Best Lawn Mower Buyer’s Guide: Are Old Lawn Mowers Worth Anything
Yes—depending on the model and condition, some older lawn mowers hold value as reliable, low-maintenance options. This guide highlights five compact, easy-to-maneuver mowers that suit small yards and budget-friendly maintenance. The top picks emphasize reel mowers for quiet operation and push mowers for simple repairs. The buyer’s intent here is to find affordable, dependable mowers for small spaces, with lightweight construction and straightforward cutting mechanisms. Below is a quick summary table to compare the five selected products and who they’re best for.
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower | Very small lawns; quiet operation | 9 cutting positions; 18″ deck; 10″ front wheels |
| PowerSmart EasyCut 18-Inch Gas Lawn Mower | Small yards needing quick power | 144cc engine; side discharge; 5-position height |
| American Lawn Mower 1804-18 Reel Mower | Environmentally friendly, low maintenance | 18″ cutting path; 5-blade reel |
| American Lawn Mower 16-Inch Vintage Reel Mower | Nostalgia with compact width | 16″ width; 0.5″–2.5″ height range |
| Great States 415-16 Reel Mower | Lightweight, simple reel mower | 16″ width; 1″–2.5″ height; 5-blade reel |
LawnMaster LMRM1801 Push Reel Lawn Mower
The LawnMaster LMRM1801 is designed for small lawns with a scissor-like cut that avoids ripping blades. The 18-inch deck and 10-inch front wheels support easy navigation around tight spaces. With nine cutting positions from 1.1 to 2.5 inches, this model prioritizes adjustable height for different grass conditions. Best for buyers seeking a quiet, low-maintenance option that does not require fuel or spark plugs.
Best for: home gardeners with small yards who want a quiet, simple push mower and low ongoing upkeep. Choose this if you prefer a reel mower that reduces emissions and maintenance complexity. Caution: reel systems require regular manual pushing and may be less effective on very tall or thick growth without proper mowing technique.
PowerSmart EasyCut 18-Inch Gas Lawn Mower
The PowerSmart EasyCut features a 144cc 4-stroke OHV engine with an auto choke for easier starting and a primer to assist warm starts. It uses a side-discharge deck to push clippings away from the cut line, helping tackle taller or thicker grass. The 18-inch steel deck provides durability, and a five-position height adjustment helps tailor the cut for compact yards. Best for: small yards that may require occasional taller grass mowing and a straightforward gas-powered option.
Caution: As a gas mower, it requires fuel management and maintenance like oil checks and air filter care. It may be heavier than reel options and emits exhaust during operation.
American Lawn Mower 1804-18 Reel Mower
This 18-inch reel mower from American Lawn Mower Company delivers a broad cutting path with a precise, scissor-like cut. It offers adjustable cutting height from ½ inch to 2 ¾ inches, making it adaptable to different grasses and seasons. The herbivore-friendly, manual design reduces noise and maintenance. Best for: traditionalists who want a straightforward, low-maintenance reel mower with an extended cutting width.
Limitation: Manual operation means physical effort is required; not ideal for very dense or tall growth without multiple passes.
American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch Vintage Reel Mower
This vintage-style reel mower delivers a 16-inch cutting path with 0.5 to 2.5 inches height options. It uses heat-treated alloy steel blades for longevity and a durable 10-inch polymer wheel with a metal hub cap for maneuverability. Best for: hobbyists who value classic design and straightforward manual operation in small yards. Caution: narrower width may take more passes in larger patches of lawn.
Great States 415-16 Reel Lawn Mower
The Great States 415-16 offers a 16-inch cutting width with a 1″–2.5″ height range and a 5-blade ball-bearing reel. Its lightweight design, combined with 10-inch composite wheels, supports easy maneuverability in smaller lawns. Best for: buyers seeking a lightweight, straightforward reel mower with simple height adjustment and durable blade performance. Caution: slight assembly may be required, and performance depends on grass type and moisture level.
Buying Guide
What should I consider when choosing an old or inexpensive mower?
Cutting width and deck material affect mowing speed and durability. Reel mowers are quiet and low-maintenance, while gas mowers offer quick power for thicker growth. For small yards, a narrow deck width works well to navigate tight corners.
Reel vs. Gas: which is better for small yards?
Reel mowers provide quiet operation, zero emissions, and simple maintenance, making them ideal for small, well-kept lawns. Gas mowers offer more power for taller grass or uneven terrain, but require fuel and maintenance. If you prioritize ease and low costs over raw power, reel or push mowers are preferable.
Height adjustment and cutting quality
Look for adjustable cutting heights to adapt to grass type and weather. A wider range helps maintain lawn health across seasons. Ensure the height range aligns with your typical mowing conditions.
Maintenance considerations
Reel mowers require occasional blade alignment and lubrication but have fewer moving parts. Gas mowers need regular oil changes, air filter checks, and spark plug maintenance. Manual mowers avoid battery or fuel risks, but may demand more physical effort.
Safety and storage
Choose models with sturdy handles, secure blade guards, and reliable wheel stability. For storage, consider compact width and lightweight designs to fit in small sheds or closets.
Who should buy which product?
- LawnMaster LMRM1801: Best for very small lawns where quiet operation is valued.
- PowerSmart EasyCut: Better for small yards needing more power and quick starts with gas.
- American Lawn Mower 1804-18: Ideal for eco-conscious users wanting a broad cutting path with a reel system.
- American Lawn Mower 16-Inch Vintage: Great for fans of classic design and compact width.
- Great States 415-16: Suitable for light-weight, easy-to-handle mowing with adjustable height.
FAQ
- Are reel mowers worth it for small yards? Yes, they’re quiet, low-maintenance, and suitable for regular mowing on small lawns.
- Can old mowers still cut well? Many older reel models still provide clean cuts if blades are sharp and properly maintained.
- Do I need any special tools to maintain a reel mower? Basic tools for blade sharpening and lubrication are typically sufficient.
- Is a gas mower better for tall grass? Gas mowers offer more power and can handle thicker growth more readily.
- What obstacles should I consider in small yards? Look for maneuverability, deck width, and ease of storage in tight spaces.