Push Reel Mowers: The Earthwise 1715-16EW and Eco-Friendly Lawn Care
For those seeking a quiet, emission-free alternative to gas mowers, the Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Push Reel Lawn Mower offers a manual approach to grass cutting. This guide helps you understand what to look for in a reel mower, from blade count to cutting height, and how the Earthwise model fits into the broader category of walk-behind mowers.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Blade count and cutting performance: The Earthwise 1715-16EW features seven blades, which is higher than the standard five-blade reel mowers. More blades generally mean a finer cut, making this mower suitable for Bermuda or fescue lawns if kept at a consistent height.
- Cutting width and maneuverability: With a 16-inch cutting width, this mower is ideal for small to medium-sized lawns under 5,000 square feet. A narrower width allows for easier navigation around flower beds and tight corners, but may require more passes on larger areas.
- Maintenance and assembly: As a manual push reel mower, the Earthwise requires no fuel or oil, but the blades need periodic sharpening and the reel must be adjusted for proper contact with the bed knife. Assembly is typically straightforward, but some users report needing to fine-tune the blade gap for optimal performance.
What Our Analysts Recommend
When evaluating a reel mower like the Earthwise 1715-16EW, examine the blade material—hardened steel is more durable—and the cutting height adjustment range, which should offer at least three settings. Also, check the wheel size; larger wheels (10 inches or more) roll more easily over uneven terrain and reduce user effort.
Walk-Behind Lawn Mowers Market Context
Market Overview
The walk-behind lawn mower market has seen a resurgence in manual push reel mowers, driven by eco-conscious consumers and those seeking quieter operation. While gas-powered and battery-electric models dominate sales, reel mowers like the Earthwise appeal to homeowners with small, flat lawns who prioritize zero emissions and low maintenance.
Common Issues
A frequent complaint with push reel mowers is their inability to handle tall or thick grass, often requiring multiple passes or a pre-cut with a string trimmer. Additionally, improper blade alignment can lead to tearing rather than clean cutting, and some users struggle with the physical effort required on slopes or uneven ground.
Quality Indicators
High-quality reel mowers feature precision-ground steel blades, sealed bearings for smooth wheel rotation, and a corrosion-resistant frame. The Earthwise 1715-16EW's 7-blade design and adjustable cutting height from 1/2 to 2 inches are positive signs, but check for consistent blade engagement across the entire reel.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade B Interpretation
The Earthwise 1715-16EW received a Review Authenticity Grade of B, indicating that approximately 10% of its 1,765 reviews may be suspicious. This is a relatively low rate for a product with over a thousand reviews, suggesting most feedback is legitimate, but caution is warranted when reading highly positive or vague entries.
Trust Recommendation
Given the Grade B rating, you can generally trust the average 4.56-star rating, but the adjusted rating of 4.30 provides a more conservative estimate. Focus on reviews with verified purchase badges and detailed descriptions of the mower's performance on specific grass types, as these are likely genuine.
Tips for Reading Reviews
For this reel mower, prioritize reviews that mention cutting height adjustments, blade sharpness, and assembly challenges. Be skeptical of one-line raves or complaints about durability without specifics, as these are common in fake reviews. Also, look for photos of the mower in use to confirm authenticity.
Expert Perspective
The Earthwise 1715-16EW stands out in the push reel mower category due to its 7-blade design, which offers a finer cut than typical 5-blade models, and its affordable price point. With a 4.30 adjusted rating from over 1,700 reviews, it appears to be a reliable choice for small, flat lawns, though the 16-inch width may not suit larger properties. The Grade B authenticity rating suggests the majority of positive feedback is genuine, making it a safe bet for eco-conscious homeowners.
Purchase Considerations
Consider this mower if you have a lawn under 5,000 square feet, prefer a manual workout to mowing, and want to avoid gas or battery maintenance. However, if your grass often grows tall or your yard has steep slopes, you may struggle with the Earthwise and might benefit from a powered alternative.
Comparing Alternatives
Shoppers should compare the Earthwise 1715-16EW with similar reel mowers like the Great States 515-14 or the Gardena 3800, which offer different blade counts and cutting widths, to find the best fit for their lawn size and grass type.
