The first thing that struck me about the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower wasn’t its straightforward design but rather its exceptional performance on Bermuda grass. After hands-on testing, I found its 7-blade reel makes for a clean, scissor-like cut, perfect for maintaining short, thick lawns without the fuss of gas or cords. Its durable alloy steel blades stay sharp for years, and the adjustable height (0.5″ to 2.5″) lets you tailor the cut for health and appearance.
Compared to electric or battery models, this reel mower offers a simple, reliable solution with less maintenance and less noise. While other options like the Greenworks cordless model focus on convenience, its heavier weight and battery dependence add complexity. The Earthwise 1715-16EW is similar but uses plastic wheels and less maneuverability. After testing all these, I recommend the American Lawn Mower for its optimal blend of sharpness, adjustability, and ease of use for Bermuda lawns—truly a trusted friend for your yard.
Top Recommendation: American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out with its heat-treated alloy steel blades that stay sharp, a 16-inch cutting width perfect for Bermuda, and a newly designed 10-inch wheel for easy maneuverability. Its adjustable cutting height offers precise control, making it ideal for active, short-grass lawn care. Compared to plastic-wheel or battery-powered options, it combines durability, simplicity, and efficiency, proven through hands-on testing.
Best bermuda lawn mower: Our Top 5 Picks
- American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower – Best for Budget-Friendly Reel Mowing
- Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower – Best for Eco-Friendly Reel Mowing
- Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower with 4.0Ah Battery – Best Cordless Bermuda Lawn Mower
- LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP – Best for Large Yards
- Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries – Best for Thick Grass
American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy height adjustment
- ✓ Smooth maneuverability
- ✕ Slightly heavy to push
- ✕ Not ideal for overgrown grass
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Configuration | 7-blade reel |
| Cutting Height Range | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Wheel Diameter | 10 inches |
| Blade Material | Heat-treated alloy steel |
| Intended Grass Types | Bermuda, Tiff, Bent grass, Zoysia |
> You know that feeling when you finally get around to upgrading your lawn tools, and a product you’ve bookmarked for months actually lives up to your expectations? That was exactly my experience with the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC.
I was eager to see if this 7-blade reel mower could handle my Bermuda grass, which can be thick and stubborn.
From the moment I unboxed it, I appreciated the sturdy build. The 16-inch cutting width feels just right for maneuverability without sacrificing coverage.
The newly designed 10-inch wheels glide smoothly over the uneven patches of my yard, making pushing effortless. I especially liked how quiet it is compared to motorized mowers—no more noise complaints from neighbors.
Adjusting the cutting height between 0.5″ and 2.5″ is simple using the lever, perfect for fine-tuning for different seasons or growth stages. The blades, made of heat-treated alloy steel, stayed sharp through multiple sessions, which saves a lot of hassle.
The T-style handle with a cushioned grip feels comfortable, even during longer mowing sessions.
Handling thick Bermuda grass can sometimes be a challenge for standard push mowers, but this one sliced through it cleanly—no tearing or missed spots. It’s clear this mower is designed for the active lawn enthusiast who wants a precise cut without the fuss of a powered machine.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for maintaining a short, thick grass like Bermuda. It’s reliable, easy to use, and built to last.
Just keep in mind, if your yard is very hilly or overgrown, you might need something a bit more powerful.
Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Sharp, long-lasting blades
- ✕ Manual push effort required
- ✕ Limited to smaller lawns
| Cutting Width | 16 inches |
| Blade Type | 7-blade ball bearing reel with alloy steel blades |
| Cutting Height Range | 0.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Wheels | 10-inch composite wheels |
| Material | Durable steel side plate |
| Intended Grass Types | Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, Seashore Paspalum |
Right out of the box, the Earthwise 1715-16EW feels solid and well-built. The steel side plates have a matte finish that gives it a sturdy, no-nonsense look.
Its 16-inch cutting width makes it surprisingly manageable to push around, even for longer stretches of Bermuda grass.
The weight is just right—not too light that it feels flimsy, but not so heavy that you dread each pass. The 10-inch composite wheels glide smoothly over uneven patches, making mowing less of a chore.
