Allett Kensington 17K

Why a reel mower rather than a rotary? It's simple. Reel mowers (also called "cylinder" mowers) are superior to rotary mowers because they make a "scissor cut" rather than a hacking cut like a machete. This scissor cut makes a clean cut (rotary mowers often leave jagged edges). A clean cut is desirable because it looks better AND it reduces water loss from turf. That's a win/win situation. Also, a reel mower mows at a lower cut height than a rotary mower ever can, creating a dense, tight lawn that looks better and the density reduces weeds (weed seeds are less likely to touch soil and take root). Think golf course: they use only reel mowers and have a stunning, low, dense turf. For some turf, such as Tifway Bermuda, a low growing/cut height also makes for a healthier turf. Due to the lower cutting height, reel mowers are the best type of mowers for Zoysia, Bermuda, or Centipede. Reel mowers are not made for the longer grasses such as Tall Fescue or St. Augustine.