American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower + Reel Lawn Mower Compound Sharpening Kit Review

Overview

The American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower, bundled with the brand’s Reel Lawn Mower Compound Sharpening Kit, is a lightweight, manual mower designed for small lawns and homeowners who want a quiet, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance cutting solution. At $142.12, this combo offers exceptional value for those committed to a gas-free, cordless, and emission-free mowing experience—ideal for precision trimming on level, well-maintained turf.

Who Should Buy This

1. Homeowners with small to tiny lawns (under 1/4 acre) – If your yard is more postage stamp than pasture, this 14-inch cut is perfect. It’s nimble, easy to push, and won’t overwork you on a modest patch of grass.

2. Eco-conscious buyers who hate fumes and noise – No gas, no oil, no exhaust. This mower runs on elbow grease. If you value early-morning mowing without waking the neighbors or want to eliminate your carbon footprint in lawn care, this is your machine.

3. Budget-minded shoppers who want a long-term investment – Reel mowers have fewer moving parts and last decades with proper care. The included sharpening kit means you can maintain the blade yourself, saving money on sharpening services or replacements.

4. Homeowners with fine, Bermuda, or Zoysia grass – Reel mowers cut with a scissor action, leaving a clean, even finish that’s healthier for low-growing, warm-season grasses. If you’re maintaining a putting-green-quality lawn, this is a top choice.

Key Features Breakdown

• 14-Inch Cutting Width – This is a narrow cut, which means more passes on larger lawns. But for small yards, it’s a blessing: you can maneuver around flower beds and tight corners with ease. It’s also lighter than 16- or 18-inch models, reducing fatigue.

• 5-Blade Reel – More blades mean a finer cut. Five blades (vs. the common 4) produce a cleaner, more precise clip, especially on grass that’s not overly tall. It also helps the reel spin more smoothly, reducing the effort needed to push.

• Heat-Treated, Tempered Alloy Steel Blades – These aren’t stamped-out junk. The blades are hardened to hold an edge longer, and they’re replaceable. Combined with the included sharpening kit, you can keep them razor-sharp for years.

• Composite Wheel Hubs & 10-Inch Wheels – The larger wheels roll easier over bumps and uneven ground than smaller 7- or 8-inch wheels. Composite hubs resist rust and won’t dent like cheap plastic.

• Included Reel Lawn Mower Compound Sharpening Kit – This is a standout. Most reel mowers don’t come with a sharpener, and after a season or two, dull blades mean torn grass and extra effort. This kit (backlapping compound) lets you restore the edge without removing the reel.

• Weight: ~20 lbs – Light enough for most adults to carry up stairs or load into a car trunk. No heavy lifting or strain.

Pros

1. Silent operation – The only sound is the whir of the blades and the click of the reel. You can mow at dawn without disturbing anyone.

2. Zero emissions, zero fuel costs – No gas, no oil, no extension cords. Just push. Over a season, you’ll save $50–100 on fuel and maintenance compared to a gas mower.

3. Excellent build quality for the price – The steel frame and alloy blades feel solid. It’s not a flimsy toy; it’s a tool that will last if cared for.

4. Included sharpening kit extends life – Most reel mowers require a separate purchase to maintain sharpness. This bundle saves you $15–20 and ensures you can keep the blades in top shape.

5. Ultra-safe for kids and pets – No spinning blades that can throw rocks or debris. The reel stops when you stop pushing.

6. Clean, scissor-like cut – This mower doesn’t tear grass like a rotary. The result is a healthier lawn with less browning at the tips.

Cons

1. Not for tall or thick grass – If you let your lawn go more than 4–5 days between mowings, this mower will struggle. It can’t handle overgrown weeds or tough stalks. You’ll need to mow frequently.

2. Narrow cutting width – At 14 inches, you’ll make more passes than with a 21-inch gas mower. On a 1/4-acre lawn, that’s a workout—expect 45–60 minutes.

3. No grass catcher included – The mower doesn’t come with a bag. You’ll need to rake clippings or let them lie (which is fine for lawn health). Some buyers find this inconvenient.

4. Requires flat, debris-free lawn – Sticks, pine cones, or uneven ground can jam the reel or cause clumping. You’ll need to pick up the yard before mowing.

Bottom Line

The American Lawn Mower 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower with Sharpening Kit is a fantastic choice for the right buyer: someone with a small, level lawn who wants a quiet, eco-friendly, and low-cost mowing experience. It’s not a do-it-all machine—it won’t handle overgrown grass or large properties—but for its intended use, it excels. The included sharpening kit adds real value, making this a set-and-forget tool for years. If you’re ready to ditch gas and noise for a clean, manual cut, this is the best deal under $150. Highly recommended for small-lot homeowners, eco-enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a lawn that looks like it was clipped with scissors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often do I need to sharpen the blades?
A: With normal use on a small lawn (once a week, April–October), you’ll notice the cut quality decline after about 15–20 hours of use. The included sharpening kit lets you backlap the reel in 10 minutes—do this every 2–3 months during the growing season to maintain peak performance.

Q: Can this mower handle St. Augustine or tall fescue grass?
A: It can, but only if you mow frequently (every 3–4 days) and keep the grass under 3 inches tall. St. Augustine’s thick runners can clog the reel, and tall fescue’s coarse blades may tear rather than cut cleanly. For these grasses, a rotary mower is usually better.

Q: Does it come with a grass catcher or mulching plug?
A: No. This model is a bare-bones reel mower—no bag