best lawn mower blades

The Best Lawn Mower Blades

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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When it comes to buying the best lawn mower, there are different features to pay attention to namely the terrain the lawn mower will be on and the landmass. The most important feature to pay attention to is the type of lawn mower blade.

The best lawn mower blades

1. Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set

Sale
Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set for...
  • 2-Blade commercial mulching blade set for a 42" cut
  • Replaces Poulan, Husqvarna, Craftsman 134149, 138971, 138498,...
  • Each measures 21" long by 2-1/2" wide
  • 5 Point Star Center Hole
  • Made in the USA

The MaxPower 561713XB is a 2 blade set designed specifically for mulching, and includes two individual 21-inch blades. As a result, you gain a cutting range of around 42 inches. These blades feature star shaped mounts, making them suitable for models including Poulan, Husqvarna, and Craftsman. Because of the jagged design, your lawn mower benefits from enhanced mulching ability. Consequently, this blade set is seen as a top choice for replacing mulching blades or upgrade your lawn mower's mulching power.

The Maxpower 561713XB is an great choice if you’re looking for a set of blades that will mulch grass clippings efficiently. It has saw-teeth like features at both ends making it extra efficient in mulching and cutting grass. The 5 point star center hole makes it easy to install the blade which can be used right out of the box without further sharpening.

Another great feature is the durability. It is made from thick and robust steel and has a non rusting coat which allows for extended use. The downside is the weight of the blade at 5.2lbs. It is much heavier than other standard blades hence it makes the mower shake more while mowing the grass. The blade is perfect for freshly grown grass and is also suitable for routine usage. It ranks highly as one of the best lawn mower blades.

Pros:

  • Made from thick and robust steel
  • 5-point star center hole
  • High mulching efficiency
  • Blade length of 22 inches
  • High compatibility with various lawn mower blades
  • Best lawn mower blade for routine usage

Cons:

  • The steel makes it quite heavy
  • Metal anti-oxidation qualities are questionable

Other Great Lawn Mower Blades

2. Toro 22" Recycler Mower Replacement Blade

Sale
Toro 22" Recycler Mower Replacement Blade 59534P...
  • Toro tooth mulcher blade
  • Replaces 108-9764-03
  • Tooth mulcher blade
  • WIDTH: 2-1/4" , C. H. DIA: 7/16" , THICKNESS: 0.1500" , LENGTH:...

The Toro 5953P is the ideal choice when looking for replacement lawn mower blades. It comes in 22 inches of length and can cut large areas of 21 to 23 inches.

The Toro mower blade is extremely lightweight at 1.76 lbs. It measures 21 – 11/16 inches making it suitable for mowers whose decks are 42 inches. The width of 2-¼ inches and thickness of 0.15 inches makes this unit light enough to eliminate vibration while working hence enabling you to have smooth operating experience over long periods of time.

Assembling the blade takes a few minutes as it comes with three holes which ease the assembling process. The diameter of the holes allow for the blade to be compatible with quite a number of lawn mower brands.

The Toro blade is great as a mulching replacement as it has teeth on either side of its length. It is 22 inches long hence ideal for medium to large sized lawn mowers. The teeth turn it to an effective an efficient mulching tool as it can cut thick and tough weeds and turn them into fertilizer for the rest of the yard. The blade is made of quality and durable steel and has a dark paint finish which helps prevent it from corrosion or accruing damage. However it does make it more difficult to clean but it is a great blade as it lasts quite long. It is a great choice if you don’t want to keep buying new replacements.

With regard to sharpness, it does a good job cutting through thick and hardy grass. However it does require to be regularly sharpened as the edges can wear down pretty quickly.

Pros:

  • Lightweight hence eliminates vibration
  • Easy to install
  • Compatible with various mower brands

Cons:

  • Not well-balanced

3. EGO Power+ AB2101 21-Inch Lawn Mower High Lift Blade 

EGO Power+ AB2101 21-Inch Lawn Mower High Lift Blade...
  • Enhance the bagging efficiency of your 21" EGO Power+ lawn mower
  • Specifically designed for use while bagging clippings with EGO...
  • Not recommended for use with the mulching plug
  • Factory sharpened steel blade for excellent cutting performance
  • Delivers a clean cut to promote lawn health

The Ego Power+ AB2101 blade is interesting due to its high lift design. It is built to fit almost all of EGO’s 21 inches lawnmower models.

