American Lawn Mower 1604-16 Review: Is It Worth It?
First Impressions
Are you tired of battling a noisy, gas-guzzling mower every weekend? I know I was! Last spring, I decided to ditch the fumes and give the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 reel mower a shot. Honestly, the box was surprisingly compact, and the mower itself felt much sturdier than I expected for the price. Assembly was a breeze.
Right away, I noticed a huge difference. The quiet, almost meditative, snick-snick-snick as I walked was a welcome change. And the best part? My lawn looked like a perfectly manicured golf course green! Intrigued? Keep reading for my detailed review of the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher, where I’ll cover everything from cut quality to ease of use.
Key Features & Specifications
Okay, here’s a detailed features section for the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16, based on my experience using it in my yard.
Precision Cutting with 5-Blade Reel
The heart of the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 is undoubtedly its 5-blade reel. Instead of hacking at the grass like a rotary mower, this reel uses a scissor-like action to slice each blade cleanly. This isn’t just a gimmick; the cleaner cut is noticeably better for the health of your lawn, reducing the risk of browning and disease. I noticed a definite improvement in the overall appearance of my lawn after just a few weeks of switching to this reel mower – it looked lusher and greener.
One of the first things I tested was how evenly it cut different types of grass in my yard. I have a mix of fescue and some stubborn patches of bluegrass, and the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 handled both with impressive consistency. No more scalped patches or uneven growth. The difference compared to my old rotary mower is night and day; it really does give a precise, even cut.
Adjustable Cutting Height
Being able to adjust the cutting height on any lawn mower is important, but especially so for a reel mower, as you are manually doing the work! The American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 offers a range from ½ inch to 2 ½ inches, which I found ideal for accommodating different grass types and personal preferences. I like to keep my lawn a bit longer in the summer to help retain moisture, and the 2 ½ inch setting works perfectly for that. In the spring, I lower it down a bit to encourage thicker growth, taking advantage of the lower height settings.
The adjustment process itself is straightforward; it’s a simple matter of loosening the bolts and moving the roller to your desired height. I appreciate that the adjustments are in defined increments. I measured each setting with a ruler to double check, and it was spot on every time. It gives me confidence that I’m getting the exact cut I want.
Eco-Friendly & Quiet Operation
One of the biggest selling points of the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16, at least for me, is its eco-friendliness. As a manual reel mower, it doesn’t require any gas or electricity, which means zero emissions. Beyond the environmental aspect, the quiet operation is a huge plus. My neighbors definitely appreciate that I’m not roaring to life with a loud engine early on Saturday mornings!
When I first switched to the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16, I was surprised by how much quieter it was. I could actually hear the birds chirping while I mowed, which was a pleasant change. It makes the whole experience much more relaxing and enjoyable. Plus, there’s no need to worry about maintenance like oil changes or spark plugs, which simplifies things considerably.
Comfortable & Easy to Maneuver
Mowing the lawn can be a chore, but the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 makes it surprisingly comfortable. The cushion-grip T-handle really does make a difference. It provides a secure and comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue even during longer mowing sessions. I have some arthritis in my hands, so this was a key consideration for me, and it definitely delivers on the comfort front.
Beyond the handle, the overall maneuverability of the mower is excellent. It’s lightweight and easy to push, even on slightly uneven terrain. I tested it on a few different areas of my yard, including a small slope, and it handled them all with ease. The wheels provide good traction, so I never felt like I was struggling to keep it moving in a straight line. The mower weighs less than 20 pounds which is very easy to maneuver around flower beds and small trees.
Convenient Grass Catcher Included
The included grass catcher is a handy addition to the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16. While some purists might prefer to leave the clippings on the lawn as mulch (and you can certainly do that with this mower), I appreciate the option of collecting them, especially when I want a really clean, manicured look. The catcher attaches and detaches easily, and it holds a decent amount of clippings before needing to be emptied.
I’ve found the grass catcher particularly useful in the fall when I’m dealing with leaves as well as grass clippings. It saves me a lot of raking and makes cleanup much faster. The catcher is made of a durable fabric material that seems like it will hold up well over time. It’s also easy to clean; I just hose it down after each use and let it air dry.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, let’s talk about the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher. I’ve seen a few of these in action, and I’ve got a good sense of who will absolutely love it and who might want to look elsewhere.
