7 Best Riding Lawn Mower Blades (November 2026)
The best riding lawn mower blades include the Grasscool 942-04308 High Lift Blades for Cub for 42-inch bagging decks, the Oregon Lawn Mower Blades for 46-inch mulching decks, and the Grasscool 42 inch Mower Mulching Blades for 3-in-1 mowing.
On this page (5 sections)
The best riding lawn mower blades for most compatible 42-inch decks are Grasscool 942-04308 high-lift blades. They combine a 6-point star mount, 21-3/16-inch length and raised lift for bagging or side discharge.
The Oregon set suits many 46-inch decks instead. It uses longer blades, so the two options solve different fit problems.
Correct fit depends on more than deck width. Before ordering, compare the old blade length, width, thickness, center-hole shape, lift and part number.
Start with the center hole because it decides whether the blade sits correctly on the spindle. A 5-point star blade will not fit a 6-point star spindle simply because the length is close.
Next, measure from cutting tip to cutting tip. Small differences matter under a riding deck where clearance and balance are tight.
Think about how you mainly mow before choosing high-lift or mulching designs. Bagging and side discharge often need stronger airflow, while mulching keeps clippings under the deck longer.
Honda owners can compare Honda replacement mower blades for brand-specific fit guidance. For another check, see PowerSmart replacement blades.
For a broader look, see our guide to best lawn mower blades. If you need repair steps after choosing a set, follow How to Change Lawn Mower Blades?.
Clean the deck underside and check the spindle area before new blades arrive. Keep the old blade for comparison until the replacement is fitted.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for 42-inch bagging decksGrasscool 942-04308 High Lift Blades for Cub
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
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- 4
Check itBDELI 2PCS Lawn Mower Blades 942-04308
Best for a 6-point star replacement - 5
Check itGrasscool 42 inch Mower High Lift Blades
Best for 5-point star bagging - 6
Check itHusqvarna 42-Inch Mulching Lawn Mower Blades
Best for Husqvarna factory replacement - 7
Check itQWD 942-04308A High-Lift Mower Blades for 42"
Best for a two-blade high-lift set
The best riding lawn mower blades by deck and mowing job
The best riding lawn mower blades here split into 42-inch high-lift sets, 42-inch mulching blades and a 46-inch Gator G3 set. Start with your deck and spindle pattern, then choose the cutting style that matches bagging, side discharge or mulching.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We checked the stated dimensions, mounting patterns, model references and mowing functions rather than treating every blade as interchangeable.
| Product | Best for | Deck size | Length | Mounting | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grasscool 942-04308 High Lift Blades for Cub | 42-inch bagging decks | 42 in | 21-3/16 in | 6-point star, 5/8 in | 9.7 |
| Oregon Lawn Mower Blades | 46-inch mulching decks | 46 in | 9.5 | ||
| Grasscool 42 inch Mower Mulching Blades | 3-in-1 mowing | 42 in | 9.4 | ||
| BDELI 2PCS Lawn Mower Blades 942-04308 | a 6-point star replacement | 42 in | 9.3 | ||
| Grasscool 42 inch Mower High Lift Blades | 5-point star bagging | 42 in | 9.2 | ||
| Husqvarna 42-Inch Mulching Lawn Mower Blades | Husqvarna factory replacement | 42 in | 9.1 | ||
| QWD 942-04308A High-Lift Mower Blades for 42" | a two-blade high-lift set | 42 in | 9.0 |
Grasscool 942-04308 High Lift Blades for Cub: Best for 42-inch bagging decks
- 21-3/16 in length
- 6-point star center hole
- High-lift design
- 2-in-1 bagging or side discharge
These 42-inch high-lift blades suit compatible Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD and Craftsman riding mower, lawn tractor and zero-turn decks. Their raised lift is aimed at moving clippings into a bagger or through side discharge.
Pros
- Broad listed model coverage
- High-lift airflow
- 40MnB steel
Cons
- Only fits compatible 6-point star mounts
- Check the exact deck and part number
Grasscool 942-04308 is the strongest all-around pick for a compatible 42-inch deck with a 6-point star center hole. Each blade measures 21-3/16 inches long, 2-3/8 inches wide and 5/32 inch thick, with a 1-1/8-inch lift.
