Best Mulching Blades for Husqvarna, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, John Deere, Craftsman, and more.
Blades make one of the most important components in a lawnmower. There are majorly two categories; regular and mulching blades, the latter being our area of focus today. The two serve a similar purpose with the mulching blade being preferred by users trying to avoid extra work that comes with clearing up bagged grass clippings.
A striking feature that helps differentiate a regular blade from one designed for mulching is the shape. A mulching blade is curved in nature with several cutting edges as opposed to the regular blades that assume a straight shape with fewer cutting edges.
Mulching blades allow you to choose between bagging, discharging, or mulching. If you are looking for versatility in a lawnmower, then knowing the blade in use will help.
To help you get the best mulching blade, we reviewed these top products that are designed to fit your needs
Best Mulching Blades-Our Top Picks
Maxpower 21 Inch Mulching Blade
Maxpower blades meet and exceed all OEM specifications. This blade is made to fit 21 Inch Cut MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt and replaces 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, 942-0741A. With this mulching blade, you can cut your way across leaves, grass, plant branches, and even cones as it has serrated ends that crush these easily. This blade is 21 inches long and 2.25 inches wide giving large cutting coverage thanks to the extra lengthening of the cutting edge. This also helps in having the grass cut evenly across the entire areas where passes have been made. Sturdy durable metal makes it tough against debris found on the lawn. The edges retain their sharpness for a long while as well. On mounting options, you will notice the center hole takes on the shape of a bow tie. Additionally, washers and other fittings are provided for easy mounting. The bow-tie design works with given models so you want to go through the list of recommended compatibles before purchasing it. Features
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Rotary Copperhead 42 Inch Mulching Mower Blades
Rotary Copperhead Mulching Mower Blades come in a pack of two and is a budget-friendly option for John Deere mower owners with a 42-inch deck to be specific (OEM: AM137328, AM141033, GX22151, GY20850.). They are a heavy-duty pair that does not warp or break on impact with rocks that get caught up in them when mowing. These mulching blades also feature edges with serrated teeth for improved airflow inside the deck, lifting and pushing clippings severally on the blade for further cutting. They have a 24-inch long cutting surface so you are sure they can work under a variety of cutting conditions and still deliver the desired result. Their center hole is well carved out for perfect fitting before using them. The only input you may need for these mulching blades is that you may need to scrape off the paint layering on the edges that appear to interfere with sharpness in the first few rounds of mowing. Other than that, they are an extremely durable pair and compete comfortably with others in the best mulching blades category. Features
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MTD Genuine Parts 20-Inch Mulching Blade
MTD 20-inch walk-behind mowers, Yard-Man, Yard Machines, Troy Bilt, and White Outdoor machines are compatible with this MTD Genuine Parts 20-Inch Mulching Blade. True to its name, this mulching blade is genuine and reliable and can be used as a new addition or replacement for the old blade. It comes as a single blade built to last so you can count on its durability for a long time. This mulching blade presents a tough front on both wet and dry grass to make the mulching process quite an easy one. The blade cutting edge comes with a protective coating which makes the first few passes during mowing a bit difficult but once it wears out, it cuts smoothly all types of grass. A four-point star-style center hole is part of the design to ease the set-up process. Also, get to experience versatility at its best since you can also use it for bagging and side discharge purposes. Features
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Husqvarna 3-Pack 48 Inch Mulching Riding Lawn Mower Blades
Away from singles and doubles, let us take a look at triples with our interests being directed to the Husqvarna that is among the greats in the production of outdoor equipment with mulching blades being a top seller in their range of products. Our focus is on their Husqvarna 3-Pack 48-in Mulching Riding Lawn Mower Blades that stand out among the other Husqvarna blades. These set of three go in 48-inch decks perfectly to deliver outstanding performance in mowing and mulching. They are manufactured with hardened steel for durability. A curved profile you will notice on these blades, which is one of the things that make a good mulching blade. Curvature increases the time the clippings stay and are rotated under the deck for cutting down to pieces suitable for mulching. These mulching blades have a five-point star center hole for easy installation and are a great match to lawnmowers from Husqvarna. Features
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USA Mower Blades 21 Inch AYP340BP Mulching Blade
