Amazon.com Review

If you think electric mowers are designed for the meek, you'venever tried the Black & Decker MM875 Lawn Hog. A high-efficiency 12 ampmotor provides all the power you need to tackle even the toughest lawn.Best of all, you never have to hassle with oil, gas, or spark plugsagain! The mower comes fully assembled in the box. No tools, noworries--you'll be up and mowing in no time. And best of all, no pullstarts! Adjusting the wheel height is quick and easy thanks to a simpleone-touch system that raises and lowers all four wheels to any of eightpreset heights in one operation. Whether you love yard work or considerit a chore, Black & Decker'sMM875 Lawn Hog will have you lookingforward to your weekly appointment with the lawn. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• 19-inch cutting deck built of super-tough polymer and guaranteed for life
• Powerful 12 amp motor means not hassling with gas and oil
• Features the option to mulch, rear-bag, or side discharge (chute sold separately)
• Push handle adjusts up and down depending on the required height
• One-touch deck adjustment offers the choice of 1-1/4 to to-3-1/2-inch clearance

Reviews (48)

Great mower and no mess!
I love this mower. There is no gas or oil to mess with and no cord to pull to start it. Just plug it in and go! The cord isn't that difficult to manipulate around. Just keep the cord laying in the part of the lawn that you've already mowed, and you're set. Height adjustment is also super easy with this mower. It's almost winter, and I couldn't help but laugh when I saw all my neighbors draining oil and gas from their mowers. The Lawn Hog is so much easier. The only people who might be unhappy with this mower are those who think the loudness of their mower (/motorcycle/car/tools/etc...you know the type!) makes them more "manly." Little do they know!

A great little mower which doesn't pollute.
I looked long and hard at all the mowers. With a commitment to clean air and such, I was willing to overlook a few of the problems or shortcomings of electrics vs. gas. I was concerned that my 1/4 acre would be too large for an electric, and just about everyone told me it WAS too large. But I went with this one anyway, and so far, I'm glad I did.
The nice thing about the corded version is that it is a lot cheaper than the battery version, and a lot lighter. I would draw a parallel between a car with an automatic transmission vs. a car with a stick; the automatic is easier and more convenient, but it's more expensive and has more potential problems. Americans have always seemed to want to pay extra for convenience and ease, and in so doing have hurt the environment and themselves, with no exercise. I also heard that replacing batteries was very costly. Managing the cord is an issue, but for me, not a big one. The mulching feature works great; no more clumps of grass on the lawn. And it's very quiet, compared to the gas guzzlers.
Do yourself, your neighbors and the environment a favor by getting this mower. Take a chance and be different. You don't have to do what everyone else is doing!
Incidentally, my second mower is a Scott's Classic Reel (push) mower, which is great too!

Great Alternative
Rather than using a gas powered lawn mower, I bought this while living in San Diego. It had a sleek design, didn't pollute, it was easy to use and best of all, I didn't have to fuss with messy oils and gasoline. Manuevering with an extension cord however, can be a bit awkward. The only recommendation I would make is this: Don't get too long of an extension cord. I purchase a 100 ft. cord, which in itself was a nightmare dealing with because of the weight and inconvenience. I ended up having spool it around a hose caddy on wheels, so that I could roll it around.

THIS IS MY 2ND B&D MOWER.
THIS IS MY SECOND B&D MOWER. MY FIRST CONKED OUT AFTER ONLY 25 YEARS OF SERVICE. I HOPE I DONT HAVE TO BUY ANOTHER ONE EVERY 25 YEARS;; LOVE THEHEIGHT ADJUSTMENT, FAR SUPERIOR THAN MYFIRST, LITTLE HEAVIER BUT STILL EASY TOHANDLE. VINNI P.

Nice Mower
I have only had this mower for a week, but I already know that I'm going to be very happy with it. I don't have too big of a yard, so I thought I'd just go with an electric mower instead of hassling with a gasoline engine. I looked at the 18" model of this mower in my local home improvement store and liked what I saw. Since the 19" model was available here, and it was on sale, I decided to go with this model.

I've used it twice already this week and it worked great, so much so that I'm now considering some of the other lawn tools of this brand. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

If you're in the market for a solid, economical electric mower, the Black & Decker 18-inch electric mower is worth a look. Powered by a high-efficiency, 6.5 amp, Black & Decker motor, this mower offers quiet, hassle-free operation, without the mess and expense of gas-and-oil models. No need for tune-ups and pull starts, either. This mower weighs just 36 pounds and features an 18-inch cutting blade with side discharge (optional side bag sold separately); a rust-proof, polymer deck; and one-touch height adjustment (from 1 to 3-1/2 inches). Tool-free assembly means you'll be up and mowing quickly, while a lifetime deck warranty and two-year warranty on the mower itself provide added peace of mind. --Carl Thress ... Read more

Features

• Side-discharge design allows for (optional) bagging (BA-075)
• Electric 6.5 amp motor means no gas, no oil, and no tune-ups
• Blades deliver a 18-inch cutting swath
• Extremely lightweight--at only 36 pounds--making it easy to push
• Single lever height adjustment raises the cutting deck from 1- to 3-1/2-inch blade clearance

Reviews (22)

Dependable and easy-to-use
This very basic electric is easy to use and plenty powerful enough for my small lawn. Cord is no problem since my lawn is so small, but if you are doing a lot of back-and-forth you may have to watch out for the cord. No problem to start, which is the major reason why I dumped my gas-powered mower. Appears solid enough for the price. Good Mower!!

Absolutely wonderful mower & really easy to use
Got this product from Amazon and it is the best lawn mower that I have used due to the fact that has been really easy to use. A real Plug and Play device and no prior experience is required. I just had to get used to the power cord that follows me around the lawn (any way since my lawn is also pretty small, with an extension cord, I am able to cover the whole lawn) .

I like that fact that it is silent and that one can enjoy the fresh smell of cut grass and not gasoline. Since it is light weight it is easy to be pushing this around with just one hand and that leaves the other for power cord management. Storing this does not take too much of real estate in my garage. Repairs are fairly simple and not too often. The only thing that I have done is to sharpen the blade and I'm off cutting.

This is value for money and worth every $ that I paid for it

Solid Mower, Great Price
I had always used a gas mower (mostly Lawn Boy, because they seem to last forever). With my city recently rated in the top 20 worst air quality counties nationwide, and my hated off-brand gas mower belching smoke (so much for THAT bargain), I decided to give an electric a try.