The high-lift shape is aimed at moving cut grass into a bagger or through side discharge. That makes this set a practical match for lawns where you collect clippings, deal with leaves or mow taller grass.
The stated fit covers many Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD and Craftsman applications, including several 42-inch riding mower, lawn tractor and zero-turn models. The replacement references include 942-04308, 942-04308A, 742-04308 and related part numbers.
Check the center hole and part number before ordering because 42-inch decks can use different blade patterns. The set is most useful when your mower matches the 6-point star mount and you want high lift.
Oregon Lawn Mower Blades: Best for 46-inch mulching decks
- 2-blade pack
- 22-7/8 in blades
- Gator G3 mulching design
- 5-point star center hole
Oregon's 96-370 set is for compatible 46-inch decks that use 22-7/8-inch blades and a 5-point star center hole. The Gator G3 design supports mulching, bagging and side discharge.
Pros
- Includes 2 blades
- Fits many listed mower brands
- Mulching and discharge design
Cons
- Not a 42-inch deck blade
- 5-point star mount must match
Oregon's Gator G3 set is the best match here for a compatible 46-inch deck that uses two 22-7/8-inch blades. The package includes 2 blades with a 5-point star center hole and 0.187-inch thickness.
Its mulching design also supports bagging and side discharge. The high-lift blade angle helps move clippings toward a bag or discharge opening, while the Gator design is intended to chop clippings under the deck.
Listed applications include many Ariens, Husqvarna, AYP, Dixon, Poulan, Rotary, Snapper and Stens references. That range is useful, but it does not replace checking your mower's exact blade number and center hole.
Choose Oregon when your tractor uses the longer 22-7/8-inch blade and 5-point star mount. It is not the right shortcut for a 42-inch deck that takes shorter blades.
Daily use suits owners who want one set to handle more than one mowing mode. Mulching can reduce the need to empty a bag, while the discharge angle helps when clippings need to leave the deck quickly.
Set-up still needs care. Match both old blades, keep left and right positions clear in mind, and follow the mower manual for refitting and torque.
Care through the season means cleaning packed grass from under the deck and checking the edge for wear. A dull or damaged blade will not give the clean result the design is meant to provide.
The trade-off is fit. This set has wide listed coverage, yet a 46-inch label alone does not prove that your spindle or blade number matches.
Grasscool 42 inch Mower Mulching Blades: Best for 3-in-1 mowing
- 21 in length
- 5-point star center hole
- 3-in-1 mulching, bagging and side discharge
- 42-inch deck fit
This Grasscool blade suits compatible 42-inch Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan, AYP, Murray and Ariens decks. Its 3-in-1 design gives you mulching, bagging and side-discharge options.
Pros
- Three mowing modes
- Fits many listed 42-inch models
- Lower clogging goal
Cons
- One blade count
- Not for 6-point star mounts
Grasscool's 42-inch mulching blade suits homeowners who want 3-in-1 mowing from a compatible 5-point star deck. The blade measures 21 inches long, 2-1/4 inches wide and 9/64 inch thick, with a 1-1/16-inch lift.
In mulching mode, the design chops clippings under the deck. It also supports bagging and side discharge, so you can change the mowing method when grass is tall, damp or too heavy to leave in place.
The listed fit includes several Craftsman, Husqvarna and Poulan 42-inch riding mower and lawn tractor models. It also references AYP, Murray and Ariens applications.
The key limitation is the mounting pattern. This blade uses a 5-point star center hole, so it should not be treated as a replacement for a 6-point star blade simply because both decks measure 42 inches.
For daily use, the three modes give flexibility across the season. Mulching suits regular cuts, bagging helps when you want a clean finish, and side discharge helps in taller or damp grass.
Set-up should be checked against the old blade before fitting. Compare length, width, thickness, lift and center hole, then follow the mower manual for cleaning and reassembly.
Care is mostly a matter of keeping the deck clear and the edge sound. Strong airflow is meant to reduce clogging, but packed grass under the deck can still work against that design.
The trade-off is clear. You gain mode choice, but you lose that flexibility if the 5-point star mount does not match your mower.
