The gentle hum of a reel mower cutting through the grass is a sound that evokes images of simpler times, of meticulous craftsmanship, and of a connection to the natural world. While the ubiquitous gas-powered and electric mowers have become the norm, the reel mower holds its own, captivating enthusiasts with its quiet operation, eco-friendly nature, and the satisfying precision it delivers. But how exactly does this seemingly simple machine work its magic? This article delves into the mechanics of the reel mower, exploring its unique design, the principles of cutting, and the benefits it offers over its modern counterparts.
In essence, a reel mower works by using a rotating cylinder equipped with blades that shear the grass as it rolls across the lawn. Unlike rotary mowers that chop and tear the grass, reel mowers employ a precise cutting action that leaves a clean and even finish, akin to a pair of scissors. The process involves several key components, each playing a crucial role in achieving the desired result.
The Anatomy of a Reel Mower
To understand the workings of a reel mower, it’s essential to familiarize ourselves with its essential components:
The Reel
The heart of the reel mower lies in the reel itself, a cylindrical structure made of steel or aluminum. This reel houses a series of sharpened blades, typically 5 to 7 in number, arranged along its circumference.
Blade Configuration and Construction
The blades on a reel mower are carefully crafted to achieve a clean and precise cut. They are typically made of hardened steel and are either straight or slightly curved, depending on the design. The angle of the blade is crucial; a sharp angle ensures a clean cut while a blunt angle can result in tearing or bruising the grass.
Reel Rotation
The reel is driven by a hand crank or a small motor, depending on the type of mower. As the reel rotates, the blades engage with the grass, shearing it cleanly at a precise height.
The Bedknife
Beneath the reel sits the bedknife, a fixed blade that runs parallel to the reel. The bedknife acts as a counter-blade, providing a solid surface against which the reel blades cut.
Importance of Bedknife Alignment
The precise alignment of the bedknife to the reel blades is crucial for achieving a clean cut. If the bedknife is misaligned, the blades will not engage properly, leading to an uneven or ragged cut.
The Roller
Positioned in front of the reel and bedknife is a roller. This roller acts as a guide, ensuring the mower runs smoothly across the lawn.
Roller Function and Adjustment
The roller also helps to maintain a consistent cutting height. Most reel mowers have adjustable rollers that allow you to change the cutting height to your desired level.
The Cutting Action
Now, let’s delve into the intricate dance of blades and grass that makes the reel mower so effective:
The Role of Shearing
Unlike rotary mowers, which use a rotating blade to chop the grass, reel mowers rely on a shearing action. As the reel rotates, the blades slide past the bedknife, cleanly severing the grass blades. The sharp blades and precise alignment ensure a clean and even cut, leaving the grass with a smooth, professional finish.
The Importance of Sharp Blades
The sharpness of the blades is crucial for the proper functioning of a reel mower. Dull blades can lead to tearing, bruising, and uneven cutting, resulting in a ragged lawn. Regular sharpening is essential to maintain the mower’s cutting efficiency and produce a healthy, vibrant lawn.
The Benefits of a Reel Mower
The meticulous cutting action of a reel mower offers several advantages over traditional rotary mowers:
Healthier Lawn
The shearing action of a reel mower minimizes damage to the grass blades, promoting a healthier lawn. Unlike rotary mowers, which can tear and bruise the grass, reel mowers leave the blades intact, allowing them to recover more quickly.
Reduced Lawn Waste
Because reel mowers cut cleanly, they produce less clippings. The fine clippings decompose rapidly, feeding the soil and contributing to a healthy lawn ecosystem.
Eco-Friendly Operation
Reel mowers do not require any fuel or electricity, making them a highly eco-friendly option. The quiet operation is a bonus for environmentally conscious individuals who prefer a peaceful mowing experience.
Sharper and More Precise Cut
The clean shearing action of a reel mower results in a sharper and more precise cut than a rotary mower. This is especially noticeable in areas with intricate landscaping or ornamental grasses.
Choosing the Right Reel Mower
When selecting a reel mower, consider the following factors:
Lawn Size
For small lawns, a manual reel mower with a hand crank will suffice. Larger lawns may benefit from a powered reel mower with a small electric motor.
Terrain
Reel mowers are best suited for flat or gently rolling lawns. Uneven or hilly terrain may require a rotary mower for better maneuverability.
Grass Type
The type of grass you have will also influence your choice. Reel mowers work well on fine-bladed grasses but may struggle with thicker varieties.
Maintenance for Optimal Performance
To ensure your reel mower operates at its best, follow these maintenance tips:
Regular Blade Sharpening
Sharpen the blades after every 10-15 hours of use or when the cutting action becomes noticeably less effective.
Bedknife Alignment
Periodically check the alignment of the bedknife and adjust it if necessary.
Cleaning and Storage
Clean the mower after each use and store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
Conclusion
The reel mower, with its seemingly simple design, embodies the essence of craftsmanship and a harmonious connection with nature. Its ability to shear grass cleanly and precisely, promoting a healthy lawn while minimizing environmental impact, is a testament to its enduring appeal. While it may require a bit more effort than its modern counterparts, the quiet operation, eco-friendly nature, and the satisfaction of a beautifully manicured lawn make the reel mower a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a truly rewarding mowing experience.
FAQs
How do reel mowers actually cut grass?
Reel mowers cut grass using a rotating cylinder equipped with blades. This cylinder spins rapidly, and as it passes over the grass, the blades slice through it cleanly. Unlike rotary mowers, which use a spinning blade to tear and chop grass, reel mowers provide a precise, scissor-like cut. This results in a cleaner cut, which promotes healthy grass growth and reduces the risk of disease.
What are the benefits of using a reel mower?
Reel mowers offer several benefits over their rotary counterparts. First, they provide a cleaner, more precise cut, resulting in a healthier lawn. Second, they are more environmentally friendly, requiring less energy and producing fewer emissions. Third, they are often quieter than rotary mowers, making them ideal for use in residential areas. Finally, they can be used to achieve a finely manicured lawn, with a cut height as low as 1/8 inch.
What are the drawbacks of using a reel mower?
Reel mowers do have some drawbacks, the most significant being that they are not as powerful as rotary mowers. This means they may struggle to cut through tall or thick grass, and they are not suitable for use on uneven terrain. Additionally, they require more manual effort to operate, as they must be pushed across the lawn rather than self-propelled.
How do I choose the right reel mower for my lawn?
Selecting the right reel mower depends on several factors, including the size of your lawn, the type of grass you have, and your desired cut height. For smaller lawns, a manual reel mower may be sufficient. For larger lawns, a self-propelled reel mower might be a better choice. The number of blades on the reel also affects the cut quality, with more blades providing a finer cut.
How do I maintain a reel mower?
Maintaining a reel mower involves regular cleaning, sharpening, and lubrication. After each use, the mower should be cleaned to remove any grass clippings or debris. The blades should be sharpened regularly to ensure a clean cut. The moving parts of the mower should also be lubricated with oil to prevent rust and wear.
Can a reel mower be used for mulching?
Reel mowers can be used for mulching, but they are not as effective as rotary mowers. Mulching involves finely chopping grass clippings and returning them to the lawn as fertilizer. Reel mowers typically leave larger clippings that may not decompose quickly. However, with the right type of grass and careful mowing, a reel mower can still provide some mulching benefits.
How do I choose the right blade height for my lawn?
The optimal blade height for your lawn depends on the type of grass and your personal preference. For most lawns, a blade height of 1.5 to 2.5 inches is recommended. However, some grasses, such as fescue, can tolerate shorter cuts. It is important to note that cutting the grass too short can stress the lawn and make it more susceptible to disease.