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American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Sharpener Review

★★★★ 4.1/5 (163 reviews)
$100.08
Brand: American Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 14-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower with Sharpener
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Overview

The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 is a 14-inch, 5-blade push reel mower designed for homeowners who want a quiet, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance alternative to gas or electric mowers. It’s best suited for small to medium lawns under 1/4 acre, especially for those who enjoy a light workout while mowing and prefer to avoid the hassle of fuel, cords, or batteries.

Who Should Buy This

  1. Homeowners with small, flat lawns (under 1/4 acre) – If your yard is a postage stamp, this mower will handle it quickly without the noise or fumes of a gas engine. It’s ideal for tight spaces where a big mower feels like overkill.

  2. Eco-conscious buyers who hate gas and emissions – No fuel, no oil changes, no exhaust. This mower runs on elbow grease, making it perfect for those who want a zero-emission mowing experience.

  3. Budget-minded shoppers looking for a low-cost mower – At around $100, this is one of the most affordable new mowers you can buy. It’s a great entry-level option for renters or first-time homeowners.

  4. Gardening enthusiasts who want a clean, precise cut – The 5-blade reel system gives a scissor-like cut that’s gentler on grass than rotary blades, making it a good choice for lawns where appearance matters—but only if you mow regularly.

Key Features Breakdown

  • 14-inch cutting width – This is on the narrow side, meaning you’ll make more passes than with a 20-inch mower. But the trade-off is maneuverability: it fits through tight gates and around flower beds with ease. Best for small yards where a wide deck would be clumsy.

  • 5-blade reel – More blades mean a finer cut. The 5-blade reel produces a clean, scissor action that slices grass rather than tearing it. This reduces stress on the grass and helps it stay greener longer. However, it also means you need to mow frequently—letting the grass get too tall will bog it down.

  • Built-in sharpener – This is a standout feature. The mower includes a SharpTek sharpening kit that lets you hone the blades without removing them. Just flip it over, run the sharpener along the reel, and you’re done. It takes about five minutes and extends blade life significantly.

  • Steel frame and 10-inch wheels – The steel construction gives it durability, but it’s not lightweight at around 30 pounds. The 10-inch wheels roll smoothly over flat ground but can struggle on bumpy or uneven terrain. The wheels have sealed bearings, which reduce maintenance and keep them rolling freely.

  • Adjustable cutting height – You can set the height from 1/2 inch to 2 inches using a simple lever system. It’s not as infinitely adjustable as some higher-end reel mowers, but for most small lawns, these five settings cover what you need.

Pros

  1. Quiet operation – You can mow early in the morning or late in the evening without waking the neighbors. The only sound is the whir of the blades and the crunch of grass.

  2. Zero emissions, zero fuel costs – No gas, no oil, no electricity. Once you buy it, the only ongoing cost is your own energy. It’s the most environmentally friendly mower you can own.

  3. Built-in sharpener saves money – Most reel mowers require professional sharpening or blade replacement every season. This one lets you do it yourself, saving time and money. The sharpener is simple to use and effective.

  4. Excellent for small, flat lawns – On a 1/8-acre lot with level ground, this mower will cut cleanly and quickly. It’s especially good for Bermuda, fescue, and other fine-bladed grasses.

  5. Low maintenance – No spark plugs, air filters, or fuel stabilizer. Just sharpen the blades a couple times a season and keep the wheels lubricated. It’s about as simple as lawn care gets.

  6. Lightweight and easy to store – At 30 pounds, it’s easy to lift onto a hook or hang against a wall. It takes up minimal garage space compared to a bulky gas mower.

Cons

  1. Not for tall or thick grass – If you let the grass get over 4 inches, this mower will struggle. It will either clog, skip, or require multiple passes. You must mow weekly (or more) to keep the grass at an ideal height.

  2. Poor on uneven or hilly ground – The reel mower needs a flat, smooth surface to cut evenly. If your lawn has dips, bumps, or a steep slope, the blades will scalp high spots and miss low spots. It’s really only reliable on level turf.