BDELI 2PCS Lawn Mower Blades 942-04308: Best for a 6-point star replacement
- 2 blades
- 21-1/4 in length
- 6-point star center hole
- Mulching, bagging and side discharge
BDELI's 2-piece 942-04308 set is for compatible 42-inch Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD and Craftsman decks with a 6-point star mount. It is not compatible with S-shape center models such as Cub Cadet XT1/LT42 using 742-05177.
Pros
- Two-piece set
- Three mowing functions
- Clear incompatibility warning
Cons
- Must verify the spindle pattern
- Not for S-shape centers
BDELI's 2-piece 942-04308 set is a useful choice when you need two 42-inch mulching blades with a 6-point star center hole. For other blades in this length class, compare 21-inch mulching mower blades.
Each blade measures 21-1/4 inches long, 2-3/8 inches wide and 5/32 inch thick, with a 1-1/8-inch lift.
The toothed design supports mulching, bagging and side discharge. BDELI also gives a clear warning that the blades do not fit S-shape center models, including Cub Cadet XT1/LT42 models using 742-05177.
The listed applications include compatible Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD and Craftsman 42-inch riding mower and zero-turn models. Compare your spindle shape before ordering, especially if your mower model has more than one blade option.
Pick this set when the 942-04308 reference and 6-point star pattern match your original blade. Its two-piece format also suits decks that need a pair of matching blades.
Grasscool 42 inch Mower High Lift Blades: Best for 5-point star bagging
- 21 in length
- 5-point star center hole
- Medium-lift blade
- 42-inch deck fit
These Grasscool blades fit compatible 42-inch Craftsman, Poulan Pro and Husqvarna riding mower and lawn tractor decks. The 5-point star mount and 7/8-inch lift make the center-hole check essential.
Pros
- Useful model coverage
- Medium lift for 42-inch decks
- Painted cutting edges
Cons
- Not for 6-point star centers
- Model names can use different blade types
Grasscool's high-lift set is for a compatible 42-inch deck with a 5-point star center hole. The blades are 21 inches long, 2-1/4 inches wide and 5/32 inch thick, with a 7/8-inch lift described as medium lift.
The listed fit includes Craftsman, Poulan Pro and Husqvarna riding mower and lawn tractor models. References include Craftsman LT1000, LT2000, T110 and DLT3000, plus Poulan Pro PP19A42 and Husqvarna YTH18542.
The most important buying step is checking the hole pattern. The same Craftsman model family can use different blade types, and this set is not the choice for a 6-point star center.
Choose these blades when your current blade matches the 5-point star shape and you want the stated medium-lift design. The painted cutting edges can help protect the blade during storage and installation, but paint will wear during mowing.
In daily use, medium lift sits between the needs of bagging and discharge. It can help move clippings without copying the higher lift of a dedicated high-lift blade.
Set-up care begins with a careful side by side comparison with the old blade. Check the center hole first, then length, width, thickness and lift before you fit anything.
For care, store spare blades dry and handle the painted edge with care during fitting. Once mowing starts, keep the deck underside clear so airflow can do its work.
The honest trade-off is the model overlap. Some Craftsman machines use 5-point and some use 6-point patterns, so the model name alone cannot confirm this set.
Husqvarna 42-Inch Mulching Lawn Mower Blades: Best for Husqvarna factory replacement
- Pack of 2
- Hardened steel
- Star mount
- Mulching and side discharge
These Husqvarna blades are made for compatible Husqvarna riding mowers and replace OEM part number 594892701. The 2-piece set is designed for mulching and side discharge.
Pros
- Hardened steel
- Two blades included
- Factory replacement reference
Cons
- For compatible Husqvarna applications
- Star mount still needs confirmation
Husqvarna's 42-inch set is the clearest choice for owners of compatible Husqvarna riding mowers who want a factory replacement reference. The pack includes 2 hardened-steel mulching blades that replace OEM part number 594892701.
The blades use a star mount and are designed for mulching and side discharge. The mulching design keeps clippings circulating under the deck so they can be cut more than once before leaving the mower.
The stated use is for compatible Husqvarna riding mowers. Since star mounts can vary, compare the old blade and your mower's part number before ordering.
Choose this set when the 594892701 reference matches your mower and you want two blades from the Husqvarna line. It is less suitable as a general 42-inch replacement when your mower brand or mount is different.
