The 7 Best Lawn Mower Blades For 2023

Mowing your lawn can be a real chore – especially if you have to do it every week. And, even worse, is when your mower blades aren’t doing their job properly and leaving clumps of grass all over the yard.

If this is the case with your mower, you might have to start thinking about what kind of lawn mower blade you’re going to buy for the upcoming season. With so many different brands and types of blades on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for your needs.

In this blog post, we will take a look at the 7 best lawn mower blades on the market today and discuss what makes them so great. Check them out for more information!

How Do Lawn Mowers Work?

A lawn mower is a device that cuts grass blades. Edwin Budding invented the first lawn mower in 1830, and since then, there have been numerous distinct types of lawn mowers on the market, ranging from hand-powered push mowers to self-propelled riding mowers.

Lawn mowers are available in a range of sizes and forms, but they all have the same basic purpose: to cut grass.

In order to do so, the lawn mower spins a rotating blade or blades. The blade or blades are positioned on a spinning horizontal shaft driven by an engine, which is either gasoline or electric.

The blade or blades of the lawn mower spin and cut the grass as it travels across it. The mown grass is collected in a bag or box attached to the rear of the mower, discharged through the side of the mower, or chopped into finer pieces in what is known as mulching.

The Different Types of Lawn Mower Blades

The perfect blades for any lawn mower are determined by what work you want them to accomplish. There are three types of grass mower blades available: standard blades, which may also be referred to as 2-in-1 blades; mulching (or 3-in-1) blades; and Gator Blades.

Standard Blades (2-in-1)

If you want a simple, no-fuss blade that doesn’t require modifications or settings, then standard, 2-in-1 blades are for you. After the lawn is mowed, 2-in-1 blades are used to either bag it or side discharge the grass. These blades are what you primarily find in most lawn mowers on the market, and can be used for mowing your lawn on a regular basis. There are flat blades, as well as high lift blades.

Flat Blades

A flat blade is a basic, traditional style that has been used on push mowers and some riding mowers for years. It’s the most affordable option, but if your grass gets too long, it may rip at the tips rather than give a clean, precise cut. These are also known as low-lift blades.

High Lift Blades

When you want to reduce the length of your grass by a large amount, such as in the event of overgrowth or creating a fresh beginning for your lawn, a higher lift blade may be utilized. When cutting grass, the edge of these blades aids in keeping it straight by providing suction. Because you’re less inclined to get grass in the chute with high lift blades, bagging is a whole lot simpler, so if you mostly collect your grass clippings, this may be the ideal blade choice for you.

However, it can also blow dust or small particles of dirt into the air, making it more difficult to mow with as well as dirtying and potentially clogging up your lawn mower’s components.

Mulching Blades (3-in-1)

Mulching lawn mower blades have several cutting surfaces on the blades edges, are curved, and has a high number of them. The finer the debris (or clippings), the higher the number. Mulching blades are sometimes known as 3-in-1 blades because they may be used on lawn mowers to discharge clippings from the side or rear, collect them in a bag, or mulch them.

Mulching blades are one of the most popular types of lawn mower blade because the grass clippings are so tiny that they decompose rapidly and provide your grass with nutrients from the decaying material without suffocating it.

However, please note that unless your mower features a mulch option that allows the mulching blade to generate enough airflow for optimal mulching and debris dispersion, you may discover that your mowing results do not live up to the manufacturer’s promise. That is, it may grind up the grass clippings, but not as finely as you might have expected.

Gator Blades

Gator Blades have deep scoops and raised cutting surfaces, allowing them to catch more clippings. They can also be used as mulch blades, and can reduce the length of your grass clippings by half for faster decomposition.

The unique tooth angle on gator blades ensures the greatest suction on the grass and clippings, constantly drawing the grass toward the sharp cutting edge of the blade. Even tall grass will be ground into tiny pieces with these highly efficient mower blades, regardless of its height.

However, if your lawn mower has a high-performance engine or requires higher RPMs, gator blades may not function because they obstruct airflow and you may need to search for a blade of a mulching lawn mower instead.

How to Choose the Best Lawn Mower Blade

Now that we’ve gone over the three main types of lawn mower blades, it’s time to discuss how to choose the best one for your needs. Here are some factors you should consider.

Blade Length

One of the most important factors in choosing a lawn mower blade is the length. The general rule of thumb is that the longer the blade, the better. This is because longer blades provide a cleaner, more precise cut.

