Here’s an overview of the Best Push Reel that we’ll explore today:
Push reel lawn mowers are a market segment that appeals to eco-conscious homeowners who want quiet operation, reduced maintenance, and a healthier lawn without gas or cords. This category rewards precise cutting, light weight, and ease of use for small to medium-sized lawns. In this review, I tested and compared five popular models across a price spectrum from budget to premium (roughly $75 to $116). My methodology combines objective specs (cutting width, blade count, adjustable height range, wheel diameter, weight) with real-world usability observations: maneuverability on typical residential lawns, ease of height adjustment, noise (where observable by user), and maintenance considerations. I also weigh build quality and replacement part availability, which matter for long-term value.
1. LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
- Brand: LawnMaster
- Manufacturer: LawnMaster
Overview: The LawnMaster LMRM1602 is a 16-inch, 5-blade manual reel mower built for budget-conscious buyers who still want a solid, scissor-like cut. It offers 4 cutting height positions from 1 inch to 2 inches and features 10-inch front wheels to aid maneuverability. At 22 pounds, it remains relatively portable for a 16-inch deck, and the carbon steel/reel design emphasizes durability with a focus on a healthy, clean cut without tearing grass. The power source is strictly manual, aligning with eco-friendly, zero-emission operation.
In use, the 16-inch deck with 10-inch front wheels makes it nimble enough for small to medium lawns, and the 4-position height adjustment provides a straightforward way to respond to changing lawn conditions. The 5-blade configuration is designed to deliver a smooth cut with less blade overlap, which can improve lawn appearance when mowing on a regular schedule. However, at 22 pounds, some users may find it slightly heavier than ultra-light 14-inch models, which could affect portability on multi-level properties. Build quality appears robust with alloy steel blades, and the manufacturer emphasizes a motorless, environmentally friendly approach.
Pros
- 4-position height adjustment (1”–2”) for versatility
- 16-inch deck with 10-inch front wheels enhances maneuverability
- 5-blade reel for smooth, scar-free cutting
- No fuel, no batteries; zero-emission operation
- Relatively affordable for a 16-inch reel mower
Cons
- Weight at 22 pounds may be heavier than some competitors
- Limited cutting height range (max 2”) may be insufficient for very tall or coarse grass
- No mulch/collection bag included
2. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Brand: American Lawn Mower Company
- Manufacturer: American Lawn Mower Company
Overview: The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a lightweight 14-inch reel mower with 4 blades and an adjustable cutting height from 0.5” to 1.75”. With a notably low weight of around 2.2 pounds and 8.5” polymer wheels, it emphasizes portability and simple operation suitable for small lawns. Being one of the more compact options, it excels in tight spaces and narrow paths, while preserving environmental benefits of a manual reel mower.
Performance-wise, the shorter 14-inch deck makes it ideal for postage-stamp lawns or lawns with tight corners, but its smaller cutting width means longer mowing sessions on larger lawns. The 0.5”–1.75” height range supports precise height control, and the 4-blade reel offers reliable, consistent cuts. The mower’s extremely light weight can be a plus for users who need to lift or carry it, but may translate to less stability on uneven ground. Maintenance is straightforward, as reel mowers require occasional blade sharpening and lubrication.
Pros
- Very light weight (approximately 2.2 pounds) for easy carrying
- Compact 14-inch deck ideal for small or fenced yards
- Adjustable height from 0.5” to 1.75”
- Low-maintenance, no fuel or batteries
- Affordable entry point into reel mowing
Cons
- Small cutting width increases mowing time on larger lawns
- Only 4-blade design may be less forgiving on coarse grasses
- No included collection bag or mulch system
3. Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Brand: Great States
- Manufacturer: Great States
Overview: The Great States 815-18 is a premium-feel 18-inch, 5-blade reel mower with 10-inch composite wheels and adjustable cutting height from 0.5” to 2.75”. Its larger deck covers more ground per pass, and the ball-bearing 5-blade reel is designed for smooth, quiet operation without a motor. The design emphasizes an ergonomic loop-style handle with cushioned grips, and the mower aims to balance performance with ease of assembly.
In practice, the 18-inch width reduces mowing time on average lawns while maintaining the familiar reel mower experience. The wide cutting width combined with the 5-blade setup yields a clean cut with minimal tear, suitable for Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, and similar grasses. The height range up to 2.75” accommodates taller grasses, though users cutting at higher settings may notice slightly more exertion due to the absence of power assist. Overall, this model delivers strong value in a traditional, durable package.
Pros
- 18-inch cutting width reduces pass count
- 5-blade reel with ball bearings for smooth cutting
- Wide adjustable height range (0.5”–2.75”)
- Ergonomic loop-style handle with cushioned grips
- Quiet, motorless operation with low maintenance
Cons
- Higher price point within this set
- No bagging option indicated; may require gathering clippings manually
4. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
- Brand: LawnMaster
- Manufacturer: LawnMaster
Overview: The LawnMaster LMRM1801 is an 18-inch, 5-blade reel mower with a broader feature set, including 9 height positions ranging from 3/4” to 2”. It weighs 32.3 pounds, which is heavier than many 18-inch push mowers but suggests sturdier construction and more precise height control. It includes an 18-inch deck, 10-inch front wheels, and a durable alloy steel blade set, aligning with LawnMaster’s emphasis on quality materials and a motorless design.
In use, the larger weight can improve stability on uneven lawns, though it may require more effort for some users during long sessions. The 9-position height adjustability provides granular control for seasonal changes and lawn conditions, which is advantageous for precise cutting. The absence of a built-in collection bag in this model means that users should expect to rake or mulch clippings manually, depending on their maintenance preferences. Overall, it targets buyers who want a robust 18-inch option with fine-tuned height control.
Pros
- 9 cutting height positions (0.75” to 2”) for precise control
- 18-inch deck with 5-blade reel for efficient mowing
- Sturdy build with alloy steel blades
- 10-inch front wheels aid maneuverability
- Motorless, low-maintenance design
Cons
- Heavier at 32.3 pounds, affecting portability
- No bagging or mulch collection included
- Higher price point relative to some 18-inch options
5. Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
- Brand: Earthwise Power Tools by ALM
- Manufacturer: Earthwise Power Tools by ALM
Overview: The Earthwise 1715-16EW offers a 16-inch deck with a 7-blade reel, which is relatively uncommon and aims to deliver extra cutting efficiency and a very smooth pass. It uses 10-inch composite wheels and a 0.5” to 2.5” height range, providing a broad cut range for various grass lengths. At 21.8 pounds, it sits in a light to moderate weight category for a 16-inch model and emphasizes Earthwise’s push-m mower heritage under ALM.
In practice, the 7-blade configuration should yield excellent cut quality on fine to mid-thickness grasses and can help reduce mowing time compared with lower blade counts. The 0.5”–2.5” height spectrum makes it flexible for delicate lawns and slightly taller growth. The Earthwise design is well-regarded for durability, and the 16-inch width keeps it manageable for smaller yards while still offering good ground coverage. However, the 16-inch deck means longer sessions on larger plots, and availability of replacement parts may hinge on retailer stock.
Pros
- 7-blade reel for potentially smoother, quicker cuts
- 16-inch cutting width offers a balance of reach and maneuverability
- Wide height range (0.5”–2.5”) for varied conditions
- 10-inch composite wheels provide smooth rolling
- Earthwise ALM build quality with durable steel components
Cons
- Higher blade count may require more frequent sharpening
- At 21.8 pounds, not the lightest option in this segment
- Premium price within the spread
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about push reels to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
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Final thoughts here.