  3. Narrow cutting width means more work – At 14 inches, you’ll make a lot of passes. For a 1/4-acre lawn, expect to spend 45 minutes to an hour. A 20-inch mower would cut that time in half.

  4. No grass collection bag – You’ll need to rake or sweep clippings after mowing, unless you’re okay with leaving them on the lawn (which is fine for mulching, but not everyone wants that look). Some users find this inconvenient.

Bottom Line

The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14SK2 is a solid, affordable reel mower that delivers exactly what it promises: a quiet, clean cut for small, flat lawns. The built-in sharpener is a genuine value-add that sets it apart from cheaper competitors. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution—if your yard is large, hilly, or prone to overgrowth, you’ll be frustrated. For the right buyer—someone with a tiny, level lawn who values simplicity and eco-friendliness—this is a fantastic choice. I’d recommend it confidently over any gas mower under $150.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need to sharpen the blades? With normal use on a small lawn, sharpen the blades every 20–25 hours of mowing. The built-in sharpener makes this quick—about 5 minutes. If you notice the cut getting ragged or the mower requiring more effort to push, it’s time to sharpen.

Can this mower handle St. Augustine or thick grass? It can, but only if you mow frequently and keep the grass short. St. Augustine’s thick stolons can cause the reel to jam if the grass is too tall. For best results, mow at the highest cutting setting and never let the grass exceed 3 inches. It’s better suited for finer grasses like Bermuda or fescue.

Does the mower come assembled? It arrives mostly assembled, but you’ll need to attach the handle and the wheels. The instructions are straightforward,

How It Compares

Quick Verdict

The BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 combo wins overall for most buyers due to its lower price, higher user rating, and versatility as a mower, string trimmer, and edger all in one, despite the American Lawn Mower’s eco-friendly, maintenance-free appeal.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature American Lawn Mower 1304-14SK2 BLACK+DECKER BESTA512CM
Price $100.08 $69.00
Power Source Manual (reel/push) Corded electric (6.5 amp)
Cutting Width 14 inches 12 inches
Self-Propelled No No
Best Yard Size Small (under 1/4 acre) Small (under 1/4 acre)
Warranty Limited lifetime (frame) 2-year limited

Where American Lawn Mower Wins

  1. No Fuel or Electricity Costs: The American Lawn Mower is entirely human-powered. You never need gas, oil, extension cords, or batteries. Over years of use, this saves significant money compared to any powered mower, including the BLACK+DECKER’s ongoing electricity costs and potential cord replacement.

  2. Quiet, Low-Maintenance Operation: At under 70 decibels, this reel mower is whisper-quiet—ideal for early morning or late evening mowing without disturbing neighbors. It also has virtually no maintenance: no spark plugs, air filters, oil changes, or blade sharpening (it includes a sharpening kit). The BLACK+DECKER requires cord management, occasional blade sharpening, and motor care.

  3. Superior Cut Quality for Healthy Lawns: The 5-blade reel design scissor-cuts grass cleanly, reducing torn leaf edges that can lead to browning or disease. This promotes a healthier lawn, especially for Bermuda, Zoysia, or Fescue. The included sharpener kit ensures blades stay razor-sharp. The BLACK+DECKER’s rotary blade can tear grass, especially when dull.

Where BLACK+DECKER Wins

  1. Versatility as a 3-in-1 Tool: The BLACK+DECKER converts from a 12-inch push mower to a string trimmer (weed wacker) and edger. This eliminates the need for a separate trimmer or edger, saving storage space and money. The American Lawn Mower can only mow—you’d need another tool for edges and trimming.

  2. Consistent Power and Ease of Use: The 6.5-amp motor provides steady, effortless cutting through thick grass, weeds, and uneven terrain. You don’t need to push hard or maintain perfect blade speed—just plug in and go. The American Lawn Mower requires a brisk walking pace and struggles with tall or wet grass, often requiring multiple passes.

