Fiskars Push Mower - 17" Cut Width Manual Reel Mower with No Motor - Grass Cutter with Steel Blades that Stay Sharp - Eco-Friendly Cordless Grass Trimmer for Lawn Care Review

Overview

The Fiskars Push Mower is a 17-inch manual reel mower that replaces gas, electric, or battery power with old-fashioned human effort. It’s designed for homeowners with smaller, relatively flat lawns who want a zero-emission, whisper-quiet cutting experience and are willing to trade a little physical exertion for simplicity, reliability, and a cleaner, healthier cut.

Who Should Buy This

1. Owners of small, flat lawns (under 1/4 acre)
This mower shines on lawns that don’t require a self-propelled gas unit. If you’re pushing 5,000 square feet or less of turf, the Fiskars will get the job done in about 20 minutes with no fuel, no extension cords, and no noise complaints.

2. Eco-conscious homeowners who hate gas cans
If you’re tired of mixing oil, smelling exhaust, or dealing with dead batteries on a Monday morning, this mower eliminates all of that. It’s the greenest option available—literally and environmentally.

3. People who value a golf-course-quality cut
Reel mowers scissor the grass blades rather than tearing them like rotary mowers. If you want that pristine, manicured look without bagging clippings (the mower mulches finely), this is your tool.

4. Anyone who wants a low-maintenance, long-term tool
No spark plugs, no air filters, no belts, no oil changes. The Fiskars is built to last decades with minimal care—just keep the blades clean and occasionally sharpen them.

Key Features Breakdown

17-inch cutting width
This is narrower than most gas or electric mowers (typically 20–22 inches). It means more passes across your lawn, but it also makes the mower lighter (about 40 pounds) and easier to maneuver around flower beds and tight corners. For lawns under 1/4 acre, the trade-off is worth it.

Manual reel mechanism (no motor)
The cutting reel is driven by the wheels as you push. There’s no engine, battery, or cord—just gears and steel. This means zero fuel costs, zero emissions, and near-silent operation. You can mow at dawn without waking the neighbors.

Steel blades that stay sharp
Fiskars uses a high-carbon steel reel that holds an edge longer than cheaper reel mowers. The blades are also designed to be easily sharpened at home with a simple sharpening kit. Most owners report going 2–3 seasons before needing a touch-up.

Eco-friendly design
The entire mower is built with sustainability in mind: no plastic fuel tanks, no disposable batteries, and no emissions. It’s also fully recyclable at end of life.

Adjustable cutting height (5 positions)
Range is roughly 1 to 2.5 inches. That’s enough for most cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass, ryegrass) but won’t handle tall, overgrown lawns. You’ll need to mow frequently—once a week in peak growing season.

In-Line Drive technology
This Fiskars-exclusive feature uses a gear system that makes the reel spin faster than the wheels, giving a cleaner cut even at normal walking speed. It’s a real upgrade over basic reel mowers that struggle with thicker grass.

Pros

• Silent operation – You can mow early morning or late evening without bothering anyone. Your neighbors will thank you.
• Zero maintenance hassle – No gas, no oil, no battery charging, no carburetor cleaning. Just push and go.
• Excellent cut quality – The scissor action leaves grass blades cleanly sliced, reducing browning at the tips compared to rotary mowers.
• Lightweight and easy to push – At 40 pounds, it’s easy to lift over curbs or store on a wall hook. Most adults can push it with one hand.
• Mulches beautifully – Fine clippings return nutrients to the soil. No bagging needed unless you’re dealing with overgrowth.
• Built to last – Steel frame, steel blades, and simple gears. There’s little to break or wear out.

Cons

• Not for tall or wet grass – If your lawn gets above 4 inches, this mower will clog and stall. You must mow frequently and when grass is dry. It’s a discipline, not a set-it-and-forget-it tool.
• Narrow cutting width – 17 inches means more passes, especially on lawns over 1/4 acre. Expect to spend 30–40 minutes on a 5,000 sq ft lawn.
• Limited height adjustment range – The top setting (2.5 inches) is too low for some warm-season grasses like St. Augustine or Bermuda in summer heat. If you like a taller lawn, look elsewhere.
• Requires some physical effort – While not exhausting, it’s real work. On uneven ground or slopes, you’ll feel it in your legs and back. Not ideal for those with mobility issues.

Bottom Line

The Fiskars Push Mower is the best manual reel mower you can buy for a small, flat lawn if you’re willing to mow weekly and keep the grass at a manageable height. It delivers a cut quality that rivals premium gas mowers, operates in near silence, and costs nothing to run. It’s not a tool for everyone—if you have a large yard, tall grass, or physical limitations, you’ll want a powered alternative. But for the right buyer, this mower is a joy to use and will likely outlast several gas-powered replacements. Highly recommended for eco-minded homeowners with up to 1/4 acre of turf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this mower cut weeds or thick grass?
A: No. It’s designed for regular lawn mowing, not brush clearing. If you let grass get over 4–5 inches tall, the reel will jam. For overgrown areas, you’ll need a string trimmer or rotary mower first.

Q: How often do the blades need sharpening?
A: With normal use (weekly mowing on a 1/4 acre lawn), expect to sharpen every 2–3 years. Fiskars sells an easy-to-use sharpening kit. You can also take the reel to a local sharpening service.

Q: Can I use this on a sloped lawn?
A: Yes, but it’s harder work. The mower has no power assist, so you’ll be pushing uphill. On steep slopes, the reel may slip or not cut cleanly. It’s best on gentle grades or flat terrain.