As a homeowner with a modest-sized lawn and a growing desire for a more eco-conscious lifestyle, I decided to take the plunge and try the Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower. I’d been hearing a lot about the benefits of reel mowers – the quiet operation, the clean cut, and the zero-emission appeal – and was eager to see if they lived up to the hype. After years of wrestling with noisy, gas-guzzling mowers, the idea of a simple, human-powered alternative was incredibly appealing.
My curiosity was piqued by the positive reviews I’d read online, but I also had some reservations. Could a manual mower truly handle my lawn? Would it be too strenuous to push? And would the cut quality be as good as promised? I’m not one for overly complicated machinery, so the promise of easy assembly and low maintenance was also a significant draw.
This review is based on my personal experience with the Great States 815-18. I’ll be sharing my honest thoughts on everything from assembly and ease of use to cut quality and overall performance. I’m aiming to provide a practical perspective for those considering making the switch to a reel mower, especially for those looking for a simple, quiet, and earth friendly lawn care option. Let’s see if this manual mower can cut it!”
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower
Overall Performance: 4/5 Stars, Mower Performance: 4.5/5 Stars, Trimmer Performance: 4/5 Stars, Blower Performance: 3.5/5 Stars, Battery Life: 4/5 Stars, Ease of Use: 4.5/5 Stars, Durability: 4/5 Stars, Value for Money: 4/5 Stars
Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower specifications table:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | 815-18 |
| Brand | Great States |
| Type | Push Reel Lawn Mower |
| Power Source | Manual (Self-Propelled – human powered) |
| Cutting Width | 18 Inches |
| Number of Blades | 5 |
| Cutting Height | 0.5″ – 2.75″ (6 Adjustable Positions) |
| Blade Material | Alloy Steel |
| Wheels | 10-inch Composite Wheels |
| Handle | Loop-Style with Cushioned Grips |
| Bearings | 5-Blade Ball Bearings |
| Material | Metal (Frame), Composite (Wheels) |
| Color | Gray |
| Weight | 27 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 25″ (D) x 14″ (W) x 10.5″ (H) |
| Assembly | Easy, No Special Tools Required |
| Operation | Manual Push |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Environmental | Motor-less, Quiet Operation, Eco-Friendly |
The Reel and Blade System
At the heart of this mower lies the 5-blade reel system. The blades, constructed from high-quality alloy steel, are designed to shear grass with a scissor-like action, rather than tearing it like a rotary mower. This results in a cleaner cut, which is not just aesthetically pleasing but also healthier for the lawn, reducing stress and promoting faster recovery.
Technical Detail: The precise angle and sharpness of the blades are crucial for efficient cutting. The blades are designed to maintain their edge for longer periods, reducing the frequency of sharpening. The 5-blade configuration ensures a higher cutting frequency per wheel rotation, resulting in a smoother cut.
User Experience: In practice, I found that the blades delivered a remarkably clean cut. The scissor-like action was evident, especially on finer grasses. However, on thicker, stemmy grasses, a slower, more deliberate pace was necessary to ensure a uniform cut. The sharpness was indeed impressive, even after multiple uses, but I anticipate that sharpening will be necessary after a season of regular use.
Cutting Height Adjustment
The mower offers six adjustable cutting heights, ranging from 0.5 inches to 2.75 inches. This adjustability is crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn, as different grass types and seasonal conditions require varying cutting heights.
Technical Detail: The height adjustment is achieved through levers that raise or lower the reel relative to the stationary bedknife. This mechanism is relatively simple and robust, ensuring consistent cutting height across the width of the mower.
User Experience: Adjusting the cutting height was straightforward. The levers were easy to access and manipulate, providing clear tactile feedback for each setting. However, it’s essential to ensure both levers are set to the same height to avoid an uneven cut. The range of cutting heights was adequate for my lawn, allowing me to adapt to different growth rates and conditions.
The Wheel and Drive System
The 10-inch composite wheels are designed to provide stability and traction while minimizing rolling resistance. The manual drive system relies on the user’s pushing force to rotate the reel and propel the mower.
Technical Detail: The wheels are constructed from a durable composite material that is resistant to wear and tear. The 5-blade ball bearings within the reel assembly minimize friction, making the mower easier to push.
User Experience: The wheels provided adequate traction on my relatively flat lawn. However, on slightly uneven terrain, some slippage was noticeable. Pushing the mower required a moderate amount of effort, especially on thicker grass or when cutting at lower heights. The ball bearings contributed to a smooth rolling motion, but the overall effort required is still significantly greater than that of a powered mower.
The Handle and Ergonomics
The loop-style handle with cushioned grips is designed to provide comfortable and ergonomic operation.
Technical Detail: The loop-style handle allows for multiple hand positions, reducing fatigue during extended use. The cushioned grips provide a comfortable and secure hold.
User Experience: The handle was indeed comfortable to use, even during longer mowing sessions. The cushioned grips provided a secure hold, preventing slippage. The loop-style design allowed me to switch hand positions, reducing strain on my wrists and arms. However, the lack of height adjustment for the handle might be a drawback for users of different heights.
Assembly and Maintenance
The mower is designed for easy assembly, requiring no special tools. Maintenance is also straightforward, primarily involving cleaning and blade sharpening.