The pair can be used as replacements for Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan (134149,24676, 422719, 424752, 531005085,531307223) They are built to be long-lasting at 2¼ inches wide and .150inches thick. That way, they do not warp when subjected to tough mowing conditions like tough grass, weeds, or leaves. At 21 inches in length, the USA Mower Mulching Blades can cut through grass and mulch clippings with a lot of ease. The five-point star mounting design ensures they fit like the original blade there before. For uneven ground surfaces, these mulching blades do a great job. Their light nature could fool you into thinking they are flimsy but make far from that, these blades perform to expectation. The plus of being lightweight is that wear and tear are kept at a minimum. Given their fair price, this is a reliable choice to go by. Features
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Oregon 598-629 Gator G5 21-3/16” Mulching Blades
Oregon 598-629 Gator G5 21-3/16” Mulching Blades is one of the best mulching blades in the market today. Their combination of features is what the French call incroyable, simply incredible! Starting from the center of the blade as we move to its edges, you get a six-point mounting hole which makes these blades an easy fit on MTD, Cub Cadet among other lawnmower models. On the edges, you notice a short dip coupled with serrated teeth that give an aggressive lift, aid in a seamless cutting process while promoting proper airflow under the cutting deck to prevent clogs and uneven cuts. The blades incorporate Tungsten Carbide that is fused to the edges for durability. Also on durability, these blades are heavier and thicker than your ordinary blade. Extra sharpening is not necessary seeing that the sharpness of the blades lasts a long while. So, whether you run twigs on them or leaves, the outcome will match your expectation. If you have an old lawn mower you can boost up its performance by using these blades and having it cut like any new machine. Features
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Maxpower 561713XB 42Inch Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set
It is often said that good things come in pairs and with Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set, you will certainly believe that the best come in twos. First of all, these pair of mulching blades are fairly priced. With the high ratings they have on the market, you would expect them to be up there in price but no, the price has been consistent and the quality remains uncompromised. A set lasts and delivers service for a considerable period. The fitting can be a menace when mounting a mulching blade normally it comes out as an annoying sound from the deck. The Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set is easy to put on before you enjoy smooth mowing time. Ultra-sharpness of the blades results in the production of fine mulch. You want to watch out for these blades when mounting otherwise they will be chopping your hands before they could even get to the grass. For the best mulching power, get these blades for your machine. Features
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SureFit Mulching Blade Replacement
When you want your lawn to be the envy of the neighborhood season in and season, getting the best mulching blade should be top of your priority list. SureFit has the best blade for all your mulching needs. Both leaves and grass are turned into fine mulch by these blades so you do not have to keep making repeat passes over the same area for even cutting. Another good thing with SureFit Mulching Blade Replacement is that they can mow a large area without the need for replacement, thanks to the durable construction of the blades. Some blades will have you trying to spread out mulch clumps on the yard but this is not the case with these blades. Once you are done with an area, the ground remains leveled and neat. The blades are sharp thereby saving you time spent outdoors. These mulching blades have a universal fit and are made with OEM standards in mind which largely describes why they fit well on so many models. Features
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MTD Genuine Parts Replacement Mulching Blade for 21-Inch Cutting Decks
Closing off our best mulching blades is yet another blade from MTD, the MTD Genuine Parts Replacement Mulching Blade for 21-Inch Cutting Decks. A top contender in its category and rightfully so on account of its combination of features. To start with, the blade is very sharp cutting through even the toughest grass. It is perfectly balanced meaning that the lawn leveling remains even, you do not get those mohawks-like views on your yard. fitting should not be a problem only you should note that the blade comes with a sticker that you may need to pull out before installing. It is designed to be accommodated by a variety of models including Poulan, Husqvarna, and Craftsman. The fact that it is made of heavy-duty material saves a considerable amount of time and money that would otherwise be spent on replacements now and then. Chute clogging is dealt with properly by this mulching blade so you can count on it to speed up the moving process. Looking at its price, sturdiness, and performance, it is worth trying out. Features
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Related
- 10 Best Maxpower Mulching Blades
- Pros and Cons of Mulching Leaves
- 6 Best Lawn Mowers for Mulching Leaves
- 7 Best Self-Propelled Mulching Lawn Mowers
Things to Consider when Choosing the Best Mulching Blades
For purposes of making a switch from the regular blade or simply trying to find a replacement for your old mulching blade, here are some things you want to put into consideration first.
