Reel Mowers vs. Rotary Mowers

Reel mowers have curved blades that produce a cutting action alongside a stationary steel plate.  The blades form a spiral around the reel axis, and as they spin, the spiral of blades forces grass past the stationary plate.  Reel mowers leave behind clean-cut grass, as if the grass had been cut with sharp scissors.  Unlike the cutting action of scissors, however, it is not necessary for the blades of the spinning reel to contact the stationary plate.  A clean cut is still possible if the gap between the blades and the plate of the rotary mower is less than the thickness of the grass.

Rotary mowers, typically powered by gas or electric engines, cut with a single horizontal blade revolving at high speed.  As it travels under a rotary blade, grass is torn and its edges are frayed.  Consequently, grass blades are often left jagged as a result of rotary mowing.  Grass with jagged edges will have a more difficult time healing from mowing and is more susceptible to disease and moisture loss.

Reel mowers are widely recognized as the best choice for a healthy, clean-cut lawn.