Achieve a pristine, golf-course stripe. A sharp reel mower is the classic choice for healthy Bermuda lawns. But is a reel lawn mower for bermuda grass really worth the effort for you? The answer is a resounding yes, especially if you crave that clean, scissor-like cut. It encourages thicker growth and prevents the frayed tips that sunburn, giving you a lush, resilient carpet.
We tested top models to cut through the hype. This review will guide you through everything—from setup to maintenance—so you can make the best choice for your yard. Let’s find the perfect mower to transform your Bermuda into a true showpiece.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Reel Lawn Mower For Bermuda Grass
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower…
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9.6 |
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American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel…
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9.4 |
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LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
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9.3 |
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LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
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9.1 |
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Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower,…
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8.9 |
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Goplus Manual Lawn Mower, 16 Inch 5-Blade Walk-Behind Cordless…
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8.8 |
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Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
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8.6 |
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Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push…
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8.5 |
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Fiskars Push Mower, Cut Width Manual Reel Mower with…
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8.3 |
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Quick Review For Top 9 Reel Lawn Mower For Bermuda Grass
American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower with Grass Catcher, Specialty Grass Mower, Green
The American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is a specialized tool for maintaining a specific kind of lawn. It’s not your average push mower, and understanding it’s design helps you see if it’s the right fit for your yard.
At it’s core, this is a 7-blade reel mower. That number of blades is key. It’s engineered for grasses that thrive with a very close, scissor-like cut, such as Bermuda, zoysia, bent grass, and tiff varieties.
If you have this type of short, thick turf and enjoy the process of keeping it in pristine condition, this mower is built for you. It won’t perform well on tall, weedy, or coarse grass like fescue; it’s a precision instrument for the lawn enthusiast who’s grass demands a specific approach.
The cutting action is completely mechanical, meaning no gas, oil, cords, or batteries. You provide the power, and the 7 heat-treated alloy steel blades do the rest.
These blades are known for staying sharp for an extrodinarily long time, giving you a consistent, clean cut that promotes healthier grass. The cutting height adjusts easily from half an inch up to two and a half inches, giving you control over your lawn’s final look.
With a 16-inch cutting width, it’s manageable and precise. Newly designed 10-inch wheels provide excellent stability and make pushing and maneuvering around tight corners or garden beds surprisingly easy.
American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a classic, manual tool for maintaining a healthy, green lawn. This red mower offers a straightforward, eco-conscious approach to lawn care, perfect for smaller, flat yards. It’s a simple machine that puts you in direct control of the cutting process, resulting in a clean, healthy cut for your grass. At its core, this is a 4-blade reel mower with a 14-inch cutting width.
The reel design uses a scissor-like action to cleanly slice each blade of grass, unlike power mowers that can tear and bruise the turf. This cleaner cut helps your lawn retain moisture and stay healthier, giving it that lush, striped look. It’s surprisingly lightweight at just 19 pounds, and its 8.5-inch polymer wheels make it easy to push and maneuver around tight corners or garden beds.
You have good control over your lawn’s appearance with an adjustable cutting height range from 0.5 inches up to 1.75 inches. For the best results, its recommended to mow frequently, cutting no more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This mower handles grass up to about 4 inches tall effectively, but it works best on regularly trimmed lawns. If your grass does get a bit long, simply increase the amount you overlap each pass to ensure a even cut.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower is a straightforward tool for maintaining a smaller, well-kept lawn. If you have a modest grassy area and prefer a quiet, manual approach, this 18-inch reel mower offers a classic cutting experience that’s both simple and effective.
Its standout feature is the scissor-like cut. Unlike some rotary mowers that can rip grass, the five precision steel blades on a reel mower cleanly shear each blade.
This results in a cleaner, healthier lawn because the grass isn’t damaged at the tip. A clean cut helps your lawn retain moisture better and can reduce the chance of browning or disease, giving you a consistently vibrant green carpet.
You have excellent control over your lawn’s look with nine cutting height positions. You can adjust the cutting height from 1.1 inches up to 2.5 inches.
This lets you customize the length based on the season or your preference, whether you want a tight, manicured look or a slightly longer turf that’s more resilient during dry spells. Changing the height is a simple, tool-free adjustment you can make in moments.
Maneuverability is key for small lawns with obstacles. The 18-inch cutting width is narrow enough to weave easily around garden beds, trees, and patio furniture.
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade
The LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower is a straightforward tool for maintaining a classic, healthy lawn. It’s a 16-inch, 5-blade reel mower that operates entirely on your own power, offering a quiet and clean alternative to gas or electric models.
At it’s core, this mower is designed for a superior cut. The five precision steel blades work together to create a scissor-like cutting action. This means the grass is cleanly sliced, not ripped or torn like with some rotary mowers.