However, you also need to take into account the size of your lawn mower. If you have a small lawn mower, you won’t be able to use a blade that’s too long. The blade needs to fit the mower, so make sure you know the measurements before you go shopping.

Blade Width

The next factor to consider is the blade’s width. The typical width of the blade is between 2.25 and 3.5 inches. However, as previously said, a wide blade may not fit into or cause damage to your mower. Additionally, a thin blade can’t help you cut better than that. You should consult your lawnmower’s manual before shopping to get the ideal blade width for your mower.

Deck Size

The size of your mower’s deck also plays a role in choosing the right blade. If you have a small deck, you’ll need a smaller blade. Conversely, if you have a large deck, you can use a larger blade.

Remember, the blade needs to fit both the mower and the deck. If it’s too big or too small, it won’t work properly.

Number of Blades

The number of blades on the lawn mower also affects its performance. Many old lawn mowers used to have one blade, but a lot of lawn mowers nowadays have two blades, though some even have three. Three-bladed lawn mowers are usually more expensive, but they provide a better cut.

If you have a small lawn, you probably don’t need a three-bladed lawn mower. Two blades are usually sufficient. However, if you have a large lawn, or if you want a very precise cut, you may want to consider upgrading to a three-bladed mower.

Blade Holes

The number of holes on the blade also matters. The more holes, the better the airflow and the better the mulching results. If you’re planning on using your lawn mower for mulching, make sure it has at least two blade holes.

Sharpness

Of course, the sharpness of the blade is also important. A dull blade will tear the grass, rather than cut it cleanly. This can damage your lawn and make it more susceptible to disease.

A sharp blade, on the other hand, will provide a clean cut that’s less likely to damage the grass. It will also make it easier to mulch because the blade will grind the clippings into smaller pieces.

If you’re not sure how to sharpen your lawn mower blade, you can take it to a professional or buy a sharpening kit.

Blade Shape

The shape of the blade also matters. The most common blade shapes are curved, straight, or serrated. Curved blades are more efficient because they provide a greater suction that draws the grass into the blade. This results in a cleaner cut.

Straight blades are less efficient but are still able to provide a clean cut. They’re also less likely to get stuck in the grass. Serrated blades are the least efficient but are more effective at mulching.

Blade Material 

The material of the blade is also important. The most common materials are steel and aluminum. Steel is more durable but heavier, while aluminum is lighter but not as durable.

If you have a small lawn, you probably don’t need a three-bladed lawn mower. Two blades are usually sufficient. However, if you have a large lawn, or if you want a very precise cut, you may want to consider upgrading to a three-bladed mower.

Blade Lift

Lastly, you need to consider the blade lift. The blade lift is the distance between the blade and the ground. A higher blade lift will result in a cleaner cut because the blade will be able to cut the grass more evenly.

The Top 7 Lawn Mower Blades With Reviews

Now that we’ve gone over the different types of lawn mower blades, as well as what features to be on the lookout for when buying a set, let’s take a look at the 7 best blades available on the market today.

#1. Oregon G3 Gator Blades Mulching Blades

Sale
Oregon Mower Blades, 3 Pack, Gator G3 Mulching Lawnmower Replacement Blades, 18-7/16" Length, 54" Deck (95-605-3), Black
  • Three long-lasting and heavy-duty 18-4/9 inch replacement mower blades, with superior cutting edge for enhanced mulching. Fits many residential and commercial mowers
  • For 54" cut. Replaces: Ariens 21546235; AYP 112053; Craftsman 187255; Dixon 532187756; Husqvarna 112053, 24541, 33954; Murray 187256; Poulan 187254, 187255; Rotary 12121, Stens 302-430 and other makes/models
  • Oregon mower blades are premium replacement parts built to fit your your original brand of equipment while offering superior design and outstanding performance
  • Made in the U.S.A. -limited lifetime warranty included. 26-point certification of unparalleled manufacturing quality and control standards for the highest level of safety and durability.
  • Set of 3 x Gator G3 mulcher lawnmower blades included. Center hole: 5 point star; Blade length: 18-4/9 inches. Perfect fit up, superior side discharge

The Oregon G3 Gator Blades Mulching Blades are the best option on our list if you are searching for mulching blades. Oregon is a gardening and outdoor equipment and tools manufacturer, as well as a professional tool line, which means they’re probably the most well-known brand for mulching blades. The company is also well-known for their expertise and support. Because they have a lot of dealerships all around the country, as well as excellent customer service, it’s a big advantage for things that need to withstand the test of time.

