10 Best Reel Mowers 2026 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 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.

The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower features an 18-inch cutting width, which makes it a suitable choice for medium-sized lawns, allowing you to cover a good amount of ground with each pass. It comes with five steel blades, known for delivering a scissor-like cut that is healthier for your lawn compared to traditional mowers that can tear the grass.

The mower also offers excellent versatility with nine adjustable cutting heights ranging from 0.75 inches to 2 inches, making it easy to customize the length of your lawn to your preference. Adjusting the height is straightforward and user-friendly, making it accessible for most users. Weighing in at 33.1 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for a reel mower, which aids in maneuverability. The 10-inch front wheels and ergonomic handle design further enhance this ease of use, making it easier to navigate around obstacles and edges.

The inclusion of a collection bag is a handy feature to keep your lawn tidy without extra effort. Being motorless, the LawnMaster LMRM1801 is environmentally friendly, requiring no gas or batteries, and thus low on maintenance.