21 inch Mulching Blades, Lawn Mower Blade Replace Number for Troy Bilt Cub Cade, Craftsman MTD 942-0741A 742-0741 742-0741A 942-0741, Center Hole Bow Tie Shape (2 Pcs)

What It Is

This is a set of two 21-inch mulching blades designed to replace OEM numbers 942-0741A, 742-0741, 742-0741A, and 942-0741. They fit select Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and MTD walk-behind mowers with a bow-tie center hole pattern. Mulching blades chop grass finer than standard blades, letting clippings settle back into the lawn as natural fertilizer.

Fitment & Compatibility

Before buying, confirm three things:

• Deck size: Your mower must have a 21-inch cutting deck. Measure from blade tip to blade tip if unsure.
• Center hole shape: These use a bow-tie (double-oval) center hole, not a round or star pattern. Common on MTD-built mowers from the 2000s onward.
• Model numbers: Cross-reference your mower’s model number with OEM parts 942-0741A, 742-0741, 742-0741A, or 942-0741. If your original blade has any of these stamped on it, these fit.
• Aftermarket note: These are not OEM but are direct replacements. Check that your mower’s spindle and blade adapter match the bow-tie hole—some older models use a round hole with a separate adapter.

Key Things to Know

• Quality: At 4.6 stars from 177 reviews, these are well-regarded. Made from heat-treated steel, they hold an edge decently but may dull faster than premium OEM blades in sandy or rocky soil.
• Installation difficulty: Easy—requires a socket wrench and blade removal tool (or a block of wood to jam the blade). Torque the center bolt to 30–40 ft-lbs.
• Common gotchas: The bow-tie hole is directional—ensure the blade’s air lift wings face up toward the deck. Re-sharpen or replace after 25 hours of use for best mulching performance.
• Pair note: Sold as a 2-pack, so you have a spare or can replace both blades on a dual-blade mower (rare on 21-inch decks, but some models exist).

Should You Buy It

Buy these if you have a 21-inch MTD-family mower (Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman) with a bow-tie center hole and want a budget-friendly, easy-to-install mulching blade set. They’re a solid value for homeowners who mow weekly and don’t need heavy-duty commercial durability. Skip them if your mower uses a different hole pattern or you need a gator-style blade for wet, tall grass.