For daily use, the two blade pack suits a deck that needs a matched pair. Hardened steel is aimed at holding an edge and giving a smoother, quieter cut through normal seasonal mowing.
Set-up should follow the mower manual and the shape of the old blade. Confirm the star mount, blade position and securing hardware before you return the mower to use.
Care means inspecting the edge during routine deck cleaning and replacing a blade that is bent, cracked or badly worn. A sharp, sound blade is central to the mulching result.
The trade-off is brand focus. This is a factory reference choice for compatible Husqvarna machines, not a universal answer for every 42-inch deck.
QWD 942-04308A High-Lift Mower Blades for 42": Best for a two-blade high-lift set
- 2-blade set
- 21-1/4 in length
- 6-point star center hole
- Raised wings for bagging or side discharge
QWD's 2-blade set fits compatible 42-inch two-blade decks using 942-04308A, 942-04308, 742-04312 or 942-04312. Match the original part number, dimensions and mounting pattern first.
Pros
- Two blades included
- High-lift wings
- Several replacement references
Cons
- Only for compatible two-blade decks
- Dimensions and pattern must match
QWD's 942-04308A set is a good fit for a compatible 42-inch two-blade deck that needs high lift. The pack includes 2 blades, each measuring 21-1/4 inches long, 2-1/2 inches wide and 0.158 inch thick.
The raised wings help move clippings toward the discharge opening for bagging or side discharge. The 6-point star center hole and 2 round side holes must match your original blade.
QWD lists compatible applications across Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD and Craftsman, including RZT42, Pony42 and Craftsman T110, T130 and T210. It also lists replacement numbers such as 942-04308A, 942-04308, 742-04312 and 942-04312.
Choose this set when dimensions, part number and mounting pattern all agree. The stated 1-year support covers manufacturing defects and product-related issues, but fit still depends on your exact mower.
For daily use, this set suits owners who collect clippings or use side discharge on a two-blade deck. The raised wings push cut grass toward the opening rather than leaving it under the deck.
Set-up needs attention to both blades. Keep the pair matched, check the star center and side holes, and follow the manual for fitting and securing.
Keep blades dry when stored, clean the deck underside and inspect edges for wear or damage. High lift helps clippings travel, yet only a blade that matches your deck, dimensions and pattern can be used safely.
How do you match blades to a riding mower deck?
Match the deck size, blade length and center-hole pattern before comparing brands. WORX owners can check WORX replacement mower blades for brand-specific options.
A 42-inch deck may use 5-point star, 6-point star or another mounting arrangement, so the deck label alone is not enough.
Remove the existing blade only after following your mower's safety steps. Measure the blade from cutting tip to cutting tip, then check its width, thickness, center hole and lift.
The replacement part number is another useful check. For example, 942-04308 and 942-04308A appear across several 42-inch high-lift options, while Oregon 96-370 is tied to a 46-inch, 22-7/8-inch Gator G3 set.
Do not rely on a model name when the same mower family can use different blade centers. BDELI specifically warns about S-shaped centers, and Grasscool warns that some Craftsman models use either 5-point or 6-point patterns.
Keep the old blade until the new one is fitted. That gives you a direct shape check and stops a near miss becoming a wrong order.
If numbers are worn, use the mower manual and model details as the next check. Deck size, blade size and part number should all point the same way before you buy.
Are high-lift blades better for bagging?
High-lift blades are usually the better choice for bagging and side discharge because their raised wings move clippings toward the bag or discharge opening. Grasscool 942-04308 and QWD 942-04308A are the clearest high-lift options here.
Mulching blades can still support bagging or discharge when their design includes those functions. The 42-inch Grasscool mulching blade and BDELI set both list mulching, bagging and side discharge.
High lift is not a substitute for correct fit. A blade with the wrong center hole, length or thickness can be unsafe even when its lift looks suitable.
For bagging, airflow matters because clippings need to travel into the bag. A raised wing helps create that movement, especially when grass is damp or the lawn is large.
For side discharge, the same airflow helps push clippings out through the chute. That suits tall grass, leaves or heavier growth where leaving clippings under the deck is not ideal.
Mulching works in the opposite direction by keeping clippings under the deck for repeated cutting. Some blades cover more than one job, but you still need the correct mount and deck size.
