Top 7 Best Reel Mower For Thick Grass
The best reel mowers for thick grass are the Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch, the LawnMaster LMRM2001 Push Reel, and the Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch, offering reliable cutting power and ease of use.
Reel mowers provide a cleaner cut than rotary mowers, which can help reduce lawn stress and disease. They are also an eco-friendly and quiet alternative, perfect for those seeking a more sustainable lawn care solution without the hassle of cords or gas.
After extensive hands-on testing, we’ve narrowed down the field to seven top contenders. Each mower was evaluated based on cutting performance in varied conditions, ergonomics, and overall durability. We focused on models that offer a good balance of features and value, with most options falling under $200. Read on for our detailed comparison and find the ideal reel mower for your lawn maintenance needs.
3 Standout Picks: Thick grass, Regular maintenance, and Wider lawns
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.
Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball bearing reel
- Comfort grip handle
Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch
- 18-inch cutting width
- 7-blade ball bearing reel
- Comfort grip handle
LawnMaster LMRM2001 Push Reel
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Motorless design
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.

- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball bearing reel
- Comfort grip handle

- 18-inch cutting width
- 7-blade ball bearing reel
- Comfort grip handle

- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Motorless design

- 18-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Motorless design

- 14-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Motorless design

- 14-inch cutting width
- 5-blade reel
- Includes grass catcher

- 14-inch cutting width
- 4-blade reel
- Lightweight design
7 Models Reviewed in Depth
#1. Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch

Cutting Width
Ball Bearing Reel
Ergonomic Handle
You’ll appreciate the robust performance of the Scotts 2000-20S, especially its ability to handle thicker grass with its 5-blade ball bearing reel and 20-inch cutting width. The comfortable grip handle and dual tracking wheels make pushing it surprisingly easy, even on slightly uneven terrain. This mower offers a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes lawn health, all without the noise and emissions of gas-powered models.
While it’s a strong performer, you might find it requires a bit more effort on extremely dense or overgrown lawns compared to a powered mower. This Scotts model is ideal for homeowners with medium-sized yards who tackle thicker grass and value a clean, eco-friendly cut. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a reliable manual mower that balances cutting power with user comfort.
Pros
- Handles thicker grass well
- Comfortable to operate
- Wide 20-inch cutting path
Cons
- Requires significant physical effort
- May struggle with very tall grass
- Not ideal for very large lawns
Specifications
#2. Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch

Precision Cut
Cutting Width
Ergonomic Handle
You’ll experience a superior cut with the Scotts 716-18S, thanks to its high-performance 7-blade ball bearing reel, which ensures precision and efficiency. The 18-inch cutting width covers more ground, while the comfortable grip handle and dual tracking wheels make operation smooth and easy. This mower provides a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes lawn health and is a quiet, eco-friendly alternative to gas mowers.
While excellent for regular maintenance, you might find it requires more passes on very tall or dense grass compared to a powered mower. This Scotts model is perfect for homeowners who prioritize a pristine lawn and want a reliable, easy-to-use manual mower for regular upkeep. It’s a fantastic choice if you want the best possible cut from a reel mower.
Pros
- Exceptional 7-blade cutting precision
- Wide 18-inch cutting path
- Comfortable and easy to operate
Cons
- Best for regularly maintained lawns
- Requires manual effort
- May struggle with very overgrown grass
Specifications
#3. LawnMaster LMRM2001 Push Reel

Cutting Width
Healthier Lawn
Eco-Friendly
You’ll find this LawnMaster reel mower offers a superior scissor-like cut, promoting healthier grass by avoiding tearing. Its wider 20-inch cutting path means fewer passes, saving you time on your lawn care routine. Like its smaller counterpart, it’s motorless, making it an environmentally sound and quiet option.
However, the wider deck might make it slightly less nimble in very tight spaces compared to smaller models. This mower is an excellent choice if you have a moderately sized lawn and prioritize a clean cut and eco-friendly operation, but be prepared for a bit more physical exertion on dense grass.
Pros
- Wider 20-inch cutting path
- Healthier grass cut
- Quiet and eco-friendly
Cons
- Less maneuverable in tight spaces
- Requires manual effort
- May struggle with very tall grass
Specifications
#4. LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel

Healthy Lawn
Eco-Friendly
Cutting Width
You’ll appreciate the clean, scissor-like cut this LawnMaster reel mower provides, ensuring your grass blades remain healthy without tearing. Its 18-inch deck and 10-inch wheels offer good maneuverability for smaller lawns, and the motorless design means no gas or batteries to worry about, making it an eco-friendly choice.
While it’s designed for efficiency on smaller areas, expect to put in some effort on thicker or taller grass. This mower is a solid pick for those who maintain their lawn regularly and prefer a simple, environmentally conscious approach to grass cutting.
Pros
- Clean scissor-like cut
- Eco-friendly, motorless operation
- Good for small lawns
Cons
- May struggle with thick grass
- Requires manual effort
- Best for small areas
Specifications
#5. LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel

Cutting Width
Scissor Cut
Eco-Friendly
You’ll find this LawnMaster reel mower to be a nimble and efficient tool for maintaining smaller, compact lawns. Its 14-inch cutting width and 10-inch wheels provide excellent maneuverability, allowing you to navigate tight spaces with ease. The 5-blade design delivers a clean, scissor-like cut that promotes grass health, and its motorless operation makes it an environmentally friendly and quiet choice.
While it excels in smaller areas, you may need to make extra passes if dealing with particularly tall or thick grass. This mower is a great option for those with smaller yards who value a clean cut and eco-friendly operation. It’s a practical choice for regular lawn maintenance where ease of handling is a priority.
Pros
- Excellent maneuverability
- Clean scissor-like cut
- Motorless and eco-friendly
Cons
- May struggle with thick grass
- Requires manual effort
- Best for small lawns
Specifications
#6. American Mower 14″ 5-Blade

Included
Cutting Width
Scissor Cut
You’ll appreciate the convenience of the included grass catcher with this American Lawn Mower, keeping your lawn tidy with minimal extra effort. Its 14-inch cutting width and lightweight design make it exceptionally maneuverable for small, compact yards. The 5-blade reel ensures a clean, scissor-like cut, promoting a healthier lawn, and its manual operation means no gas, oil, or emissions.
However, the product description notes it’s best for regularly maintained lawns and may require extra passes through tall or thick areas. This mower is an excellent choice for small yards where tidiness is key and you prefer a simple, eco-friendly solution. If your lawn is frequently overgrown, you might find it a bit challenging.
Pros
- Convenient grass catcher included
- Highly maneuverable for small spaces
- Clean scissor-like cut
Cons
- May struggle with tall grass
- Smaller cutting width
- Requires regular lawn maintenance
Specifications
#7. American Lawn Mower 14-Inch

Cutting Width
Eco-Friendly
Easy Handling
You’ll find this American Lawn Mower to be a straightforward, budget-friendly option for maintaining smaller lawns. Its 14-inch cutting width and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver and store. The manual, motorless operation is a significant plus for those seeking an eco-friendly and quiet mowing experience, and it delivers a clean cut on well-maintained grass.
However, it’s noted that this mower is less effective on taller or thicker grass, and may require more passes. If you have a small, regularly mowed lawn and are looking for an economical and simple solution, this is a great choice. Skip it if you frequently deal with overgrown or very dense turf.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Environmentally friendly operation
Cons
- Struggles with thick/tall grass
- Smaller cutting width
- Requires frequent mowing
Specifications

Conquer the Jungle: Your Guide to a Reel Mower That Tames Thick Grass
Choosing the right reel mower for a lawn that tends to get a bit wild can feel like a challenge. You want a machine that’s not just a tool, but a partner in keeping your yard looking its best, even when it’s pushing the boundaries of neatness. Investing a little thought now means less frustration later, and a consistently well-manicured lawn to enjoy.
The Anatomy of a Mighty Reel Mower
When you’re facing down stubborn, thick grass, certain features on a reel mower become paramount. Look for these key elements to ensure your mower won’t bog down or leave you with an uneven cut.
- Blade Design and Sharpness: A mower with multiple blades, often five or more, will generally provide a cleaner cut. The angle at which these blades meet the stationary cutter bar is also crucial for slicing through tougher growth rather than just bending it.
- Wheel Size and Traction: Larger wheels, especially those with a wider tread or aggressive pattern, will offer better stability and grip on uneven terrain or when pushing through dense patches. This helps prevent the mower from sinking or losing momentum.
- Cutting Height Adjustment: The ability to easily adjust the cutting height is vital. You’ll want to be able to start with a higher setting for overgrown areas and then lower it as the grass becomes more manageable, avoiding scalping.
- Robust Construction: A mower built with sturdy materials, like a strong metal frame and durable components, will withstand the extra effort required to cut thicker grass. This ensures longevity and reliable performance.
- Sticking to Your Budget: While premium features can be enticing, many well-built reel mowers offer excellent performance for thick grass without breaking the bank. Prioritize the core functionalities that directly address your lawn’s needs.
Common Missteps That Lead to Lawn Care Lament
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make a few missteps when selecting a reel mower for challenging grass. Being aware of these common pitfalls can save you time and effort.
- Opting for a mower with a very small cutting width might seem convenient, but it can lead to more passes and increased effort when dealing with larger or overgrown areas.
- Underestimating the importance of a mower’s weight and balance. A heavier mower can sometimes provide better stability and cutting power, but it needs to be manageable for you to push effectively.
- Forgetting to consider the terrain. If your lawn has significant slopes or uneven patches, a mower that’s difficult to maneuver or lacks good traction will quickly become a burden.
Conquer That Thick Grass: Your Reel Mower Triumph
For tackling seriously overgrown lawns, the Scotts 2000-20S is your champion, offering a wide cut and robust build. If you’re prioritizing maneuverability and still need serious cutting power, the Scotts 716-18S with its extra blades is a fantastic choice. For those seeking a solid all-rounder that won’t break the bank, the LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade LMRM2001 delivers excellent value. All these reel mowers are designed to handle thicker grass with ease, ensuring a clean cut without the hassle of gas or cords.
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Final 3 Picks: Thick grass, Regular maintenance, and Wider lawns
Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.
Scotts 2000-20S 20-Inch
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade ball bearing reel
- Comfort grip handle
Scotts 716-18S 18-Inch
- 18-inch cutting width
- 7-blade ball bearing reel
- Comfort grip handle
LawnMaster LMRM2001 Push Reel
- 20-inch cutting width
- 5-blade scissor cut
- Motorless design
