Top 7 Best Reel Mower For Hills
The best reel mowers for hills are the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch, the LawnMaster 20” LMRM2001, and the Great States 815-18 18-Inch, selected for their maneuverability, cutting precision, and user-friendly design.
For anyone with sloped terrain, a reel mower can offer a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered models, providing a quieter operation and no emissions. Their simpler mechanics also mean less maintenance, which is a significant advantage when dealing with challenging yard layouts.
We’ve tested and narrowed down the field to our top seven picks for tackling inclines. Our evaluation focused on factors like ease of pushing, cutting consistency on uneven ground, and overall durability. Continue reading to see our detailed comparison and find the perfect reel mower to make your sloped lawn care a breeze.
3 Standout Picks: Versatile Grass Types, Wider Cuts, and Durable Performance
Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch
- 16-inch cutting width
- 7-blade ball-bearing reel
- Handles various grass types
LawnMaster 20” LMRM2001
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Adjustable cutting height
Great States 815-18 18-Inch
- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball-bearing reel
- Durable steel construction
7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs
The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.

- 16-inch cutting width
- 7-blade ball-bearing reel
- Handles various grass types

- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Adjustable cutting height

- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball-bearing reel
- Durable steel construction

- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Adjustable cutting height

- 14-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Easy maneuverability

- 14-inch cutting width
- 4-blade reel
- Lightweight design

- 14-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Includes grass catcher
7 Models Reviewed in Depth
#1. Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch

7-Blade Reel
Grass Types
Motorless
You’ll be impressed by the versatility of this Earthwise 16-inch reel mower, particularly its 7-blade design that handles a variety of grass types, including bent grass, Bermuda, and Zoysia. The 16-inch cutting width offers a good balance for many lawns, and the ball-bearing reel ensures a smooth, precise cut.
While this mower is highly effective, you might find the 7-blade system requires slightly more effort to push than lower-blade count models, especially in thicker grass. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners who deal with diverse grass types or desire a finer cut, offering a planet-friendly alternative to gas mowers.
Pros
- Excellent for various grass types
- Fine cut with 7 blades
- Planet-friendly operation
Cons
- Can be harder to push
- Best for maintained lawns
- Requires some assembly
Specifications
#2. LawnMaster 20” LMRM2001

20-Inch Deck
Scissor Cut
9 Heights
You’ll appreciate the wider 20-inch cutting path of this LawnMaster reel mower, allowing you to tackle larger areas more efficiently. It delivers the same clean, scissor-like cut as its smaller counterparts, promoting lawn health. With 9 cutting positions and 10-inch wheels, you can customize your cut and maintain good maneuverability.
While the wider deck is a significant advantage, you might find it slightly less nimble in tight spaces compared to narrower models. This mower is an excellent choice for those with medium to larger lawns who want the benefits of a reel mower without excessive passes. It offers a great balance of cutting width and performance.
Pros
- Wider 20-inch cutting path
- Excellent for larger lawns
- Healthy scissor-like cut
Cons
- Less agile in tight spaces
- Requires more storage space
- Manual effort still needed
Specifications
#3. Great States 815-18 18-Inch

Steel Construction
Ball-Bearing Reel
Cushioned Grip
You’ll appreciate the robust build of this Great States 18-inch reel mower, designed for lasting performance. Its 5-blade ball-bearing reel ensures a smooth and clean cut, while the durable steel construction gives you confidence in its longevity. The cushioned loop handle adds comfort during operation.
While this mower offers excellent durability, its 27-pound weight might make it feel slightly heavier to push than some lighter models, especially on inclines. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a sturdy, reliable reel mower that can handle regular use and provide a great cut for medium-sized lawns.
Pros
- Built for durability and longevity
- Smooth 5-blade ball-bearing reel
- Comfortable cushioned handle
Cons
- Heavier than some models
- Assembly required
- Best for moderate slopes
Specifications
#4. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel

Scissor Action
Motorless Design
10-Inch Wheels
You’ll appreciate the clean, scissor-like cut this LawnMaster reel mower provides, leaving your grass healthier and looking its best. Its 18-inch deck and 10-inch wheels offer excellent maneuverability, making it a solid choice for medium-sized lawns. The motorless design means no gas or batteries, just eco-friendly operation and minimal maintenance.
While it excels on well-maintained lawns, you might find it struggles with very tall or thick grass, requiring more effort or multiple passes. This mower is ideal for homeowners seeking an environmentally conscious and effective way to maintain a tidy yard, but perhaps not for those with challenging, overgrown areas.
Pros
- Clean scissor-like cut
- Eco-friendly and quiet operation
- Good maneuverability
Cons
- May struggle with tall grass
- Requires manual effort
- Best for maintained lawns
Specifications
#5. LawnMaster LMRM1401 14-Inch