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Fitting/ Mounting Options
A closer look at mulching blades will have you notice the addition of holes with the center hole being key for mounting onto the spindle which spins the blade during mowing. Different mowers come with different mounting options or styles. Most have a universal fit, others have a pointed star design like a six-point star. Finding a blade that matches the mounting options for your lawnmower should then be something worth considering for getting any mulching blade.
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Length
How long is long enough? Getting the length of a mulching blade for your lawnmower correct is also very important. Too short a blade will mean that you may have to make more passes in the area you are focused on cutting. You also find with very small blades offer neat, precise grass cuts but the free flow of air is strained rendering the bagger ineffective.
On the other hand, too large a blade is great for bigger lawns but also a problem because it’s heavier and therefore movement is quite slow. With slow movement comes clumping plus the larger the size, the lesser the amount of space under the deck. Lawnmowers will usually come with the dimensions of blades displayed on them or for surety of length if there is a user’s manual you can refer to the replacement parts page.
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Number of Blades
If your lawnmower supports the use of several mulching blades then choose a set or kit that is compatible with it. When it comes to replacement, it is recommended to switch all blades instead of one.
Replacing a single mulching blade may bring in a difference in terms of weight where you find the new blade is heavier than the others, so you find the running being a little slower than in the other blades which usually results in clumping. Some sections may end up uncut and the surface looking uneven because the blade missed several strips of grass.
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Weight
Mulching blades are heavier when compared to standard blades which can be attributed to their thickness and angular lift design. Their weight is not something you can avoid as it manifests itself in the form of slower running of the mower when cutting grass. Choose a mulching blade that your lawnmower can comfortably work with to reduce pressure on the engine so that stalling does not occur now and then during mowing.
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Durability
Mulching blades are designed to be thick so they are likely to be more durable than regular ones. This is a feature you need to check for when getting them, the material used in manufacture is a big determinant of how long they serve you. However, it will all be dependent on usage and maintenance.
Continued use of the mower without running a quick check on the lawn for things like stones eventually may cause destruction or deformation of the blades or other parts in the lawnmower. Using a higher cutting height may help lengthen lifespan but you may find yourself having to mow the lawn a little more often.
FAQs
Q: How Do Mulching Blades Work?
A: Mulching blades are made to keep the grass that is cut within the lawnmower for long so it runs through the blade severally to get cut into finer bits. The blade’s curvature design causes the grass clippings to be lifted then get thrown back to the blade and deck for further cutting, after which they are pushed out and back onto the lawn for mulching purposes.
Q: Are Mulching Blades Better?
A: Not really. It just trickles down to how you go about maintaining your lawn. If you are looking to keep your lawn nourished through the use of mulch then these blades are the deal. They are also a great option when you want to use them elsewhere other than on the lawn, perhaps in addition to compost to be used on other areas. Should you not be a fan of frequent mowing and prefer bagging then standard blades would be your best chum.
Q: When to Use Mulching Blades?
A: Anytime you want to mulch is a good time to use such type of blades. There are however limitations to it like where you have too much weed whose spread may be increased when mulching is done or where grass has grown too long.
Conclusion
The grass is greener where you care for it best. Mulching is an eco-friendly option that promises an alluring slice of green off of your front or back yard. Mulching blades have been designed to ease this process you just have to choose which one is compatible with your lawnmower and fits best your preferences. The mulching blades reviewed in this article are a great place to start.