Going electric was made easier by the price - about half of the cost of the gas mower I would have otherwise purchased. The power cord proved to be only a slight annoyance for me, possibly because I have used an electric edger for many years.

The motor is more powerful than any gas-powered push mower I have used - even in tall, leaf-filled grass, it didn't choke down like its gas-powered brethren. In fact, the motor seems to gain power under load, and can handle areas I would have done with a hand blade in the past.

The yard locks absolutely manicured now. My only complaint is that the extension cord tends to slip out of the socket too easily, and must be reseated every 20 minutes or so. That minor point aside, however, it's a great product - and now, in fact, it's my new favorite mower.

Not Bad
For a small lawn with few obstructions (trees, bushes, etc.) with electric outlets within 100 feet of the lawn, it performs adequately. i bought it over a reel mower due to the mulching feature on the B&D. Just don;t let the grass get too high, as with a gas powered mower, cause mulching and high grass don;t mix.

Overall i am satisfied with it. i agree with others that the on switch/lever is flimsy, but after reading all other reviews, i take extra care with it.

i found the customer reviews to be very helpful in choosing this mower. Of course, amazons price and shipping were the best around.

Didn't last long
I bought this mower 4 years ago, and have used electrics my whole life. I'm a big electric mower fan. I was happy with this one until it just plain-out and died last year. Could not be fixed. I was disappointed that it had only lasted 3-4 years.
My lawn is about 1/2 acre of short weeds and some grass (nothing manicured or mono-culture here!). I mowed often, and mowed high if the grass was long. Did everything right...and it still didn't last.
I plan on getting the $200 model this year and hope it will have a longer life-time than the this one. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Bravo to Black & Decker for two great innovations on this electric mower. First, the flip-over handle! You get to the end of a pass, flip the handle and head back the other way in an instant. Next, users will especially appreciate the one-touch lever that raises and lowers all four wheels at once from 1 inch to 3-1/2 inches, saving the trouble of adjusting each wheel’s height. It’s about time. In addition, the electric 12-amp motor means hassle-free starting, no gas/oil mixes, no fumes, less noise, and no battery to charge. The cushioned handle adjusts for the user’s height, another nice touch not available on most mowers. It mulches beautifully, but if you prefer, you can purchase a side bag. Electric mowers have their naysayers, but if you’re in the market for one, you can’t beat this.--Kris Jensen-Van Heste ... Read more

Features

• 18-inch cutting deck is made of a super tough polymer and guaranteed for life
• Electric 12 amp motor means no gas, no oil, and no tune-ups
• Unique flip-handle design lets you flip the handle over at the end of a pass--instead of turning the mower
• Side-discharge design allows for mulching or optional side bag (BA-075)
• Single lever height adjustment raises the cutting deck from 1- to 3-1/2-inch blade clearance

Reviews (47)

It actually mulches!
I have a quarter acre with a bunch of gardens and mowing was always a dreaded task. I used a 5.5 H.P. gas self propelled mower. It took about an hour and a half to mow the yard. And when I was done I was always covered in grass clippings and smelled of gas and exhaust. Not to mention that nice 'tingly' feeling in my hands. While I was mowing the other day I ran into something in the yard and killed my gas mower dead. It was damaged beyond repair so I needed a new mower.
At my wife's insistence I looked at electric mowers (less noise, pollution, etc.) I ended up getting the MM675. I couldn't be happier. It weighs about a third of what the old gas mower weighed, is very easy to move around, the flip handle makes cord management a no brainer and best of all I don't smell of gas and exhaust anymore.
This is also the first mulching mower that I have seen that actually mulches. With my gas mower (which was supposed to be a mulching mower) I would either have to rake up the clippings when I was done or go through the yard and break apart the "trail of mulch" that was left behind. With this mower I run over the yard once and it is all done. The mulched clippings are so fine and driven so far into the grass that I don't even get clippings all over myself and my shoes like with the gas mower.
It still takes about the same amount of time to mow, but it is a much quieter, cleaner, nicer experience now. I would highly recommend this mower. It is worlds better than my old smelly gas mower.

Oh yeah, the mower is also so light that there are no trails left in your yard when you are done. Your yard has a very clean manicured look to it, not the old visible mow lines that the heavy gas mowers wheels would leave behind. Very nice.

Why don't all mowers have a flip handle?
My mother had an earlier version of this mower, colored green and black, rather than the super bright orange and black of the MM675. Since that one worked so well, I decided to buy the MM675 for myself. It works even better than my mom's. The single handle to adjust the height of all four wheels at once is very handy and it has been able to mulch even 2 foot high weeds in my backyard (I need to mow more often). I love the flip handle concept, so I don't understand why there aren't a ton of different mowers that use it. It's just so much easier to not have to turn the mower around and it makes a well groomed lawn pretty simple to achieve. Plus it keeps the cord always on one side, so dealing with the cord becomes a non-issue. I've had no problems pushing the mower, it seems light weight, however my lot is flat so I don't deal with any hills.

So, overall, I'm obviously quite pleased. I'd definitely recommend this mower to anyone.

great lawnmower, but not this model
You do not want this model - you want the Black and Decker MM575. Here's why: The "flip handle" on the MM675 is a disaster for two reasons. First, no electric lawnmower is powerful enough to 'mulch' - it will just bog down (unless you cut your grass every other day, and you live where it never rains). So you need to be using it in the 'discharge' mode. If you try to use the 'flip' handle at the end of each pass, the discharged grass always goes in the same direction, and the mower will again bog down as it tries to recut ever more grass with each pass. (Take a minute to visualize the geometry and you'll see what I mean). Secondly and even more important, to make the handle 'flip', it attaches to the mower in the MIDDLE of the mower instead of near the rear wheels. This is critical because it means the force of your pushing goes half to pushing the mower forward, and half to pushing the wheels into the ground ! I've cut my grass with an electric mower for over 20 years, and my arms were screaming after only 10 minutes of pushing the MM675. I traded it in for the MM575 (no 'flip' handle: it attaches next to the rear wheels, and you pivot the whole mower at the end of each row, just like with a gas mower) and I can mow for 45 minutes to an hour without arm fatigue.

On the plus side, both these models are well balanced (no vibration), relatively quiet, and cut great. Best of all, the underside is one molded plastic piece - no nooks or crannies for cut grass to build up. My old mower had all sorts of screwheads and spots where different pieces of metal adjoined that jammed up with cut grass. I would spend 5 minutes with a putty knife scraping the underside of the mower clean after each use. After cutting with this mower the first time, I flipped it over to scrape out the grass, and it was spotless ! B + D, wake up and market that great feature !!!

great value, quiet, low maintenance...
I opted to go electric rather than gas eventhough a number of people recommeded otherwise. biggest complaint from people is that the cable that you have to drag around.. IT's NO BIG DEAL. You'll develop a system the second time you use one.

