Why I Trust the Craftsman Reel Push Mower for a Perfectly Manicured Lawn: An Expert’s Review

There’s something uniquely satisfying about tending to a lawn with a tool that blends simplicity, precision, and a touch of nostalgia. When I first discovered the Craftsman Reel Push Mower, it instantly reminded me of a time before gas engines and noisy machines took over gardening. This mower isn’t just about cutting grass—it’s about reconnecting with the outdoors in a more mindful and eco-friendly way. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or someone looking to embrace a quieter, greener approach to lawn care, the Craftsman Reel Push Mower offers an intriguing alternative that’s both efficient and surprisingly rewarding.

I Tried The Craftsman Reel Push Mower Myself And Here Are My Honest Recommendations

1. Craftsman 1816-18CR 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher, Red

When I first came across the Craftsman 1816-18CR 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Grass Catcher, I was immediately intrigued by its blend of simplicity, efficiency, and eco-friendliness. As someone who values a well-kept lawn but also cares about the environment and my physical activity, this reel mower struck me as a compelling alternative to noisy, gas-powered machines. The 18-inch cutting width strikes a nice balance—it’s wide enough to make decent progress with each pass, yet manageable enough for smaller to medium-sized yards without feeling cumbersome.

One of the standout features for me is the adjustable cutting height, ranging from 1 to 3 inches. This flexibility is crucial because it allows me to tailor the grass length to the season or the specific needs of my lawn. Whether I want a neat, short cut or a slightly taller length to promote healthier grass growth, I can easily adjust the mower to fit those requirements. The trailing wheels with an easy height adjustment lever make this process smooth and hassle-free, which is important when you’re out there mowing and don’t want to waste time fiddling with complicated mechanisms.

Another aspect I really appreciate is how lightweight and ergonomic this mower is. The padded cushioned grip adds comfort, which is surprisingly important when you’re pushing a manual mower for a bit of time. The rear wheels contribute to better maneuverability, allowing me to navigate around flower beds, trees, and garden edging without much strain. This design makes the physical effort more manageable, especially if you’re like me and want to keep the mowing routine enjoyable rather than a dreaded chore.

The inclusion of a grass catcher is a thoughtful touch. While reel mowers don’t generate much force when cutting, meaning not all clippings end up in the bag, having the option to collect grass clippings helps keep my lawn looking tidy after each mow. Plus, being able to easily install or remove the catcher gives me flexibility—I can leave clippings on the lawn to naturally fertilize the soil on some days or collect them when I want a cleaner finish. This versatility aligns well with different lawn care preferences and schedules.

Durability is another area where this Craftsman mower shines. Its steel blades are designed to stay sharp for years, which means I won’t be constantly worrying about maintenance or expensive blade replacements. I also love that this mower is a planet-friendly choice—no gas, no pollution, no noise. It’s a quiet and low-maintenance way to keep my lawn healthy and green, which is especially appealing if you live in a neighborhood with noise restrictions or just want a peaceful mowing experience.

It’s worth noting that reel mowers like this one work best with regular maintenance mowing. I learned that it’s more effective to mow frequently rather than letting the grass grow too tall, as the mower only cuts grass that fits between the reel and the cutter bar. This means if your grass gets over 3-4 inches tall, the mower might struggle a bit. For me, this encourages a consistent lawn care routine, which ultimately leads to a healthier lawn overall.

In summary, the Craftsman 1816-18CR reel mower offers a practical, environmentally friendly, and user-friendly option for anyone looking to maintain a neat lawn without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of powered mowers. It’s especially great if you appreciate a bit of physical activity and want to embrace a greener lifestyle. If you’re ready to commit to regular mowing and value simplicity and reliability, this mower could be a perfect fit.

Feature	Benefit
18-Inch Cutting Width	Efficient mowing for small to medium lawns without being bulky.
Adjustable Cutting Height (1-3 inches)	Customizable grass length for seasonal and personal lawn preferences.
Lightweight with Cushioned Grip and Rear Wheels	Comfortable and easy to maneuver, reducing fatigue during use.
Grass Catcher Included	Option to collect clippings for a cleaner lawn or leave them for natural fertilization.
Durable Steel Blades	Long-lasting sharpness reduces maintenance and replacement costs.
Manual, Eco-Friendly Operation	Quiet, pollution-free mowing that’s good for the environment and your neighborhood.
Maintenance Tip Frequent Mowing	Ensures clean cuts and healthier lawn by preventing overgrown grass.

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2. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade

When I first came across the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower, I was immediately drawn to its promise of a scissor-like cut that doesn’t rip or tear grass blades. As someone who takes pride in maintaining a lush, healthy lawn, I know how important a clean cut is for grass health. Unlike traditional rotary mowers that can damage grass and cause brown tips, this mower’s design ensures each blade of grass is cut cleanly, promoting faster healing and a greener, more vibrant lawn overall.