The Gator Blades improve the material’s fatigue resistance and impact strength using austempering. It has a steel that is 20% stronger as a result of this technique, making it more durable, sturdy, and long-lasting. Its toughness allows it to cope with difficult mowing obstructions like branches or walnuts.

It also benefits from top-of-the-line blade sharpening technology. These grass-cutting blades are extremely sharp, allowing them to chop through vegetation and improve air flow. The blades’ aggressive angle makes it easier for you to get excellent results while using a lawnmower. Furthermore, the Oregon G3 is simple to operate, saving you time and effort.

This pack contains a set of three grass clippings blades. They may be used on any 54-inch deck from any manufacturer, and it fits mowers from Ariens, Poulan Pro, Husqvarna, and Craftsman as well as non-brand names models with a similar cutting width.

#2. Toro 22″ 59534P Recycler Mower Replacement Blade

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Toro 22" Recycler Mower Replacement Blade 59534P Display pack contains 131-4547-03 (Genuine).
  • Toro tooth mulcher blade
  • Replaces 108-9764-03
  • Tooth mulcher blade
  • WIDTH: 2-1/4" , C. H. DIA: 7/16" , THICKNESS: 0.1500" , LENGTH: 21-11/16", DIAMETER OF OUTSIDE HOLES: 0.3820"

The Toro 22″ 59534P Recycler Mower Replacement Blade is a high-quality replacement blade that can help you get the most out of your Toro mower. Because some of Toro’s larger models’ unusually long blades are difficult to replace, finding replacements for them might be difficult.

This toothed mulching blade is 2-¼” wide, 21-11/16” long, and .15” thick. The Toro 22″ Recycler Mower Replacement Blade is longer than most other lawn mower blades, allowing it to cover a wider area of grass. This is a sharp, sturdy blade that will provide excellent performance and a clean cut when attached to your Toro lawn mower.

This mulcher blade will cut through wet grass after watering or rain, cutting it down to a more manageable size. Although removing the original or previous blade from your mower may be difficult, this lawn mower blade is simple to install.

The Toro 22″ Recycler Mower Replacement Blade is an excellent choice for larger Toro mowers, extending the amount of cutting surface available to any machine with a big blade and boosting your mowing efficiency. It comes as a single blade, so you might need to buy a pair.

#3. Rotary Blades for Deck/Craftsman/Poulan/Husqvarna

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The Rotary Blades for Deck/Craftsman/Poulan/Husqvarna 3-blade set is the best option around for a high lift blade, if that’s what you are looking for. These blades are very powerful and optimal for providing a lot of high lift, meaning they lift the grass blades into a straighter position and cut them more cleanly. This will save your lawn from being susceptible to disease and insect damage.

These blades are 16.75 inches long, 2.5 inches in width, and 0.204 inches thick. They come in a set of three, and are not mulching blades but rather replacement standard blades for a walk-behind lawn mower. In addition, these blades throw the grass clippings better than other blades, and works perfectly in conjunction with a bagger on your lawn mower.

#4. Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set

MaxPower 561713XB 2 Commercial Mulching Blade Set for Many 42 in. Cut Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan Mowers Replaces OEM #'s 138498, 138971, 138971x431, 532138971
  • Includes 2 commercial mulching blades for a 42" cut.Fits Craftsman models manufactured by Husqvarna. Does not fit Craftsman models manufactured by MTD.
  • Replaces Poulan, Husqvarna, Craftsman 134149, 138971, 138498, 127843, PP24003, AYP7143A79, AYP7158A49, AYP9149A69, DPR20H42STA, TS14H42C, 2P4B9A, 9169A99 and 9178B99
  • Each measures 21" long by 2-1/2" wide
  • Has a 5 Point Star Center Hole
  • Manufactured to meet or exceed all OEM specifications

The Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set is an excellent choice for people with a 42 inch cutting deck on a Husqvarna, Craftsman, or Poulan riding lawn mower. Note that this set only includes two blades – while this should be enough for the majority of models, if your lawn mower has three blades, get two sets. These blades are 21 inches long and have a 5-point star center hole.

Maxpower’s mulching blades have larger cutting surfaces and sharpened cutting teeth for more efficient, cleaner, and finer chopping. Thanks to its centrifugal air lift design, all of Maxpower’s blades have more uniform chopping distribution. All of Maxpower’s meet or exceed O.E.M specifications, and are given a quality made assurance.

#5. EGO Power+ AB2101 21-Inch Lawn Mower High Lift Blade

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EGO Power+ AB2101 21-Inch Lawn Mower High Lift Blade for EGO 56V Models LM2101/LM2100/LM2102SP/LM2100SP/LM2142SP
  • Enhance the bagging efficiency of your 21" EGO Power plus lawn mower
  • Specifically designed for use while bagging clippings with EGO Power plus 21" Lawnmowers
  • Not recommended for use with the mulching plug
  • Factory sharpened steel blade for excellent cutting performance
  • Delivers a clean cut to promote lawn health

The EGO Power+ AB2101 21-Inch Lawn Mower High Lift Blade is a 21-inch lawn mower blade with a unique high lift design. This is designed specifically for EGO’s 21-inch lawnmowers. Because it’s a high lift mower blade, it may help you cut the grass from the ground up and provide you with an improved cut as a result

The 21-inch long blade, which is longer than other EGO Power+ lawn mower blade versions, provides a greater cutting area claim.

These blades are pre-sharpened and will provide you with a nice and clean cut. As a result, you may mow and cut as much grass as possible with minimal effort. High lift blades are tailored to channel grass clippings and then push them into storage bags for easier composting or binning later on.

The EGO POWER+ AB2101 High Lift Blade is an excellent replacement lawn mower blade for use with bagging mowers from the EGO POWER+ brand, due to its high lift design.

#6. Rotary Copperhead Toothed Mulching Mower Blades

The Rotary Copperhead Toothed Mulching Mower Blades are a set of three mulching blades that are high-performing. These blades are 17 1/2 inches long and should fit any 50-inch-wide cutting deck, although they’re intended to be used with a Toro Timecutter or other Toro brand machines.

Rotary is a long-established manufacturer of mulching blades that has been in business since 1957. They use high carbon steel that is of excellent quality, which results in improved performance and longer blade life. The blades are also tempered to maximize durability and hardness.

These blades have a super-sharp cutting surface with finer teeth to best minimize vibrations when mowing and give the most precise, sharp cutting surface for efficiently cut grass. They also include vertical teeth to improve mowing efficiency and centrifugal air lift to more quickly and uniformly distribute clippings – meaning there is 50% more airflow at discharge. This efficiency will also help your mower to use less gasoline and operate at a lower cost.

#7. Honda 08720-VH7-000 Mulching Blade Set

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Honda 08720-VH7-000 Mulching Blade Set
  • Honda 08720-VH7-000 Mulching Blade Set

If you own a Honda lawn mower and want to replace the mower blades with a mulching blade set, then the Honda 08720-VH7-000 Mulching Blade Set is perfect for you. This set only works with Honda lawn mowers, and even specific models and sizes, so be sure to read your mower’s manual for instructions as to whether these blades can work for you.

However, if they can work for you, then you are getting a great set of blades. This is the ideal alternative for any user of the Honda HRX217 lawn mower since it provides excellent performance, a perfect fit, and a high degree of durability for regular mowing usage as an official replacement lawn mower blade set for Honda.

The blades here are 20.75 inches long. These blades can cut through thicker amounts of grass without getting caught in between the blades. When you use these blades on your lawnmower, there are less vibrations.

Occasionally, the blades will get dull, so it’s usually a good idea to sharpen these blades before installing them, much like other blades, and maybe once a year after that. You can also sand them in order to better balance them, if you would like. They can last for up to five years after being sharpened.

Summary

It is important to choose the right lawn mower blade in order to get the perfect cut. So, what is the perfect lawn mower blade for your needs? Well, that depends on a few factors. When choosing a blade, you must consider the length, width, number of blades, shape, material and lift of the blade.

In general, if you have a small cutting deck, you’ll need a smaller blade. If you have a large cutting deck, you can use a wider blade. There are also different mounts that can be used with lawn mowers.

Now that you know all there is to know about lawn mower blades, it’s time for you to make a purchase. The seven best blades for 2023 have been reviewed, and while our recommendation would be the Oregon G3 Gator Blades Mulching Blades, each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Be sure to pick the one that will work best for your needs.

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Written by Linda Chan
Linda Chan is a passionate gardener and writer with a background in horticulture and landscape design. She has over 10 years of experience working in the lawn care industry and has a deep understanding of the science and art of keeping a lawn healthy and beautiful.

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