American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 14-I vs Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are highly rated 5-blade reel mowers, but they serve slightly different needs. The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 (14-inch cut) is the best choice for small, flat lawns and lighter-duty mowing, while the Great States 815-18 (18-inch cut) is the better option for medium-sized yards where wider cutting width and faster mowing are priorities. If you have a very small yard (under 2,000 sq ft) or need to maneuver around tight spaces, choose the American. For larger lawns (up to 5,000 sq ft) or if you want to finish mowing faster, the Great States is the winner.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1304-14 | Great States 815-18 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 | $116.00 |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | 5-blade reel |
| Cut Width | 14 inches | 18 inches |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 2,500 sq ft | Up to 5,000 sq ft |
| Weight | ~15 lbs | ~22 lbs |
| Cut Height Range | 0.75–2.5 inches | 0.75–2.5 inches |
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
The American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 wins on price, weight, and maneuverability. At $99.99, it’s about $16 cheaper than the Great States, making it a more budget-friendly entry into reel mowing. Its 14-inch cut width and lighter weight (~15 lbs) make it easier to push, turn, and lift over obstacles like garden edges or sidewalks. This mower is also more compact for storage. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.3 rating, it has a proven track record for reliability on small, flat lawns. It’s ideal for tight spaces like narrow side yards or gardens where a wider mower might struggle.
Where Great States Wins
The Great States 815-18 wins on cutting width and mowing speed. Its 18-inch cut width covers 28% more grass per pass than the 14-inch American model, meaning fewer passes and less time mowing. For a 3,000 sq ft lawn, you could save 5–10 minutes per mow. The wider cut also makes it more stable on uneven terrain. Despite being heavier (~22 lbs), the extra weight helps the reel maintain consistent contact with the ground, resulting in cleaner cuts on thicker grass. It’s also built with a slightly sturdier frame, which may hold up better over years of use on larger properties.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the American Lawn Mower Company 1304-14 if:
- Your lawn is under 2,500 sq ft (small, flat, open areas).
- You need to maneuver around tight flower beds, narrow gates, or garden edges.
- Budget is a primary concern—$99.99 is the lowest price for a quality 5-blade reel mower.
- You want the lightest mower possible for easy lifting and storage.
Buy the Great States 815-18 if:
- Your lawn is 2,500–5,000 sq ft (medium-sized, relatively flat).
- You want to finish mowing faster—the 18-inch cut saves significant time.
- Your grass is thicker or slightly taller, as the heavier build provides better cutting force.
- You don’t mind the extra weight and slightly higher price for increased productivity.
For most homeowners with a typical suburban lawn (3,000–4,000 sq ft), the Great States 815-18 offers the better balance of speed and value. If