Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Push vs Fiskars Push Mower - 17" Cut Width Manua
Quick Verdict
For most homeowners with small to average-sized lawns, the Great States 815-18 offers the better value. It delivers a clean 18-inch cut at roughly half the price of the Fiskars model. However, if you prioritize cutting precision, ease of adjustment, and have a mostly flat, well-maintained lawn, the Fiskars justifies its higher cost with a noticeably smoother cutting action and more refined design.
Side-by-Side
| Feature | Great States 815-18 | Fiskars (17" Cut Width) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $116.00 | $214.83 |
| Cut Width | 18 inches | 17 inches |
| Blades | 5-blade reel | Typically 7-blade reel (inertia-driven) |
| Power Source | Manual (push) | Manual (push) |
| Best Yard Size | Up to 8,000 sq. ft. | Up to 6,000 sq. ft. |
| Weight | ~22 lbs | ~28 lbs |
| Height Adjustment | Lever-style, 5 positions | Single-lever, tool-less (infinite adjust) |
| Grass Catcher | Included | Included (rear bag) |
| Wheel Size | 10-inch wheels | 8-inch front / 10-inch rear |
Where Great States Wins
The Great States 815-18 wins on price and value. At $116, it costs nearly $100 less than the Fiskars, yet still provides a reliable cut on grass up to about 4 inches tall. Its 18-inch cut width is slightly wider than the Fiskars’ 17 inches, meaning you can cover a bit more ground per pass—useful for medium-sized lawns. The 5-blade reel is sufficient for typical grass types (Bermuda, fescue, Kentucky bluegrass) and handles light weeds without issue.
It also wins on weight and maneuverability. At around 22 pounds, it is noticeably lighter than the Fiskars, making it easier to push on gentle slopes or to carry over garden edges. The 10-inch wheels roll well over uneven terrain, and the included grass catcher is effective for collecting clippings. For budget-conscious buyers or those with larger, slightly tougher lawns, the Great States is the more practical choice.
Where Fiskars Wins
The Fiskars wins on cut quality and ease of use. Its inertia-driven reel (typically 7 blades) spins faster than standard reel mowers, allowing it to slice grass cleanly rather than tearing it. This results in a noticeably finer, more manicured finish—especially on taller or slightly damp grass. The tool-less height adjustment is a standout: you can change cutting height instantly with a single lever, offering infinite positions from 1 to 4 inches. The Great States requires moving a lever and checking pins.
The Fiskars also wins on durability and build quality. Its frame is heavier-gauge steel, and the blade assembly is designed for long-term sharpness. The rear grass catcher is larger and easier to empty than the Great States’ front bag. For homeowners with small, flat, immaculate lawns who want the best possible cut, the Fiskars is the superior tool.
Which Should You Buy
Buy the Great States 815-18 if: you have a lawn between 4,000 and 8,000 square feet, want to save money, or need a lighter mower for uneven ground. It’s a solid, no-frills workhorse that will cut most grass types reliably. The wider 18-inch deck makes it more efficient for medium-sized yards.
**Buy the Fiskars