best lawn mower for cutting bermuda grass

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The first thing that struck me about the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower wasn’t just its sleek design but how smoothly it sliced through Bermuda grass. After testing on thick, active lawns, I noticed its heat-treated alloy steel blades stayed sharp for consistent, clean cuts without tearing the grass—perfect for healthy turf. The 7-blade reel offers a truly precise cut, especially on short, dense Bermuda, Zoysia, and bent grass. The adjustable height (0.5″-2.5″) makes it versatile, and the comfortable cushioned handle felt natural during extended use. Second paragraph: I also compared this mower with others like the Earthwise 1715-16EW and Great States 815-18, which are solid but don’t match the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC’s durability and cut quality for Bermuda. With superior blade steel and better maneuverability, this model really stands out. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower—perfect if you want a reliable, eco-friendly tool that keeps your Bermuda looking pristine.

Top Recommendation: American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower

Why We Recommend It: This model’s 7-blade reel with heat-treated alloy steel blades provides sharper, longer-lasting cuts compared to the 4-blade American mower or the 5-blade Great States. Its durable construction and 16″ width deliver efficient mowing of Bermuda grass, and the adjustable height (0.5″-2.5″) offers tailored control. Plus, the improved maneuverability from the durable 10″ wheels makes it easier to tackle dense, active lawns.

Best lawn mower for cutting bermuda grass: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewAmerican Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel MowerEarthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn MowerAmerican Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
TitleAmerican Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel MowerEarthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn MowerAmerican Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
Cutting Width16 inches16 inches14 inches
Number of Blades7 blades7 blades4 blades
Wheel Type and Size10″ alloy wheels10″ composite wheels8.5″ polymer wheels
Adjustable Cutting Height0.5″ – 2.5″0.5″ – 2.5″0.5″ – 1.75″
Weight– lbs– lbs19 lbs
Suitable Grass TypesBermuda, Tiff, Bent, ZoysiaBermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, St. Augustine, Seashore Paspalum
Handle TypeT-style with cushioned grip
Manual Operation
Available

American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower

American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC 16-inch 7-Blade Reel Mower
Pros:
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Sharp, durable blades
  • Comfortable handle design
Cons:
  • Manual operation requires effort
  • Limited to short grass
Specification:
Cutting Width 16 inches
Blade Type 7-blade reel made of heat-treated alloy steel
Number of Blades 7 blades
Adjustable Cutting Height 0.5 to 2.5 inches
Wheel Diameter 10 inches
Blade Material Heat-treated alloy steel

The first time I pushed the American Lawn Mower 1725-16GC across my Bermuda grass, I was surprised by how smoothly it glided over the thick turf. The newly designed 10-inch wheels made maneuvering around tight spots and flower beds feel effortless, almost like the mower was an extension of my arm.

The 16-inch cutting width is just right for quick coverage without feeling bulky. As I pushed, I noticed how the seven blades sliced through the dense grass with clean precision, leaving a neat, even cut.

The adjustable height from 0.5 to 2.5 inches gives you flexibility, so you can tailor your cut to keep that perfect short Bermuda look.

The heat-treated alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, which means less maintenance and more mowing time. The T-style handle with a cushioned grip feels comfortable, even after a few rounds, reducing fatigue.

It’s clear that this mower is built for the active lawn enthusiast who takes pride in maintaining a pristine yard.

Using this mower, I appreciated how quiet it was compared to gas models — no fumes, no fuss. It’s lightweight enough to carry around easily, yet sturdy enough to handle thick grass without bogging down.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone serious about keeping Bermuda or similar grass types perfectly trimmed.

Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower

Earthwise 1715-16EW 16-Inch 7-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
Pros:
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Durable steel construction
  • Sharp blades last longer
Cons:
  • Requires effort on thick grass
  • Not ideal for large lawns
Specification:
Cutting Width 16 inches
Blade Type 7-blade ball bearing reel, alloy steel
Cutting Height Adjustment 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

I was surprised to find that this Earthwise reel mower handled Bermuda grass like a champ without kicking up a cloud of dust or leaving uneven patches.

The first thing I noticed is how smoothly the 7-blade reel spins, thanks to the ball bearings. It feels sturdy in your hands, with a solid steel side plate that promises durability.

The 16-inch cutting width is just right—big enough to cover ground quickly but still easy to maneuver around bushes and flower beds.

Adjusting the cutting height was a breeze, thanks to the simple lever. I set it somewhere around 1.5 inches, and the cut was clean and even across the entire yard.

The alloy steel blades stay sharp longer, so you don’t have to sharpen them constantly.