Pros:
1. Electric,
2. No gas, oil to worry about,
3. Mulches (with an option to discharge),
4. Shhhh... quiet (at least not as noisy as Gas),
5. and the one that did it for me is the flip handle (move handle from one end of the mower to the other). This will help you manage the extension cord. (the MM575 sells for $10 less and comes without the flip handle).

Cons:
I'll keep you posted!

Pretty good mower
With a fairly small lawn, an electric mower appealed to me. With the flip handle, this one is not too bad. You need to plan your mowing pattern carefully and yank on the cord once in a while. If you have trees and shrubs and flower beds it gets even more interesting. The power is a bit on the weak side though and in tough grass it bogs down. My teen ager is not too impressed with it. It probably takes us 30% longer to mow the lawn than with a cheap gas mower.
Over all, I do like it. It is fairly quiet and it does not smell like oil and gas and that is a big plus. Just the smell of newly cut grass! ... Read more

Product Description

This BULLY is tough but it's 12VDC motor is quiet and easy to use!The BULLY Cordless is 50% quieter than a gas-powered mower, so you can mow when it fits your schedule, and the neighbors will never hear you.Other Rechargeable Lawn Mowers are too heavy to operate easily or too expensive to afford. The BULLY is lighweight at just 36 lb., and costs no more than most corded electric mowers.Anyone can mow the lawn with a BULLYmen, women, teenagers and older folkswithout getting worn out.Built by America's leader in small mowers. Two year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• This BULLY is One Tough Little Machine. It's High Output 12 VDC Motor and Deep Cycle Battery Mow 40 Minutes on a Single Charge.
• No Cords to Pull; No Gas or Oil Needed! Just Turn it On and Squeeze the Handle Switch. Leave it on the Charger between Uses! It's That Easy!
• 80% Charge in One Hour or 100% Overnight. Fully Featured with Charge Indicator LEDs, Fully Adjustable Cutting Height (1/2" - 3"), Fold-Flat Handle, Padded Grip, Rubber Tires on Oversize Wheels, and a 15" Hardened Steel Blade.
• Tough Powder-coated 16" Steel Deck will Last for Years. Weighs 1/2 that of most rechargeable mowers for easy pushing, easy maneuvering. Cuts roughly 1/4 acre on a charge. This is the only mower most people will everneed. And, it's the ideal Trim Mower!
• Use it to trim around flowerbeds, between bushes, around the pool .. places you'll never get into with your rider!Two year Warranty.

Reviews (2)

Great once the grass is short!
Our mower was delayed, but once we got it our grass was pretty long and too a while to mow.There is a safety feature to prevent overheating and turns the mower off.This was frustrating for the first cut of the yard, but now it works great.We did have to get a 2nd battery for our 20'x200' yard because we are one strip shy of cutting the whole thing on a single charge.I hightly recommend it for small yards.

This is a real gem!
I've only had it two weeks, but I already love this little mower. Starts right up, runs til I'm done with my 1/6 acre yard. Cuts beautifully and stores out of the way under my work bench. Last week, I put it in the trunk of the car and drove it across town to cut my mother's grass. She's 74 and wants to take of her own yard, but just can't start her gas mower. Well, she likes this one; she can start and push it, and now she can mow her own grass again.
Plenty of power, pretty quiet. Works great. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

The business end of this push reel mower is solid, sharp, and everything a reel mower should be, with five heat-treated, knife-sharp steel blades that can be adjusted for nine grass heights with very easy wheel tabs. With its 10-inch wheels, radial tires, and 18-inch cutting width, this mower should enable you to cross whatever terrain and reach whatever hard-to-access rogue patches of grass you desire. There's no soft cushion on the handle, which is too bad, but otherwise, the Scotts Classic is a durable, well-constructed, simple device. ... Read more

Features

• 10-inch dual tracking wheels and radial tires handle rugged terrain
• Five heat-treated, knife-sharp steel blades for powerful cutting
• 20-inch cutting deck cuts a wide swath
• Nine grass heights to choose from (1 to 3 inches)
• Quick-snap height adjusters make changing depths easy

Reviews (69)

Will Change Your Idea of Mowing
This summer, sick of my dirty, smelly, loud gas-powered mower, I decided to purchase a reel mower. As someone who considers himself to be environmentally friendly, I no longer felt comfortable using a polluting machine on my lawn. At the same time, I didn't want to turn lawn mowing into a huge, difficult task. After researching every model on the market, I decided I would give the Scotts 2000-20 reel mower a try. My idea of lawn mowing has completely changed. What used to be a tedious, annoying task is now pleasant and relaxing, due to the ease of use and functionality of this mower. Out of the box, it is very clear how to put this mower together, and it should take no more than about 30 minutes to get the assembly done. Just remember to put some dishwashing detergent inside the rubber handle cover before you slide it on. Then you're ready to go. The height adjustment, which is located near one of the rear wheels, is very easy to access: you simply push a lever in and slide it to the correct height level. The height levels are clearly marked right on a dial (a lot easier than having to get out your wrench and screwdriver for most gas-powered mowers). In actual cutting, this mower is very smooth. With minimal energy, the blades spin with good speed and torque, easily cutting the grass down to size. I have a somewhat weedy lawn, and I was concerned that this mower might bog down, but it cuts everything with the same smoothness. My lawn also has several uneven spots, but this mower handled that nicely as well. The rear wheels keep the mower balanced as you push it. If you push faster, of course, the blades will run faster. However, at a casual pace, the blades definitely spin fast enough to take care of a typical lawn. I have even "let my lawn go" a couple of times this summer (it grew to about 6" in height at one point), but the mower handles it just fine. As you're mowing, you'll notice that there is a lot less dust flying around, no smell of fumes, and you can listen to birds and natural sounds the entire time you're outside. This reel mower cuts the grass more cleanly for sure -- you can see that the grass is greener when you're done, without brown tips. When I cut my lawn, I leave the cuttings there and allow them to mulch into the soil. The mower is light enough to lift and carry into a storage area. You don't have to keep oil and gas around, so this mower takes up the minimal amount of space. Here are the only disadvantages to this mower: (1) You can only get about 6" to an edge; (2) If a stick gets into the blade, you have to stop and pull it out; (3) You will not be visiting the local lawnmower repair shop every season for a tune up, spark plugs, air filter, and any number of other unpredictable problems. Since I started using this mower, several people have asked me if it's more difficult to use, if it's slower, or cuts worse. I assume potential buyers are asking the same questions. I will venture to say that it is actually JUST AS EASY TO USE A REEL MOWER AS IT IS TO USE A GAS-POWERED MODEL. There is NOTHING about a gas-powered mower than makes it easier to use, and gas-powered mowers do not save any time, espcially when you consider all the peripheral needs of owning one. Overall, this is an example of a simple, low-tech solution to a common need.

