LawnMaster 20" 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001 Review

Overview

The LawnMaster 20" 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower (LMRM2001) is a budget-friendly, manual reel mower designed for homeowners who want a quiet, eco-friendly cut on small to medium lawns. Priced at $129.99, it targets those who prefer a scissor-like cut over gas or electric power, and who don’t mind a bit of physical effort for a cleaner, healthier lawn.

Who Should Buy This

1. Homeowners with lawns under 1/4 acre – This mower is ideal for small, flat yards where you can finish in under 30 minutes without breaking a sweat. If your lot is bigger, you’ll be pushing too long.

2. Eco-conscious buyers who hate gas and extension cords – You get zero emissions, zero noise, and zero fuel costs. Perfect for early-morning mowing without waking the neighbors.

3. Lawn purists who want a precise, scissor-like cut – Reel mowers slice grass cleanly (like shears) rather than tearing it with a rotary blade. This reduces stress on the grass and promotes denser growth.

4. Budget-minded shoppers looking for a low-maintenance tool – No oil changes, no spark plugs, no battery replacements. Just sharpen the blades every season or two, and you’re set.

Key Features Breakdown

• 20-inch cutting width – A sweet spot for reel mowers. Narrow enough to maneuver around flower beds, wide enough to cover a small lawn in reasonable time. Expect about 30-40 minutes for a 1/4 acre.

• 5-blade reel – More blades mean a finer cut. The 5-blade design gives you 20 cuts per wheel revolution, producing a clean, manicured look. For comparison, a 4-blade reel gives 16 cuts per revolution. This is a noticeable upgrade for lawn fanatics.

• Adjustable cutting height (1.2 to 2.4 inches) – Five positions let you dial in the height, but the range is limited. You can’t go higher than 2.4 inches, which is a problem for fescue or cool-season grasses that thrive at 3-4 inches. Best suited for Bermuda, Zoysia, or other short-grass varieties.

• Steel frame with powder-coated finish – Sturdy enough for regular use, but not overbuilt. The powder coating resists rust, though you should still wipe it dry after wet grass cuts.

• Grease fittings on wheels – A nice touch for longevity. You can lubricate the bearings to keep the wheels spinning smoothly. Most budget reel mowers skip this.

• Weight: 24 pounds – Light enough to carry to a shed or up a few steps, but heavy enough to feel stable during use. The 10-inch composite wheels roll well on flat ground, but struggle on thick, damp turf.

Pros

1. Quiet enough for early-morning or late-evening mowing – At 70 decibels (about the volume of a conversation), you can mow while the kids nap or the neighbors sleep. No earplugs needed.

2. No fuel, no cords, no fumes – Just push. This mower is dead simple. You’ll never hunt for a gas can or untangle an extension cord again.

3. Clean, scissor-like cut – The 5-blade reel slices grass rather than shredding it, which means less browning at the tips and a healthier lawn over time.

4. Zero maintenance beyond blade sharpening – No oil changes, no air filters, no battery charging. Just rinse the blades occasionally and sharpen them once a year.

5. Light and easy to store – At 24 pounds, it hangs on a wall hook or sits in a corner without taking up much space. No gas can smell, no oil leaks.

6. Excellent value for the price – Under $130 for a reel mower with grease fittings and a 5-blade reel is a solid deal. Comparable models from Fiskars or Great States cost $50-100 more.

Cons

1. Limited cutting height range (1.2 to 2.4 inches) – This is the biggest drawback. If you have tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, or any cool-season grass that needs 3+ inches, this mower will scalp it. Best for warm-season, short-grass lawns.

2. Struggles with thick, tall, or wet grass – Reel mowers need frequent passes. If you let the grass get over 4 inches, you’ll be pushing hard, and the reel may clog. You must mow often (every 4-5 days in peak growing season).

3. No grass catcher included – You’ll have to rake or leave clippings on the lawn. A separate catcher attachment is available, but it costs extra and adds bulk. For mulching fans, this is fine; for neatniks, it’s a hassle.

4. Not for uneven or hilly terrain – The 10-inch wheels and fixed reel design don’t handle bumps, dips, or slopes well. You’ll get an uneven cut on anything but flat, smooth ground.

Bottom Line

The LawnMaster LMRM2001 is a capable, budget-friendly reel mower that delivers a clean, quiet cut for small, flat, warm-season lawns. If you have Bermuda or Zoysia grass, a quarter-acre or less, and you’re committed to mowing frequently, this is an excellent value at $129.99. But if you need a higher cut height, have thick cool-season grass, or deal with uneven terrain, look elsewhere—perhaps at a Fiskars Momentum or a basic electric mower. For the right buyer, this mower is a quiet, low-maintenance workhorse that will pay for itself in fuel savings alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does this mower come with a grass catcher?
A: No, it does not. The LMRM2001 is a side-discharge reel mower only. You can purchase a separate rear grass catcher (model LMRC2010) for about $25-30, but it’s not included in the box.

Q: Can I use this on tall grass (over 4 inches)?
A: You can, but it’s not ideal. Reel mowers work best when you mow often and only remove the top 1/3 of the grass blade. If the grass is more than 4 inches tall, you’ll need to make multiple passes, and the reel may clog or struggle. Raise the cutting height to the highest setting (2.4 inches) and take it slow.

Q: How do I sharpen the blades on this mower?
A: You can use a sharpening kit designed for reel mowers (often a lapping compound and a brush). Apply the compound to the blades and spin the reel backward against the bed knife. For a deeper sharpen, remove the reel and use a file or grinder. Expect to