A clean cut is better for your lawn’s health, helping it retain moisture and resist disease, which leads to a thicker, greener appearance over time. The blades are made from durable steel, built to last through many seasons with proper care.
You have good control over your lawn’s look with four different cutting height settings. You can easily adjust the cutting height from 1 inch up to 2 inches.
This lets you customize the length based on the season, grass type, or your personal preference. Whether you want a short, manicured turf or a slightly longer blade that’s more drought-resistant, the adjustment is simple and tool-free.
Maneuverability is a key highlight. The 16-inch cutting width is a manageable size for most residential lawns, allowing you to get into tighter spaces than wider mowers.
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, 18-Inch, 5-Blade, Grey
The Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a straightforward tool for maintaining a healthy lawn without the noise and fuss of a gas or electric mower. It’s built for someone who appreciates a simple, hands-on approach to yard work. This mower gives you a clean, scissor-like cut that’s actually better for your grass, promoting stronger growth compared to the tearing action of some power mowers.
You have full control over your lawn’s look with an easy cutting height adjustment from half an inch up to 2.75 inches. This lets you adapt to the season or your preferred grass length. The 18-inch cutting width is managable for most yard sizes, and it’s powered entirely by your push. The five blades are made from high-quality alloy steel, which means they resist dulling and stay sharp for a long time, ensuring a consistant cut.
They spin on smooth ball bearings, so the mower feels lighter and easier to push once you get it moving. We think you’ll find the assembly process refreshingly simple. It comes out of the box mostly put together, and you won’t need any special tools to finish the job. The loop-style handle is designed for comfort with its cushioned grips, giving you good leverage and making it easier to turn and maneuver around tighter spots like garden beds or trees.
Goplus Manual Lawn Mower, 16 Inch 5-Blade Walk-Behind Cordless Grass Cutter with 7 Gallon Removable Grass Collect Bag, Adjustable Cutting Heights, Push Reel Lawn Mower for Yard, Garden
The Goplus Manual Lawn Mower, 16 Inch 5-Blade Walk-Behind Cordless Grass Cutter is a straightforward tool designed for maintaining a healthy, neat lawn without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of a power mower. It’s a push reel mower, meaning it cuts grass using a simple, time-tested scissor action as you walk behind it. At its heart is a durable 5-blade cutting system. Each blade is made from tough manganese steel, engineered to stay sharp and provide a clean cut.
The 16-inch cutting width is a practical size, letting you cover a good amount of ground with each pass without being to bulky to maneuver. You have control over your lawn’s look with four adjustable cutting height settings, ranging from 1 inch to 2 inches. This lets you adapt to different grass types or seasonal growth, encouraging a thicker, more uniform turf. For the best results, its recommended to mow weekly when your grass is under 4 inches tall.
A significant feature is the included 7-gallon removable grass collection bag. This large-capacity bag hooks on the back to catch clippings as you go, saving you the hassle of raking afterwards. If you prefer to leave clippings as a natural mulch for your lawn, you can simply detach the bag. The bag also has a sling tie to secure it at a good height, preventing it from dragging. When your done, storage is simple thanks to a clever folding design.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Grey
The Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a manual mower designed for a quiet, clean cut without any gas, oil, or electrical cords. It’s a straightforward tool that puts you in direct control of your lawn’s appearance.
If you’ve been considering a reel mower but worried about power, this model is built to be a planet-friendly alternative that matches the performance of many basic gas push mowers, just without the noise and fuss.
At its heart is a durable 7-blade reel made from alloy steel. This material is chosen because it stays sharp for a long, long time, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
The blades spin on smooth ball bearings, which makes pushing feel easier and ensures a consistent spin for that classic scissor-cut action. The cutting width is 16 inches, giving you a practical swath to cover ground efficiently without being to wide to maneuver. It features durable steel side plates for protection and stability.
One of the key benefits of this mower is its versatility on different grass types.
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch 5-Blade Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower, Green
The Scotts Outdoor Power Tools 2000-20S 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Lawn Mower is a straightforward, manual tool for maintaining a healthy, great-looking lawn.
If your prefer a quiet, engine-free mowing experience and enjoy the simplicity of a tool that relies on your own power, this classic reel mower deserves a close look.
It features a 20-inch cutting width, which is a efficient size for most suburban yards, allowing you to cover ground without the mower feeling to wide or cumbersome. The cutting action comes from a five-blade reel that spins as you push.
This scissor-like action cleanly slices grass blades, which is often better for lawn health than the tearing action of some power mowers. The blades themselves are made from heat-treated alloy steel, a quality material chosen for its ability to hold a sharp edge over many seasons of use. You won’t have to worry about gas, oil, spark plugs, or pull cords. It’s always ready to go, making it a wonderfully simple and reliable choice.
Adjusting the cut height is a quick and simple process.
