5 or 7 reel mower Comparison.
A reel mower is an important tool that every gardener should have. While they are less powerful compared to electric or gas-powered mowers, reel mowers are more effective at keeping the lawn more healthy. They have blades that cut the grass using a scissor-like action allowing the grass to retain its natural moisture and shape.
The number of blades in a reel mower hugely influences its performance. The majority of the reel mowers are equipped with either 5 or 7 blades. For beginners, choosing between a 5 and 7 reel mower is one of the challenging decisions one can make. While more blades result in cleaner grass cuts and easier mowing, the choice of either a 5 or 7 blade reel largely depends on the intended application.
5 or 7 Reel Mower Comparison
Generally, 7-blade reel mowers are more suitable for cutting tall and tough grasses as well as bent grasses such as hybrid Bermuda, St. Augustine, and Zoysia. On the other hand, 5-blade reel mowers are great for cutting moist grasses in chunkier lawns. The best blade for a yard that’s maintained weekly is the 7-blade reel. If you are dealing with a yard that has not been maintained for weeks or months, you’ll need the 5 blade reel.
Let’s now look at some of the best 5 and 7-blade reel mowers to choose from.
1) Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
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2) Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower
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3) Green States 415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
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4) American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
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If you are looking for a 5-blade reel mower that’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and low in maintenance, then the American Lawn Mower Company 14” Push Reel Lawn Mower is your best option. This gas-less and noise-free lawnmower is versatile enough to cut different types of grasses and weeds as well. It has a 14-inch cutting width and adjustable cut height that cuts grass up to 4 inches tall. The rugged 8.5” polymer wheels provide optimum maneuverability across different terrains, while the 5 manual steel alloy blades are heat-treated to retain their sharpness for long and provide healthy, clean cuts. On top of that, this reel lawn mower has a tool-free assembly and a T-style handle that’s cushioned to provide comfortable handling and prevent the formation of blisters. It’s a smart choice for eco-friendly gardeners with small yards. Features
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See Also: 6 Best 5-Blade Reel Mowers
Choosing a 5 or 7 Reel Mower
- Blade quality
A reel mower whose blades are made from durable materials works well on different types of grass. On top of that, such blades are able to retain their sharpness for longer even after rigorous cutting. Reel mowers whose blades are heat-treated steel alloy retain their sharpness for longer and work well on tough and thick grass. Moreover, steel alloy blades have an excellent tensile strength that makes them corrosion-resistant, rustproof, and extremely durable.
- Cutting width.
The standard cutting width of a reel mower ranges from 14-20 inches. The larger the cutting width the better, as it means that you mow quickly and save more time. However, it can be difficult to push as a result of more grass resistance.
- Weight
You might be tempted to get a larger reel mower that makes it easier to cover a large section within the shortest time period. That’s still a good idea, provided you don’t get fatigued easily. However, if you want the best results, you should go for a lightweight reel mower. They are easier to push and maneuver across different types of terrains.
- Affordability
The best reel mower be it 5-blade or 7-blade offers healthy lawn maintenance at a budget-friendly price. The budget-friendly reel mowers cost less than $100, while the premium ones tend to be a little more expensive. However, after the initial investment, reel mowers offer the biggest financial benefit because they are more economical to run and maintain in the long run.
- Additional features.
A few additional features on the reel mower will make your mowing experience better and more fun. If you prefer to bag the grass clippings for easy disposal, get yourself a mower with a grass catcher. Cushioned handles provide a comfortable, non-slip grip and reduce the risk of blisters. For added stability, look for a reel mower with sizeable front wheels as well as additional back rollers for optimum maneuverability across tight spaces and sharp corners. Also, look for reel mowers with rugged all-terrain wheels if you have an uneven yard.
Conclusion
Choosing either a 5-blade mower or a 7-blade mower largely depends on the type of grass in your lawn as well as your personal preference. While the two blade types have their own pro and cons, they both leave behind a clean and healthy lawn which is the dream of every gardener. Identify your lawn’s needs first, then find a mower that fits those needs.