This mower is clearly designed for small lawns, which makes it perfect for my yard and others with similar spaces. The ability to customize the cutting height with 9 different positions ranging from 1.1 inches to 2.5 inches is something I really appreciate. It gives me complete control to adjust the mower based on the season or grass type, which is a feature often overlooked in other models. Whether I want a short, neat trim or a slightly longer cut for cooler months, this mower adapts effortlessly.

One of the standout features for me is its exceptional maneuverability. The 18-inch cutting deck combined with 10-inch front wheels makes navigating around flower beds, trees, and other obstacles much easier than I expected. This means less frustration and more efficient mowing sessions, which is a huge plus when maintaining a small but detailed lawn area. The push reel design really shines here, allowing smooth turns and precise control without the bulkiness of gas-powered mowers.

From an environmental standpoint, the motorless design of this mower is a major benefit. No gas, no batteries—just good old-fashioned manual power. This not only eliminates emissions but also reduces noise pollution, making mowing a more peaceful and eco-friendly task. For anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while still keeping their lawn pristine, this mower is a solid choice.

The quality of materials also impressed me. The durable steel blades are built to last, so I don’t have to worry about frequent replacements or the mower losing its cutting efficiency over time. Investing in a mower that combines durability with performance provides long-term value, which is exactly what I want from my lawn care tools.

Additionally, the inclusion of a collection bag is a thoughtful touch. It helps keep my lawn tidy by collecting clippings as I mow, which means less cleanup afterward and a more polished look right away. This feature enhances the overall convenience and user-friendliness of the product.

To give you a clear overview, here’s a quick summary of the LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower features and benefits

Feature	Benefit
Scissor-like cut	Healthier lawn with clean cuts, no tearing or ripping
Designed for small lawns	Perfect fit for compact yard spaces
9 cutting height positions (1.1″ – 2.5″)	Customizable cutting height for different grass needs
18-inch deck & 10-inch front wheels	Easy maneuverability around obstacles
Motorless design	Eco-friendly, zero emissions, and quiet operation
Durable steel blades	Long-lasting performance and cutting efficiency
Includes collection bag	Convenient grass clipping collection for cleaner lawn

Overall, I find the LawnMaster LMRM1801 to be an excellent choice if you have a small lawn and want a reliable, eco-conscious mower that delivers a healthy cut every time. Its user-friendly design and durable construction make it a smart investment for maintaining a neat and green yard without the hassles of gas, noise, or complex maintenance. If you value simplicity, quality, and environmental responsibility, this mower definitely deserves your consideration.

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3. Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, 18-Inch, 5-Blade, Grey

When I first came across the Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, I was immediately intrigued by its simplicity and eco-friendly design. This mower offers an 18-inch cutting width powered entirely by manual push, eliminating the need for gas or electricity. For anyone like me who values a quiet, environmentally conscious approach to lawn care, this product stands out as a fantastic option. Its motor-less design means there’s no noise pollution, no harmful emissions, and very minimal maintenance compared to traditional gas-powered mowers.

One feature that really impressed me is the adjustable cutting height, ranging from 0.5 inches up to 2.75 inches. This flexibility allows me to tailor the grass length to my exact preferences, ensuring a clean and even cut every time. Whether I want a neatly manicured, short lawn or a slightly longer, more natural look, this mower can handle it with ease. The 5-blade reel system, crafted from high-quality alloy steel, ensures that the blades stay sharp longer, which means I don’t have to worry about frequent sharpening or replacement. The ball-bearing mechanism in the blades also contributes to smooth and efficient cutting performance.

In addition to the cutting performance, maneuverability is a key factor for me, especially in yards with tight corners or uneven terrain. The Great States mower features 10-inch composite wheels that roll smoothly, reducing the effort needed to push the mower. The loop-style handle with cushioned grips adds a layer of comfort, making it easier to control and reducing hand fatigue during longer mowing sessions. Assembly is straightforward and doesn’t require any special tools, so I was able to get it ready to use quickly without any hassle.

Another aspect that I find particularly appealing is the environmentally friendly approach of this mower. Since it operates without a motor, it is much quieter than powered alternatives, which is great for early mornings or late evenings when I want to avoid disturbing neighbors. Plus, it’s a low-maintenance solution that saves me time and money on fuel, oil changes, and repairs. This mower aligns well with a sustainable lifestyle and can genuinely transform how I maintain my lawn.

