A well-maintained lawn mower blade is the secret to a pristine, healthy lawn. A dull or damaged blade tears grass, leaving it vulnerable to disease and creating a ragged, uneven appearance. When it’s time for a replacement, choosing the right blade for your mower and cutting style is crucial for achieving that perfect, carpet-like finish.
Whether you prefer a finely mulched lawn that feeds your grass, a cleanly bagged cut, or powerful side discharge, there is a specific blade designed for the job. This roundup focuses on the best 21-inch blades available, highlighting options for major brands like Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, and Toro to help you make an informed decision and get your mower performing at its peak.
The Best 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blades for a Perfect Cut
- Maxpower 331528B Mulching Blade for 21 Inch Cut MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt
- Grasscool 21 inch Mulching Blade for Troy Bilt 942-0741A TB110 TB240
- Oregon 3 Pack 96-321 Gator® G3™ Blade 16-1/4″
- Oregon 3 Pack 96-382 Gator® G3™ Blade 17-1/2″
- MaxPower 331749XB Commercial Mulching Blade for 22 in. Cut
- Terre Products, 2 Pack High Lift Lawn Mower Blades, 42 Inch Deck
- Craftsman 422719 Lawn Tractor 3-in-1 Mulching, Bagging Blade
- MTD Genuine Parts (942-0741A) Replacement Mulching Blade-21-Inch
- Stens 346-429 Mulching Blade Compatible With/Replacement For Toro
- Rotary 21-384 Premium High-Lift Blade
Maxpower 331528B Mulching Blade for 21 Inch Cut MTD/Cub Cadet/Troy-Bilt
This Maxpower mulching blade is a direct replacement for a wide range of popular 21-inch mowers from MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman. It is engineered to efficiently cut grass clippings into fine particles that can be returned to the lawn as natural fertilizer. This process helps to nourish your turf and can reduce the need for additional bagging.
To ensure a perfect fit, it is vital to match the OEM part numbers listed on your original blade with the extensive list of compatible numbers provided for this product. The blade fits numerous Cub Cadet series, including the CC, SC, and S/SR models, making it a versatile and reliable choice for many homeowners.
Grasscool 21 inch Mulching Blade for Troy Bilt 942-0741A TB110 TB240
The Grasscool mulching blade serves as a robust replacement for Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and MTD mowers that use the 942-0741A part number. It is designed to deliver a clean, mulched cut on models like the TB110, TB240, and various Craftsman M-series mowers. This blade is built to withstand regular use and provide consistent performance.
A key feature of this listing is its clear guidance on compatibility. The manufacturer explicitly notes that this blade is only for mowers with a “Bow Tie” spindle pattern. They strongly advise verifying that your mower’s center hole matches the blade before purchase to prevent any installation problems and ensure a secure fit.
Oregon 3 Pack 96-321 Gator® G3™ Blade 16-1/4″
Oregon’s Gator G3 blade stands out with its innovative technology. The cutting edge is fused with tungsten carbide, creating an extremely hard and durable surface that resists wear. This advanced design can significantly increase the time between sharpening, saving you time and effort on maintenance.
This product comes in a convenient three-pack, offering excellent value and ensuring you have a spare on hand when needed. The blade also features an X-Tended Cutting Length, which is engineered to optimize cutting efficiency with every revolution for a superior and consistent cut across your lawn.
Oregon 3 Pack 96-382 Gator® G3™ Blade 17-1/2″
This Oregon Gator G3 blade is designed as a high-lift option, ideal for those who primarily bag or side-discharge their grass clippings. The aggressive blade angle increases airflow under the mower deck, effectively lifting the grass for a clean cut and powerfully pushing clippings out for disposal.
Like its counterpart, it features the durable tungsten carbide edge for long-lasting sharpness and is sold in a practical three-pack. The cleaner, more efficient cutting performance can also lead to reduced bagging needs, as the clippings are processed more effectively. It also includes the Gator Mulcher feature for versatility in different mowing conditions.
MaxPower 331749XB Commercial Mulching Blade for 22 in. Cut
The MaxPower 331749XB is built with commercial-grade quality, making it a strong choice for demanding use on 22-inch cut mowers from Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan. Its robust construction is designed to handle more frequent mowing and tougher conditions, offering enhanced durability over standard blades.
This mulching blade effectively cuts grass clippings into fine pieces, promoting a healthier lawn by returning nutrients to the soil. It replaces several common OEM part numbers and features a five-point star center hole, so be sure to verify this matches your mower’s spindle for a proper and secure installation.
Terre Products, 2 Pack High Lift Lawn Mower Blades, 42 Inch Deck
This two-pack from Terre Products offers great value for owners of riding mowers with a 42-inch deck. These are high-lift blades, which are excellent for achieving a clean, manicured look when using a grass catcher or side discharge. The design creates strong upward airflow for superior clippings management.
They are compatible with a range of Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Snapper riding mowers and lawn tractors. The blades are precise replacements for part numbers like Craftsman 138971 and Husqvarna 532138971. Always confirm the dimensions and five-point star center hole pattern to ensure compatibility with your specific mower model.
Craftsman 422719 Lawn Tractor 3-in-1 Mulching, Bagging Blade
This is the genuine Craftsman replacement blade, engineered specifically for 42-inch deck lawn tractors. As a 3-in-1 blade, it is designed to perform well for mulching, bagging, and side-discharging, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred lawn care method without needing to change blades.
Using an OEM part like this ensures a perfect fit and performance that matches the original equipment standards of your Craftsman mower. The two-pack provides excellent value, ensuring you have a reliable spare ready to go when it’s time for the next replacement, minimizing your mower’s downtime.