Think about your normal routine rather than an ideal one. If you bag most weeks, high lift may be your priority, while regular mulching may suit a smaller or drier lawn.
In wet or heavy grass, strong discharge can help, but deck clearance and a sound edge still matter. Clean the deck and check that the discharge path is clear before mowing.
Choose lift after fit is confirmed, not before. Match the blade to the job you do most often.
What should you do after installing new mower blades?
After installation, confirm blades are secured and rotate freely by hand with the mower safely powered down. Follow the mower manual for torque and reassembly, and keep the deck clear of packed grass.
Inspect the cutting edge during routine maintenance. If a sound blade becomes dull, use our guide on How to Sharpen the Blades on a Riding Mower? for the next step.
A blade that is bent, cracked or badly worn should be replaced instead of sharpened. Our guide on How Often Should You Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades? explains how regular sharpening fits into mower care.
Do a final check before the first mow. Make sure washers, nuts and blade position match the manual, and that no tools or rags are left under the deck.
Clean the underside of the deck after fitting, especially around the discharge opening. A clear deck helps a new blade move clippings and reduces clogging from the start.
During the first few mows, listen for unusual noise or vibration. Stop and check the fit if anything feels wrong, rather than continuing to mow.
Inspect the edge each time you clean the deck or service the mower. Look for nicks, bends, cracks and uneven wear, and sharpen a sound but dull blade with an even angle.
Replace a blade when damage goes beyond normal wear. Bent or cracked steel should not be put back into service, even if it can be made to look sharper.
Store removed blades safely and keep hands clear of the edge during handling. Record blade condition so set-up next season starts from a known point.
Which riding lawn mower blades should you choose?
Choose Grasscool 942-04308 if your compatible 42-inch deck has a 6-point star mount and you mainly bag or side-discharge clippings. Pick Oregon if your tractor uses a 46-inch deck with 22-7/8-inch blades and a 5-point star center hole.
For a 42-inch 5-point star deck, choose Grasscool's mulching blade for 3-in-1 mowing or the medium-lift set for its listed Craftsman, Poulan Pro and Husqvarna applications. Choose BDELI or QWD when your 6-point star pattern and part numbers match.
If you own a compatible Husqvarna mower and need OEM reference 594892701, the Husqvarna 2-pack is the simplest match. Always verify the old blade dimensions and mounting pattern before fitting any replacement.
Start with fit, then think about the mowing job. Deck size, blade length, width, thickness, center hole, lift and part number should agree before brand or style enters the decision.
Bagging and side discharge point toward a high-lift design for most owners. Mulching points toward a blade that keeps clippings under the deck for repeated cutting.
A 3-in-1 blade can suit homes where conditions change through the year. You can mulch in regular weeks and switch to bagging or discharge when grass is tall, damp or leafy.
Use the old blade as your reference until the new set is installed. That habit prevents most wrong orders and makes the final choice much clearer.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
Best for 42-inch bagging decks
Grasscool 942-04308 High Lift Blades for Cub
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
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3
Frequently asked questions
What are the best riding lawn mower blades for a 42-inch deck?
The best riding lawn mower blades for a 42-inch deck depend on the center-hole pattern and mowing job. Grasscool 942-04308 and BDELI 942-04308 suit compatible 6-point star mounts, while Grasscool 42 inch mulching blades and the Grasscool high-lift set use a 5-point star.
Match the original blade before buying.
How do I choose blades for a riding lawn mower?
Start with the deck size, then compare blade length, width, thickness, center-hole shape and lift. The replacement part number is also useful.
A 42-inch deck can use different blade designs, so the deck size alone does not confirm fit.
Are high-lift or mulching blades better for a lawn tractor?
High-lift blades are a strong choice when you collect clippings in a bagger or use side discharge. Mulching blades are better when you want to chop clippings under the deck.
Some blades support more than one mowing mode, but the correct mount and deck fit come first.
How often should riding mower blades be replaced?
Replace riding mower blades when they are badly worn, bent, cracked or no longer hold a usable cutting edge. Sharpening can maintain a sound blade, but a damaged blade should not stay in service.
Inspect the blade whenever you remove it for cleaning or sharpening.