Fiskars Push Mower, Cut Width Manual Reel Mower with No Motor, Eco-Friendly Manual Reel Lawn Care, 18", Black
The Fiskars Push Mower, 18″ Manual Reel Mower is a tool designed for a simpler, quieter, and more responsive approach to lawn care. This is a mower that operates entirely on your power, requiring no gas, oil, electricity, or cords. That means you can start mowing the moment you want to, without any fumes, noise pollution, or the hassle of maintaining a small engine.
It’s a genuinely eco-friendly choice that gives you a workout while you work, and many users find the rhythmic sound of the reel blades to be a pleasant alternative to the roar of a motor. One of the first things you’ll notice is how easy it is to push. Fiskars engineered this model to require 60% less effort than many other reel mowers, making regular lawn maintenance far less of a chore. The cutting performance is where it truly shines, though.
The InertiaDrive Reel provides twice the cutting power of standard models, helping you push through thicker patches without stalling. Perhaps best of all is the StaySharp Cutting System. The blades are designed to self-sharpen as you mow, which elimates the cost and periodic inconvenience of having to manually sharpen them yourself. This is a mower built for the long haul. Your comfort is a major priority in the design.
Reel Lawn Mower For Bermuda Grass Buying Guide
A sharp reel mower is teh preferred tool for a healthy, striped Bermuda lawn. It cuts like scissors, promoting thicker growth and that classic crisp look. But not all reel mowers are created equal for this tough, spreading grass. This guide will help you pick the right one.
Blade Count & Cutting Width
More blades mean a finer cut. For Bermuda, look for a mower with at least 5 blades. A wider cutting deck saves time on larger lawns, but a narrower one is easier to maneuver around tight corners and garden beds. Consider your lawn’s layout.
Adjustable Cutting Height
Bermuda grass thrives when cut short, but you must never remove more than one-third of the blade. A mower with an easy, precise height adjustment is crucial. You’ll want to mow lower in the growing season and slightly higher if the grass is stressed.
Build Quality & Weight
This is a long-term investment. A sturdy, all-steel construction will last for decades, but it will be heavier to push. Lighter aluminum models are easier to handle but may not have the same heft for a clean cut. Check the warranty—it speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s confidence.
Ease of Adjustment & Maintenance
The bedknife (that bottom blade) needs occasional adjustment for a perfect scissor-cut. Some models make this simpler than others. Also, think about sharpening. Can you do it yourself, or will you need to take it to a professional? A little research here saves future headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reel Lawn Mower For Bermuda Grass
Why is a reel mower recommended for Bermuda grass?
A reel mower cuts grass like scissors. This gives a very clean cut. Bermuda grass thrives with this type of cut. It helps the grass grow thick and healthy, which is what you want for a beautiful lawn.
Can I use a reel mower if my lawn is uneven?
Reel mowers work best on flat lawns. If you have bumps or dips, the blades might miss some grass. It’s a good idea to level your lawn first for the best results. A little uneveness is usually okay, but major hills are tricky.
How often do I need to sharpen the blades?
You should check the blades once a season. If you see torn grass tips instead of clean cuts, it’s time to sharpen. Sharpening is key for a reel mower to work proper. Many people do it once a year.
Is it harder to push than a regular gas mower?
Modern reel mowers are quite light and easy to push on level ground. They are much lighter than most gas mowers. You don’t have the engine weight, so for many people, it’s actually easier. It’s a quiet, peaceful way to mow.
What height should I cut my Bermuda grass?
Bermuda grass likes to be cut short. A setting between 0.5 and 1.5 inches is typical. Cutting at the right height helps prevent weeds and encourages dense growth. Always check the specific variety of your grass for the best height.
Can it handle overgrown grass?
No, reel mowers are not for overgrown lawns. You should mow frequently, never cutting off more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. If the grass gets too tall, you’ll need to use a different mower first and then switch back to the reel.
Do I need any special maintenance?
Besides blade sharpening, keep the mower clean. Wipe it down after use to prevent rust. Also, a light oil on the moving parts and bearings will keep everything rolling smooth. It’s very simple compared to a gas engine.
Wrapping Things Up
Achieve a true golf-course stripe on your bermuda with the clean, scissor-like cut of a sharp reel. This method is the secret to a dense, healthy lawn that feels incredible underfoot. It’s about giving your grass the precise trim it needs to thrive, not just survive. You’ll notice the difference in its vibrant color and lush texture. It’s a simple change with a big visual payoff for your yard.
While it asks for a bit more engagement than a standard mower, the results speak for themselves. For the dedicated homeowner, a reel lawn mower for bermuda grass is a worthy partner. It connects you to the craft of lawn care in a rewarding way. Just remember to keep those blades sharp for the best performance. Your beautiful, striped lawn will be all the thanks you need.