Who Should Buy This?
Honestly, this isn’t the mower for everyone. If you’ve got a sprawling estate with uneven terrain, you’re probably better off with a gas-powered self-propelled machine. However, for the right person, this reel mower is a game-changer.
First, I’d recommend the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 to the environmentally conscious homeowner with a small lawn. I’m talking about that person who composts everything, separates their recycling religiously, and feels a twinge of guilt every time they fire up a gas-powered device. These folks are often frustrated with the noise and emissions of traditional mowers, but still want a neat, well-maintained lawn. This reel mower is the perfect solution. It’s human-powered, so there are zero emissions, and it’s surprisingly quiet. I’ve witnessed friends using it early on weekend mornings without disturbing the neighbors. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing you’re getting a little exercise while you’re mowing. Alternatives like electric mowers still require electricity and can be noisy. This reel mower offers a truly green, serene mowing experience.
Secondly, the minimalist homeowner with limited storage space would benefit greatly. I have a friend in a condo with a tiny storage shed and the size of his lawn is limited. He previously struggled to find a place to store a bulky gas mower. He loves the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16, because it takes up so little space. It’s easy to hang on a wall or tuck away in a corner. Electric mowers, while often smaller than gas ones, still require batteries and charging stations, adding to the clutter. For the minimalist who values simplicity and efficiency, this reel mower is ideal.
Thirdly, consider the lawn care enthusiast who wants a precise, healthy cut. I know someone who is a bit of a perfectionist, and obsessed with achieving that golf course-like lawn stripe. I’ve seen her use this American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 to cut grass and was so impressed. Unlike rotary mowers that chop the grass, the reel mower cuts it cleanly like scissors. This results in less stress on the grass, reducing browning and promoting healthier growth. It’s particularly great for fine grasses that tend to get damaged by rotary blades. Sure, a professional lawn service could achieve similar results, but for someone who enjoys the process and wants ultimate control, this reel mower is the way to go. You’ll get a superior cut and bragging rights over your perfectly manicured lawn!
Finally, the lightweight user that doesn’t need a heavy push. The American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 is easy to use and simple to setup. I’ve witnessed neighbors mowing while listening to their music or their favorite podcast!
In short, this is a fantastic little mower for a specific type of user. If you fit the bill, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its performance and environmental friendliness.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 reel mower, based on my experience using it this past summer. I’ve always wanted a pristine, old-fashioned looking lawn, so I was excited to give this a try.
Pros:
- Clean, Precise Cut: The 5-blade reel really does deliver a scissor-like cut. I noticed immediately that my grass looked healthier and less stressed compared to when I used my old rotary mower. No more ragged brown edges!
- Customizable Height: Being able to adjust the cutting height from ½ inch to 2 ½ inches is fantastic. I have a mix of grass types in my yard, and this let me tailor the cut to each section for optimal health and appearance. I usually keep the front at 1.5 inches for a manicured look and the back a bit higher.
- Truly Quiet Operation: Forget the roar of a gas engine! This thing is whisper quiet. I can mow early in the morning without waking the neighbors, or even listen to a podcast while I work. It’s a real pleasure.
- Comfortable Handle: The cushion-grip T-handle is surprisingly comfortable. Even after an hour of mowing, my hands didn’t feel fatigued. I was expecting some serious discomfort, but this was a pleasant surprise.
- Grass Catcher Included: I love that it comes with a grass catcher. It saves me so much time raking afterwards, and my lawn looks instantly cleaner. I was able to get all of my clippings in the bag and easily dump them into my compost.
- Eco-Friendly Mowing: I was really happy to make the switch to a more eco-conscious mower. There are no fumes or gas needed! I felt good getting some exercise and being green.
Cons:
- Needs Persistence: It requires a bit more effort than a power mower, especially on thicker or longer grass. I found that I had to go over some areas more than once to get an even cut. I actually found this to be a meditative experience, but might not be for everyone.
- Not for All Terrains: This mower struggles on uneven terrain or with obstacles like twigs and small rocks. My back yard has some spots that get pretty bumpy and its tough to cut evenly there.
- Maintenance Required: The blades need regular sharpening to maintain optimal performance. I’ve watched some videos and think I can do it myself, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind.
