Opinions on Mowers

[the_bird]

There is nothing worse than a self-propelled mower that doesn;t self-propell.

+1. That's where I'm at right now. Plus, the electric start doesn't work, so until recently I was pushing around a useless battery as well.

FWIW, my old man works at a John Deere shop, and he's told me to avoid the low-end Deere models. I don't really want to spend the money for a GOOD gas mower, I'm afraid of buying a POS that will need replacing within a year if I buy a cheap one, so I'm wondering if I'm apt to get something of better quality if I stick to electric.

 

[CBBaron]

I've got the Scott's Reel mower. Human powered mowing is the way to go. Also referred to around here as an Amish mower.

It is smaller and lighter than even an electric mower but the Scott's version has the same width. This version also has a higher cutting height than most reel mowers which is better for most grass species. I can mow my small lot in less time than my old gas powered mower because I can make the turns at the end of the row quicker. I also like that it cuts the grass cleaner which is healthier for the lawn. When I'm done I hang it on a wall in my garage taking up very little space.

The down sides are it doesn't produce a vacuum like the rotarys so tall weeds just get pushed over and not cut. For the same reason you have to keep up on the lawn and you can't let it go.

Overall I would chose the same mower again. There are better reel mowers but they cut shorter and are narrower than the Scotts.

Craig

 

[Yuri_Rage]

Toro Personal Pace 6.5HP with mulching attachments.

+1. Ours is nearly identical and works very well. It was a little expensive, but we've never had a problem with it in 4+ years of use.

FWIW, I HATE corded electric mowers, regardless of lot size.

 

[homebrewer_99]

FWIW, my old man works at a John Deere shop, and he's told me to avoid the low-end Deere models. I don't really want to spend the money for a GOOD gas mower, I'm afraid of buying a POS that will need replacing within a year if I buy a cheap one, so I'm wondering if I'm apt to get something of better quality if I stick to electric.

I've had my JD w/48" deck for over 4 years now. Never had a problem, but of course, they come pick up/service/deliver it for me (for a price).

 

[olllllo]

I've had my B&D electric corded 19" for over 10 years. The only maintainence to speak of is sharpening the blade every year with the angle grinder because it is fun to throw sparks.

 

[Sir Humpsalot]

I hate electrics. If you have any trees on your lot, forget about it. Ugh! What a PITA!!!

A simple gas mower is really a simple thing. I don't see why even a crappy one shouldn't last 7 to 10 years. As for people saying that the gas goes bad, just buy less gas. I mean, just because a can holds two gallons doesn't mean you have to fill it all the way up. And, at the end of the season, if you have any gas left, toss it in your car. Problem solved.

 

[CBBaron]

From what I'm reading, it sounds like the reel mowers tend to have problems with sticks, which would be an issue for me. Looks like I'm in the market for a lightweight, corded electric mower.

A reel mower will stop if a stick gets in the mower. It is easily solved by picking up the sticks before mowing. I mow high enough that 90% of the time I mow over the small sticks and the only ones I have to deal with are the largest ones you wouldn't want to mow over with a powered mower either. My lot is heavily shaded with probably a dozen large trees so it is unlikely you have many more trees and still can grow a yard.

The reel does require more effort to push than a small electric or self propelled gas so it does help to be fairly fit. Its not ideal if you have trouble pushing a regular gas mower. For myself I don't find it difficult at all.

Craig

 

[the_bird]

I've had my JD w/48" deck for over 4 years now. Never had a problem, but of course, they come pick up/service/deliver it for me (for a price).

Got a funny definition of "low end," Bill...

Not saying ALL Deeres are no good, but the cheap ones aren't worth the $$.