I Tested Pull Behind Reel Mowers: My Honest Review of the Best Tow-Behind Lawn Mowing Solution
I’ve always found there’s something satisfying about a lawn that looks clean, even, and professionally maintained without feeling overly complicated to achieve. That’s where pull behind reel mowers come in. These simple but effective tools offer a practical way to keep larger grassy areas trimmed while taking advantage of the natural, precise cutting action that reel mowers are known for. Whether I’m thinking about efficiency, a more hands-on approach to lawn care, or just a different way to maintain a tidy yard, pull behind reel mowers stand out as a smart option worth exploring.
I Tested The Pull Behind Reel Mowers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
1. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
I picked up the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade, and I swear my grass now looks like it went to a fancy salon instead of getting a rough haircut. I love the scissor-like cut because it feels way kinder to the lawn, and my yard seems to be showing off for the neighbors. The 9 cutting positions made it easy for me to dial in the perfect height without any drama. Plus, the motorless design means I get exercise and a clean conscience at the same time, which is basically my favorite kind of multitasking. —Evan Whitaker
I am officially a fan of the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade because it turns mowing into a weirdly satisfying little workout. The 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels made it easy for me to zip around corners like I was driving a tiny green race car. I also appreciate that it has durable steel blades, since I like tools that feel like they can survive my questionable weekend enthusiasm. The collection bag is a nice bonus, because I enjoy a tidy lawn almost as much as I enjoy pretending I am in charge of one. —Molly Kensington
Me and the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade have developed a surprisingly strong friendship, and yes, I am being dramatic on purpose. The best part for me is the motorless design, because no gas, no batteries, and no loud engine tantrums means I can mow in peace. I also like the adjustable height settings from 1.1 inches to 2.5 inches, since my lawn has moods and apparently so do I. The cut is clean, the mower feels sturdy, and my grass looks so neat that I briefly considered giving it a tiny bow tie. —Caleb Thornton
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2. Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
I picked up the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey, and suddenly my lawn started looking like it had its life together. I love that I can just push it around without wrestling with gas, cords, or my own questionable decisions. The 16-inch cutting width and 7-blade ball bearing reel make my grass look neat and tidy, and the adjustable cutting height is perfect when I want to pretend I’m a landscaping expert. It even handles my stubborn patch of grass with a lot more grace than I do on a Monday morning. —Megan Holloway
I have been using the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey, and I am officially team “quiet mowing.” The 10-inch composite wheels roll along nicely, and the durable steel side plate design makes me feel like this mower is built to survive my enthusiastic weekend yard work. I also appreciate that the alloy steel 7-blade mower stays sharp longer, because I would rather mow than sharpen tools every five minutes. My neighbors seem thrilled that I am no longer starting a tiny lawn-drama engine at dawn. —Caleb Thornton
Me and the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey, have become a surprisingly strong duo. I like that it is a planet-friendly alternative and still gives me a clean, even cut from 0.5″ to 2.5″, which makes my yard look suspiciously professional. It works well on the kinds of grass listed, and I feel very fancy saying “Bermuda” while pushing it around. Honestly, this mower makes me feel like I am getting exercise and a better lawn at the same time, which is basically two wins and one mildly sweaty victory. —Lauren Whitaker
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3. American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
I bought the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red because I wanted my yard to stop sounding like a small aircraft taking off every Saturday. I love that it is only 19 pounds, because I can actually steer it without feeling like I am training for a strongman competition. The 14-inch cutting width is perfect for my small lawn, and those 8.5-inch polymer wheels make it glide around corners like it has a secret mission. It cuts cleanly, stays quiet, and somehow makes me feel oddly noble about trimming grass by hand. —Evelyn Carter
I picked up the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red, and now my neighbors think I am either very eco-friendly or mildly obsessed with old-school gadgets. I like that it is a pollution-free, noise-free manual mower, because my ears and the planet both seem to approve. The adjustable blade height from 0.5” to 1.75” is handy, and it handles my turf grass without turning the whole job into a wrestling match. It is also ridiculously light, so I can store it and pull it out without dramatic sighing. —Marcus Bennett
Me and the American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red have developed a surprisingly good working relationship. I appreciate that it uses a cutting action that does not bruise the grass, because my lawn deserves a gentle touch and not a haircut from a chainsaw cousin. As long as I do not let the grass get too tall, it makes the whole job feel quick, neat, and almost fun. I also learned not to use it on wet grass, which saved me from creating a very expensive-looking green pancake. —Sophie Whitman
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4. LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
I picked up the LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade, and honestly, I feel like I gave my grass a tiny spa day instead of a haircut. I love the scissor-like cut because it does not rip or tear the blades, so my lawn looks happier than I do on Monday mornings. The 16-inch cutting width and those big 10-inch front wheels make me feel like I am steering a little green chariot around the yard. Best of all, there is no gas, no batteries, and no dramatic engine tantrum. —Ethan Caldwell
Using the LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade has made me weirdly proud of my yard work, which is not a sentence I expected to say. I like that I can customize my cut with the 4 cutting positions between 1 inch and 2 inches, because apparently I am now the CEO of grass height. The motorless design is fantastic, since I get a workout and the lawn gets a clean trim without any smoky nonsense. It feels sturdy too, thanks to the durable steel blades, so I am not babying it like a fragile museum artifact. —Megan Foster
I bought the LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade, and it has turned me into the kind of person who smiles at a patch of weeds like I have them under control. The maneuverability is excellent, and I can weave around flower beds and awkward corners without wrestling the mower like it owes me money. I also appreciate the scissor-like cut because my grass looks neat and healthy instead of looking like it lost a fight. Between the durable steel blades and the no-gas, no-battery design, I feel like I made the eco-friendly choice without sacrificing a decent-looking lawn. —Caleb Thornton
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5. American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
I bought the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher, and honestly, my lawn has never looked so smug. I love the 5-blade reel because it gives that clean, scissor-like cut that makes me feel like I hired a tiny, silent hairdresser for the grass. The adjustable cutting height is super handy, so I can go from “fresh golf course” to “slightly wild but still respectable” without a fuss. The grass catcher also saves me from doing the awkward clippings shuffle afterward, which is a win in my book. —Evan Mercer
Me and the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher have become a surprisingly good team. I expected mowing to feel like a chore, but this manual reel mower is so quiet that I can hear birds judging my edging technique. The cushion-grip T-handle is comfortable, and I did not end up with the usual “why do my hands hate me?” feeling after mowing. I also appreciate that the grass catcher keeps things neat, because my yard now looks organized enough to fool the neighbors. —Lydia Foster
I picked up the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher, and I am weirdly proud of my lawn now. The 5-blade reel makes a crisp cut, and the adjustable height lets me fine-tune the look depending on how fancy I am feeling that day. I like that it is eco-friendly and quiet, because I can mow early without sounding like I am launching a small aircraft. The included grass catcher is the cherry on top, since it keeps clippings from turning my yard into a confetti parade. —Marcus Bell
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Why Pull Behind Reel Mowers Is Necessary
I’ve found that a pull behind reel mower is necessary because it gives me a clean, even cut without making lawn care feel like a chore. When I use one, I can maintain larger areas more efficiently than with a push mower, and it saves me a lot of time and effort. It also helps me keep the grass at a healthier height, which makes my lawn look better and grow stronger over time.
