8TEN LawnRAZOR Blade Set for John Deere Sabre 1438 1538 1338S GX00166 38 Inch Deck (Mulching) 2 Pack

What It Is

A 2-pack of mulching blades designed for John Deere Sabre tractors with 38-inch decks (models 1438, 1538, 1338S). These replace OEM GX00166 blades and are meant for cutting grass into fine clippings that decompose quickly, not for bagging or side-discharge.

Fitment & Compatibility

Must check before buying:

• Deck size: Only fits 38-inch cutting decks. Measure your deck width—if it’s 42" or 48", these won’t work.
• Model list: John Deere Sabre 1338S, 1438, 1538, plus some L-Series (L100, L110, L120) and other models using GX00166. Verify your model number under the seat or on the frame.
• OEM part: Replaces John Deere GX00166, but aftermarket blades may vary slightly in thickness or hole alignment. Compare your current blade’s center hole (standard 7-point star or round) and overall length (~18.25 inches).
• Not for: 42-inch decks, zero-turn mowers, or non-Sabre John Deere models without the GX00166 part number.

Key Things to Know

• Mulching only: These have a curved, high-lift design that chops clippings finer. Do not use for bagging—they can clog the chute.
• Installation: Simple swap with a socket wrench. Ensure blades are mounted with the cutting edge facing the direction of rotation (usually upward). Torque bolts to 50–60 ft-lbs.
• Sharpness: Out-of-box sharpness is decent but not premium. Expect to sharpen after 10–15 hours of use for best mulching performance.
• Balance: Some users report slight imbalance out of the box. Spin-test on a balancer before installing to avoid vibration and spindle wear.

Should You Buy It

If you own a John Deere Sabre 1438, 1538, or 1338S with a 38-inch deck and want an affordable mulching upgrade over OEM blades, this 2-pack delivers solid value. It’s not for bagging or heavy-duty commercial use, but for residential lawns it cuts clean and reduces clumping. Skip it if you need a perfect OEM fit or prefer bagging.