MTD Genuine Parts (942-0741A) Replacement Mulching Blade-21-Inch
For those seeking an original equipment manufacturer part, this MTD Genuine Parts blade is the official replacement for many 21-inch mowers. It is engineered to precisely fit models manufactured from 2012 onward and is designed to effectively mulch grass clippings into fine particles.
This blade offers broad compatibility with brands under the MTD umbrella, including Yard-Man, Troy-Bilt, Huskee, Bolens, and Craftsman. It also fits select Murray and Snapper units. Using a genuine part guarantees that the blade’s performance, balance, and durability meet the manufacturer’s specifications for your mower.
Stens 346-429 Mulching Blade Compatible With/Replacement For Toro
The Stens 346-429 is a reliable aftermarket mulching blade designed for most 21-inch Toro Recycler mowers. It is important to note the specific models it does not fit, such as the 20465 and 20466, to ensure proper selection. This toothed blade is built for efficient mulching performance.
Stens supports this product with a customer-friendly 30-day return policy and a one-year warranty, providing peace of mind with your purchase. The blade specifications include an 18 1/2″ length and a five-point star center hole, so verifying these details against your old blade is recommended for a correct fit.
Rotary 21-384 Premium High-Lift Blade
The Rotary 21-384 is a premium high-lift blade designed for a powerful and clean cut. High-lift blades are characterized by their pronounced curvature, which creates significant suction under the mower deck. This action stands the grass up for an even cut and efficiently directs clippings into a bag or out the side chute.
This type of blade is an excellent choice if your primary goal is a neatly bagged lawn or efficient side discharge. As with any replacement, confirming the exact length, center hole type, and compatibility with your specific mower model is essential for achieving the best performance and a safe operation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade
When it’s time to replace your mower blade, the options can feel overwhelming. I’ve been there, staring at a wall of nearly identical-looking metal parts. But not all 21 inch lawn mower blades are created equal, and picking the right one makes a huge difference in your lawn’s health and appearance. The first thing I always check is the type of cut I need. There are three main styles: standard, high-lift, and mulching.
Standard blades are your basic, all-purpose option. They’re great for a simple, clean cut and bagging your clippings. High-lift blades have more pronounced curves on the ends, which creates a stronger suction that lifts grass for a more even cut. This is my go-to for mowing taller grass. Mulching blades, often called 3-in-1 blades, are designed with extra curves and sometimes longer cutting edges. They chop the grass clippings into tiny pieces that fall back onto the lawn, acting as a natural fertilizer. If you hate bagging and want to feed your lawn, this is the way to go.
Next, you have to think about material and build quality. I look for blades made from heat-treated carbon steel or alloy steel because they hold a sharp edge much longer than cheaper alternatives. A harder metal resists nicks from rocks and sticks, which means fewer sharpenings and a longer lifespan. The thickness of the steel also matters; a thicker blade is less likely to bend under stress. Don’t forget to check the center hole and mounting pattern! This is the most critical step. A blade might be listed as 21 inches, but if the hole size and bolt pattern don’t match your mower’s spindle, it simply won’t fit. I always cross-reference my mower’s model number with the blade manufacturer’s compatibility chart.
Finally, consider the brand reputation and whether the blade is sold as a single unit or in a multi-pack. Established brands often have better quality control and warranty support. If you have multiple mowers or just want to have a spare on hand, a two-pack can be a smart, cost-effective choice. Remember, a sharp, balanced blade is the secret to a beautiful lawn. A dull or unbalanced blade will tear the grass, leaving a ragged, brown tip that makes your whole yard look dull. Taking the time to choose the right one from the many 21 inch lawn mower blades available now is a small task that pays off every time you mow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my 21 inch mower blade?
I replace my blade at least once a mowing season, but I also sharpen it a few times throughout the year. A good rule of thumb is to inspect it every 8-10 hours of mowing. If you see significant nicks, the edge is rounded over, or it’s been bent, it’s time for a new one. A dull blade tears grass instead of cutting it, which can leave your lawn vulnerable to disease and give it a brownish hue.
Can I use any 21 inch blade on my mower?
No, you cannot. The length is only one part of the equation. The most important factors are the center hole diameter and the mounting bolt pattern. Using an incompatible blade can be dangerous, as it may not secure properly to the spindle. I always look up my mower’s exact model number and use the manufacturer’s compatibility guide to find the correct replacement part.
What is the difference between a mulching blade and a high-lift blade?
This is a common question. A high-lift blade is designed primarily for lifting grass upright before cutting, which is excellent for a clean, even cut and for bagging. A mulching blade has a more curved design and often longer cutting edges to keep grass clippings suspended under the mower deck, chopping them into fine pieces. While you can find some of the best 21 inch lawn mower blades available now that try to balance both functions, they are generally specialized for one primary task.
Is it difficult to change a lawn mower blade myself?
It’s one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can do. The main thing is safety. I always disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent any accidental starting. You’ll need a wrench to loosen the bolt holding the old blade on (a block of wood can help stop the blade from spinning). Just remember that the bolt is typically reverse-threaded, so you turn it clockwise to loosen it. Once the old blade is off, make sure the new one is facing the right direction and tighten it securely.
Why does my mower vibrate more after installing a new blade?
Increased vibration almost always means the blade is unbalanced. Even a small difference in weight on one end can cause a significant shake. This puts extra stress on your mower’s spindle and engine. I always check the balance of a new blade before installing it. You can use a simple blade balancer, which is an inexpensive tool, or even just a nail in the wall. If it’s unbalanced, you may need to file a small amount of metal from the heavier end.