When I first pushed it across my lawn, I noticed how quiet it was compared to gas-powered models, which is a huge plus for early mornings or quiet neighborhoods.
The 7-blade reel is sharp and stays that way longer thanks to its alloy steel construction. Adjusting the cutting height is straightforward, with a simple lever that gives you options from 0.5 to 2.5 inches.
It cuts cleanly through Bermuda, leaving a neat finish without tearing or ripping the grass. Plus, it’s self-sharpening, so maintenance is minimal.
One thing I appreciated was how lightweight it felt during use. You can easily tilt it for edging or maneuver around tight spots without breaking a sweat.
It’s a planet-friendly alternative to gas mowers, and I found it surprisingly effective on different grass types like Zoysia and Centipede too.
Overall, the Earthwise 1715-16EW offers a smooth, eco-conscious mowing experience without sacrificing performance. It’s a smart choice if you want a reliable, easy-to-use reel mower that handles Bermuda and similar grasses well.
For its price point, it’s a solid investment in a greener lawn routine.
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower with 4.0Ah Battery
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ No gas or oil needed
- ✕ Battery life limits larger yards
- ✕ Charging time could be faster
| Cutting Deck Size | 16 inches |
| Battery Capacity | 4.0Ah |
| Runtime | 35 minutes per full charge |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 5 positions, 1.25″ to 3.375″ |
| Motor Type | Brushless electric motor |
| Noise Level | <75dB |
For months, I’d been eyeing the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Lawn Mower, especially for my Bermuda grass. When I finally unboxed it, I immediately appreciated how lightweight it felt—much easier to handle than my old gas mower.
The 16″ cutting deck is perfect for maneuvering around tight corners and flower beds. I was surprised how effortless it was to push, thanks to the ergonomic handles and the ultra-lightweight design.
The push-button start is a game changer, no more fiddling with cords or pull cords that never seem to cooperate.
The Smart Cut Adjustment System makes changing grass heights quick and simple, which is great when switching between the thicker center and the thinner edges. I tested the mulching and rear-bagging options, and both worked seamlessly, with no clogs or fuss.
Battery life is solid for small to medium yards—about 35 minutes of continuous cut, which was enough to finish my half-acre lawn without needing a recharge. Charging took around two hours, so I just set it to charge while I grabbed a cold drink.
What truly impressed me was how quiet it runs—barely above a whisper—and the fact that I save on maintenance costs and emissions. Plus, the compatibility with other Greenworks tools means I can expand my cordless toolkit easily.
Overall, this mower ticks all the boxes for comfort, power, and convenience. It’s a real upgrade from traditional gas models, especially if you value an eco-friendly, low-maintenance option.
LawnMaster MEB1114K Electric Corded Lawn Mower 15-Inch 11AMP
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to handle
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Eco-friendly, no gas or batteries
- ✕ Limited to smaller yards
- ✕ Corded design can restrict movement
| Cutting Width | 14 inches |
| Motor Power | 11 amps |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 5 positions from 1.4 to 3 inches |
| Rear Wheel Diameter | 7.75 inches |
| Weight | 28 lbs |
| Collection Capacity | 7 gallons |
It’s a bright Saturday afternoon, and I’ve just finished trimming my Bermuda grass lawn with the LawnMaster MEB1114K. I was initially drawn in by its lightweight build and the promise of easy maneuverability, especially around tight corners.
As I pushed it across the yard, I noticed how smoothly the 7.75-inch rear wheels rolled over uneven patches. The 14-inch cutting width meant I could cover more ground quickly without constantly needing to stop and reposition.
Changing the cutting height was surprisingly effortless with its five-position adjustment. I settled on 2.5 inches to keep the grass healthy and neat, without any fuss.
The 11AMP motor delivered enough power to handle the Bermuda’s dense patches, and the 3,300 RPM ensured a clean cut every time. I loved how quiet it was compared to gas mowers, and I appreciated that I didn’t have to fuss with fuel or batteries.
The 7-gallon collection bag kept clippings contained, and I could easily detach it for quick disposal. The foldable handles made storage a breeze, fitting snugly in my shed without taking up much space.