Makes mowing fun!
This is the 2nd year that I've used this mower, and I STILL LOVE IT! No more hassles in the spring, wondering if the mower will start, having to tune it up, taking it in for repairs, etc. This mower STARTS EVERY TIME!!! And for a great, low price, compared with the price of a gas or electric-powered mower.

And IT MAKES MOWING PLEASANT - no more walking behind a smelly, smoking, noisy machine! I actually look forward to mowing instead of dreading it!

Mechanically, it's easy to adjust the height, and it does have a pretty high maximum cutting height, unlike the "old" vintage push-reel mowers. The width is also greater than most vintage push-reel mowers. I do oil the blades after every use (with a cloth and WD-40) to keep the blades clean and to resist corrosion, and I will probably need to sharpen the blades at some point. Has anyone tried the American Lawn Mower sharpening kit?

The down-side: if you want a perfectly even-cut lawn (which I don't care about), this is not the mower for you. It misses a few blades of grass (but probably gets them the next time), so the lawn is not "perfect", but I don't care. It cuts cleanly, and my lawn stays an "appropriate" height and looks lush and green. The other downside is that I can't let the grass get too long, so I might have to cut every 5 days. I sometimes go over the lawn twice, once at a greater height and then down to a shorter height. But that's probably better for the grass anyway.

Now mowing is a pleasant experience and not something that I dread. It gives me a chance to spend time outdoors, which I would be doing anyway with a motorized mower. It does require a little effort to push, but not much. Besides, I feel that I've gotten a bit of a workout,as I get my heart rate up a bit! And, I can still hear the birds sing while I'm mowing, and I feel great that I'm not disturbing my neighbors when I mow at ANY TIME of the day.

THE BEST THING IS: Since I'm using a mower that does NOT emit CO2 and other "pollutants", I FEEL GREAT that I'm not contributing to poor air quality, or emitting green house gases that contribute to global warming when I mow! I've heard that the emissions from one hour of mowing with a gas-powered mower are equal to driving 300 MILES!!! Of course, you can buy a mower with a more efficient motor - for $500 - 1000!!! But why, when you can buy this totally clean, push reel mower for a fraction of the cost!

Safer, quieter mower. Definitely worth a consideration.
I just eagerly put my reel mower together, having spent much time researching whether I should get one or not. The reviews on here were especially helpful. In short, I'm glad I bought it.

Pluses:
1. Safer: no flying rocks or other projectiles, your kids won't sneak up on you and get extremities caught in the blade the way they do with gas mowers. As an ED physician, this is an especially important observation that I don't think had been pointed out before.
2. Quieter: my neighbors are thankful, as are my ears
3. No smoke, no gas fumes
4. Easier handling than gas mower, lighter, can get in crevices more easily and safely
5. Better for environment, save on gas, oil.
6. Easier to start-up; I'm more likely to cut the grass with this mower
7. Doesn't take any longer to mow then lawn vs. a gas mower (and if you gas mower is finicky, will probalby be faster).

Negatives:
1. Requires a bit more elbow grease with thick grass, especially on hills. Not a lot more, but a bit more (good exercise though).
2. Tall grass/weeds will not be easily cut with this; anything taller than 6-8 inches probably won't spring back up in time for the blades to cut them
3. 20" cutting swath a bit more narrow than your average gas mower, so you may need a few more passes. On flat land, it's no problem whatsoever.

I'm happy with this mower, how well it holds up remains to be seen. Construction quality is decent, the price and free shipping can't be beat. Haven't tried the $200+ models of reel mowers, so I can't comment.

If you have a smaller (< 0.5 acre), relatively flat yard, what are you waiting for?! If you like to think of mowing the lawn as exercise and have a bit larger yard, this may also be for you. Lastly, if you have kids and safety is a concern, (yes, you Volvo all-wheel-drive owners out there), a reel mower is also the way to go.

I love the idea, but . . .
I really wanted to like this mower, especially as I'm somewhat of an eco-friendly person. And I'm sure that, under the right conditions, it is fabulous. But for my average-sized St. Augustine grass lawn in Houston, Texas, this mower was one big pain in the tookus.

Here, the grass grows very quickly, thanks to our hot and humid summers. The mower was not able to handle one week's worth of growth without leaving about every third blade untouched. Even doing multiple passes hardly helped. I also tried various height settings, but it had no real effect.

I tried mowing slightly more often, but the overall quality of the lawn cut barely improved. (Sorry, I don't have the time or the inclination to mow more often than every 5 days, nor do I want to have to take multiple passes over the same stretch of grass to ensure that all the grass gets cut.)

So maybe on a small lawn, on a certain kind of grass, where the climate does not cause rapid lawn growth, this mower is what you need. But not in Southeast Texas, nor should I think anywhere in the Deep South.

You Can't Go Home Again ...
I wanted desperately to love this mower. I remember my grandfather and several uncles had reel mowers that I would use as a child. There's something about a reel mower that brings us back to simpler times. Plus, no gasoline is needed, they're quiet, and you just might get some exercise.

Then reality barges in: this reel mower just doesn't cut the lawn very well. Weeds or crabgrass do not get cut. As other reviewers have noted, you MUST have a perfect, weed-free lawn or you will likely be disappointed. Plus, I was surprised at how LOUD the mower is. The "shearing" sound it makes is at least as loud as an electric mower (which I now own).

Also, take a moment to scroll to a June 4, 2002 review of this product titled "A Metaphor For Socialism" where the reviewer discusses his "commie mower." The review is hilarious (and I agree!).

Bottom line: borrow a reel mower first if at all possible and give it a try. Based on my experience, you should be able to pick up a used one as well. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

A six-power Briggs and Stratton Quantum motor powers this trimmer mower as it effectively and evenly trims tall weeds, sharp corners, and wet grass. The trimmer mower also excels on flat plots, hills, and other rough terrain alike.