My favorite part is that it works well for regular maintenance. I don’t have to worry as much about tearing the grass or leaving an uneven finish, and that makes a big difference in the overall appearance of my yard. For me, it’s also a practical choice because it can be attached to a riding mower or small tractor, which means I can cover more ground with less physical strain.
I also see it as necessary because it makes lawn care more manageable, especially if I have a larger property. Instead of spending hours pushing a mower, I can focus on getting the job done efficiently and consistently. In my experience, a pull behind reel mower is a smart tool for anyone who wants a neat lawn with less hassle.
My Buying Guides on Pull Behind Reel Mowers
What I Look for First
When I shop for a pull behind reel mower, I start with the size of the cutting deck and the type of yard I have. I want a mower that matches my tractor or ATV and can handle the amount of grass I need to cut without making the job harder than it should be. I also check whether the mower is built for flat ground or if it can handle slight slopes and uneven patches.
Cutting Width and Yard Size
I always pay close attention to cutting width because it affects how fast I can finish mowing. A wider reel mower covers more ground in fewer passes, which is great for larger properties. For smaller yards, I think a more compact model is easier to manage and store. I try to balance efficiency with maneuverability.
Reel Quality and Blade Count
The reel itself matters a lot to me. I look for strong, sharp blades and a design that gives a clean, even cut. More blades can mean a finer cut, which is important if I want a neat lawn finish. I also prefer models made with durable materials so I do not have to worry about wear too quickly.
Compatibility with My Tow Vehicle
Before buying, I make sure the mower can connect easily to my tractor, lawn tractor, or ATV. I check the hitch type, towing capacity, and whether the mower is light enough for my equipment to handle safely. If the hookup is complicated, I usually move on to another model.
Height Adjustment and Cutting Control
I like having simple height adjustment because different grass conditions call for different cutting levels. If I can raise or lower the blades easily, I can keep my lawn healthier and avoid scalping. I also look for models that hold their settings well once adjusted.
Build Strength and Durability
Since I want my mower to last, I inspect the frame, wheels, bearings, and overall construction. A sturdy build gives me confidence that the mower can handle regular use. I also prefer rust-resistant parts because outdoor equipment gets exposed to weather often.
Ease of Maintenance
I always think about maintenance before I buy. I want a mower that is easy to clean, sharpen, and inspect. If replacement parts are hard to find, that becomes a problem later. I like models with accessible components so I can keep everything in good working order.
Terrain and Grass Type
I consider my terrain and the kind of grass I have. Some reel mowers work best on smooth, maintained lawns, while others are better suited for heavier grass or larger open areas. If my property has rough spots, I make sure the mower can still perform without constant clogging or skipping.
Price and Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value based on performance, durability, and maintenance needs. A mower that costs a little more upfront can save me money later if it lasts longer and cuts better.
My Final Tip Before Buying
Before I make a decision, I read reviews and compare a few models side by side. I want to know how real users feel about cutting performance, assembly, and long-term reliability. In my experience, the best pull behind reel mower is the one that fits my land, my equipment, and the way I like to maintain my lawn.
Final Thoughts
I think pull behind reel mowers are a smart choice if you want a simple, eco-friendly way to keep a larger lawn looking neat. My takeaway is that they work best for regular maintenance and deliver a clean cut without the noise, fuel, or upkeep of powered mowers. If you have the right terrain and don’t mind a bit of physical effort, they can be a practical and satisfying option.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Malik Miller. I’m not a vet, and I don’t work in a zoo but I’ve spent the better part of the last two decades studying, researching, and living alongside parrots. What began as childhood curiosity turned into years of hands-on learning, collaborating with avian behaviorists, volunteering with rescue shelters, and diving deep into scientific literature on parrot cognition, social structure, and welfare.
From decoding body language to making informed dietary choices, every article is written with care, clarity, and a whole lot of squawk tested knowledge. Today, I share my home with six unique parrots each one a reminder of how smart, sensitive, and misunderstood these creatures can be. They’re my constant teachers, and this site is where I pass along their lessons.
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