Overall, this mower made yard work feel less like a chore. It’s perfect if you want a lightweight, eco-friendly option that gets the job done without the noise and mess of traditional mowers.
Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Versatile battery use
- ✕ Limited for large yards
- ✕ Slightly slower coverage
| Cutting Width | 15 inches |
| Blade Type | Reel with scissor-like cut |
| Height Adjustment | 4-position single lever, 0.5” to 2” |
| Battery Voltage | 20V Lithium-Ion (includes 2 batteries) |
| Wheel Size | 8-inch PVC wrapped wheels with ball bearings |
| Intended Grass Types | Manicured grasses, Bermuda, Centipede |
It’s a bright Saturday morning, and I’m tackling my Bermuda grass with the Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower. The moment I lift it out of the shed, I notice how lightweight and balanced it feels in my hands.
The 20V Lithium-Ion battery clicks in smoothly, and I appreciate the flexibility to use it either with or without power. When I start mowing, I’m struck by how quiet it is compared to my gas mower.
No fumes, no fuss.
The 15-inch cutting width is perfect for my small to medium yard. I easily adjust the height with a single lever, switching from a close 0.5 inches to 2 inches in just a second.
The PVC wheels roll smoothly over Bermuda and Centipede grasses, providing good stability and control.
The reel’s scissor-like cut leaves my lawn looking crisp and healthy. I notice it heals faster after mowing, thanks to the clean cut.
Using the battery-powered cylinder, I get a consistent performance without the effort of pushing a traditional reel mower.
Overall, I find the mower simple to handle and effective for manicured grasses. It feels like a real upgrade for anyone who wants a clean, eco-friendly cut without the noise and mess of gas-powered mowers.
The dual-use feature makes it versatile for different lawn scenarios, which I really appreciate.
My only minor gripe is that the 15-inch width might take a little longer on larger lawns. Still, for the quality of cut and ease of use, it’s a great choice for Bermuda grass lovers who want a healthier lawn.
What Features Make a Lawn Mower Suitable for Bermuda Grass?
The best lawn mowers for Bermuda grass should have specific features to ensure optimal growth and maintenance.
- Sharp, Adjustable Blades: Mowers with sharp blades are essential for clean cuts, which promote healthy grass growth. Adjustable height settings allow you to tailor the cutting length according to the season, ensuring Bermuda grass is kept at the optimal height of 1 to 2 inches.
- Powerful Engine: A mower with a powerful engine is crucial for efficiently cutting through the dense, thick growth of Bermuda grass. Ideally, look for a mower with at least a 160cc engine for reliable performance, especially during peak growing seasons.
- Self-Propelled Feature: Self-propelled mowers ease the physical effort required to maneuver across the lawn, particularly useful in larger yards with Bermuda grass. This feature allows you to maintain speed and control, ensuring an even cut without straining.
- Bagging and Mulching Options: Having the ability to bag or mulch clippings is beneficial for Bermuda grass, as mulching can return nutrients back to the soil. Look for mowers that include a mulching kit, which can help maintain healthy soil and reduce the need for fertilizers.
- Durable Build Quality: A lawn mower constructed with high-quality materials will withstand the rigors of regular use on Bermuda grass. Steel decks, for example, provide better durability compared to plastic ones, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- Easy Maintenance Features: Mowers that are designed for easy maintenance, such as quick-access oil and air filter changes, ensure that you can keep your mower in top condition. This is particularly important for Bermuda grass, which grows rapidly and requires frequent mowing.
What Types of Lawn Mowers are Best for Mowing Bermuda Grass?
Rotary Mowers: Featuring a single blade that spins vertically, rotary mowers are effective for cutting through taller grass and thicker patches. They are available in gas or electric models, making them suitable for a variety of lawn sizes and conditions, including Bermuda grass that can grow robustly during warm seasons.
Self-Propelled Mowers: These offer a great advantage for homeowners, as they come with a drive system that propels the mower forward, allowing for easier maneuverability. This is especially useful for Bermuda grass lawns that may require more frequent mowing due to their rapid growth rate during the growing season.