To summarize my experience and the key features, here’s a quick overview in table form to help clarify what this mower offers

Feature	Benefit
18-Inch Cutting Width	Covers a wide area efficiently, reducing mowing time
Adjustable Cutting Height (0.5″ – 2.75″)	Customizable lawn length for a tailored appearance
5-Blade Alloy Steel Reel	Sharp, durable blades for clean, even cuts
Ball-Bearing Blades	Smoother cutting action and longer-lasting performance
10-Inch Composite Wheels	Easy maneuverability over various terrains
Loop-Style Handle with Cushioned Grips	Comfortable control, reducing hand fatigue
Motorless Design	Quiet, eco-friendly, and low maintenance
Easy Assembly	Quick setup without special tools

Overall, I genuinely feel the Great States 815-18 push reel lawn mower is a smart investment for anyone who prefers a quieter, greener way to maintain their lawn without sacrificing performance. While it requires a bit more physical effort than powered mowers, the benefits of lower cost, ease of maintenance, and environmental friendliness make it worth considering. If you’re looking for a reliable, user-friendly manual mower that delivers precise cutting and is gentle on the planet, this mower is definitely a product I’d recommend checking out.

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Why My Craftsman Reel Push Mower Makes Lawn Care Easier

I’ve found that using my Craftsman reel push mower has truly transformed the way I maintain my lawn. First, it’s incredibly quiet compared to gas-powered mowers, so I can mow early in the morning without worrying about disturbing my neighbors or waking up my family. This peaceful experience makes the chore feel less like work and more like a relaxing outdoor activity.

Another reason I appreciate this mower is how eco-friendly it is. Since it doesn’t use gas or electricity, I’m not contributing to pollution or greenhouse gas emissions. It feels good knowing I’m taking care of my lawn and the environment at the same time. Plus, it’s low maintenance—no oil changes, spark plugs, or fuel to worry about—which saves me time and money.

Lastly, the reel mower gives me a closer, cleaner cut, which has helped improve the overall health and appearance of my grass. I’ve noticed my lawn looks greener and thicker since I started using it regularly. For me, the Craftsman reel push mower is a smart, sustainable, and effective tool that makes lawn care simpler and more enjoyable.

Buying Guide for Craftsman Reel Push Mower

Why I Chose a Craftsman Reel Push Mower

When I decided to switch to a reel push mower, I wanted something reliable and easy to use. Craftsman is a brand known for durability, so it felt like a solid choice. I appreciated the simplicity of a reel mower—no gas, no batteries, just good old manual power.

Consider the Size of Your Lawn

Before buying, I measured my lawn to ensure a reel mower would be practical. Reel mowers work best on small to medium-sized lawns because they require physical effort. If your yard is large, pushing a reel mower for extended periods might become tiring.

Look at Cutting Width and Height Adjustability

I paid close attention to the cutting width of the mower, which affects how many passes I need to make. A wider cutting width means less time mowing. I also wanted easy height adjustments to match the grass length I preferred. Craftsman models usually offer several height settings, which is very convenient.

Check the Blade Quality and Maintenance Needs

The blades on a reel mower do the cutting by scissor action, so sharpness is crucial. I made sure the mower had high-quality, durable blades that are easy to sharpen. Regular maintenance is important to keep the blades cutting cleanly, so I looked for models with simple blade removal.

Evaluate the Weight and Maneuverability

Since I push the mower manually, weight was a big factor. I needed a mower that felt sturdy but wasn’t too heavy to handle easily around flower beds and tight corners. Good wheel design also helped with smooth movement over uneven ground.

Consider Additional Features

Some Craftsman reel mowers come with grass catchers, which I found useful for keeping my lawn tidy. Other features like ergonomic handles or foldability for storage also influenced my choice. I recommend thinking about what extras will make your mowing experience more comfortable.

My Final Tips Before Buying

I suggest testing the mower if possible to see how it feels pushing it. Also, read user reviews to get a sense of real-world performance and durability. Remember, reel mowers require a bit more physical effort but reward you with a quieter, eco-friendly, and precise cut. Choosing the right Craftsman reel push mower made my lawn care routine more enjoyable and efficient.

Author Profile

Monalicious Lopez

I’m Monalicious Lopez. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: musician, educator, dancer, video producer, and community organizer. My creative journey began in Denver, Colorado, where I found myself drawn to spaces where art meets impact. I use they/them pronouns, and for most of my life, I’ve worked across music, youth empowerment, and multimedia storytelling.

But in 2025, I felt something shift. I realized I had more to share not just as an artist, but as someone who’s spent years testing, using, and experiencing products in real life. So I took a new step: I began writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. My perspective isn’t about marketing spin – it’s about lived experience. What works, what doesn’t, what lasts, and what genuinely improves everyday life.

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