Since it is a high lift mower blade, it helps cut grass from the ground up and can give you an elevated cut.

It makes cutting easier and the best part is that you don’t need to sharpen the blade before using it. Hence allowing you to cut as much grass as you can with minimum effort. High lift blades are designed to provide cut funnel grass clippings and push them into storage bags for easier disposal later.

Its ideal for lawn mowers that are meant to cut grounds with really tall grass. It works well for large machines that collect a lot of grass into heavy duty bags The blade does need to be sharpened from time to time but it delivers an exceptionally clean on your yard.

It’s an ideal blade for heavy duty mower or professional mowers that have to work on wild grounds frequently. The blade has a circular mounting hole which you can make work if you have some fitting washers to adjust the size of the hole. The only downside is the price as it is quite expensive considering its one blade. However it is an ideal choice if looking for long lasting and heavy duty blade.

Pros:

  • Made with factory-sharpened steel
  • Deliver as high performance
  • Excellent choice for bagging
  • Smooth cutting action

Cons:

  • Compatible with a few models
  • A little expensive

4. Maxpower 331740B Mower Blade

MaxPower 331740B 22 Inch Blade for 22 in. Cut...
  • Includes 1 mower blade for many 22 in. cut Craftsman, Husqvarna...
  • Replaces OEM #'s 420463, 421825, 532-421825, 437601, 532420463...
  • Also fits Craftsman CMXGZAM100130
  • Measures: 22 in. L and 2-1/2 in. W
  • 5 point star center hole

The Maxpower 331740B is 22inches in length with a thickness of 0.2 inches. It has a 5 star center hole which allows for firmness. The blade is widely compatible with various models like Poulan, Husqvarna and Craftsman Riders. The blade is quite thin though hence not as durable. It can easily get dented.

Pros:

  • Available at a decent price
  • Great compatibility with various lawn mower models
  • Large length of 22 inches
  • 5-star center hole for firmness

Cons:

  • The durability is questionable
  • It gets quite hot to the touch after a few hours and should be used away from children or pets

5. Maxpower 561545B 3-Blade Set

Sale
Maxpower 561545B 3 Blade Set for Many 50 in. Cut MTD,...
  • Replaces OEM #: MTD, Cub Cadet, troy-bilt742-04053a, 742-04053b,...
  • Fits 50" Cut RZT Series tractor
  • Made in USA
  • 3 blades included
  • Center hole Designed to fit MTD 6 Point star

The Maxpower 561545B comes in set of 3 blades with lengths of 17-29/32 inches each.

The blades are well designed hence making them efficient in cutting differently sized grass. It is highly compatible with various models and its 6 point star center hole increases its firmness and stability. The only downside is that the metal used is not completely rust and corrosion resistant. Hence decreasing the durability.

Pros:

  • Available in a set of 3 blades
  • Compatible with various models of mowers
  • Fits Cut RZT series tractor as well

Cons:

  • The metal is not completely rust-resistant

What To Consider When Buying A Lawn Mower Blade

When choosing the best lawn mower blades, it is best to consider the type of lawnmower with regard to its deck and power capacity. Some lawnmower blades require more power to operate efficiently with the lawnmower motor.

When deciding on the best lawn mower blade, remember that the best part about the blade is that it can compensate the motor power of the machine with its sharp edge. So this means that even though your motor might not help increase the speed of the cut, you can still have a better cut just by choosing a blade with a certain length and sharpness.

1. The Length Of The Blade

There is no science to this however it is important to note that longer does not mean better. The length decided on should fit within your lawnmower’s model. Most blades range between 16.75 inches and 22 inches. Most mowers are compatible with blades that are as long as 22 inches. However, remember it’s all based on your model. If the blade’s length is too short, it won’t cut as wide of an area but at the same time, if it’s too wide, it won’t fit.

2. Build Material

The build material of the blade is not dependent on the model of the mower. The best choice is strong stainless steel. Lower metal can help you cut costs but it is highly unlikely that it will cut your grass.

Keep in mind that picking your lawn mower blade set is very important as it can really influence your life. You want to pick a blade that will actually do the job you’re seeking it to do. Remember to also look at the paint job on the blade as this will help you tell if it will rust easily.

3. The Deck Size

The deck size is the final consideration you make when choosing lawn mower blades. Most push mowers have a deck size that ranges from 16 to 30 inches. Riding mowers have higher sized decks as well.

