American Lawn Mower Company 16-Inch Bent Reel Mower #1705-16

When the summer started, I didn't know a thing about soil or seed but figured out enough to plant a nice 30 x 30 plot with grass that -- oh oh -- suddenly needed mowing. I asked my Mom (my lazy Dad always left the lawn and the mower to her) and she suggested a simple manual model -- the sort she pushed well into her 70s. I chose the 1705-16 based on the price and reviews here in Amazon and three days later it arrived. One part had sheared in transit so I sent the company an e-mail. Three days later, a replacement part arrived and with two box wrenches I had the mower together in 15 minutes (it's a five minute job if you know in advance not to fully tighten the handle bolts until you have hooked the end slots onto the stubs on the reel assembly, and that the grips go on faster if you twist them as you push them on.)

One push and I was off, the nice sissoring sound, so peaceful and industrious, far more seemly than the roar of a gas engine. Since the grass was a bit longer than the suggested maximum 4 inches, I had to make a couple of passes to get the plot evenly trimmed, but now that it's uniformly cut, the weekly cross cut trims leave my grass even and neat. I trim the edges with a pair of electric clippers and I'm done in less than a half hour.

I planted tall fescue which responds well to reel mowing but I tested it on rye grass and it doesn't work so well unless the rye is already close to mowing height.

I didn't think I could plant a lawn let alone maintain one, but with some decent rain, decent service, and a decent mower, I now have a decent back yard.

I found this to be great mower. Please note that if your grass is high, as mine was, the initial mow will be difficult, but do not be discouraged. The next mows were much better. I can now mow at anytime without disturbing my neighbors, and it is better for the environment.

The 16" American Lawn Mower is perfect for my small lawn area. It's just like the old iron mower I pushed as a kid . . . but lighter and much, much easier to maneuver. Size, weight and quality are great. Appears to be American made.

I have used the mower about 6 times now. It works perfectly. I use it to trim area close to my house. I have another reel mower for main yard. It cuts everything in sight! Don't forget to spray down with WD40 when done.

The instructions were so easy to follow and it was very easy to assemble. The lawn mower works great and was the cheapest one around. The delivery and the exchange was the easiest I've ever done. Thanks again. Will definitely find other items to order.