The trimmer mower provides three cutting length options from 1-1/2 to 5 inches. An extended trimmer head permits the mower to reach grass under low-hanging bushes while simultaneously protecting users from flying debris. The trimmer also comes equipped with a head clutch to enable a safe, quick, and easy engine shutdown. The 14-inch ball-bearing rear wheels resist rust with a sturdy composite nylon construction as they help push the trimmer with a minimum of friction. The trimmer mower comes assembled with a complimentary oil supply. Troy-Bilt offers a limited lifetime warranty and a product registration program. This trimmer mower covers a width of 22 inches. --Jessica Reuling ... Read more

Features

• Mower covers 22 inches; limited warranty and registration program available
• Trimmer mower with 3 cutting lengths; accommodates most lawns
• Rust-resistant ball bearing wheels with composite nylon construction
• 6 HP Briggs and Stratton Quantum motor; no assembly required
• Trimmer head permits mowing under low bushes and deflects flying debris; oil included

Amazon.com Review

The Lawn-Boy 10686 eases everyone’s least favorite weekend task in a number of ways. No more yanking on a stubborn cord--an easy electric starter means the powerful Tecumseh LV 195 engine thrums to life with the turn of a key. A Sens-a-Speed self-propel system guides the mower without depending on the sweat of your brow, and even adjusts automatically to match the operator’s natural walking speed (up to four miles an hour). Finally, a three-in-one system lets you choose between rear-bagging grass clippings, discharging them through a side chute, or mulching, to give your lawn a shot of 100% natural fertilizer. Switching from one function to another is quick, easy, and involves no tools whatsoever.

The 10686 also comes loaded with thoughtful comfort features like easy-adjusting handle height, soft ergonomic grips, and a one-handed, easy-lift bag. Step once on the quick-stow lever to have the handle fold at a ninety-degree angle; step twice for flat, 180-degree storage, allowing even the bag to stow away neatly. The 21-inch steel cutting deck is durable, lightweight, and simple to maneuver. Combined with the unit’s easy-turn wheels, it means the 110686 is exceptionally uncomplicated for even smaller persons to handle in turns and tight corners. This mower is covered by a full two-year warranty. --Mary Park ... Read more

Features

• Full 2-year warranty
• Gas-powered, self-propelled mower; effortless electric starter
• 3-in-1 system collects clippings, discharges through a side chute, or turns into mulch
• Powerful Tecumseh LV 195 engine with 6.5 horsepower; Sens-a-Speed drive system adjusts to match your natural walking speed
• Quick-stow lever; easy-adjusting handle height; 1-handed easy-lift bag

Features

• 11.0 amp motor, 18" cutting swath
• Single lever height adjustment form 1"-to-3-1/2"
• Lifetime deck warranty
• Mulch, side-discharge or optional side bag (BA-075)
• Adjustable push-handles

Reviews (14)

Does a Great Job!
This mower cuts and mulches my lawn very well. It is very light and very easy to maneuver. Not having to buy gas and oil make up for having to perform the "cord dance."

Just about perfect for those with small yards
We live in a townhouse with a 1600 square foot lot, so we didn't need a self-propelled gas mower. A cheap gas push mower would have costed about half as much as this electric mower but the bother of gas, starting, etc - just not worth it. I just plug this mower in, pull a switch and go. I was really struck by now much less of a hassle an electric mower is the first time I used it.

I really like the single-lever height adjustment, and the 40-pound weight makes it easy to manuvre. There was some dancing with the cord, but not enough to be a bother. It is also a very quiet mower, which I am sure the neighbors appreciate.

It did bog down a bit when I went over some 8" tall thick grass, but other than that, this mower had plenty of power. So this is not the mower to use for big jobs on big yards. But for me, it's perfect.

Gas no more
This lawn mower cuts as good as my 6hp gas one did and a whole lot lighter. Need to watch where your cord is.

So easy, it feels like cheating.
I'm in my third summer of having a quarter-acre lawn of my own. The first year, I used a reel mower, the old-fashioned muscle-powered kind. I felt virtuous since I wasn't making any noise or air pollution, but it wasn't powerful enough to take down the thick crabgrass. I would need to follow up with an electric weed whacker to get the stubborn stuff. If I were to go out of town for a weekend, I'd regret it when returning, since the knee-high grass was nearly impossible to tackle with a reel mower.

Last summer, I inherited the old self-propelled gas mower I used as a teenager. No more worries about stubborn grass, now I had power-- or so I thought. It would pack all the clippings into a hopper which I could use for composting. Sadly, I only got one good cutting before the thing needed so much maintenance I could have bought 2 of these electric mowers. The pull cord starter was a pain, as was the noise and smell of a combustion engine. I also needed to store gasoline, which didn't thrill me since I don't have a garage or a shed. Bah.

This summer, I decided to do the sensible thing and look for a compromise solution. I had used electric mowers in the past, but they didn't have the sort of power that this one has. It's like a dream! Even knee-high grass disappears under its whirling blade. I haven't had to use the discharge function yet, since the mulcher is so effective. There's virtually no clippings left behind to rake and bag -- the only real evidence is the green hue of my mowing shoes. Sure, you need to manage a cord, but if you work your way out from the electrical outlet in parallel lines, you hardly notice except for when you "come about." It reminds me of sailing.

It's quiet, it's effective, it's easy, and it's clean. No fumes or stink on this hog. I wish I had bought one of these two years ago. I can store it indoors without a big mess. It starts instantly, every time. Very strongly recommended if you have a small lawn like mine.

Fantastic
I've had this mower for about 4 months now, and it's great. It does take a bit of getting used to with the cord. I find myself mowing like I vacuum: with the cord in one hand and the mower handle in the other. But the mower is so light, it's a breeze to operate with one hand. You may have to go over an area twice if your grass is really long and think, but it's definitely not a burden because of its weight. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

The business end of this push reel mower is solid, sharp, and everything a reel mower should be, with five heat-treated, knife-sharp steel blades that can be adjusted for varying grass heights from 1/2 to 2-1/4 inches. With its 10-inch wheels, radial tires, 18-inch cutting width, and 2-inch welded shrub bar, this mower should enable you to cross whatever terrain and reach whatever hard-to-access rogue patches of grass you desire. Plus, the soft foam cushion on the handlebar is a nice--and much appreciated--touch. The rest of the construction, however, isn't quite as reliable. Assembly can be a headache, even though the only tool you need is a wrench. The instructions could be clearer, and the handle parts could fit together better. Limited two-year warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Soft foam cushion on the handlebar adds comfort
• 5-blade ball bearing reel delivers a 18-inch cutting width
• Cutting height adjust from 1/2 to 2-1/4 inches
• 2-inch welded shrub bar assembly
• 10-inch wheels and radial tires handle any terrain

