American Lawn Mower Company Review

Overview

The American Lawn Mower Company’s 14-inch reel mower is a throwback done right—a manual, push-powered machine built for homeowners who want a clean, quiet cut without burning gas or wrestling with extension cords. Priced at $223.99 and rated 4.3 out of 5 stars from 148 reviews, this mower is designed for small to medium lawns (up to about 1/3 acre) where precision and simplicity matter more than raw speed. It’s not for everyone, but for the right buyer, it’s a near-perfect tool.

Who Should Buy This

1. Homeowners with small, flat lawns (1/4 acre or less) – This mower shines on modest, level yards where you don’t need a gas-powered beast. If your lawn is under 2,500 square feet, you’ll finish in 30 minutes with a workout bonus.

2. Eco-conscious homeowners who hate gas cans – No fuel, no oil, no emissions. If you’re tired of storing gasoline or dealing with carburetor issues, this reel mower is a zero-hassle alternative.

3. Lawn enthusiasts who want a striped, golf-course finish – The 5-blade reel cuts grass cleanly (like scissors) rather than tearing it (like rotary blades). The result is a crisp, manicured look with visible stripes, especially on Bermuda or fescue.

4. Budget-minded buyers who want low long-term costs – At $223.99, it’s not the cheapest mower, but it has no engine parts to replace, no spark plugs, and no filters. Your only expense is the occasional blade sharpening (every 2-3 seasons).

Key Features Breakdown

• 14-inch cutting width – This is a narrow cut, which means more passes per lawn. For a 1/4-acre yard, expect about 30-40 minutes of pushing. The trade-off is better maneuverability around flower beds, trees, and tight corners. It’s ideal for detailed work, not wide-open spaces.

• 5-blade reel system – More blades mean a finer cut. The 5-blade reel creates a scissor-like action that shears grass cleanly, reducing browning at the tips. This is the same tech used on professional golf course greens, scaled down for home use.

• Adjustable cutting height (1/2 to 2 inches) – You get 5 height settings via a simple lever adjustment. The lowest setting (1/2 inch) is perfect for Bermuda or zoysia, while the highest (2 inches) works for fescue or bluegrass. No tools required—just lift and slide.

• Heat-treated, hardened steel blades – These stay sharp longer than standard steel. Expect 2-3 seasons of regular use before needing a sharpening service or replacement reel. The blades are also replaceable, not disposable.

• All-steel construction with powder-coat finish – The frame is heavy-duty steel, not plastic. It’s built to last decades if stored properly. The powder coating resists rust, though you should still wipe it dry after cutting wet grass.

• Lightweight (24 pounds) – At just 24 lbs, this mower is easy to lift into a shed, over a curb, or into a car trunk. It’s also nimble enough for a teenager or older adult to push comfortably.

• 11-inch wheels with sealed bearings – The larger wheels roll smoothly over bumps and reduce resistance. Sealed bearings mean less maintenance—no greasing or oiling needed.

Pros

1. Silent operation – You can mow at 7 AM on a Saturday without waking the neighbors. The only sound is the clicking of the reel and your footsteps.

2. Zero emissions, zero fuel costs – No gas, oil, or electricity. Your carbon footprint for mowing is effectively zero, and your wallet stays full.

3. Healthy grass cut – The scissor action cuts cleanly, reducing disease and water loss. Rotary mowers tear grass, leaving ragged edges that turn brown.

4. Easy maintenance – No engine to winterize, no air filter to change, no spark plug to replace. Just keep the blades sharp and the wheels clean.

5. Lightweight and compact – At 24 lbs, it’s easy to carry, store vertically, or hang on a wall. It takes up about as much space as a bicycle.

6. Build quality – The all-steel frame and powder-coat finish feel sturdy, not flimsy. This isn’t a cheap plastic toy—it’s built to last.

Cons

1. Won’t handle tall or thick grass – If you let your lawn get over 4 inches, this mower will struggle. You’ll need to cut frequently (every 5-7 days during growing season) or use a string trimmer first.

2. Narrow cutting width – The 14-inch deck means more passes. On a 1/3-acre lawn, you’re looking at 45 minutes to an hour. A gas mower would cut that time in half.

3. No grass catcher included – This model doesn’t come with a bag. Grass clippings are left on the lawn (which is fine for fertilization), but if you want a clean, bagged finish, you’ll need to buy the optional catcher separately.

4. Not for hills or uneven terrain – The reel mower works best on flat, smooth lawns. On slopes or bumpy ground, the reel can skip or scalp the grass. If your yard has dips or mounds, stick with a rotary mower.

Bottom Line

The American Lawn Mower Company’s 14-inch reel mower is a specialized tool for a specific job: giving small, flat lawns a clean, precise cut with zero noise, zero emissions, and zero ongoing costs. It’s not a replacement for a gas or electric mower on larger or rougher properties, but for homeowners with a 1/4-acre or less who value a manicured look and a quiet morning routine, it’s hard to beat. At $223.99, it’s an investment in simplicity and durability. If you’re willing to mow more frequently and accept a narrower cut width, this mower will likely outlast you. Recommended for small-lot owners, eco-conscious buyers, and anyone who wants a workout with their yard work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can this mower cut tall grass, like if I go on vacation for two weeks?
A: Not really. The reel mower is designed for frequent cuts (every 5-7 days). If grass gets over 4 inches, the reel will clog or skip. For overgrown lawns, you’ll need to cut with a string trimmer first or use a rotary mower. Plan your mowing schedule accordingly.

Q: Does it come with a grass catcher?
A: No, the base model does not include a catcher. There