American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-I vs Great States 204-14 Hand Reel 14 Inch Pu
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are nearly identical in design, price, and user ratings. The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 and Great States 204-14 are 14-inch, 5-blade push reel mowers aimed at small, flat lawns. The American model edges ahead with a slightly higher review count and a reputation for durability, while the Great States mower offers a lower price point and solid performance for budget-conscious buyers. For most users, the choice comes down to brand preference and minor differences in blade adjustability.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1304-14 | Great States 204-14 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $89.99 |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 14 inches |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 1/4 acre | Up to 1/4 acre |
| Weight | ~25 lbs | ~22 lbs |
| Cut Height Range | 0.5–2.5 inches | 0.5–2.5 inches |
| Wheel Material | Composite plastic | Steel on ball bearings |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 (22,499 reviews) | 4.3/5 (9,257 reviews) |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
- Stronger build quality: The 1304-14 uses a heavier steel frame and thicker blade assembly, which holds up better over years of use on uneven terrain or with occasional debris.
- Higher review volume: With over 22,000 ratings, the American model has a larger, more reliable sample size. Long-term reviews consistently praise its longevity, with many users reporting 5–10 years of service.
- Slightly better blade-to-bedknife contact: The 1304-14’s design allows for easier, more precise adjustment of the cutting gap, leading to cleaner cuts on grass up to 4 inches tall.
- Replacement parts availability: American Lawn Mower Company has a wider network of parts and service centers, making it easier to find replacement blades, wheels, or bolts.
Where Great States Wins
- Lower price: At $89.99, the 204-14 is $10 cheaper, making it a better entry-level choice or a backup mower for small yards.
- Lighter weight: At about 22 lbs, it’s roughly 3 lbs lighter than the American model, which reduces effort when pushing on flat ground and makes it easier to carry to a shed or garage.
- Steel wheels with ball bearings: Great States uses steel wheels on ball bearings, which roll more smoothly on hard-packed soil or concrete than the American mower’s composite wheels. This reduces wheel wobble over time.
- Simpler height adjustment: The 204-14 uses a single-lever height adjustment system that changes all four wheels at once, while the American model requires individual wheel adjustments. This is faster for users who change cutting height frequently.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the American Lawn Mower 1304-14 if you want a mower that will likely last longer and you don’t mind paying an extra $10. It’s the better choice for yards with slightly thicker grass or occasional bumps, thanks to its sturdier frame and easier blade-gap adjustment. The larger review base also gives you more confidence in long-term reliability.
Buy the Great States 204-14 if you’re on a tight budget or need a lighter, easier-to-push mower for a perfectly flat lawn. Its steel wheels and single-lever height adjustment make it more convenient for frequent height changes or