pounds, it’s light enough for easy pushing and maneuvering without being too bulky. The ergonomic handle is designed for comfort, so you won’t get tired quickly while mowing. An added bonus is the included grass catcher, which helps keep your lawn tidy by collecting clippings as you mow. Since this mower is manual, it’s quiet and requires very little maintenance, making it environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time.

Being manual, it may not be ideal for very large or uneven lawns where a powered mower might save time and effort. Also, some users might find the cutting height range a bit limited if they want more customization. If you want a simple, efficient mower that’s easy to use and good for smaller to medium lawns, this model fits well.

The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 is a manual reel mower with a 14-inch cutting width and a 5-blade reel. This width is suitable for small to medium-sized lawns, allowing for efficient coverage without requiring excessive passes. The 5-blade configuration is effective for providing a clean, scissor-like cut, which can promote healthier grass growth. Additionally, the mower includes a hand sharpener, ensuring that the blades can be maintained for optimal performance over time.

The cutting height is adjustable from 1 to 2.25 inches, giving flexibility to achieve the desired lawn height. However, this range may be limiting if you prefer a higher cut for certain types of grass or during specific seasons. The mower is relatively lightweight at 17.5 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and handle. Its 10-inch polymer wheels further enhance maneuverability, allowing for smooth navigation across various terrains. The handle design is straightforward and user-friendly, although it may not offer advanced ergonomic features seen in some competitor models.

A notable strength is its environmental friendliness, being pollution-free, noise-free, and requiring low maintenance. This makes it a great choice for eco-conscious users. The mower operates manually, meaning it is quieter and simpler to use without needing fuel or electricity. However, it might require more physical effort compared to powered mowers, especially for larger lawns or thicker grass. It also performs best when the grass is dry, which could be a limitation in consistently wet climates. The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight, environmentally friendly option with adjustable cutting height and reliable blade sharpness. It is best suited for small to medium lawns and eco-conscious users who prioritize simplicity and low maintenance.