Reviews (26)

Lawn mowing can be fun
I bought my mower a few weeks ago and have used it a couple times on my 1/2 acre lawn. It cuts beautifully, and nearly as quickly as my old gas powered mower. I have enjoyed being able to hear the birds and enjoy the fresh air while I mow. The mowing is a little bit more of a workout than pushing a small gas mower, but anyone who can walk should be able to push it easily. A couple of caveats though, the mower does not cut wet grass well, but I have had good experience cutting grass up to 6" long when it's dry. Also, it requires a clean lawn, even the tiniest twig will stop the blades, but the sticks are easily removed from the blades. The Amazon reviewer thought it was difficult to assemble. While I agree it could be easier, I was not frustrated and had the mower assembled in less than 15 minutes -- and I'm no genious at assembling products. Also, height adjustments could be simpler, it takes 5-10 minutes to readjust the height with a couple of wrenches. Overall, I'm very pleased with the mower -- I now view mowing the lawn as pleasant recreation rather than slavish noisy work!

Five Years of Successful Mowing
I've been using this mower for 5 years now. As others have said, it is quiet and does not smell bad or require gasoline.

I am particularly pleased with its easy operation. It is not really much more difficult to use than a gas mower. When sharp, it cuts about as quickly. It also cuts taller grass better than some here would make you think. However, the tall grass can't be too thick.

It should be kept sharp. I recently sharpened mine. The time it took to mow my lawn went from three hours to one and a half.

Although adequate for mowing my lawn, I do have a few issues:

1. It is difficult to sharpen. The process itself isn't bad: reverse the gears, smear lapping compound on the blade, and walk back and forth on the sidewalk. The difficulty is finding lapping compound and in applying the lapping compound as well as removing the excess after.

2. It does not deal well with sticks. If I don't walk my lawn first and pick them up, any sticks will bring me up short.

3. It got out of adjustment easily in my previous town. The street sweeper there sprayed its metal bristles into my lawn and every time I got one, the blades would hit each other, dulling their cutting surfaces quickly.

4. On an uneven lawn like mine, it will miss the excessively tall blades of grass. If you look at my lawn you will see random tall blades here and there. At the rough spots you will see many tall blades.

Overall, it's adequate for its purposes, but it fails to impress.

A green consumer
I got this mower because I like the idea of not adding to the pollution problem. It lives up to that all right, but doesn't exactly deliver when it comes to a clean cut. My lawn is hybrid Bermuda, which is thick and about as tough as grass can get. I raise my power mower deck to 3" in the summer to protect the grass from drought. At a little over 2", this mower isn't quite high enough for a Bermuda lawn. Forget about twigs, the grass alone can stop the blades! Also, the cut was nowhere near as clean as with my power mower. I gave up after an hour and used the power mower to finish the lawn. Once the lawn was cut I found that I could get this mower to work reasonably well if I set it to its maximum height. I also found that lubricating the blades with WD-40 is essential. Overall, this mower is not great, but is not bad either. It won't completely replace my power mower, but I'll use it in late fall and winter when I mow the grass at a lower height.

Nice idea, but can't handle the rough stuff
I picked up this mower hoping very much that it would work out. I have always liked the idea of a reel mower - the quiet, the lack of gas fumes, the pleasant exercise of it. All of these things were what I had expected, and I quite enjoyed using it. I would also like to add that unlike many "assembly required" yard care items, this was easy to put together, sturdily built, and comfortable to use.

Unfortunately, the results were less than stellar. The mower did OK on low even grass, but could not handle tall grass, thick clumps of grass, and tall seed-heads. It either passed over them while only cutting about 40-60% of the grass, or in the case of thick tall grass, stopped cutting altogteher and just slid over it. As my lawn was, admittedly, rather "well-grown" when I used it, this meant a fairly thick haze of tall seed-head stalks all over it and some patches of grass that really never got cut down to size, even after (literally) mowing each area several times over. It took out the lower grass and the lawn did look better than when I started, but it didn't look exactly "cut" either. In the end I returned the mower and borrowed the neighbor's Toro Personal Pace to finish off. Wow, was *that* a nice mower!

My instinct on this is that if I'd started with a near-level, short lawn, I might have had some success with this mower, but in practice that's not often what I am cutting. If, on the other hand, you mow frequently and have a fairly even lawn, this might be the mower for you.

Far better than I expected
I do not have a nice lawn. It's uneven and dotted with bare spots and weed patches. This mower did beautifully on my lawn with the original factory settings. It was easy and quick to assemble the handle (the only part not assembled in the box). It's easy to push- I think easier than a gas-powered mower. It's quiet, hassle-free, and not at all the monster most people expect reel mowers to be. The lawn looks better after mowing with this than with other types of mowers. What's not to love? The same preparations used with other mowers will do fine for this. Remove rocks and sticks, even twigs, anything you would remove for other mowers and this one should work great for an average or small size yard. ... Read more

Features

• 9 Position height adjusters fro 1" to 3 1/2"
• 6.5HP B&S Engine
• My Speed automatically adjust speed to walking pace.
• 21" deck with triple care system. Mulch, bag or side discharge.
• Large 8" Front and 12" Rear Wheels

Reviews (1)

Good but not as advertised
I ordered this mower for the Briggs and Stratton 6.5HP (B&S) Quantum Engine and the self pacing self propelled mechanism. After waiting 3 weeks I got a 6.75 Techumseh engine and the self propelling mechanism is an odd mixture of push forward, pull back that is anything but self pacing for me. Would have been nice to state correct engine on mower and to have a better explanation about how "self pacing" mechanism works?. ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

With a robust 6-1/2 horsepower engine, this sturdy little gas mower is ideal for mowing big or overgrown lawns. A single-speed front wheel drive system propels the unit forward on its own without compromising maneuverability in tight corners or turns. An innovative Triple Care feature allows users to deal with clippings in one of three ways: collect them in a rear-mounted bag with 2-1/3-bushel capacity; discharge them through a side chute; or apply as a natural lawn fertilizer via the included mulch kit. A deep-dome, 22-inch cutting deck and patented mulching blade elevate and chop clippings so they decompose more rapidly--the waste is so finely cut that it disappears into the lawn for a clean, neat look. Hefty eight-inch wheels roll and maneuver easily for less effort on your part. The nine-position fingertip height adjuster fine-tunes cutting elevation from one to 3-1/2 inches for a variety of lawn conditions. Two handles fold down for convenient transportation or compact storage. The Yard-Man 11A-435D701 comes fully assembled with oil in the carton, and is covered by a two-year limited warranty. --Mary Park ... Read more