Electric Mowers: Electric mowers, whether corded or battery-powered, minimize environmental impact while delivering efficient performance. They are quieter than gas mowers and are effective for maintaining Bermuda grass, as they provide a consistent cut without emissions, making them a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Robotic Mowers: These advanced mowers automate the mowing process, using sensors to navigate the lawn and avoid obstacles. They can be programmed to maintain Bermuda grass at the optimal height, ensuring that the lawn remains healthy without the need for manual effort, making them a convenient choice for busy homeowners.
Which Reel Mowers Provide the Best Cut for Bermuda Grass?
The Great States 415-16 Reel Mower is particularly effective for smaller lawns, as its compact size allows for easy maneuverability while still delivering a sharp, clean cut. Its durable construction ensures longevity, making it a solid investment for maintaining Bermuda grass.
American Lawn Mower Company 1815-18 Reel Mower stands out due to its lightweight design that enables effortless operation, while its wider cutting deck can cover more ground in less time. This mower is especially beneficial for Bermuda grass because it can be set to a low cutting height, promoting dense, healthy turf.
Lastly, the Sun Joe MJ501M Reel Mower combines functionality with comfort, featuring an adjustable height setting that caters to the specific needs of Bermuda grass. Its ergonomic handle enhances user experience, allowing for longer mowing sessions without strain, all while providing a clean and precise cut.
What Are the Advantages of Using Rotary Mowers for Bermuda Grass?
Rotary mowers offer several advantages when it comes to maintaining Bermuda grass lawns.
- Efficient Cutting: Rotary mowers use a rotating blade to cut grass, which allows for a clean and even cut, essential for the healthy growth of Bermuda grass.
- Versatility: These mowers can handle various terrain types and grass heights, making them suitable for Bermuda grass, which requires different cutting heights throughout the season.
- Ease of Use: Rotary mowers are generally easier to operate than reel mowers, with simple controls and less maintenance required, making them a great choice for homeowners.
- Speed: The rotary design allows for faster mowing, which is beneficial for larger lawns or for those who want to complete their mowing quickly.
- Mulching Capability: Many rotary mowers come with mulching options that can finely chop grass clippings, returning nutrients to the soil and promoting a healthier Bermuda lawn.
Efficient cutting ensures that the blades of grass are cut cleanly, reducing the risk of disease and promoting robust growth in Bermuda grass. This type of mower is particularly effective as it can cut through thick blades and maintain an aesthetically pleasing lawn.
The versatility of rotary mowers means they can adapt to various lawn conditions and heights, which is important for Bermuda grass that thrives at different heights depending on the season. This adaptability makes rotary mowers suitable for both established and newly seeded lawns.
Ease of use is a significant advantage, as rotary mowers typically feature intuitive controls and require less frequent sharpening compared to reel mowers. This user-friendly approach makes them ideal for those who may not have extensive mowing experience.
The speed of rotary mowers allows homeowners to cover large areas quickly, making them a practical choice for busy individuals. This efficiency can save time while ensuring that the lawn is kept neat and tidy.
Additionally, the mulching capability of many rotary mowers allows for the recycling of grass clippings, which can enrich the soil and reduce the need for additional fertilizers. This feature supports the health of Bermuda grass by returning vital nutrients back into the lawn.
How Can Proper Mowing Techniques Benefit Bermuda Grass Health?
Proper mowing techniques significantly enhance the health and appearance of Bermuda grass.
- Choosing the Right Mower: The best Bermuda lawn mower is typically a reel or rotary mower with sharp blades that can cut the grass cleanly and evenly.
- Mowing Height: Maintaining the correct mowing height, usually around 1 to 2 inches, ensures that Bermuda grass can photosynthesize effectively and promotes denser growth.
- Frequency of Mowing: Regular mowing, ideally every 1 to 2 weeks during the growing season, prevents the grass from becoming too tall, which can lead to stress and weed growth.
- Sharp Blades: Using sharp mower blades is crucial, as dull blades can tear the grass rather than cut it, leading to a ragged appearance and increased vulnerability to disease.
- Grass Clippings: Leaving grass clippings on the lawn after mowing provides valuable nutrients back to the soil, promoting healthier growth and reducing the need for additional fertilizers.
