The LawnMaster brand has made quite a splash within the lawn care scene with its innovative and eco-friendly designs. One product that really stands out is the LawnMaster LMRM1401 Push Reel Mower. Known for its simplicity yet effective operation, this manual mower is an ideal fit for anyone willing to break from tradition and take a greener approach to lawn management.
Mowing Technique
This model comes equipped with a 14-inch cutting width and weighs just 11.54 kilograms, making it super easy to maneuver and ideal for small spaces. You can adjust the blade height with four positions between 1 and 2 inches. This customization lets you select the perfect cut height for a nice, even lawn, improving the health and appearance of your grass.
Scissor-Like Cutting
One of the key features of this mower is its scissor-like cutting mechanism. Unlike traditional mowers that rip grass blades, which can stress and damage the grass, the LawnMaster ensures a clean cut. This precise action helps maintain a healthier, lush lawn. Many folks appreciate that the mower doesn't need gas or batteries, trimming the hassle of maintenance and unwanted emissions.
Budget-Friendly Price
Affordability is a big win here too. With a budget-friendly price range between $60 and $75, it makes a solid option for those seeking cost-effective yet reliable lawn care tools. When stacked against similar products, it holds its ground with a blend of functionality and budget-conscious pricing, making it a choice worth considering.
Advantages of the LawnMaster LMRM1401 - The Eco-Friendly Choice
Choosing the LawnMaster LMRM1401 is not just about trimming grass; it's about doing it sustainably. The mower operates without a motor, eliminating the need for gas or electricity. This not only means fewer emissions but also helps reduce noise pollution, making lawn care a more peaceful, environment-friendly task.
Grass Height Expectations
One big perk is its adjustable cutting height, offering flexibility to garden enthusiasts who want to personalize their lawn's look. Whether you're aiming for a closer shave or a bit more length, this feature lets you set the mower to your desired standard with ease. The scissor-like blade action further supports this by delivering clean, precise cuts that enhance lawn health.
Easy Handling
Manoeuvrability couldn't be simpler. Weighing just over 11 kilograms, this mower is a breeze to push around, particularly in small spaces where larger, motorized mowers can be a hassle. Customers often highlight how easy it is to handle and assemble. Some even find using it turns a mundane chore into quite a fun activity, all while getting a bit of a workout in the process.
Low Maintenance Lawn Care
Ultimately, this mower checks a lot of boxes for those aiming to pair convenience with ecological responsibility. Its design encourages low-maintenance lawn care without compromising on effectiveness. If you're looking to maintain aesthetics without the fuss or fumes, the LawnMaster LMRM1401 definitely has its advantages.
Addressing the Challenges - User Feedback and Recommendations
While the LawnMaster LMRM1401 offers many benefits, it's important to weigh its drawbacks too. Some users including ourselves have noted that cutting tall, thick grass can be challenging. When dealing with tougher patches, maintaining momentum and adjusting the mowing technique might be necessary to achieve better results.
Assembly is mostly straightforward, but having an extra pair of hands for the final steps can make the process smoother. This tip is particularly useful for those who might find the package a bit unwieldy upon delivery due to its weight.
Squeaking Sounds
There are mentions of squeaking sounds emerging after some use, especially if the mower is frequently driven on concrete. Regular checks and oiling of moving parts can help keep the squeaks at bay. Being a manual mower, it's crucial to keep the blades in excellent condition to maximize performance.
Design, Cut and Handling
The 14‑inch, 5‑blade stainless steel reel gives the old scissor‑type cutting action. LawnMaster's own website points out that this kind of cut is cleaner, healthier, and does not rip individual blades of grass ideal for reducing disease and promoting regrowth. The footprint and 10″ front wheels of the mower place it well for narrow spaces and edging around obstructions, but it doesn't get too unwieldy at 22 lb.
Users say it's surprisingly agile, people describe its easy lift and storage after use, and the ability to push one-handed if preferred.
Pros to Note
Owners say it's easy to put together—even without a helper—and note maintenance is minimal: no petrol, no spark plugs, just occasional blade cleaning and oiling. Its motorless operation means it's quiet and fume-free, with people saying it's "peaceful" and even "therapeutic".
Fitness‑minded consumers appreciate that it gives them a simple but genuine exercise—engaging core and leg muscles in mowing, without exerting stress on the back. In the words of one reviewer, there is no ear‑splitting engine noise—it "doesn't wake the neighbors," and gives them a chance to bond with nature.
With its modest price range of around $60–80, those who believe in simplicity and eco‑friendly machinery claim it's "worth it for the price."
Cons to Note
But some cons arise from time to time. Reel mowers are sensitive to lawn condition: twigs, branches, pebbles can jam the blades in an instant and require stopping to clear. Winter leaves or other debris need to be removed before mowing, another step of preparation
Tall grass (greater than 4″) covers the reel; experts suggest mowing every week or fortnight and regularly overlapping a second pass at a higher cutting height. This need to stay on top of lawn care is contrasted with powered mowers, which are more forgiving.
Recurring theme we find: "constant sharpening" is required or blades become dull; but professional sharpening is reported to be expensive and self-sharpening kits are time-consuming and patience-dependent
Physical activity is steady but moderate, others refer to it as "not hard, but definitely work," sort of like vacuuming continuously. It also points out potholes any depression or drop can produce wheel hopping or skipped spots.
Best For & Not So Good For
It is suited best for small, flat, well-manicured lawns for someone who likes quiet, clean equipment and isn't afraid of physical contact. You're ideal if you mow frequently, have nice clean edges, and rake cleanly first.
It's not the mower for large, sloping, litter-filled lots, long neglected grass, or anyone who must finish the job in one pass. If you require a highly manicured striped lawn such as found at golf courses or an effortless, high-output alternative—don't anticipate finding this manual mower to be very cooperative.
Maintenance & Tips
Maintenance is average so sharpen blades every one to two years. Customers say a backlapping kit is an acceptable do-it-yourself choice, but professional sharpening will cost nearly as much as the original mower. Remove wet clippings after each use and store it in a dry location to prevent rust. Tipping the mower or shaking the mower for clippings is a breeze; most just leave them on the lawn to compost naturally or attach a rear bag if desired.
Assembly will sometimes require two people in the final step of securing frames, a small reminder to have available with assembly.
Who It Is For
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 reel mower is best for those who have small to medium lawns that are relatively level and well manicured. It will work best for homeowners who enjoy quiet, eco-friendly equipment and do not mind a bit of elbow grease to keep their grass healthy. If you enjoy doing things yourself, like working outdoors, and want a simple, low-maintenance mower that doesn't require petrol or electricity, this is a good choice. It's also a good choice for those who like to maintain the lawn regularly as part of the routine, especially if you're trying to break away from the noise, odors, and upkeep that comes with power mowers.
Who It Is Not For
This mower is not well-suited for people with large, uneven, or debris-strewn lawns, or for those who want a quick, no-effort mow. If your grass tends to grow long before cutting, or if your lawn has lots of sticks, holes, or steep patches, you’ll likely find the mower frustrating to use. It’s also not ideal for those with limited physical mobility or people expecting a machine that gives precise, striped finishes. And if you’re looking for a plug-and-play tool that needs no regular sharpening or maintenance, a powered or self-sharpening mower might be a better option.
Pros in Summary…
1, Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to manoeuvre and carry, even for smaller users.
2, No petrol, electricity, or cables required—just lift it and mow.
3, Very quiet compared to electric mowers, making it possible to use early morning or evening without disturbing neighbours.
4, Green friendly—no emissions and no reliance on batteries or fossil fuels.
5, Five-blade reel makes a clean scissor-type cut that's better for the grass and will make your grass green, lush, and healthy in the long run.
6, Adjustable height on four levels to accommodate more flexibility according to lawn type and season.
7, Low maintenance overall—no oil, filters, spark plugs, or engine servicing required.
8, Simple and quick to assemble, with most users completing installation within 20 minutes.
9, Heavy-duty steel blades feel and sound solid and dependable; some users say no sharpening is needed after repeated use.
10, Small enough to store in sheds, garages, or even closets without taking much space.
11, Encourages regular mowing spurts, which promote healthier lawns and stop weeds from sprouting.
12, Provides a light cardio workout and muscle engagement, especially for the core, glutes, and arms.
13, Less expensive than most powered mowers, especially considering long-term fuel or battery costs.
14, No electrical shock risk, overheating, or engine failure—smoothing and simple to use every time.
15, Increases your sensitivity to the health of your lawn—users report that they feel more engaged in lawn care following the use of a reel mower.
16, Leaves the clippings on the lawn, which can act as a natural fertiliser for the ground if mulching is desired.
17, It is said to be enjoyable and even therapeutic to use by people who detest the noise and nuisance of equipment.
18, Gives some independence from the hassle of having to deal with landscapers or maintenance people.
19, Does not require earplugs or protective gear.
20, Easier to maintain than gas-powered mowers—no engine housing or oil in which debris and clippings will become lodged. Also does a good job along garden perimeters, edges, and tight small spaces where large mowers are cumbersome.
Cons in Summary…
1, Lacks a blade cover or storage case, so extra caution must be used to properly store it and avoid rusting.
2, Blades may squeak or generate friction as time goes by if not kept clean and lubricated regularly.
3, Struggles to cut tough grass or weeds—needs to be mowed frequently to remain effective.
4, Prone to jamming with branches, small sticks, seed pods, pinecones, or fruit pits, which disrupts your mowing rhythm.
5, Requires a clean, debris-free lawn—often needs pre-clearing with a rake or leaf blower.
6, Cutting effectiveness is impaired by uneven ground or hole-pocked lawns where wheels lose traction.
7, Needs to be pushed steadily with steady speed—pushing too hard or too fast makes it skip or stall.
8, Limited cutting width (14 inches), so more passes must be made to cut medium-sized lawns.
9, No grass catcher included, so clippings will remain on the lawn unless raked up afterward.
10, Doesn't give that "perfectly striped" look that some powered rotary mowers can achieve.
11, Not ideal for people who have back issues, limited mobility, or weaker upper-body strength.
12, Needs occasional sharpening—either professionally (expensive) or manually with a sharpening kit.
13, Instructions for assembly are minimal and not very novice-friendly; some users recommend viewing a video to help.
14, Taller grass can jam up the blades, requiring frequent stops to remove clumps.
15, Poor on wet grass or muddy ground.
16, Blades will not cut quite as short—this is deliberate to ensure a healthy lawn but will disappoint those after a close finish look.
17, Some users feel that the wheels and frame of this lawn mower are less durable than more expensive models like Fiskars or Scotts.
18, Lacks ergonomic features like padded handles or shock absorbers, which can cause weary hands during long use.
19, Not good for those who prefer a quick, low-strength mow - this is a manual implement requiring time and serious effort.
20, Demands more physical effort on your part that expends more calories which is actually a good thing, right?
Overall Verdict
The LawnMaster LMRM1401 embodies everything that’s appealing about reel mowers, clean cutting, eco‑friendly, minimal maintenance, quiet and compact. Build quality feels solid, and the 4‑position cutting height suits typical mowing needs between 1″–2″
But it remains a manual mower: unpredictable lawn debris, periodic sharpening, effort‑required operation and the need to mow often. If your yard is small, tidy, and you enjoy a bit of hands‑on care, this unit delivers value and simplicity. For larger, irregular, or low‑maintenance yards, a powered rotary or battery mower may be a better match.
Final Thoughts
If your priority is a low‑emission, quiet, healthy cut on a small lawn, and you're fine with light manual effort and periodic sharpening, the LawnMaster LMRM1401 is an excellent, budget‑friendly choice. But if frequent blade maintenance, yard debris, or physical exertion are dealbreakers, consider self‑sharpening models or even electric alternatives.
Balance Your Expectations
Cost-wise, opinions seem to differ. Some customers find the mower to be good value for the price, appreciating its low-maintenance nature. Others, however, feel it underdelivers. Balancing expectations with your lawn's specific needs and size will help in deciding if this mower is right for you.
Overall, with a mix of thoughtful maintenance and realistic expectations about its capabilities, the LawnMaster LMRM1401 can serve as an effective tool for anyone looking to embrace a manual, eco-conscious approach to lawn care. That being said, having a Cordless electric lawn mower in the background as a back up for difficult mowing conditions when they arise would be recommended...
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