If you’re mowing Bermuda grass, a reel mower can deliver clean, scalpel-like cuts that keep Bermuda’s low-growing texture healthy and dense. This guide highlights five top reel mowers suited for Bermuda and similar warm-season grasses. It explains who each mower is best for, and why you might choose one over another. Whether you have a small yard or a larger patch, these options emphasize precise cutting, maneuverability, and ease of use for better turf health.
| Product | Best For | Cut Width | Height Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower – LMRM2001 | Medium to larger Bermuda lawns; frequent users | 20 in | 1.3–2.6 in |
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower 18-Inch 5-Blade | Smaller yards; lightweight option | 18 in | 1.1–2.5 in |
| Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel | Versatile, multi-grass lawns | 16 in | Not listed |
| LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel Lawn Mower 16-Inch 5-Blade | Compact spaces; easy storage | 16 in | 1–2.5 in |
| American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade | Active lawn enthusiasts; Bermuda-friendly | 16 in | Not listed |
The table above helps you compare cutting width, adjustability, and intended use. Each option emphasizes a scissor-like cut, low maintenance, and quiet operation—factors Bermuda grass responds well to when kept at the proper height. The products below provide more detail to help you choose the best fit for your yard size and mowing frequency.
LawnMaster 20” 5-Blade Push Reel – LMRM2001
Featuring a 20-inch cutting width and 9 cutting positions, this mower is designed for easy navigation around mid-sized Bermuda lawns. The 10-inch front wheels improve maneuverability around obstacles and tight corners. The model emphasizes a scissor-like cut to minimize blade tearing and promote a healthy turf appearance. Best for homeowners who need a balance of mowing speed and control for average Bermuda layouts. A potential limitation is the need for more cutting positions with taller grass and tough weeds, which can require more passes.
- Best for medium to larger Bermuda lawns where faster mowing is helpful.
- Choose this if you want a wider deck without sacrificing maneuverability.
- Avoid this if you have ultra-lightweight storage constraints or very small plots.
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel – 18-Inch
This 18-inch deck with five blades targets efficient mowing for small to mid-sized Bermuda lawns. The height adjusts across nine positions from about 1.1 to 2.5 inches, letting you dial in a pristine cut that supports Bermuda’s low-growing habit. The smaller deck helps with grip and control on tight lawns. It’s best for homeowners who want a lighter, easy-to-push option and are willing to run multiple passes for larger areas. Limitation: the narrower deck may increase mowing time on larger yards.
- Best for small to medium Bermuda lots.
- Better for those prioritizing light weight and simple storage.
- Avoid this if you regularly mow very large lawns.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch – 7-Blade
Earthwise offers a compact, steel-reel design with seven blades and 10-inch composite wheels. This mower’s steel side plate and extra blade count are aimed at maintaining a sharp cut for Bermuda and adjacent warm-season grasses. It’s a solid choice for those who want a durable, straightforward option that can handle bent grass, Zoysia, and similar profiles as Bermuda when kept at the recommended height. Caution: the 16-inch deck may require more passes on larger lawns.
- Best for multi-grass lawns that include Bermuda.
- Better for durability and long-term edge retention.
- Avoid this if you need quick coverage on a very large yard.
LawnMaster LMRM1602 Push Reel – 16-Inch
The 16-inch deck and five blades offer a compact option with four height positions from 1 to 2.5 inches. With 10-inch front wheels, it remains easy to push and steer on Bermuda lawns with modest acreage. This model is well-suited for homeowners who want a balance of small footprint and adequate cutting width for tidy Bermudagrass edges. Limitation: fewer height settings than some larger models.
- Best for tight spaces and easy storage.
- Choose this for quick, precise scalps on smaller Bermuda sections.
- Avoid this if you routinely mow large expanses and want fewer passes.
American Lawn Mower Company 1725-16GC – 16-Inch
This 16-inch, seven-blade reel mower is designed for active lawn enthusiasts who maintain short grasses like Bermuda and similar turf types. The mower pairs a robust blade system with a durable wheel setup to optimize mowing across typical Bermuda textures. Best for users who want a traditional, no-fruel, low-maintenance mower that handles frequent trimming. Limitation: seven blades can require more regular maintenance to keep blades aligned for a clean cut.
- Best for Bermuda-type grasses in an active maintenance routine.
- Better for those who prefer a longer, shared lifespan with solid construction.
- Avoid this if you need a lighter weight option for very small yards.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Bermuda Grass Reel Mowers
- Cut width vs. yard size: Larger decks cover more ground per pass, which helps Bermuda lawns, but may be less manageable in tight spaces. Choose 16–20 inches for typical residential Bermuda yards.
- Blade count and cut quality: More blades can improve cut smoothness and edge quality for Bermuda; however, they require careful maintenance to stay aligned for a clean cut.
- Height adjustability: Bermuda grass thrives when mowed at consistent heights. Look for a range around 1–2.5 inches, with multiple fixed settings or adjustable ranges that fit your mowing schedule.
- Wheels and maneuverability: Front wheels around 8–10 inches aid navigation around borders and obstacles. Lighter models are easier to push but may require more passes on larger lawns.
- Maintenance: Reel mowers rely on blade alignment and sharpness. Consider models with simple blade access and straightforward adjustments.
- Storage and weight: If you have storage constraints or need to carry the mower, lighter models (16–18 inches) are easier to handle.
- Grass catchers: Some Bermuda setups prefer no catcher for a traditional cut, while others benefit from a catcher for cleaner mowing and easier disposal.
- Durability: Steel reels and durable wheels extend the life for frequent mowing, especially on thick Bermuda patches.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What height should I mow Bermuda grass with a reel mower?
Answer: Aim for a consistent height around 1–2.5 inches, adjusting based on growth and weather, but avoid cutting more than one-third of the leaf blade at a time. - Are reel mowers suitable for Bermuda with thatch buildup?
Answer: Yes, but thinning the thatch first or adjusting height to a slightly higher setting can help avoid clumping and improve cut quality. - Which reel mower is best for a small Bermuda lawn?
Answer: A compact 16–18 inch model with good maneuverability, such as the 16-inch or 18-inch LawnMaster units, is typically ideal for small yards. - Do I need a catcher with a Bermuda reel mower?
Answer: Not necessarily. A catcher is optional; many Bermuda mowers cut cleanly into the soil without a catcher, depending on preferences and lawn maintenance routines. - How often should I sharpen the reel blades?
Answer: Inspect blades regularly and sharpen or adjust as needed to maintain a clean, scissor-like cut; frequency depends on mowing intensity and grass conditions. - Can reel mowers handle tall Bermuda grass?
Answer: They work best when grass is kept at recommended heights; mowing tall Bermuda may require multiple passes and could reduce efficiency.