What Is a Reel Mower? Direct Answer
A reel mower is a lawn mower that cuts grass using a rotating cylindrical blade (called a reel) with multiple cutting edges that press grass blades against a stationary blade, producing a clean, precise cut similar to scissors. Reel mowers are available in two main types: manual push models powered by your walking motion, and motorized versions with gasoline or electric engines. Unlike rotary mowers that use a spinning blade to hack grass, reel mowers use a scissor-cut action that produces a neater edge, promotes grass health, and operates much more quietly.
How a Reel Mower Works
Understanding the cutting mechanism helps explain why reel mowers produce a different quality cut than rotary models.
The Cutting Action: A reel mower consists of a cylindrical drum with 5 to 10 spiral-arranged blades that rotate as the mower moves forward. As the reel turns, each blade sweeps across a stationary blade (called the bedknife) positioned directly below it. Grass is caught between the rotating reel blade and the stationary bedknife, where it is cleanly clipped rather than torn or chopped.
The Stationary Blade’s Role: The bedknife is critical to the reel mower’s function. It remains motionless while the reel spins above it, acting as an anvil. The grass is pinched and cut between these two blades in a shearing motion—similar to how scissors work. For the cut to be clean, the gap between the reel and bedknife must be precisely adjusted. If the gap is too wide, grass won’t be caught cleanly; if too tight, the mower will jam.
How Manual Reel Mowers Operate: In manual push models, the wheels turn a gear system as you push the mower forward. This mechanical connection directly drives the reel, so the faster you walk, the faster the reel spins. No engine is required—your forward momentum powers the cutting action.
How Motorized Reel Mowers Operate: Engine-powered reel mowers use a gasoline or electric motor to drive the reel independently of the wheels. This allows the operator to control reel speed separately from forward speed, providing more precise cutting control and less physical effort than manual models.
Manual Push Reel Mowers vs. Motorized Reel Mowers
The two primary variants serve different needs and lawn sizes.
Manual Push Reel Mowers:
- Power source: Human effort—no fuel, electricity, or batteries required.
- Best for: Small to medium lawns (typically under 5,000 square feet), homeowners seeking quiet operation and minimal maintenance, and those preferring chemical-free lawn care with no emissions.
- Physical demand: Requires consistent pushing effort; modern designs are lighter than older models, but physical strength and mobility are factors.
- Maintenance: Minimal—occasional blade sharpening and occasional lubrication of gears. No spark plugs, oil changes, or seasonal storage procedures.
- Operating cost: One-time purchase price only; no ongoing fuel or electricity costs.
Motorized Reel Mowers:
- Power source: Gasoline engine or electric motor (battery or corded).
- Best for: Larger lawns (5,000+ square feet), professional grounds maintenance, sports field upkeep, and homeowners who prefer minimal physical exertion.
- Physical demand: Primarily steering and directional control; engine handles the cutting work.
- Maintenance: Gas models require seasonal tune-ups, spark plug changes, oil checks, and fuel stabilization. Electric models need battery charging or outlet access and occasional blade maintenance.
- Operating cost: Fuel, electricity, or battery replacement; periodic tune-ups and repairs.
- Performance: Consistent cut quality regardless of operator pace; faster mowing speeds than manual models.
Reel Mowers vs. Rotary Mowers: Key Differences
Most homeowners are familiar with rotary mowers. Understanding how reel mowers differ mechanically and functionally clarifies why some prefer one type over the other.
| Feature | Reel Mower | Rotary Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting mechanism | Scissor-like shearing action between rotating reel and stationary blade | Single spinning blade that impacts and tears grass |
| Cut quality | Clean, precise edge; no ragged tips | Coarser cut; blade tips may fray if dull |
| Noise level | Manual: very quiet (60-65 dB). Motorized: quiet to moderate (75-80 dB) | Loud, especially gas models (85-95 dB) |
| Grass health impact | Clean cut reduces disease entry points; promotes faster healing | Torn blade tips are more susceptible to fungal infection and browning |
| Maintenance frequency | Occasional blade sharpening; minimal maintenance | Frequent blade sharpening; more moving parts require regular servicing |
| Best grass types | Cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass, perennial ryegrass) | Works on all grass types but less efficient on very thick or overgrown lawns |
| Lawn conditions | Best on well-maintained, relatively even lawns; struggles with very tall or thick grass | More versatile; handles taller, tougher growth and uneven terrain better |
| Fuel/power requirements | None (manual); minimal (electric); moderate (gas) | Requires fuel (gas) or electricity (electric rotary) |
Benefits of Using a Reel Mower
Superior Cut Quality: The scissor-like cutting action of reel mowers produces a cleaner edge than rotary mowers. This matters because grass blades with clean cuts heal faster and are less susceptible to fungal diseases, brown tips, and stress. Professional sports field groundskeepers and golf course managers rely on reel mowers for this reason.
