American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 18-I vs Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push
Quick Verdict
Both mowers are 18-inch, 5-blade push reel mowers with near-identical customer ratings of 4.3 out of 5 stars. The American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 is priced $25.98 higher at $141.98, while the Great States 815-18 offers the same cutting width and blade count for $116.00. For most users with small to medium flat lawns, the Great States provides better value. However, the American Lawn Mower model justifies its higher price with a reputation for slightly better build quality and longer blade life, making it the better choice for those who want a mower that will last many seasons with minimal maintenance.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | American Lawn Mower 1815-18 | Great States 815-18 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $141.98 | $116.00 |
| Cutting Width | 18 inches | 18 inches |
| Number of Blades | 5 | 5 |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 8,000 sq ft | Up to 8,000 sq ft |
| Handle Type | Steel, adjustable height | Steel, adjustable height |
| Weight | ~15 lbs | ~14 lbs |
| Customer Rating | 4.3/5 (22,498 reviews) | 4.3/5 (9,256 reviews) |
Both models share identical core specs: an 18-inch cut width, 5-blade reel, and suitability for grass up to about 4 inches tall on flat terrain. The American mower is about 1 pound heavier, which can help with cutting momentum but adds slight effort when pushing.
Where American Lawn Mower Wins
The American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 edges ahead in long-term durability. Its blades are made from a slightly thicker gauge steel and are heat-treated for edge retention, meaning they stay sharp longer between sharpenings. The cutting reel spins on sealed ball bearings rather than bushings, reducing friction and extending the mower’s working life. The handle assembly uses heavier-duty hardware and a reinforced crossbar, which resists loosening over time. For users who mow more than 5,000 square feet weekly or have slightly thicker grass (like Bermuda or zoysia), the extra weight and sturdier construction help maintain a clean cut without blade flex. The higher price also reflects a longer warranty period (typically 5 years versus 2–3 years for Great States), which adds peace of mind for frequent users.
Where Great States Wins
The Great States 815-18 wins on price and ease of assembly. At $116.00, it costs 18% less than the American model, making it the most affordable 18-inch, 5-blade reel mower from a major brand. The assembly process is simpler—most users report being ready to mow in 15–20 minutes with just a screwdriver, whereas the American mower may require 25–30 minutes and a wrench for handle adjustments. The Great States is also slightly lighter at 14 pounds, which reduces fatigue when mowing smaller lawns or navigating around flower beds. Its cutting performance is virtually identical to the American mower for typical fescue, ryegrass, or Kentucky bluegrass lawns under 4 inches tall. For budget-conscious buyers or those with very small yards (under 4,000 sq ft), the Great States delivers the same functional result at a noticeably lower cost.
Which Should You Buy
Choose the American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 if you plan to keep the mower for 5+ years, mow a medium-sized lawn (5,000–8,000 sq ft) with thicker grass types, or want the best possible blade longevity without