4. Blade Width

The typical width of most mower blades ranges between 2.25  and 3.5 inches. However, like we said earlier, its important to pick a blade that is compatible with your machine. A blade that is too wide might not fit and can end up damaging the lawnmower. On the other hand, a shallow blade might not cut well. The best thing to do is check your lawnmower’s manual for further advice on the required width.

5. Total Number Of Blades

If you have a riding lawn mower, you’ll have to consider the total number of blades. However some handheld mowers do require multiple blade settings though more often than not, they just need one single blade. If you have a riding mower, it would be ideal to buy a lawn mower blade set that will match the width of your deck. Most self–propelled and push mowers only need one blade.

Types Of Lawn Mower Blades

1. Standard Lift Blades

Standard lift blades are generally used in standard lawn mowers and tend to be the ones that rotate horizontally. They are also often referred to as straight more blades even though they tend to have a slight curve on each end. You’ll often find them on lawn mowers that discharge grass debris sideways. The slight bend at the ends allows a bit of air ventilation through. This creates a sort of suction of the land as it pulls the grass up so that it can be cut precisely.

When choosing this blade, it is best to keep in mind that what matters most is the type of the land you are mowing on. This blade is preferred by most because of its high efficiency on both dry and damp grounds. However, standard blades are better suited for yards with thick patches of grass as they can rapidly cut dense grass and send it to the bagging with ease.

The downside of standard blades is that they are not able to remove the smaller patches of grass hence your yard is left looking uneven. This is not the right blade if your ground is full of light grass.

2. Medium Blades

Medium blades are slightly curved hence the suction created is minimal. It is enough to straighten grass for trimming but not enough to send the debris through the chute and into the bag. As a result, the debris builds up and eventually blocks the chute which ends up restricting the debris from being stored into the bagging. The clogging can also cause your lawn mower to stop functioning.

3. Low Lift Blades

Low lift blades are best for grounds that have dry, shorter grass or if your ground has sandy soil. The airflow from a low lift blade is not as forceful as that from a high lift blade hence it results in less suction and also reduces the amount of airborne dust and debris. They don't require a lot of power to function hence allowing for silent and effective mowing. The downside of low lift blades is that it can often clog the chute as its unable to suck the debris into the bagging.

4. High Lift Mower Blades

High lift blades tend to have specific vertical angles on the edges. These enable maximum airflow through the blades and produce a vertical suction. The fast circular motion of the blades ensures the grass is taut and perfectly trimmed. If you’re looking for utmost precision while mowing, high lift blades will help you achieve that fresh precise look.

The high level of suction ensures that there is no accumulation of grass in the chute hence preventing blockage. Those that prefer bagging tend to prefer these blades. High level blades don’t work well with sandy grounds due to the maximized airflow. Hence the blades tend to suck in the sand and dust along with the grass and this in turn can damage the deck of the lawn mower as it wears off easily.

Additionally, the rapid and continuous spinning of the blades requires more power and this can actually damage your mower earlier than expected.

High lift blades are designed to cut the grass and lift the clippings by propelling them up and out the discharge chute. Riding lawn mowers tend to use high lift blades but mostly because of the longer discharge chute. The blades often have to have larger “wind wing” to create more airflow under the clippings.

5. Mulching Blades

Mulching blades work best if you want to replenish the soul using the grass debris. They are mostly used in push or riding lawn mowers. Mulching blades are considered to be multipurpose and are commonly referred to as 3-in-1 blades.

Their edges of mulching blades are curvier and more distinct. They have more cutting edges than other blades hence enabling them to cut the grass into smaller, finer pieces before discharging them back to the ground.

Mulching blades however are not suited for dense long patches of grass and if used for that, can actually cause the deck to clog up. Its advised that the grass should not be longer than 4 inches if you want to use a mulching blade. Mulching blades should always be kept sharp as a dull blade will give you hard time as it will struggle to re-cut the grass clippings and instead result in clamps of grass being left on your own.

Mulching blades allow you to fertilize your soil while also ensuring that your lawn is neat.

6. Gator Blades

Gator blades are ideal if you want your soil to be fertilized. They are modified to achieve a better result. The blades are designed to create maximum suction on the grass which pulls it upwards. The gator mower blade acts as a secondary blade that pulls the grass upwards in way that allows all the grass to be cut precisely.