Features

• 2-year limited warranty
• Gas-powered mower with single-speed front wheel drive
• Triple Care system collects clippings, discharges through a side chute, or turns into finely cut mulch
• Powerful 6-1/2 horsepower engine; comes fully assembled with oil in carton
• Folding handles for convenient transportation and storage; 8-inch wheels for maneuverability

Features

• Tecumseh LV 195 engine
• 3-in-1 system: side-discharge, mulch, or rear bag
• Easy Stow Knobs

Product Description

A light weight, hand-powered lawn mower. Continuous height adjustment from .5 to 1.8 inches. The long life blade will go for 8 to 10 years without sharpening. This mower weighs ony 15 pounds and cuts a 13 inch wide strip.It features a ball bearing mounted reel, and a segmented rear roller.No-tool assembly in less than 5 minutes.An optional grass catcher (sku 4202) is available.This extremely quiet mower is suggested for lawns up to 2500 square foot. ... Read more

Features

• 15 pounds, quiet, easy to push
• flame-hardened no sharpen blades
• Full control rigid handle
• Large top cover to protect overhanging flowers and shrubs

Product Description

The Scott's classic reel mower is light, maneuverable, and economical. It is environmentally responsible and quiet. It is practically maintenance free and can often last one to two years between sharpenings. The Scott's Classic features an Easy-roll dual wheel tracking eliminates drag and enhances maneuverability. The 20" cutting width allows you to get your job done quickly and efficiently. The Scott's Classic has a 1" - 3" cutting height range to meet your mowing needs and those recommended by lawn care professionals. Feature overview: 20" cutting width Height range 1" - 3" Quick-snap height adjusters Dual 6" rear tracking wheels 5-spider, 5-blade ball bearing reel 10 inch composite wheels with radial tread tires Heat treated blades Welded reel hood Loop style handle with foam grip 2 year warranty and made in the USA Reel Mower Lawn Package - This package features the Scotts Classic reel lawnmower, along with a grasscatcher and do-it-yourself sharpening kit. ... Read more

Features

• 20" cutting width - 2 year warranty
• Height range 1" - 3"
• 5-spider, 5-blade ball bearing reel
• Quick-snap height adjusters - Dual 6" rear tracking wheels
• Heat treated blades - Welded reel hood

Reviews (1)

Grass catcher blues
The basic mower is good, although there is a bit of difficulty getting it to cut less than 2". However, the catcher which comes with this unit does not effectively attach to the mower, and so constantly fouls in the reel, making the mower virtually useless. ... Read more

Features

• 6.5 hp Briggs and Stratton Quantum Engine
• 21" deep dome mulching deck
• Triple care system includes rear bag, mulch and side discharge
• Single speed front wheel drive

Amazon.com Review

In these modern times, where channel surfing is rapidly becoming the nation’s most popular sport, the American Lawn Mower Company suggeststo return to a simpler time with this hand push reel mower. The mower runs solely on manpower, thus saving valuable resources such as gasoline, oil, and electricity while simultaneously eliminating the noise and air pollutions frequently associated with fuel-run lawn mowers. Additionally, this mower combines necessary yard work with exercise, improving both the user’s lawn and cardiovascular health. Owners of hand push mowers also benefit from a lack of fuel expenses, and may also save by allowing grass clippings to mulch for natural fertilization.

This hand push mower provides best results when used on grasses no longer than 3 to 4 inches high. Regular lubrication of the bearings and blades with WD-40 further the success of this mower. The mower features four spider five blades, ball bearing reel. With an adjustable four-section roller, the mower has a cutting length range of 1/2 to 2-1/4 inches. Both the reel and blades are constructed from tempered alloy steel and are held in place by an unbreakable steel plate. The cast iron wheels measure 10 inches in diameter and the mower covers a width of 16 inches. The mower weighs 32 pounds upon shipping with some assembly required. --Jessica Reuling ... Read more

Features

• Covers 16 inches of grass; weighs 32 pounds upon shipping
• Hand push reel lawn mower
• Blades and bearing constructed from a tempered alloy steel
• Promotes cardiovascular health while easily maneuvering lawn corners
• Quiet and environmentally friendly; requires minimal care and lubrication

Reviews (3)

American (China) Lawn mower
I bought one of these and two of the reels would not engauge the cutting bar as they should. Left patches of grass all over.

Took it back and bought a Scott's Classic 20" reel mower. Twice the price, but its made in America and the quality is there.

Best Mower Ever!
I borrowed this mower from a neighbor and fell in love! I was afraid to use it at first remembering the old ones from when I was a kid. I have a small european yard and it was perfect. It was so fast, I ran over the grass in different directions to get a different mulching pattern. Safe, easy to use, great for the environment!*****

It was supposed to MOW the lawn
While this mower trimmed small patches of clover and leafy plants, it simply squashed down my grass without cutting it. It wouldn't cut anything taller than just a few inches, which I suppose is fine if you want to mow your lawn every other day. Any little piece of debris will stop this mower in its tracks - even a patch of grass a bit thicker than usual. My yard looks terrible and I am returning this mower immediately. I do not recommend this mower. ... Read more

Product Description

Backyard putting green? This is the mower for you! The McLane Manual Greens mower features ten heavy duty tempered steel blades, a front roller bar and a height range of 3/16" - 1 inch. Included is a high-density polyethylene grass catcher. 17 inch cutting width. Sealed ball bearings in reel for long life. Easy push. That's right - an affordable, person-powered putting green mower from McLane Manufacturing, Inc. for only $319.99! The greens mower is fully assembled except for the handle, handle brace plate, and left and right lower handle braces. Everything is packed and shipped in one container (except sharpener), including package of hardware and handle grips. ... Read more

Features

• Chain driven - 17 inch cutting width - 10 blade reel
• 3/16" to 1 inch cutting height
• Single wing nut for easy height adjustment change
• Front and rear wheels adjust to keep mower level
• High density polyethylene catcher included

Product Description

This is the factory replacement battery for the BULLY Cordless Mower. For optimum performance, always buy genuine BULLY parts. ... Read more

Features

• OEM Replacement Battery for BULLY Cordless Mower
• 12VDC High Output Deep Cycle Battery
• It's Always Good to have a Spare Battery!