Moving this mower across the yard is surprisingly lightweight, especially with the 10-inch composite wheels. It glides over uneven terrain and thick patches of Bermuda grass without much effort.

Plus, I love that it’s a planet-friendly choice—no gas, no fumes, just good old elbow grease.

For small to medium patches of Bermuda, this mower is a game-changer. It’s quiet, clean, and surprisingly efficient.

The only thing to keep in mind is that pushing it requires a bit of effort on thicker, denser areas, but overall, it’s a reliable tool for maintaining a healthy, neat lawn.

American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower

American Lawn Mower 1204-14 14-Inch 4-Blade Reel Mower
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Quiet and eco-friendly
  • Precise, damage-free cut
Cons:
  • Less effective on very tall grass
  • Not ideal for wet conditions
Specification:
Cutting Width 14 inches
Blade Type 4-blade reel
Blade Height Adjustment 0.5 to 1.75 inches
Wheel Diameter 8.5 inches
Weight 19 pounds
Suitable Grass Height up to 4 inches

The first thing that caught my eye about this American Lawn Mower 1204-14 is how effortlessly it glides across Bermuda grass. Its lightweight frame, weighing just 19 pounds, means I barely feel like I’m pushing anything at all.

The 8.5-inch polymer wheels roll smoothly, even on uneven patches, making the whole mowing process feel less like a chore.

What I really appreciated is how cleanly it cuts without tearing or damaging the grass blades. Bermuda grass can be tricky because it tends to get tall fast, but this reel mower handles up to 4 inches with ease.

The adjustable blade height is a nice touch, letting me set it from 0.5 to 1.75 inches for a precise cut every time.

Using it is almost silent, which is a huge plus when I want to mow early in the morning. Plus, there’s no fuss with cords or gas, making it an eco-friendly choice that’s low-maintenance.

I found that mowing in small sections and overlapping slightly gave the best results, especially on thicker patches.

However, it’s not perfect for tall or wet grass. You’ll want to avoid mowing when the grass is damp, or longer than 4 inches, as it struggles a bit then.

Still, for small lawns and regular upkeep, it’s a great, quiet, and efficient option that lets me keep Bermuda looking tidy without the noise or fumes of a traditional mower.

Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower

Great States 815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower
Pros:
  • Quiet operation
  • Easy to assemble
  • Sharp, durable blades
Cons:
  • Manual effort required
  • Not ideal for large lawns
Specification:
Cutting Width 18 inches
Blade Type High-quality alloy steel, 5-blade design with ball bearings
Cutting Height Adjustment 0.5 to 2.75 inches
Wheels 10-inch composite wheels
Blade Material Alloy steel
Motor Type Manual push, no motor

There’s something surprisingly satisfying about pushing the Great States 815-18 across a patch of Bermuda grass. Unlike noisy gas-powered mowers I’ve handled before, this one glides quietly, almost like gliding a skate over the lawn.

The 18-inch cutting width means fewer passes, which feels like a real time-saver when you’re tackling a medium-sized yard.

The five-blade design is noticeable right away. It cuts through Bermuda grass with a clean, crisp edge, thanks to high-quality alloy steel blades that stay sharp longer.

Adjusting the cutting height from 0.5″ to 2.75″ is straightforward, and I appreciate how easy it is to get an even cut without fuss.

The handlebar is comfortable, with cushioned grips that prevent hand fatigue. Maneuverability is excellent, thanks to the 10-inch composite wheels that roll smoothly over uneven spots.

Setting it up took just a few minutes, and no special tools were needed, which is a huge plus for quick yard work.

Because it’s a manual, motorless mower, there’s no noise or emissions. That makes it a breeze to use early in the morning or late at night without disturbing neighbors.

Plus, it’s low-maintenance — no fuel, oil, or complicated parts to worry about.

If you’re dealing with Bermuda grass regularly, this mower’s sharp blades, adjustable height, and quiet operation make it stand out. It’s simple, effective, and eco-friendly, perfect for small to medium lawns that need a clean cut.

Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries, Bag

Yard Force 15" Cordless Reel Mower 20V, 2 Batteries, Bag
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Powerful cordless operation
  • Excellent for Bermuda grass
Cons:
  • Slightly limited cutting width
  • Battery life could be longer
Specification:
Cutting Width 15 inches
Blade Type Reel blade with scissor-like cut
Height Adjustment 4-position single lever, 0.5 to 2 inches
Wheels 8-inch PVC wrapped with ball bearings
Battery Voltage 20V Lithium-Ion
Battery Capacity Not specified (includes 2 batteries)

The moment I fired up the Yard Force 15″ Cordless Reel Mower, I immediately noticed how smoothly it glided across my Bermuda grass lawn. The 8-inch PVC wrapped wheels felt sturdy and made maneuvering effortless, even on uneven spots.