The gator blade has a unique angle that continually pushes the grass towards the sharp cutting edge as the mower keeps moving. As a result, the smaller pieces of grass are further cut into even smaller pieces. If you’re looking for a better result, you can attach a mulcher blade hence the mulching blade will distribute the small and fine pieces of grass allowing them to settle on the ground uniformly.

How to sharpen lawn mower blades       

It is recommended to sharpen your blade at least once a year.

Though dull blades can still cut grass, the difference between a sharp and dull blade is that the latter will roughly rip through the grass leaving behind raggedly torn tips on the ends of the grass blades. That can in turn cause your grass to turn yellow/brown leaving your lawn to be more susceptible to pests and diseases. Sharp blades cut grass quickly, precisely and allow for a trimmed and healthier lawn.

Hence, it is ideal to sharpen your blade at the beginning of the mowing season. If your blade has interacted with the ground or hit rocks, it is recommended to sharpen it again midway through the mowing season.

There are different ways to sharpen a lawnmower’s blade. Some of the common ones are using a hand file, rotary tool, angle grinder or a bench grinder. The most efficient way is using a drill and sharpening stone that is specifically designed for putting a cutting edge back onto dull lawnmower blades,

1. Clamp and File

A flat file can be used to sharpen a dull blade. The first thing is to ensure that the blade is secured in a vice. Then you apply pressure to file and run it perpendicular to the edge of the blade to grind down and smoothen the imperfections in the metal. This will allow you to hone the shape of the existing edge. Once this is done, reposition the blade do the same on the other side. The process might be slow but it works.

2. Using a Bench Grinder

Using a bench grinder is one of the fastest ways of sharpening a lawnmower blade. It is necessary that when embarking on this venture that you are well equipped. You should be in protective eyewear, ear plugs and work gloves as you grind the edge of the blade against the spinning wheel. A bench grinder is also ideal for repairing a heavily damaged blade that is riddled with gouges that are hard to file smooth by hand.

3. Use a Drill and Blade Sharpening Stone

A blade sharpening drill operates similarly to a bench grinder but on smaller and more affordable scale. It is faster than hand filing and the stone is designed to hug the edge of the lawn more bald hence reducing the room for error while making it easy to sharpen.

How to change lawn mower blades

When changing your lawn mower blade, remember to make sure that it is tight. Its best to sue a wrench to tighten it down after you have re-assembled and threaded the bolt by hand.

Here's a great tutorial on how to change your lawn mower blades: Watch on YouTube

How to clean lawn mower blades

It is key to keep your lawn mower blade clean and in good condition. Not only does this keep your lawn nice and tidy but it also ensures that your grass remains healthy as when it is cut it is extremely susceptible to catch diseases.

  1. The first thing you should do is ensure that you are protected through heavy and sturdy work gloves. It is important to remember that these are necessary as you shall be handling sharp blades.
  2.  The next step is to empty the lawn mower’s fuel tank. This is done by turning the lawn mower upside down so that you can access the blades and clean them. Emptying the tank ensures that there is no risk of fuel spilling out from the tank. You can either ran the tank dry or use a hand pump siphon to extract all the fuel.
  3.  The third step is to remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug as you will be rinsing your lawn mower hence you don’t want to risk any chances of current running though. This will also keep you safe from the lawn mower accidentally going on while cleaning the blades. For some lawn mowers, the spark plug is removed using a wench while others the spark plug wire is pulled upwards.
  4. Use a hose to spray down the blade with the aim of getting rid of all the debris and grass. It is best to use a hose with a relatively high pressure steam as it will push off the accumulated grass. You can lay the lawn mower on its side and keep spraying it till most of the grass and debris has washed off.
  5. Use a brush ideally a stiff bristled one to clean the blades thus getting rid of all the areas that the hose failed to reach.
  6. Once the blades are clean, remove them from the lawn mower and from the housing using a ratchet set. It will take some serious force hence its is advised to use a long handled wrench.
  7. Wipe the blade and housing using a thin layer of vegetable oil before re-attaching to the blade. The oil will help prevent debris from accumulating on the blade and housing quickly later on.

Ultimately choosing the best lawn mower blade depends on your needs. Its best to do your research to ensure that you are buying a blade that is compatible with your lawn mower. The worst thing would be to jeopardize both your lawn mower and grass.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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