Amazon.com Review

When it comes to hand-pushed reel mowers, what you want is low cost and high efficiency. That's what you get with the Great States push reel lawn mower. Though they call it their "Deluxe Hand Reel Mower," there's not much that's deluxe about it, but its simplicity is one of its nice features. When you're pushing a hand mower, fancy attachments are not what you're really after. Strength and easy maneuverability are more important, and the simplicity of the hand reel mower design, with its three height adjustment settings, allows you to do the job and get on with your weekend. The alloy steel reel and bed knife blades are sharp and strong, and, though the mower is light enough to carry, it's got enough heft for proper traction on slick grass. Assembly is easy enough--it doesn't take more than 10 minutes--and there's a limited 90-day warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Limited 90 day warranty
• Cutting width 14", cutting height 1/2" to 1-1/2"
• 8-1/2" diameter high impact polymer wheels with integral molded tread
• 3 spider 1 blade reel
• Assembly required

Reviews (10)

What a disappointment....
I bought this mower because I thought it was a waste to hire a gardener to mow my tiny San Francisco lawn (it's maybe 15'x20'). It was easy to assemble (though one of the bolts fell out because I hadn't tightened it enough--doing it by hand is not tight enough). The first time I used it, I thought I was going to throw out my back, but I attributed it to the fact that the grass had grown pretty tall (high enough to use a line trimmer). But I just tried using it after hiring a professional to mow it a week or two ago, and it still was backbreaking work. I consider myself a strong person (220 pounds), but I could barely get the thing to budge. Maybe it works if you mow every few days and don't let the grass get too tall. But as for me, I'll probably never use it again.

Anyone want a cheap hand reel mower???

Get Reel
This mower was easy to put together and it works like a dream come true. My grass was very long since it hadn't been mowed since my last mower stopped functioning and the GSM cut it with no problem. There were some tall plants that the mower just road over with out cutting; however, if you stop the mower right on top of these weeds and let the blades spin, the super-tall weeds will be cut. So this mower will easily cut tall grass and even super-tall weeds with the proper techniques and if you use it for normal mowing, it can't be beat. The mower is very easy to push, even through the tall grass and the grass goes flying out the back to make a perfectly thin mulch; as opposed to a fan mower which leaves the grass in a linear clump on the side.
This mower is much quieter than a fan mower, much quicker to use, much cheaper, much better for the environment, much easier to use, much safer, does a better job and is more fun. I don't know why people started using combustion-engine mowers or fannies as I like to call them, in the first place. I think it's a sign of the monIXgon so be careful and if you're out shopping for a mower, there is really no choice: you've got to get reel. For pharmin' out loud, just don't wind up driving around with one of those fossil fannies!

It's more than adequate
After selling our big suburban house--with a big suburban lawn that we paid to have cut--we moved to a city house with just enough grass to require cutting. The previous owners left this mower in the garage, and I decided to use it, since a power mower seemed excessive. Other than not being able to get close to the edges of several mulched beds, this mower works just fine. It takes me 10 or 15 minutes to go over the grass several times, and eveything looks neat. I recently had the blades sharpened, and it performs even better than when I first began to use it. It's free, it's exercise (albeit limited), and it doesn't use fossil fuel--what's not to like? I can't understand the difficulties the other reviewers have experienced, and I have also seen a number of Great States mowers around our neighborhood. Maybe the older mowers were better built? There's also something quite gratifying about cutting the grass early in the morning without disturbing the neighborhood.

Beware The Handle
As one of the other reviewers said, the weak spot is the handle. It's tube aluminum, I bent both handles forward when I was mowing and it's no longer usable. I got it second hand from a friend for free, so the price was right, but I'd never spend my own money on one. The next model up from the same company looks like a better design: the handle looks less bendy, anyway.

Ignore that bad review - this mower is FANTASTIC
I'm not sure what prompted one reviewer to speak so poorly of this mower because I can find nothing bad to say.
It took me about 15 minutes to assemble. It's sturdy - but I'm sure if you man handle it and try to force it through knee high grass or try to force it to cut or break a stick that might have jammed in it that you could break off the handle ;o)
You do need to rake your yard before use - while this is a fine mower and it will cut your grass well - it is not a power mower and won't chop up and spit out sticks, pinecones, etc.
I am 5'2", middle aged, at 140 pounds a bit out of shape and I had no difficulty using this mower. On the flat, up a hill, down a hill, around the bushes - it works fine. I can carry it with one hand.
Yes, you do need to actually put a little bit of effort into it - it is not self propelled. But it is also NOT a gas guzzling, pollution spewing, noise making monstrosity either. You can hear life going on around you with this one, you can breathe in the fresh air - it makes mowing a pleasure instead of a chore. ... Read more

Features

• Seven blades - 17" Mowing width - Front and rear wheels adjust to keep mower level
• 7/16" to 2 1/2" cutting height - Baked polyester powder paint
• Heavy duty 12 gauge tempered steel construction - chain driven
• Precision sealed ball bearings in reel

Reviews (1)

Good Reel Mower for All Types of Grass
I purchased the McLane 7 blade reel mower from reelmowersetc.com for $160 including shipping. I have been extremly satisfied by its performance. The mower is extremely sturdy. It is heavier than some other reel mowers, but it is still no more difficult to push than a gas powered mower. It may be a little more difficult to get started, but when you get some momentum it is very easy to push. I have a 4000 sqaure foot lot with a mixture of zoysia and bluegrass, and it takes me about 30 minutes to mow. The mower goes right over small sticks and other debris without any problems.

I did have move the front axel up a notch to raise the cutting height when I recieved the mower. There is a lever to make fine height ajustments, but the front or rear axel can be moved to make large ajustments. The process was described in the manual, and only required one bolt to be removed. The mower was trying to cut too much grass and binding up before I moved the axel up. If you want to cut your lawn very short, you will have to gradually work your way down.

It takes a little time and patience to get used to a reel mower. It doesn't cut grass over 6 inches. This mower's blades are only on inch from one of the edges, but triming is a little more difficult on curved edges than a rotery mower becuase you have to keep moving to keep the blades going. These are just differences in reel mowers and rotory mowers that require you to change your mowing tecnique. I have found that I can now mow just as fast and do just as good of a job as my nieghbors who have gas powered rotory mowers.

I would recommend this mower to anyone considering a reel mower. I don't have expirience with other reel mowers, so I can't make a very good comparison. I chose this model because I read that some of the 5 blade models have problems with thick zoysia. I can say that I am extremely satisified with this mower. ... Read more