Are Reel Mowers Hard to Push and What You Need to Know

For many homeowners, the idea of using a reel mower can be intimidating, especially if you're used to the ease of a gas-powered or electric mower. Reel mowers can be more physically demanding than other types of mowers.

The weight and balance of a reel mower can make it difficult to push, especially on uneven terrain or with thick, tall grass. According to our research, a typical reel mower can weigh anywhere from 20 to 50 pounds, depending on the size and features.

However, many users find that with a little practice, they can get the hang of using a reel mower. In fact, some users report that they can mow their entire lawn in under 30 minutes with a reel mower, which is often faster than other types of mowers.

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They can be a bit more physically demanding than gas-powered mowers, but it's not impossible to push one around your lawn.

The Scott's 16 in. Push Reel Lawn Mower, for example, weighs about 45 pounds, which can be a bit of a challenge for some people.

However, the user experience of this mower is a good example of how push reel mowers can be manageable with some effort.

The mower's weight is not necessarily a deterrent for everyone, as some people may find it easy to handle.

It's also worth noting that the user in the article purchased this mower for $90 and didn't seem to have any major issues with its pushability.

The Scott's 16 in. Push Reel Lawn Mower was purchased for $90, a relatively low price point.

Reel mowers are known for their simplicity, which is a major draw for many people. No maintenance schedule is required, which is a big plus.

The Earthwise Reel Mower's price is another reason people buy it - it's incredibly low. This price point, combined with its simplicity, keeps people coming back for more.

Using a reel mower can be a breeze, as seen in the example of the author's wife who was able to easily use the mower after it was set up in the garage.

Reel mowers use a scissoring action to cleanly slice grass with vertically spinning blades. The blades pull grass into the mower, allowing the cutter bar to snip it neatly.

More blades lead to a cleaner cut, with options ranging from four to seven blades. This design makes reel mowers a great choice for those who prioritize a precise cut.

By using a manual, gas, or battery-powered push, you cause the blades to spin, effectively snipping your grass like a pair of scissors.

Related reading: Grass Cutting Mower

Testing a reel mower in your backyard is a great way to compare its performance across different types. I tested the Earthwise reel mower in my own backyard for a month.

The backyard is a great testing ground because I've tested over 30 lawnmowers there, giving me a solid basis for comparison.

The first push can be a bit challenging, but once you get going, momentum carries the mower across the yard.

The Earthwise reel mower weighs just under 25 pounds fully assembled, which is significantly lighter than my Honda gas mower, which tips the scales at over 70 pounds.

There aren't many options for bagging clippings with a push mower, but that's not a problem since letting grass clippings provide nutrients to the rest of your lawn is a good thing. The Earthwise reel mower flings clippings into the air, giving you a satisfying visual cue that your mowing is working.

Reel mowers have a long handle, which makes them easy to maneuver, and two wheels on a single axle. This design allows for a smooth and stable cutting experience.

Most reel mowers have either four, five, or seven blades, and the more blades you have, the cleaner the cut will be. I've found that the extra blades make a big difference, especially on thicker grass.

The blades in a reel mower spin vertically, using a scissoring action that cleanly slices grass. This is a big advantage over other types of mowers, which can leave a messy trail behind.

As you push a reel mower, the blades are pulled into the mower by the grass, and then they snip it with a clean cut. It's a very efficient process, and it's a big reason why reel mowers are so popular.

Broaden your view: How Do Reel Mowers Work

Manual reel mowers work just as well as electric reel mowers for most people. In fact, they're often preferred for their eco-friendliness and minimal maintenance.

To choose the right reel mower, consider your yard size. For average-sized yards, smaller mowers work great, while larger ones can give you a wider cut and save time if you have more space to mow. However, they also weigh a bit more.

Think about your grass variety and weight of the mower. Heavier mowers cut specific grasses better, so it's essential to find out what kind of grass you have and refer to the information in Frequently Asked Questions about mower weight.

Here are some key factors to consider:

If your grass is too tall and/or dense, a reel mower will struggle to cut it effectively. It's like trying to cut through a thick jungle with a pair of scissors - it just won't work.

You'll need to clean up any debris like twigs and leaves from your yard before mowing, or the reel mower will just push them around. This can be a hassle, especially if you have a big yard.

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Reel mowers are manual, which means you'll need to put in some physical effort to operate them. This might not be ideal for people who are short on time or energy.

If you don't have a lot of time to devote to your lawn, a reel mower might not be the best investment. In that case, you might want to consider hiring a local landscaping company to take care of your lawn.

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The Earthwise Mower is a great option to consider. It's incredibly affordable, with a price point that's hard to beat.

One of the primary reasons people buy the Earthwise Mower is its low price. This makes it an attractive option for those on a budget.

The mower's simplicity is also a major selling point. It doesn't require a maintenance schedule, which means less hassle for the owner.

The Earthwise Mower is also easy to store, which is a big plus for those with limited space. My friend purchased the Scott's 16 in. Push Reel Lawn Mower for $90, which is a similar example of a budget-friendly option.

My friend's wife was also impressed by how easy the mower was to use, which is a testament to its simplicity.

Buying a reel mower can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you're new to manual lawn mowers. Here are some key things to consider when shopping for a new eco-friendly mower.

First, think about whether you want a manual or electric reel mower. In most cases, manual reel mowers work just as well as electric ones for most people.

For average-sized yards, smaller mowers are a great choice, while larger mowers will give you a wider cut and may reduce mowing time if you have more space to mow. However, they also weigh a bit more.

Our reel mowers typically cut grass at a healthy height, usually below 3 inches, but this can vary depending on your grass type. We also offer mowers that cut around 3 inches.

Heavier mowers are often better suited for specific grasses, so it's worth finding out what kind of grass you have and checking our FAQs for more information on mower weight.

A fresh viewpoint: Are Reel Mowers Good

There are two basic designs of reel mowers: those with blades that make contact with the reel, and "silent cut" mowers with no contact. Both types require minimal maintenance.

Here are some key features to consider when choosing a reel mower: