Lawn mower vacuum blade. 5 Best High Lift Mower Blades – 2023 Reviews

Best 21 Inch Mulching Blade 2023

Getting your lawn rake every day gets laborious or cutting grass with uneven cuts is quite frustrating. That’s where you switch from regular to mulching blades so you can make your lawn cleaner, greener and smoother. Many mowers that people own require a 21 inch mulching blade as it fits right.

Finding the best 21 inch mulching blade for your mower merely depends on the right choice and overall compatibility. The right choice means you are not choosing any low-quality material, and compatibility means what mulching blade will be best for your mower?

• Best 21 Inch Mulching Blade

• Maxpower 331981B, Universal 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade
• Longer Life 596-900, Gator Fusion G5, 21 Inch Mulching Blade
• Oregon 598-631 Mulching Blade, Gator G5, 21″
• Maxpower 331528B Mulching Blade for 21 Inch Cut
• Maxpower 331737B Mulching Blade for 21 Inch Cut
• Maxpower 331387XB, 21-inch Commercial Mulching Blade
• MTD Genuine Parts 942-0741A, 21-Inch Mulching Blade

To choose the best, I would recommend buying a mulching blade that has teeth on it or a cutting edge that is curved enough to create a vacuum under the deck. Keeping in mind all the buying factors which I have mentioned at last, here are some noteworthy mentions you can choose from:

Best 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade

Maxpower 331981B, Universal 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade

As the name indicates, it is a universal blade that can fit many mowers, including Husqvarna, John Deere, Troybilt, Craftsman, and MTD.

The best thing I observed about these blades is their lightweight 2 pounds only, which is comparatively less than other mulching blades. A lightweight profile helps the mower to rotate the blade fast and whip the grass into pieces.

Additionally, this blade has a greater cutting surface which means the sharp cutting teeth are extended in a way to produce the qualitative fertilizer called mulch.

It has a centrifugal airlift design which means the cutting edges are curved so that they produce suction, just like a vacuum pump. It means the suction will hold the grass up, and the rotating blade will hit it in the middle to cut it into small clippings.

You can observe the design in the picture below:

With a central hole of 1-inch and reducing washers that come with the blade, mounting this blade is damn easy.

• Universally fit
• Lightweight, which means it offers less wears and tears of engine
• Curvy angle in their body which means more even cut
• Help in mowing smooth and fast
• Easy adjustment on the deck of the mower

Summary

This 21-inch mulching blade is a lightweight, sharp, easily installable, and durable blade. If you sum up all these features and finally decide to buy it for your mower, you won’t regret it.

Longer Life 596-900, Gator Fusion G5, 21 Inch Mulching Blade

Thanks to the Oregon brand that manufactured this kind of Gator mulching blades. G5 21 inch series by Gator is better than the G3 as they are upgraded versions and offer better performance.

“That’s where you enjoy mulching your lawn”

In the light of mulching, the main thing to observe about these blades is the angle of their sharp serrated teethes.

It has inclined teethes that cut and throw the grass towards the cutting edge repeatedly, which means grass clippings are chopped into smaller, smaller, and smaller pieces.

You can observe its design below:

By the same token, its design keeps the grass clippings within the cutting circle of a rotating mulching blade. This way, a very fine mulch produces which is ready to serve the lawn.

Equally important thing about this blade is that it’s an upgrade, not a replacement. It means it enhances the functionality of your mower because you can use it lifting grass high and mulching it simultaneously.

The cutting edge of this blade is made with tungsten carbide material which means the cutting edge is hard enough to retain its sharpness over many passes.

• Better than G3 mulching blade
• The cutting edge is made with carbide material means no more dullness of the blade
• Produce smaller and fine mulch
• Long-lasting material
• No need to bag the grass after using this blade
• Shiny and sharpest lawn mower blade

Summary

To conclude, these mulching blades are better than the G3 series that most experts wrongly suggest as they don’t know about these upgraded versions of blades. These blades are shiner, sharper, durable, upgrader, and above all, the best mulcher.

Oregon 598-631 Mulching Blade, Gator G5, 21″

This blade is another great choice that comes after the G5 mulching blade mentioned above and is one of the sharpest lawn mower blades.

The main thing that differentiates this blade from the G5, as mentioned above, is its central bow-tie hole, which indicates that these blades are made after keeping the compatibility factor in mind.

These blades are also comparatively lighter than above. And it doesn’t consume too much power from the engine.

It bears the same features as other Gator G5 mulching blades: durability, thickness, mulchness, and great sharpness.

These blades completely follow the working mechanism that a mulching blade should follow.

The cutting angle of its flaps is very aggressive, which you can observe.

Additionally, these blades are so thick that they can mow hard things on their way, and if you hit it with some stone, they won’t break.

However, it’s a good practice, so look if a stone or rigid object lies on the ground.

Note to mention; these are wider blades which sync with the curvy design to suck up grass and mulch it into fine pieces.

The one downside is that it works close to the ground, which will scalp your lawn and cut the grass to a much smaller height. Cutting the grass to the low ground height will kill it.

To solve this problem, it’s always a good practice to change mower settings too high, so they cut the grass at the desired length.

• Wider and curvy designed to suck grass fast
• Universal blade for Cub Cadet
• Comparatively, a light Gator blade
• It doesn’t bend when it hits the hard objects
• Shiny, sharp, durable, and heavy-duty blade
• The mower needs height adjustments after installing this blade to work on certain kinds of grasses

Summary

Lastly, if you want a single mulching blade instead of buying a set of two, 21 inch Oregon 598-631 is the right choice. Compared with other Gator blades, it is lightweight. So, you can choose it for your mower, especially for Cub Cadet. Check in the manual for the blade replacement number to find compatibility and make your final decision.

Maxpower 331528B Mulching Blade for 21 Inch Cut

Maxpower 33158B mulching blade is one of the best mulching blades for walk behind mowers. As it is very easy to install and comes with a perfect mounting hole that holds tight on the mower’s shaft.

It doesn’t have any serrated teeth, but it has a curve in its body at an angle of 45 degrees. Which means it will lift the grass and cut it perfectly.

It’s painted well which means it doesn’t dull over time without rusting.

Installing on your mower this blade offers perfect balance and passes the wobble test. Wobble test means it doesn’t shake or produce unusual sound after fitting.

It is so perfect to fit that you won’t need to look at your mower’s shaft like if your previous blade has a point-star hole or bow tie.

Having a close match with the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) blades, it has persistent sharpness that lasts many seasons.

• Sharp
• Rust-proof
• Close to OEM blade
• Best for walk behind mowers
• Easy installations and fits well

Summary

To conclude, it will fit any kind of spindle either it is bow-tie or pointed-star type. If you are using a push mower at home and want some usual but quality mulching, this blade will give you that.

Maxpower 331737B Mulching Blade for 21 Inch Cut

It’s an upgraded version of Maxpower 331528B as mentioned above but both blades hold their own place in the market which totally depends on user rating.

The classy thing about this blade is its universality as it fits many brands.

It is the perfect mulcher for your push mower that mulches great, is easy to install, and comes with perfect cutting edge.

Not to mention, this blade needs a bit of sharpening. Anyhow, it would take you a few minutes to sharp it with any hand sharpener like Acuusharp, GardenSharp sharpener.

Another thing about this blade is its perfect balance which you can check by mount it on some sharp object from the middle.

• Mostly compatible with many 21 inch mowers
• Close to OEM blade
• Best for walk behind mowers
• Easy installations and fits well
• Perfect balance

Summary

Lastly, I would say, to get the best out of it install them the right way. Made in the USA, this blade is manufactured to fit many mowers and comes at a much reasonable price. So, if you have hit your mower with something hard, bending your blade, then give this blade a try for relpacement.

Maxpower 331387XB, 21-inch Commercial Mulching Blade

Maxpower 331387XB is the giant cutter for thick grass. Whether moving at an angle or low, it will always give you an even and satisfying cut on your lawn.

Focusing on its performance:

“No more clumping, fine mulch, and easy fitment what you need then?“

It has thick paint on the edge, which will be worn out easily, so when you install them, don’t remove paint manually if you aren’t an expert.

Regarding cut quality, it has good airflow; your deck must be in good shape and closed. I mean, that’s where they will create the vacuum and do mulching.

When installing these blades, it’s better to adjust their balance on the mower shaft correctly, or you will run into unwanted mower vibrations and noise.

It will work smoothly, consuming less RPMs once it is perfectly balanced and tight on the shaft.

• Works on thick grass like Bermuda
• Long-lasting and heavy-duty blade
• Lessen the mower clumping
• Easy fitment

Summary

As shown above, these blades fit easily and replace major OEM numbers. So, if your main goal is to mow thick grass and follow happy mulching, it would be the right choice.

MTD Genuine Parts 942-0741A, 21-Inch Mulching Blade

Last but not least istheMTD Genuine Parts 942-0741A, 21-Inch Mulching Blade.

The MTD manufacturer is the leader in the design and manufacturing of outdoor lawn equipment. Having said that, let’s get into the performance of this mulching blade.

It has the perfect weight, width, and length, making it the best fit for your push or self-propelled mower.

The best thing to mention here is its perfect replacement as it matches the dimension of your original lawnmower blade.

It already comes in sharp; you don’t need to sharp it right after purchase.

Make sure to install it the right way. The way to install it is to keep the cutting edge towards the ground.

It has the same dimensions as that of the original blade, it is very easy to install a mulching blade.

Additionally, the blade is not dull; that’s the main feature any landscaper wants, right?

• It has a thick coating of paint that prevents it from rusting
• Perfect dimensions to fit 21 inch mowers
• Just like your original mower blade, a good replacer
• High grade and sharp material

Summary

Generally speaking, if you’re looking for an exact replacements blade and you want a new blade to be a mulching blade, try this one as it is dimensionally precise as your standard mower blade.

Best High Lift Mower Blades – 2023 Reviews!

The beautiful lawn is a result of long and dedicated work. However, to achieve this, you require suitable blades to cut your lawn efficiently and smoothly while keeping it healthy.

Improper cutting weakens the lawn and exposes it to harmful pests and diseases. Therefore, you need the best high lift mower blades for your lawn mower.

They have a factory sharp steel blade that provides excellent cutting performance and leaves the lawn excellent looking. These models are made of high-quality steel material that makes them durable and long-lasting. Thanks to the excellent coating, they are resistant to rust and corrosion.

You can enjoy the excellent service from the customer care before replacing them. Likewise, these best high lift mower blades have extra standards and quality, making them highly reliable and completely safe to guarantee high performance.

The blades have different mounting holes, which are hassle-free and work with most modern lawn mowers. Besides, they come with the factory sharpening, so you will use them once you receive them.

Therefore, don’t waste time or effort if you want the best models, but consider the best high lift mower blades.

• Types of mower blades
• Factors to Consider When Buying the Best High Lift Mower Blades
• 5 Best High Lift Mower Blades
• 1. EGO Power 21-Inch AB2101 High Lift Mower Blade
• 2. EGO Power High Lift AB2102D 21-Inch Mower Blade
• 3. Maxpower 561144B 48-inch High Lift Blade
• 4. MTD Genuine Parts 46-Inch 2-in-1 490-110-M116 High Lift Blade
• 5. Stens 302-720 Exmark Streak Toothed 116-5499-S High Lift Blade
• How to clean the high lift mower blade
• Conclusion

Types of mower blades

Low lift

The low lift mower blades are ideal for mowing a typical front and back garden and small lawn mowers, which work in less space. Remarkably, they are suitable for mowing residential lawns instead of weeds.

Additionally, the low lift mower blades require little maintenance and perform well with occasional use. Besides, these mower blades do not use as much energy or gas as other blades because they do not weigh much or spin very fast.

Medium lift

These blades are larger and are fit for cutting thicker lawns and some finer weeds. Thanks to their versatility, you can use the medium lift mowing blades for residential and commercial work. Also,

this versatility makes them easier to find. You can find these tools in many stores, either in person or online. Also, they are great if you have not mowed your lawn in a long time but don’t want to do too much damage to the ground or grass.

High lift

The high lift mower blades are ideal for cutting tons of grass. They can remove large amounts of grass and weeds much faster than other types of lawn mower blades.

Also, they can last much longer because they are usually made from more durable materials that can withstand severe punishments.

Understandably, they need more electrical or gasoline power to run, but they can sometimes use less power because they do the mowing jobs in less time when compared to other types of mower blades. High lift models are ideal for commercial mowing.

Mulching

Mulching mower blades are essential for composting cut lawn and trimming it t a finer. The grass is then thrown into the yard or outdoors for fertilizer. Typically, this can be useful when using the same soil or want to help it grow faster.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best High Lift Mower Blades

Blade length

The length of the mower blades directly impacts the model you choose and how much lawn they can mow at once. Longer high lift mower blades are ideal for larger tools and can cut yards quickly but are more challenging to use in constricted spaces.

Shorter blades are ideal for smaller mowers and are easier to control but take longer to cut the same area.

Typically, it is good to find replacement high lift mower blades that have th same length as the original blades, which came with the initial purchase. This will ensure that the blades fit the machine regardless of the model or make.

Blade width

Another thing to consider when buying the best high lift mower blades is the blade width. The typical blade width is between 2.25 and 3.5 inches.

An extensive blade may not fit it or can damage the mower. Even a blade that’s too shallow can’t help you mower better. Select the proposed size in the mower manual.

Deck size

The deck size is an important factor when buying the high lift mower blades. This falls around 16 or 30 inches, but a little longer is better. But again, just like the width, you need to check the fit. If you have a riding lawn mower, it is best to choose the size.

Blade holes

The blade holes refer to the locking holes that fit into the opening. Many models have a 5-point opening, while others have a 6-point opening.

Choose different blades with various holes based on the model and type of mower you’re using. Essentially, this information is mentioned in a product manual for your lawnmower. Make sure to choose something that perfectly fits the holes and the lawn mower.

Greenworks Mower High Lift Blade Test

Blade shape

When buying the best high lift mower blades, you need to consider the blade shape. When buying a replacement blade set, we tend to replace the exact type of blade that we had before.

You don’t have to buy blades, which look exactly like the originals. All you have to do is check if the initial blades are perpendicular or parallel in shape. So, you are required to buy the model that matches the current shape of the blade. It is ultimate but not mandatory.

Building material

Building material is important when buying the best high lift mower blades. This is important because it can also determine the life of the mower.

Think of building materials as an investment, and you will be lured to choose a durable building material. The stainless steel material is the most famous building material because that provides a sharp and brilliant cut in the grass without quickly rusting. Good surface painting is preferable.

Best High Lift Mower Blades

EGO Power 21-Inch AB2101 High Lift Mower Blade

If you are looking for the best high lift mower blades designed for use, then go for this model from EGO Power.

For one thing, it comes with the factory sharpened steel material that can ensure excellent cutting performance. The most important thing is that it delivers a clean cut that helps to promote lawn health.

It is the phenomenal choice for larger machines and high-powered lawn mowers that collect more grass into heavy-duty bags.

Typically, this blade is designed with lawn mowers, which collect the clippings into the bag. It needs to be sharpened every time, but it delivers the outstandingly clean cut, making the yard’s overgrowth short work.

Similarly, it comes with a sloping arc on both of the arms. This makes the lawn mower blade efficiently collect grass trimmings and throw them into a bag reliably.

Equally important, it has a circular mounting hole, which helps it work with many modern lawn mowers, particularly if you have particular fitting washers to change the size of a hole.

• Promote lawn health
• It ensures compatibility and quality
• Long-lasting and heavy-duty
• Excellent cutting performance
• It is durable
• Deliver a clean cut
• Great suction power
• Easy to install

EGO Power High Lift AB2102D 21-Inch Mower Blade

EGO Power has developed a high lift mower blade that promotes lawn health and delivers a clean cut.

It is used in combination with an EGO upper blade that helps to enhance the cutting performance for every type of grass. In all honesty, it works as a solution for replacing the premium gas lawn mower for good.

Besides, it is ideal if you want additional suction fit for bagging, leaving the yard free from grass clippings.

In the same case, this steel blade is precisely designed for every EGO POWER 21-inch select cut lawn mowers. This improves the cutting efficiency of the lawn mower and helps promote the lawn’s health.

Furthermore, the blade has a heavy-duty material that can turn grass into very fine fragments. The model is durable, solid, and is factory sharpened, which means it is set to start mowing grass once it is out of a box.

What is more, it comes with a high-lift design that provides good clearance while mowing through the thick grass.

• Interchangeable lower blade
• Excellent cutting performance
• It is heavy-duty
• It offers the highest performance, quality, and value
• Promotes the lawn health
• Solid and durable
• It has a high-lift design
• Delivers a nice clean
• High quality
• Offer a good clearance with a thick grass
• Maximizes bagging efficiency and cutting
• Easy to install
• The suction adds more power

Maxpower 561144B 48-inch High Lift Blade

The Maxpower model comes with three high lift blades 48 inches cut. Notably, it is well manufactured to exceed or meet all OEM specifications.

You need to check the owner’s manual to confirm that the blade OEM number being replaced matches one of the OEM numbers offered for this item. Each blade measures 2-1/2 inch W and 16-1/2 inch L with a center hole diameter of 15/16 inches.

It is long enough, which makes it ideal among the high lift mowing blades for large to medium-sized lawnmowers.

In the same case, the teeth are strong enough to turn thicker and harder weeds into an excellent fertilizer. On the other hand, the blade has sturdy and long-lasting steel material to make it durable.

Additionally, it has a paint finish, which prevents it from accumulating damage and corrosion. In a like manner, it is sharp enough to do the work of cutting tougher and thicker turf perfectly, but you will be required to do sharpening and frequently honing because the edge wears down quickly.

Also, it is affordable, and you can use it like another expensive model to get a Smart shape to the yard effortlessly.

• Sturdy and long-lasting
• It is resistant to corrosion
• It prevents accumulating of damage
• It has the mounting holes
• Cut tougher and thicker turf wonderfully
• It is heavy duty
• Easy to install
• It is durable
• It cut clean
• Has the right size

MTD Genuine Parts 46-Inch 2-in-1 490-110-M116 High Lift Blade

Many people are going for the best high lift mower blades from MTD Genuine Parts because they can fit 46-inch garden and lawn tractors.

You can use it for Huskee, troy-built, MTD, yard-man, yard machines, and Bolens. In all honesty, it comes in a set of three blades. Each blade measures 21 inches long by 2-1/2 inches wide with a hole center of a five-point star.

Furthermore, it works great by cutting grass that can then be used to make natural fertilizer for the lawn and give the lawn a perfect green look.

It is recommended not to expose the model to obstacles to prevent damage. In the same case, this blade is excellent for high-intensity jobs by being sturdier and heavier than most models.

Thanks to the five star-shaped point center hole, it makes it easy to install. importantly, it is compatible with many lawn mowers, making it the best choice when replacing the mower blades on older machines. Overall, it’s a sharp and excellent mowing blade, affordable for anybody to buy.

• Easy to install
• Great and sharp
• Compatible with other lawn mowers
• It is affordable
• Tough and solid
• High-intensity performance
• It is affordable
• It has a high precision level
• It is durable
• Suction is effective
• It looks good

Stens 302-720 Exmark Streak Toothed 116-5499-S High Lift Blade

The Stens model is the professional-grade high lift blade, making it a popular option among lawn care homeowners and professionals who need a beautifully manicured yard.

For instance, it creates enhanced suction that can pull the grass blades upwards, reading to a cleaner and more uniform cut. In like manner, it has a 25 percent thicker profile compared to the standard blades.

Similarly, these best high light blades have a higher lift capacity of 40% compared to other toothed blades. There is the enhanced clippings discharge that helps to nourish the lawn.

On the other hand, the teeth have a unique angle, which pulls clippings and grass inward towards the cutting edges, reducing clippings into fine pieces.

Furthermore, the blade is sharp and durable and promises a smooth cut and maximum efficiency.

This helps you cover the entire lawn very fast while maintaining a precise and smooth cut in the entire lifespan of the high lift mower blade. It requires minimal maintenance to maintain the high performance for a long.

• Sharp and durable
• It maintains a precise and smooth cut
• Require minimal maintenance
• It is heavy duty
• Help to nourish the lawn
• It gives a cleaner and more uniform cut
• It reduces clippings
• Easy to use
• It gives a beautifully manicured yard

How to clean the high lift mower blade

Regular cleaning of the mower blades can assist in keeping the mower fun for long, reduce the need for intensive and regular maintenance, and extend the life of the mower blades. Also, a clean blade can assist in keeping the grass healthy and growing well.

First, tilt the blade backward instead of sideways to avoid oil leaks and ensure it is firmly helped so that the mower does not fall over during maintenance. Remove the plug of the spark. This is to reduce the risk of injury and sparks when cleaning the mower blade and ensure safety.

Spray the blade and the housing with the hose to remove the residue of the crusted grass and make manual cleaning as easy as possible.

The more pressure the hose can generate, the easier it will be to remove most of the remains from the mower housing and the blade. Brush off all stubborn residue using the stiff wire brush and prepare to eliminate the blade from the housing.

Remove the nut with a socket wrench and lift the blade from the housing. Clean both sides of the blade and cover with a thin vegetable oil layer to prevent other debris from sticking to the high lift mower blade in the future. Then change it, tighten the nut, replace a spark plug, and you are ready to cut again.

Conclusion

The best high lift mower blades are designed for high performance, clean cut, and long life. In the same case, they are sturdy and robust to withstand big obstacles when cutting. They have a different shape-pointed hole, which makes installation easy.

Likewise, they are long to offer a large cutting area that increases cutting efficiency and speed, so you can cover a large area of ​​grass quickly without compromising on cut level. This means you need to go for the above products and not regret it.

EGO Power 21-Inch AB2101 High Lift Mower Blade is the best-selling product in the market because it has high-quality steel material that can ensure excellent cutting performance.

Also, it comes with a sloping arc on both of the arms to ensure efficient grass trimmings. This product has attained the above factors because it has the high-quality steel material to offer effective cutting performance and the sloping arc to trim grass efficiently.

Posted on Published: January 12, 2022. Last updated: February 24, 2023

Lawn Mower Blade Types – How to Choose the Right One

Lawn mower blades come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Maybe you’ve been curious as to why that is? The reason for the variety in sizes probably doesn’t warrant too much explanation. However, we can tell you why many mower blades look like they’ve been beaten into unintelligible shapes. Various lawn mowers require different aerodynamics to accomplish their purpose. As a result, lawn mower blades come in various types to match those different applications.

What Lawn Mower Blade Types Do You Need?

Before really trying to understand the various lawn mower blade types, it’s helpful to know how a lawn mower cuts grass in the first place. For a blade to effectively cut grass, it needs to pull each blade or stalk up into its cutting path. It also needs to provide resistance on both ends of the grass. This keeps the mower blade from simply slapping the grass back down to the soil uncut.

To achieve this, blade manufacturers have borrowed and tweaked a design from aviation. Similar to how the wing of an airplane harnesses wind resistance to provide lift, a lawn mower blade has an uptick at the back of the blade. This creates lift and pulls air upward as it spins. Pulled by this uplift, the grass stands up for the blade—the suction providing some resistance on both ends. This lets the mower blade actually cut.

Of course, different angles of upturn at the back of the blade produce different results. Manufacturers design blades with different lift types and cutting edges to serve different applications.

Standard or Deck Blades

Sometimes referred to as 2-in-1 blades, standard blades probably get the most use in the lawn trimming game. For the most part, these blades have an aerodynamic design. It places less strain on the engine as it turns. The front cutting edge remains flat. On that back edge, a slight upturn generates a continuous “suck and cut” action.

Because these mower blade types provide great lift in one direction, they provide excellent results when side discharging and bagging.

Low Lift Blades

When you mow sandy grass, a low lift type of mower blade works best. These provide enough lift for the blade to cut your grass, but not so much that your super sandy lawn also gets pulled into the deck. The reason has to do with the size of the rear wing on the blade. It provides less lift than the standard type of mower blade.

These blades won’t cut as well on beefier grasses compared to a higher-lift blade. However, they don’t kick up as much dust. Also, since they produce less drag, these blades consume less fuel as well.

High Lift Blades

With a more dramatic upturn at the back of the blade, the high lift type of mower blade produces much more lift. Because it produces so much lift, a high lift blade requires a more powerful engine to work well. Consequently, it can cost a bit more in fuel to use it. But, it generally results in a better cut in thicker grasses. It’s an ideal choice for when you’re bagging up your clippings since the improved lifting force can rocket the clippings up and out of the deck.

Mulching Blades

The mulching blade has a more unique design than either standard or high-lift blades. Rather than employing a relatively straight cutting edge with a raised wing in the back, the mulching blade has several bevels and lift areas.

This design lets your mower suck the grass upward to be cut. Then, however, the clippings fly around the deck only to get chopped up even more. The middle part of the mulching blade, the weird bit, is designed to send the nutrient-rich, fine-cut clippings back to the ground where they can feed the soil.

You can still bag or side discharge with a mulching blade if you prefer. However, these blades don’t provide as much lift as your standard blades. They also perform much better with maintenance cuts than overgrown grass.

Specialty Blades

Finally, some blades seem to do their own thing. Take the Arnold Power Rake, for example. You can choose to mulch and bag with it (though there are better options if that’s all you’re looking to do), but this mower blade’s purpose is primarily to rake, dethatch, and scalp your lawn.

Or, take Honda Commercial‘s MicroCut Twin Blade System from their HRC line. It uses two blades stacked on top of each other and offset. In this instance, the blades themselves don’t have a terribly unorthodox design, but there are two of them. The idea here is that you get a cleaner cut and finer mulching performance since there are two blades cutting into the grass clippings as they circulate under the deck.

Choosing Mower Blade Types

In any case, when it comes to selecting your mower blade types, it’s best to keep in mind your particular application. Do you plan on bagging up your clippings or leaving them in the yard? What sort of lawn conditions are you working with? Is your grass thick and overgrown or patchy and sandy? Are you trying to win awards for the best lawn, or you just trying to get the lawn mowed before the neighbors complain? Knowing the differences between the various lawn mower blade types will help you achieve the type of cut that works best for you.

Gator® Mulching Blades

G3™, G5™, G6™

Increase your efficiency and productivity with Oregon Gator mulching mower blades. All Gator mulching mower blades feature the patented Gator mulching teeth which circulate cut grass back into the deck multiple times, creating a finer cut and better looking lawn.

G3™

The G3 Gator blade is the best option for those looking for a replacement blade with better mulching capabilities. Designed with progressive geometry on the cutting edge for a cleaner cut and an aggressive blade angle to increase air flow for superior bagging or side discharge, Gator G3 blades help you get that professional looking cut with any mower.

G5™

The G5 mower blade is a heavier-duty version of the G3 mower blade. Featuring Fusion(TM). an ultra-hard tungsten carbide layer. on the cutting edge, the G5 stays sharper longer, increasing the time between sharpenings or replacement.

G6™

The G6 blade is the most heavy-duty of the Oregon mower blades. Designed for commercial applications where extreme performance is a requirement. G6 is 1/4 thick and 3 wide and features Fusion technology, providing superior longevity and cut quality even in the most punishing conditions.

Mower Blade Comparisons

High-Lift

Gator Mulcher™

X-Tended Cutting Length™

Fusion™

Thicker and Wider

The Best Mulching Blades For Your Lawn Mower – And Grass!

Immaculate lawns are synonymous with American homeownership pride. Lawns, believe it or not, were once a symbol of affluence.

Gator Blades vs High Lift Blades: Which One Is Best?

That holds true today for some as well. For others, mowing is a weekly chore. I think both camps can agree – ease of use is important.

With our lawn’s peak growing season combating with our leisure time, do we really want to battle unloading wet, allergy-causing mower bags?

That’s where the best mulching blades for your lawn mover comes in. Our top pick are the Maxpower universal blades. They work well, aren’t too heavy and work with a wide variety of brands and models. You won’t need a chest full of tools to install these blades, either!

In this guide, we’ll investigate what mulching blades are best for your lawn mower and grass.

What Makes A Great Mulching Blade Best For Your Mower?

The first thing you need to consider about making the best mulching blade adjustment to your lawn mower is the environment you’ll be mowing.

If stock blades aren’t performing on your riding lawn mower, consider having mulching mower blades installed to accomplish two jobs in one.

Having mulching blades installed lets you chop grass and leaves into smaller particles to ensure aeration in the bagger if you opt to remove all clippings. It also lets you mulch vegetation into consumable bits for your turf to utilize.

Mulching mowers use the power of a high-speed blade and create an airlift that guides grass into the cutting mechanism. Once the blade cuts the grass on the first pass, those parts travel in a vacuum in a spin cycle and meet the mower blade many times before falling back onto the ground (or bag). This action is different from mowers that deposit the clippings into a side bag.

Mulching blades with serrated edges and pre sharpened blades are sometimes called 3-in-1 or gator blades. Serrated cutting edge blades are more costly, but they’re ideal for wet environments and perform better than other mulching blades or standard mowing blades.

The type of lawn will influence which option is best for you if you have a ton of leaves or a weed-prone patch that may determine what you need from the mulching process.

With just a socket set and maybe one other tool, a replacement blade is easy to mount to most gas-powered, self-propelled, riding, or electric mowers. With a bit of know-how, it’s easy to install a replacement blade on the correct mounting hole. However, it’s essential to understand the vast differences between what will fit what machine and the benefits or disadvantages.

The best place to understand what blades will fit your mower is to read the specs on the decal mounted on the side of your mower. (Deck or engine side.) This information will provide the blade model length.

When shopping for the best mulching blades, the key elements to consider are length, weight, material mounting options, blade count, and center hole size and shape.

Not all things are created equally. Fitting a blade that is too long is obvious. It’s possible to attach a blade that is of inappropriate length. However, this will cause your mower problems and result in damage.

• Will slow the mower’s power capability
• Cause clumping
• May cause damage to the engine from overwear

A mulching mower blade that is too short will also wreak havoc on your mower and the cutting power. Each mower has a specific blade size engineered into its design.

• Will increase the number of passes
• Cause Wear and tear from overuse
• Multi-blade decks will miss swaths and result in uneven cuts
• Results in inadequate airflow in baggers

Lawn mower manufacturers understand the science behind mowing and design the cutting deck for optimum performance. Using a cutting or mulching blade that is too wide will not produce the desired effect. The blade width ranges from 1 ½” to 4 ¼” depending on the mower manufacturer, engine, and deck size.

Traditional standard lawn mower blades are lighter than mulching blades. Mulching blades work using a lift angle to help mulch grass; for this purpose, manufacturers use heavier materials.

This additional weight may cause your mower some drag, and riding mowers (especially older, well-used models) may be on the brink of stalling when mulching blades are engaged because the extra weight requires extra power.

Once the mower engages the blades, this drag should lessen, allowing the mower to function.

A mulcher blade is heavier, thicker, and more durable. This extra feature and a cutting edge make mulching blades ideal for commercial and ride-on equipment. However, smaller direct-drive mowers may suffer.

Tungsten carbide or Boron steel is ideal for deck mowers and regular blades for your mower because they’re durable materials and make blades work efficiently.

Lawncare equipment is made with industry standards and government regulations to keep us safe. The best mulching blades are made of carbon steel or other strong, lightweight materials. However, if you manipulate these elements, you may risk yourself and your equipment.

Not all mowers are the same. That’s obvious, and before shopping for mulching blades, you need to flip your mower or consult the manual to understand the mounting holes on your machine.

The most common mountings are a five-point star, six-point star, bow-tie, and universal fit. You can’t force a bow-tie onto a five-point star.

The blade attaches to the spindle beneath the mower deck, and once you have the correct mulching blade, installation isn’t complicated. Having an extra set of hands to help you tip the mower is a good idea.

Five and six-pint star mounts only typically require one bolt and are specific to the mower model.

Universal fit kits attach to any mower regardless of the original mounting and securely adapt to your particular mower model.

Types of Mounting Hole Symbols:

Another key consideration is replacing like with like. Most riding mowers have more than one blade. If you’re adding a mulching blade, match the number. Although weight is a consideration, mowing with unbalanced blades will result in uneven cuts and clumping by adding an uneven distribution of blade power. In the end, it will only increase the user’s workload and frustration.

Tip: Sharp mowing and mulching blades cut grass and lawn better and prolong your mowing equipment’s life. Regular sharpening is vital. Always makes sure you tighten any bolts securely afterward.

The Best Mulching Blades – Individual Reviews

Now that everyone understands the basic terminology and requirements, here’s what we think are the best mulching blades and why they aren’t interchangeable with regular blades. This selection also reiterates that mulching blades, which are not expensive, are a great alternative to bagging and recycling your grass clippings.

Best Overall: Maxpower 21 Inch Universal

MaxPower universal blades are ideal for those who want a quick solution to installing mulching blades on their 21” pushmower deck.

MaxPower 331981S Universal Gold Metal Mulching Blade mounting kit includes a cover washer, reducing washers for 3/8″, 7/16″, 9/16″, 1/2″, 5/8″, and 13/16″ holes.

The 21” blade provides a better cutting and mulching experience with precision teeth and uniform chopping distribution.

These blades are manufactured in the USA to a high standard and meet OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specs.

What’s great about the universal blade is that they fit over the mounting hole regardless of a five-point star or bow-tie shafts without much effort. These inexpensive mulching blades come with the necessary washers and fittings to make installation hassle-free.

The Maxpower universal blade has a steep lift function and sharp teeth to mulch and disperse clumps.

A downside of the durable blade is that when it hits an obstruction, like a rock or stump, the force may damage the output shaft without even knicking the blade edge.

Compatible Mowers:

Just because universal blades fit almost any mulching mower, it doesn’t mean they are the suitable mulch blades for your standard blades. Size still matters.

• Easy mount
• Fits most 21” mower decks
• Hardware included
• High lift and precision cutting teeth
• May not be suitable for eclectic mowers
• Durability may be questionable
• Not mower specific

Best 54″ Riding Mower Blades: Oregon Gator G3

The chances are that if your riding mower has a 54 “ blade, you’re cutting some heavy territory, and Oregon Gator blades are ideal for your mulching requirements.

Oregon Gator blades are renowned in the industry for their heavy-duty performance and work well with Craftsman, Arien, and Husqvarna riding mowers.

Heavy-duty Oregon Gator blades are.187” steel blades with an aggressive lift and serrated teeth that chomp clumps into spreadable or baggable mulch with ease. The 2 ¾” wide blade is durable and fits these makes and models.

Compatible Mowers:

• 187254
• 187255
• 532187255
• 532187256
• 539112053
• 574292401
• 575938401
• 575938501
• 582923101
• 2354GXLS
• 2754GLS
• EZ5426
• GT2254
• GTB54A
• GTH2454T
• GTH24K54
• GTH24V54
• GTH2654
• GTH26K54T
• GTH26V54
• LGT24K54
• LGT2554
• LGT2654
• LGTH2454
• LGTH24V54
• LGTH26V54
• MZ54
• MZ5424S
• RZ5424
• RZ5426
• RZ5422
• Z254
• RZ4219
• RZ4619
• RZ4620
• Z5426

The safety quality of a 3-in-1 blade requires durable metal to produce the angle lift and redirect airflow to cut grass into a fine mulch which means less bagging and raking. For those who will use the clippings as fertilizer directly on the lawn, shorter cuttings and mulched foliage decompose quicker.

Requires models 5-point star model mount, which is not suitable for all models.

• High-quality, dependable steel
• High lift and serrated cutting blade
• All-weather friendly

Best 42″ Deck High Lift Blade USA Mower Blades 21″

USA Mower Blades are a high lift alternative for 42” decks. These standard mulching blades are industry standard and do not have serrated teeth as part of this mower blade’s mulching kits. An upturned wing forged with heat-treated steel makes these blades ideal for mulching natural wild grass with a dense consistency.

Although not an OEM blade, this USA Mower blades consistently whack thick grass with an edge that remains sharp and affordable.

Another bonus to this USA-made blade is that the cut area looks immaculate after cutting. These blades are a great alternative to regular mowing blades for riding mowers.

Compatible Mowers:

USA Mower Blades (4) AYP498BP High Lift Blade Fits AYP Craftsman 127843, / 134149, / 127843, / 138498, / 532127843

Length 21” Width 2 ¼” Thickness 150” Center Hole 5 PT ST, 42” Deck

USA Mower Blades® manufactures high-quality OEM replacement lawn blades. USA Mower Blades® and produced in the United States.

Specifications: Quantity: 4 Pack Blade Type: Straight Lift: High Lift Length: 21”. Width: 2-¼” Thickness: 0.150”

Great for Walk-Behind Mowers: Oregon 195-021 Mulch Blade

Part of the Oregon® 100 series, this 2PK mover blade pack offers ‘Ultra X-tended Cutting Length ™ technology. These genuine OEM replacement parts deliver maximized mulching power for each blade rotation.

The stand-out feature is perhaps the double bevel, which reduces overall blade noise by 1.5 decibels. Gas lawn mowers are loud enough!

Manufactured from Boron steel, these 195-021 Oregon mulcher blades are super durable and malleable to the pressures of cutting grass blades at high speed.

These inexpensive blades are ideal for walk-behind mowers or as replacement blades for standard blades for your mower.

Compatible Mowers

Compatible with AYP, Craftsman, Poulan, Husqvarna brands, and 22″ walk-behind mowers.

For mounting center hole dimensions: 5/8”, Outer Hole: 3/8”, Center to Center: 1-7/8”, Length: 21-3/4”, Width: 2.25”, Thickness: 0.134”, Offset: ½”.

Great for Domestic MTD Push Mowers Oregon G5 Mulching Blade

Oregon G5 Mulching Blade is an excellent mulcher blade option for MTD- push mowers like Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Bolens. This superior quality blade is in keeping with the Oregon brand and is suitable for 21” push mowers that can sustain a blow from stumps or rocks without ruining the output shaft.

These blades shred leaves and lawn cuttings into a fine mulch to promote quick decomposition. For yards with deciduous trees or flowering plants, this blade is ideal.

Since pushmowers are typically not super powerful, attaching a powerful mulching blade-like Oregon G5 may beleaguer engine power and cause performance lag.

Compatible Mowers:

• 01005338
• 02005019
• 01005338P
• 742-04415
• 742-04415-XG
• 02005019-X
• 01005338P
• 742-04415
• 742-04415-X
• 742-04415-XG
• 942-04415
• 942-04415-X
• 02005019-X
• 01005338
• 02005019
• 942-04415
• 742-04415-X
• 942-04415-X
• 94204415
• 02005019X
• LT1000
• SLT1500
• GT1500
• 17ASDALD099 (Z8600)
• 17BSDALD099 (Z8200)
• ZHD-L60 17ANDALD897

Consult your user manual if the option is not listed.

• Compatible with most (MTD) push mowers
• Withstands impact
• Cuts material into a fine product

Frequently Asked Questions

Mulching seems like a viable option to reduce compost waste and the use of cumbersome side bags. One of the benefits of mulching is that the lawn care process puts your grass clippings as sustainable fertilizer directly back into the environment.

However, there are still many concerns. Is mulching right for you?

How is mulching leaves better than bagging and composting?

When powerful blades mulch leaves and grass clippings, it helps the material decompose and become organic fertilizer. Mulching also reduces time spent on garden and lawn maintenance as it reduces raking and stuffing leaves into compostable trash bags.

Mulching is great for the ecosystem. Suppose you’re using the mower with a mulcher blade on leaves in the fall. In that case, you’re creating organic material that provides essential nutrients for your lawn and a protective blanket for your flowers and shrubs that acts as sustainable fertilizer.

Can any lawn mower be retrofitted with mulching blades?

Absolutely. Unless you own a hybrid lawn mower, most lawn mowers are adaptable to mulching blades. Mulch requires more engine torque because the edges are heavier and have a lifting action. Underpowered budget mowers may not be suitable. The average mower will be able to adapt with a universal blade or designer blade.

When is the best time to mulch?

If you don’t want the leaf and lawn cuttings on your lawn all year, you will have to switch out the blades.

If your property has many falling leaves or a thick lawn, mulching will benefit you in the fall and early spring environment. Other chores like raking or pick-up are unnecessary once you mulch leaves and grass to a satisfactory cutting.

However, switching back and forth is unnecessary if you are happy with the benefits mulching provides for your lawn.

During an individual day, you’ll want to avoid mulching when the lawn is wet. If the lawn sprinkler has just done it’s job, avoid lawn mowing or mulching.

Once the blades become dull and no longer perform, remove them for sharpening.

What is the downside to mulching?

Mulching takes frequent cutting. It requires more torque and is harder on your mower. It’s best to cut dry grass to avoid excess clumping and further engine strain.

What risk are there from mulching blades?

Belt-drive mowers work on a spindle and pulley principle. A belt connects the pulleys to the motor’s drive pulley, but when the mulching blade strikes an object on the terrain, it may knock the belt off its path. This hit may cause the mulching blade to bend without damaging the mower.

Direct-drive mowers work with blades engineered to operate without a belt or pulley and instead use a shaft output drive. This design allows smaller engines to produce more spin while compromising the safety cut-off (like in belt-drive) and damaging the standard blade when it collides with obstructions like roots, stumps, or rocks.

The problem is that a thicker mulching blade can better withstand the impact but will bend the output shaft and instantly destroy most mowers.

One way to avoid this catastrophic damage is constantly scouring the lawn for protrusions and avoiding driving the mower across those surfaces. Lifting the cutting deck is a safer way to avoid hitting those protrusions. Raising the cutting height means more frequent mowing, and taller grass hides these obstructions.

Conclusion

Mowing and mulching require precautions, and safety is always paramount when switching blades. Injuries happen. Many great mulching replacement blades are available for wet grass and produce a finer mulching material.

Our top pick are the Maxpower universal blades because of their versatility, high lift, and precision cutting teeth.

However, you may find that the other blades on this list may suit your needs more. Assess your lawn cutting surface to determines the best mulching blades for your lawn mower. This is true whether you own a John Deere, Husqvarna, or any other compatible mower.

Mulching is becoming more popular for its eco-friendly benefits, and suitable blades will help keep your lawn healthy.

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