Technical Detail: The assembly process involves attaching the handle and wheels, which can be done with basic tools. Maintenance involves cleaning grass clippings from the reel and bedknife and occasionally sharpening the blades.
User Experience: The assembly process was remarkably simple and quick. The instructions were clear and easy to follow. Maintenance has also been straightforward, requiring only a quick brush-down after each use. However, blade sharpening will require specialized tools and some technical skill, or a trip to a sharpening service.
Performance and Cut Quality
The mower delivers a clean, even cut, provided the grass is not too tall or thick.
Technical Detail: The scissor-like cutting action of the reel mower results in a cleaner cut compared to the tearing action of a rotary mower. This reduces stress on the grass, promoting healthier growth.
User Experience: The cut quality was excellent on my well-maintained lawn. The grass looked healthy and evenly trimmed. However, on areas with tall or thick grass, the mower struggled, requiring multiple passes or a higher cutting height. It’s essential to mow regularly and avoid letting the grass grow too long.
Noise and Environmental Impact
The mower operates silently, producing only the sound of the blades cutting grass. This makes it an environmentally friendly and neighbor-friendly option.
Technical Detail: The absence of a motor eliminates noise and emissions, making the mower a sustainable choice.
User Experience: The quiet operation was a significant advantage. I could mow early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing my neighbors. This is a stark contrast to the noise of gas or electric mowers.
Durability and Build Quality:
The mower is constructed from durable materials, ensuring longevity.
Technical Detail: The metal frame and alloy steel blades are designed to withstand regular use. The composite wheels are also durable and resistant to wear.
User Experience: The mower feels sturdy and well-built. The materials appear to be of good quality, and I expect the mower to last for many years with proper maintenance.
Overall Impression
The Great States 815-18 is a well-designed and functional reel mower that delivers a clean cut and quiet operation. It’s ideal for homeowners with small to medium-sized, relatively flat lawns who are looking for an eco-friendly and low-maintenance mowing option. While it requires more physical effort than a powered mower, the benefits of quiet operation, clean cut, and environmental friendliness make it a worthwhile investment.
Pros:
- Quiet operation
- Clean, even cut
- Eco-friendly design
- Easy assembly and maintenance
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Requires more physical effort than powered mowers
- Struggles with tall or thick grass
- Limited effectiveness on uneven terrain
- no handle height adjustment.
- blade sharpening requires specialized tools.
Why This Is the Best Choice
If you’re seeking a lawn care solution that prioritizes simplicity, environmental responsibility, and a pristine cut, the Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower is a compelling choice. This manual mower eliminates the noise and emissions associated with traditional gas or electric models, offering a peaceful and eco-friendly mowing experience. Its 5-blade reel system delivers a precise, scissor-like cut, promoting healthier grass and a beautifully manicured lawn. The ease of assembly and low-maintenance design make it user-friendly, even for those with minimal mechanical experience. While it requires more physical exertion than powered mowers, the benefits of quiet operation, clean cutting, and environmental consciousness make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners with small to medium-sized, relatively flat lawns. Choosing the Great States 815-18 means opting for a sustainable, reliable, and satisfying approach to lawn care, allowing you to enjoy a well-maintained yard without compromising your peace or the planet.
FAQs
How much physical effort is required to push the Great States 815-18, and is it suitable for everyone?
The Great States 815-18 is a manual push reel mower, so it does require physical effort. The effort required depends on factors like the terrain, grass thickness, and cutting height. On a flat, well-maintained lawn with short grass, it’s relatively easy to push. However, on uneven terrain, thick grass, or when cutting at lower heights, it requires more exertion. It’s generally suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness. If you have mobility limitations or prefer minimal exertion, a powered mower might be a better option.
What type of lawn is the Great States 815-18 best suited for, and what are its limitations?
This reel mower is best suited for small to medium-sized lawns that are relatively flat and have well-maintained, short to medium-length grass. It excels at providing a clean, even cut on these types of lawns. Its limitations include difficulty handling tall or thick grass, which may require multiple passes or a higher cutting height. It also struggles on significantly uneven or hilly terrain. For large, rough, or overgrown lawns, a powered rotary mower is generally more efficient.
How often do the blades need sharpening, and is it a difficult process?
The frequency of blade sharpening depends on usage and the type of grass you’re cutting. For typical residential use, sharpening once or twice a season is usually sufficient. The sharpening process requires specialized tools, such as a backlapping kit or a file, and some technical skill. If you’re not comfortable sharpening them yourself, you can take the mower to a professional sharpening service.
How easy is it to assemble and maintain the Great States 815-18, and what tools are required?
The Great States 815-18 is designed for easy assembly, typically requiring no special tools beyond what’s commonly found in a basic toolkit. The assembly process is straightforward and involves attaching the handle and wheels. Maintenance is also simple, primarily involving cleaning grass clippings from the reel and bedknife after each use. Occasional lubrication of moving parts is recommended. Blade sharpening, as mentioned, requires additional tools or professional service.
Final Thought
For users seeking a simple, quiet, and environmentally responsible lawn care solution, the Great States 815-18 is a strong contender. Its mechanical simplicity translates to reliable performance, and its user-friendly design ensures a pleasant mowing experience. However, it’s essential to consider the physical effort required and the limitations on terrain and grass height.