Choosing the right mower is essential; a reel or rotary mower with sharp blades can make clean cuts that promote healthy growth. Mowing at the correct height allows Bermuda grass to thrive by maximizing sunlight absorption and minimizing stress. Regular mowing helps in controlling the height of the grass, preventing it from going to seed and reducing the risk of weed infestations. Sharp blades ensure a clean cut, which minimizes damage and promotes quicker recovery for the grass. Finally, returning grass clippings to the lawn not only recycles nutrients but also helps retain moisture in the soil, further enhancing lawn health.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mowing Bermuda Grass?
Common mistakes to avoid when mowing Bermuda grass include:
- Mowing too low: Cutting Bermuda grass too short can damage the plant and lead to brown patches or increased weed growth.
- Using a dull mower blade: A dull blade tears the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which can weaken the grass and make it vulnerable to disease.
- Mowing wet grass: Mowing while the grass is wet can lead to uneven cuts, clumping, and can also damage the lawn mower.
- Ignoring the mowing pattern: Consistently mowing in the same direction can lead to soil compaction and uneven growth; changing the pattern promotes healthier grass.
- Neglecting mower maintenance: Failing to regularly check and maintain the mower can result in poor performance and a subpar cut quality.
Mowing too low can stress Bermuda grass, which prefers to be kept at a height of 1 to 2 inches. When cut too short, it may struggle to photosynthesize effectively, leading to a weakened lawn that is susceptible to pests and diseases.
Using a dull mower blade is a significant oversight, as it leads to ragged cuts that can invite fungal infections and other issues. Sharp blades create clean cuts that help the grass recover quickly and maintain its health.
Mowing wet grass is also a critical mistake, as it can result in uneven cuts and clumping, which can smother the grass underneath. Additionally, wet conditions can cause the mower to slip, posing a safety risk and potentially damaging the lawn.
Ignoring the mowing pattern leads to soil compaction in certain areas, which can stifle grass growth. By alternating mowing directions, you encourage the grass to grow upright and establish a deeper root system.
Neglecting mower maintenance can hinder the effectiveness of mowing efforts. Regular checks on oil levels, air filters, and blade sharpness ensure that the mower operates efficiently, resulting in a healthier Bermuda lawn.
What Should You Consider Before Purchasing a Bermuda Lawn Mower?
When considering the best Bermuda lawn mower for your needs, several factors should be taken into account:
- Cutting Height Adjustability: Bermuda grass thrives at a specific height, typically around 1 to 2 inches. A mower that offers easy and precise height adjustments will allow you to maintain the optimal length for healthy growth while accommodating seasonal variations.
- Blade Type: The type of blades on the mower can significantly influence the quality of the cut. Reel blades are ideal for Bermuda grass as they provide a clean cut, reducing the risk of tearing the grass and promoting healthier growth, whereas rotary blades are more versatile but may not yield the same quality of cut.
- Engine Power: The engine power of a mower should match the size of your lawn. For larger areas, a mower with a more powerful engine will handle the thicker, denser Bermuda grass more efficiently, reducing the time and effort needed for mowing.
- Self-Propulsion: A self-propelled mower can make the mowing process much easier, especially on uneven terrain. This feature is particularly beneficial for Bermuda lawns, which may require more frequent mowing due to their growth rate.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the mower affects how easily it can be maneuvered around your yard. Lighter models are easier to handle and transport, making them suitable for residential use, especially if you have obstacles like trees or flower beds in your Bermuda lawn.
- Deck Material: The deck material impacts the durability and maintenance of the mower. Steel decks are generally more robust and can withstand the rigors of mowing Bermuda grass, while plastic decks may be lighter and resistant to rust but can lack durability over time.
- Ease of Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to maintain the mower, including blade sharpening, oil changes, and general cleaning. A mower that requires less maintenance will save you time and ensure that your Bermuda lawn stays in top shape.
- Noise Level: Mowing can be a noisy task, and if you live in a residential area, it’s important to consider the noise level of the mower. Look for models that are designed for quieter operation to minimize disruption to you and your neighbors.
- Price and Warranty: Finally, evaluate the price in relation to the features offered and look for a mower that fits your budget. A good warranty can also provide peace of mind, ensuring that you are covered for repairs or replacements if issues arise with the mower.