  3. Higher User Satisfaction and Proven Reliability: With 9,624 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, the BLACK+DECKER has a massive user base confirming its durability and performance. The American Lawn Mower’s 163 reviews and 4.1-star rating suggest a smaller sample size and potential variability in quality (some users report difficulty with assembly or blade alignment).

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (American Lawn Mower) if: You have a small, flat, well-maintained lawn under 1/4 acre, prioritize zero emissions and quiet operation, and want a simple, low-maintenance tool that doubles as light exercise. Ideal for eco-conscious homeowners who don’t mind a manual push.

Buy Mower B (BLACK+DECKER) if: You need a single tool that mows, trims, and edges small to medium yards (under 1/4 acre), value ease of use and consistent power, and want the best bang for your buck at $69. Perfect for renters or homeowners with mixed terrain who want to avoid multiple tools.

Neither if: Your yard is over 1/4 acre, hilly, or thick with weeds. The American Mower will be exhausting and ineffective; the BLACK+DECKER’s corded range (requires extension cord) and 12-inch width will be frustrating. Consider a gas or self-propelled electric mower with a wider deck.

Quick Verdict

The Great States 815-18 wins overall due to its superior build quality, wider 18-inch cutting path, and vastly larger user feedback base (9,256 reviews vs. 163), making it a more proven and efficient choice for most homeowners.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature Mower A: American Lawn Mower 1304-14SK2 Mower B: Great States 815-18
Price $100.08 $116.00
Power Source Manual (reel) Manual (reel)
Cutting Width 14 inches 18 inches
Self-Propelled No No
Best Yard Size Small (under 1/4 acre) Small to medium (up to 1/3 acre)
Warranty Not specified (likely limited) Limited lifetime warranty on frame

Where American Lawn Mower Wins

  1. Built-in Sharpener Kit: The 1304-14SK2 includes a blade sharpener (likely a lapping compound or sharpening tool), which helps maintain cutting performance over time. This is a practical bonus for users who want to avoid separate sharpening costs.

  2. Lower Price: At $100.08, it’s $15.92 cheaper than the Great States model. For budget-conscious buyers with very small lawns, this savings may justify the narrower cutting width.

  3. Compact Size: The 14-inch cutting width makes it more maneuverable in tight spaces, such as around flower beds, garden edges, or small, irregularly shaped lawns. It’s also lighter and easier to store.

Where Great States Wins

  1. Wider Cutting Path (18 inches): The 18-inch width covers 28.6% more grass per pass than the 14-inch model. This translates to fewer passes, less time mowing, and lower physical effort—critical for efficiency on any lawn larger than a postage stamp.

  2. Superior User Feedback and Reliability: With 9,256 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the Great States 815-18 has been tested by thousands of users over years. Its reputation for durability (including a limited lifetime warranty on the frame) far exceeds the American model’s small sample size.

  3. Better Build for Typical Lawns: The 18-inch cut is the standard sweet spot for reel mowers, balancing speed and maneuverability. The Great States also features a five-blade reel (same as American), but its wider frame and proven design handle slightly taller grass and uneven terrain more effectively, reducing the risk of clogging or skipping.

Which Should You Buy?

Buy Mower A (American Lawn Mower) if:

  • You have a very small lawn (under 1/4 acre) with many obstacles, where a narrow 14-inch cut saves time on turns and tight spots.
  • You want the absolute lowest price and a built-in sharpener to extend blade life without extra tools.
  • You prioritize compact storage and don’t mind more passes to finish the job.

Buy Mower B (Great States) if:

  • You have a small to medium lawn (up to 1/3 acre) and want to minimize mowing time—the 18-inch width saves 10–15 minutes per session.
  • You value proven reliability and a large user community; 9,256 reviews provide confidence that the mower will last.
  • You want a limited lifetime warranty on the frame, indicating better long-term value despite the slightly higher upfront cost.

Buy neither (consider an alternative) if:

  • Your lawn is larger than 1/3 acre, has thick grass, or you want self-propulsion—reel mowers struggle with tall or damp grass, and manual pushing on slopes is fatiguing. A gas or electric rotary mower would be more practical.

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Last updated: June 2026