Grass Health Advantages: Because reel mowers create clean cuts rather than tearing grass blades, they reduce the surface area exposed to disease and environmental stress. The grass plant can focus energy on growth rather than recovering from damage. Over time, a lawn mowed with a reel mower typically appears healthier and denser than one maintained with a rotary mower.
Quiet Operation: Manual reel mowers are exceptionally quiet—so quiet you can have a conversation while mowing. Even motorized reel mowers are significantly quieter than gas rotary mowers. This allows early morning or evening mowing without disturbing neighbors.
Environmental Benefits: Manual reel mowers produce zero emissions and consume no fossil fuels. Motorized electric reel mowers eliminate gas fumes and reduce your carbon footprint compared to gas rotary models.
Low Maintenance: Reel mowers have fewer moving parts than rotary mowers and require less frequent servicing. Manual models, in particular, need only occasional sharpening and lubrication.
Cost Efficiency: While quality reel mowers have a higher upfront cost than basic rotary mowers, manual models eliminate fuel and electricity costs. Over a decade of lawn care, the total cost of ownership can be lower than gas-powered equipment.
Precise Height Control: Reel mowers allow you to set exact cutting heights and maintain consistency across the lawn, resulting in a more uniform appearance.
When to Choose a Reel Mower
Ideal Lawn Size: Manual reel mowers are practical for lawns up to about 5,000 square feet. Beyond that, the physical effort becomes significant, and motorized or rotary options become more practical. Motorized reel mowers handle lawns up to 2-3 acres, depending on the model and engine power.
Grass Type Considerations: Reel mowers work best on cool-season grasses commonly found in northern climates: perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and fine fescues. These grasses are typically maintained at shorter heights (1 to 3 inches) where reel mower advantages are most apparent. Warm-season grasses (Bermuda, zoysia, St. Augustine) are sometimes mowed with reel mowers but are more commonly cut with rotary mowers at slightly higher settings.
Lawn Condition Requirements: Reel mowers perform best on lawns that are relatively even and well-established. Very thick, overgrown, or weedy lawns may clog a reel mower. If your lawn is in rough condition, a rotary mower may be more practical initially; switch to a reel mower once the lawn is established.
Physical Capability: Manual reel mowers require reasonable physical fitness and mobility. If pushing effort is a concern, a motorized option or traditional rotary mower may be better suited.
Noise and Environmental Priorities: If quiet operation, zero emissions, or minimal maintenance align with your values, a reel mower is an excellent choice.
Budget Considerations: Manual reel mowers range from $200 to $600 for quality residential models. Motorized reel mowers start around $1,500 and can exceed $5,000 for commercial-grade equipment. Compare this to rotary mowers ($300–$2,000) to determine your budget fit.
Maintenance and Care
Blade Sharpening: The reel blades and bedknife should be sharpened 1-2 times per season or whenever you notice the cut quality declining. Dull blades result in torn grass tips rather than clean cuts. Many manufacturers recommend professional sharpening to maintain precise blade-to-bedknife alignment.
Gap Adjustment: The clearance between the reel and bedknife must be minimal for a clean cut. Check this adjustment before the season and after sharpening. Most modern reel mowers have user-friendly adjustment mechanisms.
Cleaning and Storage: After each use, remove grass clippings and debris from the reel, blades, and undercarriage. Before winter storage (for gas models), drain fuel or use fuel stabilizer, change the oil, and store in a dry location.
Lubrication: Periodically lubricate gears, wheels, and pivot points with appropriate lubricants. Check your manual for specific points and recommended products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be strong to use a manual reel mower?
Modern manual reel mowers are significantly lighter than older models and are engineered for efficiency. Most people of average strength can operate them comfortably on well-maintained lawns. The key is consistent, steady pushing rather than forceful effort. If you have mobility concerns, a motorized model is a better option.
Can a reel mower handle tall or thick grass?
Reel mowers work best when grass is maintained at regular cutting heights. If your lawn has grown very tall or thick (more than 3-4 inches), a reel mower may struggle or clog. For overgrown lawns, use a rotary mower first to bring the grass down to manageable height, then switch to a reel mower for ongoing maintenance.
How often should I sharpen reel mower blades?
For residential use, blade sharpening 1-2 times per season is typical. If you mow frequently (weekly) or have a large lawn, you may need sharpening more often. A dull reel mower produces visibly torn grass tips rather than clean cuts—this is the signal to sharpen.
Are electric reel mowers as effective as gas or manual models?
Yes, electric reel mowers are very effective. They offer the quiet, low-maintenance benefits of reel mowing with easier operation than manual models and without gas fumes. The trade-off is battery runtime—most electric reel mowers handle 1-2 acres per charge, making them suitable for residential and small commercial applications. Battery technology continues to improve.
What’s the difference between a reel mower and a cylinder mower?
Reel mower and cylinder mower are often used interchangeably; they refer to the same equipment. The cylindrical rotating blade is the defining feature, and both terms describe this design. Some professionals use “cylinder mower” more frequently in regions outside North America.