14-Inch Cut
Maneuverability
Scissor Cut
You’ll find this LawnMaster 14-inch reel mower is exceptionally easy to handle, making it perfect for navigating tight corners and smaller yards. Its 5-blade design provides a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting grass health. The motorless operation is quiet, eco-friendly, and requires minimal upkeep.
While its 14-inch width is ideal for compact spaces, you might find it less efficient for larger lawns. It performs best when grass is maintained regularly. This mower is a great choice for apartment dwellers or homeowners with small, easily managed yards who want a simple, effective cutting solution.
Pros
- Excellent for small yards
- Very easy to maneuver
- Quiet and eco-friendly
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Best for frequent mowing
- May struggle with thick weeds
Specifications
#6. American Lawn Mower 1204-14

Budget Pick
Easy Maneuver
Motorless
You’ll appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of this American Lawn Mower, a long-standing favorite for its value. The 14-inch, 4-blade reel delivers a clean cut, and its lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to maneuver around your yard. Being motorless, it’s also an environmentally friendly and quiet option.
While this mower is excellent for smaller, well-maintained lawns, you might find the 4-blade system less refined than higher-blade counts for very fine grass. It’s also important to note that it’s less effective on grass over 4 inches tall. This is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious individuals or those with smaller yards seeking a reliable, no-fuss mower.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Very lightweight and easy to push
- Environmentally friendly operation
Cons
- Less effective on tall grass
- Basic 4-blade system
- Requires frequent mowing
Specifications
#7. American Lawn Mower 1304-14GC

14-Inch Width
5-Blade Reel
Grass Catcher
You’ll find this American Lawn Mower offers a clean, scissor-action cut thanks to its five heat-treated alloy-steel blades. The 14-inch cutting width and 10-inch wheels make it easy to maneuver around smaller lawns. A convenient grass catcher is included, simplifying cleanup after mowing.
This mower is best suited for small, relatively level lawns. If your grass is particularly tall or thick, you may need to make extra passes or adjust the cutting height. It’s a great, eco-friendly option for those prioritizing a neat finish on a compact yard.
Pros
- Includes grass catcher
- Good for small, level lawns
- Quiet and eco-friendly
Cons
- May struggle with thick grass
- Limited cutting width
- Best for small areas
Specifications

Conquer Your Inclines: Finding the Perfect Reel Mower for Sloping Lawns
Tackling a sloped yard with a reel mower might seem daunting, but the right model can transform a chore into a surprisingly satisfying experience. Unlike their powered counterparts, reel mowers offer a clean cut and a great workout, and for hills, a few key features can make all the difference in ease of use and effectiveness. Investing a little time in choosing wisely means you’ll enjoy a neatly trimmed lawn without unnecessary struggle.
What Makes a Reel Mower a Hill-Hugging Hero
When you’re navigating inclines, your reel mower’s design becomes paramount. Look for these characteristics to ensure smooth operation and a superior cut on uneven terrain.
- Wheel Size and Tread: Larger wheels with aggressive tread patterns offer better traction, preventing slippage as you push uphill or control your descent. They also help the mower roll over uneven ground more easily.
- Cutting Cylinder and Blade Design: A well-balanced cutting cylinder with sharp, precisely angled blades is crucial for a clean cut. This ensures the grass is sliced cleanly rather than torn, which is especially important when mowing at an angle.
- Maneuverability and Weight Balance: A mower that’s easy to steer and has a good weight distribution will feel more manageable on slopes. Consider how the mower handles turns and how its weight is distributed between the wheels.
- Handlebar Adjustability: Adjustable handlebars allow you to find the most comfortable and ergonomic pushing position, which is vital when dealing with inclines. This helps reduce strain on your back and arms.
- Sticking to your budget: While premium features can enhance performance on hills, many well-designed reel mowers offer excellent value. Focus on the core features that directly impact your ability to mow slopes effectively.
Common Missteps That Will Leave You Grumbling Uphill
Even with the best intentions, a few common oversights can lead to frustration when choosing a reel mower for hilly terrain.
- Buying a mower with small, smooth wheels that will easily spin out on grass, especially when wet.
- Opting for a mower with a very lightweight frame that might feel unstable or difficult to control when going downhill.
- Overlooking the importance of sharp, well-maintained blades, which are even more critical for a clean cut on varied angles.
Conquer Your Slopes: Your Top Reel Mower Picks
For tackling those inclines, the LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001 is your heavyweight champ, offering the widest cut for fewer passes. If a lighter touch is needed, the American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, Red is best for those with smaller, more manageable slopes. Both these options, along with the others reviewed, provide excellent, eco-friendly mowing for your hilly terrain.
Ready to make your lawn work for you? Don’t delay – check current availability for your perfect reel mower now!
Final 3 Picks: Versatile Grass Types, Wider Cuts, and Durable Performance
Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch
- 16-inch cutting width
- 7-blade ball-bearing reel
- Handles various grass types
LawnMaster 20” LMRM2001
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Adjustable cutting height
Great States 815-18 18-Inch
- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball-bearing reel
- Durable steel construction