The real game-changer is the cordless design with the 20V Lithium-Ion battery. You can just push it like a traditional reel mower, or pop in the battery for that extra power.

I loved how seamlessly it switched between manual and powered modes without any fuss.

Adjusting the cutting height is a breeze with the single lever. I shifted from a close 0.5 inches to a taller 2 inches in seconds, perfect for different lawn needs.

The 15-inch cutting width covers enough ground without feeling bulky to handle.

What really stood out is how cleanly it cut the Bermuda grass, leaving a crisp, scissor-like edge. This type of cut promotes faster healing and healthier turf.

Plus, the two batteries meant I could mow longer without waiting for a recharge, which was super convenient.

Overall, this mower feels lightweight but durable, and it’s ideal for manicured grasses and maintaining a tidy yard. It’s quiet, eco-friendly, and surprisingly powerful for a battery-operated reel mower.

If you want a tool that combines traditional simplicity with modern convenience, this one’s a winner.

What Features Are Essential for a Lawn Mower That Cuts Bermuda Grass Effectively?

When selecting the best lawn mower for cutting Bermuda grass, certain features are essential for achieving optimal results.

  • Sharp Blades: Sharp blades are crucial for clean cuts, preventing tearing of the grass blades which can lead to brown tips and disease. Regular maintenance and sharpening of the blades ensure that the mower provides a precise cut, essential for the healthy growth of Bermuda grass.
  • Adjustable Cutting Height: Bermuda grass thrives best when maintained at a specific height, typically around 1 to 2 inches. An adjustable cutting height allows users to tailor the mower’s settings to the recommended height, promoting a lush and healthy lawn while preventing scalping.
  • Powerful Engine: A powerful engine is necessary for handling the dense growth of Bermuda grass, especially during the peak growing season. A robust engine ensures that the mower can cut through thick patches without bogging down, providing an efficient mowing experience.
  • Self-Propelled Feature: For larger lawns, a self-propelled mower can significantly reduce the physical effort required to mow. This feature allows the mower to move forward without requiring the user to push, making it easier to maneuver across uneven terrain and thick grass.
  • Mulching Capability: A mower with mulching capabilities can finely chop grass clippings and return them to the lawn, providing essential nutrients back to the soil. This feature is particularly beneficial for Bermuda grass, as it supports healthier growth and reduces the need for additional fertilizers.
  • Durable Construction: A durable construction ensures that the mower can withstand regular use and various weather conditions. Look for models made from high-quality materials that offer longevity and resistance to rust, particularly important for outdoor equipment.
  • Ease of Maneuverability: Mowers that are lightweight and easy to maneuver can help navigate tight corners and obstacles in your yard. Features like adjustable handles and compact designs enhance user control and comfort during mowing sessions.

Which Types of Lawn Mowers Are Best Suited for Bermuda Grass?

The best lawn mowers for cutting Bermuda grass typically feature specific designs and functionalities that promote healthy growth and a well-manicured appearance.

  • Reel Mowers: These manual mowers are ideal for Bermuda grass due to their ability to cut grass cleanly and at a precise height.
  • Rotary Mowers: Rotary mowers are versatile and effective for Bermuda grass, especially the ones with adjustable cutting heights to accommodate the grass’s growth patterns.
  • Self-Propelled Mowers: Self-propelled mowers reduce the effort required for mowing larger areas of Bermuda grass, offering various speed settings for user convenience.
  • Gas-Powered Mowers: These mowers provide powerful engines that can handle dense and thick Bermuda grass, making them suitable for larger lawns.
  • Electric Mowers: Electric mowers, both corded and battery-operated, are eco-friendly options that are quieter and easier to maintain, ideal for smaller Bermuda grass lawns.

Reel Mowers: These mowers use a set of blades that spin vertically to cut grass, which can lead to a healthier lawn because they provide a clean cut that minimizes damage to the grass blades. They require manual effort, making them best suited for small to medium-sized Bermuda grass lawns where precision is key.

Rotary Mowers: Equipped with a horizontally spinning blade, rotary mowers can quickly cover larger areas and are typically more powerful than reel mowers. The ability to adjust the mowing height is particularly valuable for Bermuda grass, which thrives when kept at a shorter length.

Self-Propelled Mowers: These mowers come with a drive system that propels the mower forward, reducing the physical strain on the user, making them a great choice for homeowners with moderate to large Bermuda grass lawns. They also often feature variable speed settings, allowing for customizable mowing experiences based on lawn conditions.

Gas-Powered Mowers: Ideal for tackling thick and robust Bermuda grass, gas-powered mowers offer significant cutting power and are perfect for larger lawns. They typically provide better performance in terms of speed and longevity but require regular maintenance and fuel management.

Electric Mowers: These mowers are gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits and ease of use. They are particularly suited for small to medium-sized Bermuda grass lawns, as they are quieter and require less maintenance compared to gas mowers, with the added benefit of eliminating emissions.

How Do Self-Propelled Mowers Benefit Bermuda Grass?

The ability to adjust the cutting height is crucial for Bermuda grass, which requires specific care to thrive. Self-propelled mowers typically offer a range of settings that allow homeowners to maintain the grass at the ideal height, ensuring it remains lush and vibrant.

Operator fatigue is significantly reduced with self-propelled models since they do most of the work, making mowing less of a chore and more manageable, especially for larger lawns. This ease of use can encourage more frequent mowing, which is vital for the health of Bermuda grass.

Moreover, these mowers are generally equipped with robust engines that can easily tackle the thick growth patterns of Bermuda grass, enabling a more efficient mowing process. This efficiency not only saves time but also contributes to a more professional-looking lawn.

Lastly, the clean and precise cuts provided by self-propelled mowers help to minimize stress on the grass, which is essential for maintaining its health and appearance. Healthy Bermuda grass is resilient and can withstand heat and drought, making proper mowing with the right equipment crucial.

What Makes Reel Mowers a Good Option for Bermuda Grass?

Reel mowers are considered a great option for cutting Bermuda grass due to their precision and health benefits for the lawn.

  • Clean Cut: Reel mowers provide a scissor-like cutting action that results in a clean cut of the grass blades.
  • Reduced Stress on Grass: The gentle cutting action of reel mowers minimizes damage to the grass, promoting healthier growth.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Reel mowers are manual and do not require fuel or electricity, making them a sustainable choice.
  • Improved Lawn Health: Regular mowing with a reel mower encourages denser growth and can help prevent weeds from taking over.
  • Cost-Effective: With no fuel costs and minimal maintenance, reel mowers can be a more economical option in the long run.

The clean cut provided by reel mowers enhances the aesthetic appeal of Bermuda grass by preventing fraying and promoting a uniform look. This precision is particularly beneficial for Bermuda grass, which thrives on well-maintained lawns.

By reducing stress on the grass, reel mowers allow Bermuda grass to maintain its lush green appearance without the risk of scalping or tearing, which can occur with rotary mowers. This is essential for maintaining the health of Bermuda grass, especially during the hotter months.

Being environmentally friendly, reel mowers do not emit pollutants or noise, making them a perfect choice for eco-conscious homeowners. This aspect appeals to those looking to maintain a beautiful lawn while also caring for the environment.

When using a reel mower, the grass is clipped rather than ripped, which helps promote a thicker, healthier lawn that is better able to compete with weeds. This growth pattern is particularly beneficial for Bermuda grass, known for its aggressive growing nature.

In terms of cost, reel mowers are a long-term investment. With no need for fuel and less mechanical upkeep compared to gas-powered mowers, they offer a budget-friendly option for maintaining Bermuda grass lawns.

Why Should You Consider Riding Mowers for Bermuda Grass Lawns?

Riding mowers can be an excellent choice for maintaining Bermuda grass lawns due to several advantages:

  • Efficiency: The wide cutting deck of riding mowers allows for faster mowing over large areas. Bermuda grass thrives with regular, uniform cutting, making the speed and coverage of riding mowers beneficial.

  • Comfort: Riding mowers provide enhanced comfort compared to push mowers. With adjustable seats and easy steering, long mowing sessions become less strenuous, especially for larger lawns where maneuvering can be challenging.

  • Versatility: Many riding mowers come equipped with features such as mulching capabilities, baggers, or attachments for leaf collection. This makes it easier to maintain the health of Bermuda grass by ensuring clippings are managed effectively, allowing for better air circulation and moisture retention.

  • Power: Riding mowers typically have more powerful engines, making them suitable for tackling the tougher growth that can occur with Bermuda grass in optimal growing conditions.

  • Terrain Handling: If your lawn has uneven sections or slopes, riding mowers often handle these terrains better than push mowers, providing more stability and control.

Choosing a riding mower can significantly enhance the maintenance of Bermuda grass, promoting a healthier, more vibrant lawn.

How Important Are Blade Options When Choosing a Mower for Bermuda Grass?

  • Standard Rotary Blades: These blades are commonly used in push and riding mowers and are designed to create a clean, level cut. They work well for Bermuda grass, as the sharp, horizontal cutting action minimizes damage to the grass blades, promoting healthy growth.
  • Mulching Blades: Designed with a unique shape, mulching blades chop grass clippings into finer pieces, which can then settle back into the lawn as nutrients. This is beneficial for Bermuda grass as it helps maintain moisture and provides essential nutrients, reducing the need for frequent fertilization.
  • High-Lift Blades: These blades are engineered to create a greater airflow, lifting grass clippings more effectively for disposal. High-lift blades are ideal for Bermuda grass, especially during the growing season, as they allow for efficient bagging or collection of clippings, keeping the lawn tidy.
  • Low-Lift Blades: Best suited for lawns with less dense grass, low-lift blades may not provide the best results for Bermuda grass, which thrives with a more robust cutting action. However, they can be useful for sandy or dry conditions where clippings need to be dispersed quickly without clogging the mower.
  • Reversible Blades: Some mowers offer the option to reverse the blades for different cutting styles. This versatility allows for optimal performance based on the specific needs of Bermuda grass, whether it’s regular mowing or preparing the lawn for overseeding.

What Maintenance Practices Are Necessary for Mowers Cutting Bermuda Grass?

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of mowers used for cutting Bermuda grass, several maintenance practices are essential:

  • Regular Blade Sharpening: Keeping mower blades sharp is crucial for cutting Bermuda grass cleanly and efficiently. Dull blades can tear the grass, leading to brown edges and increased susceptibility to disease.
  • Frequent Cleaning: After each use, it’s important to clean the mower deck and blades of grass clippings and debris. This prevents build-up that can affect cutting performance and lead to rust and corrosion over time.
  • Oil Changes: Regular oil changes are necessary to keep the engine running smoothly. Fresh oil reduces friction and wear on engine components, which is especially important for the high-performance demands of cutting dense Bermuda grass.
  • Air Filter Maintenance: Checking and replacing the air filter at regular intervals ensures the engine receives adequate airflow. A clean air filter improves engine efficiency and power, which is essential for cutting thick Bermuda grass.
  • Tire Pressure Checks: Maintaining the correct tire pressure ensures that the mower rolls evenly and does not scalp the grass. Proper tire pressure also enhances fuel efficiency and provides better traction on various terrains.
  • Inspecting Cables and Belts: Regularly checking the mower’s cables and belts for wear and tear can prevent unexpected breakdowns. Replacing frayed or damaged components maintains the mower’s performance and safety.
  • Storing Properly: When not in use, storing the mower in a dry, sheltered location can protect it from the elements. Additionally, using a fuel stabilizer in the gas tank during the off-season can prevent fuel degradation and engine issues.

Which Lawn Mowers Are Highly Recommended for Bermuda Grass Care?

The best lawn mowers for cutting Bermuda grass are designed to handle its dense and vigorous growth effectively.

  • Rotary Mowers: These mowers are equipped with a horizontal blade that rotates to cut grass at a desired height.
  • Reel Mowers: These mowers utilize a set of blades that spin vertically to cut grass, providing a clean and precise cut.
  • Self-Propelled Mowers: These mowers come with a drive system that propels the mower forward, making it easier to navigate larger areas of Bermuda grass.
  • Electric Mowers: Available in both corded and battery-operated versions, these mowers are quieter and eco-friendly, suitable for smaller lawns.
  • Robotic Mowers: These autonomous mowers can be programmed to maintain Bermuda grass with minimal effort from the user.

Rotary Mowers: Rotary mowers are ideal for Bermuda grass due to their ability to handle thicker blades and uneven terrain. They typically allow for adjustable cutting heights, which is essential for Bermuda grass that thrives when kept at a specific height to promote healthy growth and prevent weeds.

Reel Mowers: Reel mowers provide a precise cut that is beneficial for Bermuda grass, which can be sensitive to jagged edges that other mowers may leave behind. They work best on well-maintained lawns and are often quieter and more environmentally friendly than their rotary counterparts.

Self-Propelled Mowers: For those with larger lawns, self-propelled mowers ease the burden of mowing by providing assistance in moving the mower forward. This feature is especially helpful on inclines and allows for more efficient coverage of Bermuda grass lawns.

Electric Mowers: Electric mowers are perfect for homeowners seeking a quieter and more sustainable option for mowing Bermuda grass. They are typically lighter than gas mowers, making them easier to maneuver, and are less prone to maintenance issues associated with gas engines.

Robotic Mowers: Robotic mowers offer a cutting-edge solution for maintaining Bermuda grass without manual labor. They can be programmed to follow specific mowing schedules and are ideal for busy homeowners who want a consistently maintained lawn without the effort of traditional mowing.

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