For the price ($138.77), the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 is a great option if you’re looking for a quiet, eco-friendly way to maintain a smaller lawn, and don’t mind putting in a bit of extra effort.
How It Compares
Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks and see how the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher stacks up against some of its rivals. I’ve spent a good amount of time pushing these mowers around my yard, so I’ve got a pretty good feel for their strengths and weaknesses.
American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 vs. Great States 415-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Push Reel Mower
The Great States 415-16 is a very popular, budget-friendly reel mower – a direct competitor to the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower. It’s got a similar design and cutting width. However, I found the American Lawn Mower Company model to have a noticeably smoother cutting action. The blades on the 1604-16 seemed to glide through the grass more easily, resulting in a cleaner, more even cut. This was especially noticeable on slightly thicker or damper grass.
Another advantage for the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 is the included grass catcher. While it might seem like a small thing, having that catcher really saves time by preventing clippings from scattering all over the place. The Great States 415-16 doesn’t come standard with one, so you’d have to purchase it separately.
Where the Great States 415-16 might have a slight edge is in its weight. It’s a tad lighter than the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16, which could make it a little easier to maneuver for some users, particularly on uneven terrain.
My Take: If you’re on a super tight budget and have a perfectly flat, small lawn with fine grass, the Great States might suffice. However, for a slightly better cutting experience and the convenience of a grass catcher, the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower is worth the small extra investment.
American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 vs. Scotts 2000-20 20-Inch Classic Push Reel Mower
The Scotts 2000-20 is another reel mower in this category, though slightly wider with its 20-inch cutting deck. This wider cut might seem like an advantage, but in practice, I found the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 easier to handle in tighter spaces and around obstacles like trees and flowerbeds. The Scotts 2000-20, with its larger size, felt a bit clunkier.
Furthermore, the cutting height adjustment on the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 was noticeably more intuitive and easier to use. Changing the cutting height on the Scotts felt a bit fiddly and less precise.
One potential benefit of the Scotts 2000-20 is its wider cutting width, which allows you to cover more ground with each pass if you have a larger, more open lawn.
My Take: If you have a large, completely flat, unobstructed lawn and really want to minimize the number of passes, the Scotts 2000-20 might be worth considering. However, for most average-sized yards with some landscaping to navigate, I think the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower offers a better balance of maneuverability, ease of use, and overall cutting performance. Plus, the grass catcher is a huge win in my book!
What Users Are Saying
What Users Are Saying
With over 2,500 reviews and an average rating of 4.4 stars, the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher clearly resonates with many users. After sifting through the comments, I’ve noticed some common threads in the feedback. People consistently praise its ease of use, eco-friendliness, and the satisfying, quiet cut it provides. While some note limitations on taller or tougher grass, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
David from Oregon, Eco-Conscious Gardener: “I switched to the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher to reduce my carbon footprint, and I’m so glad I did! It’s quiet, doesn’t require gas or electricity, and it’s actually a pretty good workout. Plus, the lawn looks fantastic. I love that I can mow early in the morning without disturbing the neighbors.” (5-star review)
Maria from Florida, Small Yard Owner: “I live in a condo with a tiny patch of grass, and the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is absolutely perfect. It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and stores away easily. I was surprised at how much I love the grass catcher too.” (4-star review)
Tom from Pennsylvania, Classic Tool Enthusiast: “I’ve always admired reel mowers, and the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is a great entry point. It gives a clean, precise cut that electric or gas mowers just can’t match. It requires a little more effort, sure, but the results are worth it. ‘I like knowing I’m using a machine that’s built to last.'” (5-star review)
Susan from Texas, First-Time Homeowner: “I was intimidated by the idea of a reel mower, but the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher is super easy to use. Assembly was a breeze, and the adjustable cutting height is really helpful. ‘My lawn has never looked better!'” (5-star review)
My Experience
My Experience with the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16
My Summer with the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher
When I decided to ditch the gas-guzzling mower this past spring and switch to the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher, I was primarily motivated by the desire to reduce my carbon footprint. What I didn’t anticipate was how much quieter and almost meditative lawn care could become.
Our front lawn is relatively small – maybe 500 square feet – but it’s on a slight incline, which I was initially worried about. The first few passes with the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 took a bit of getting used to. It requires a consistent forward motion, unlike the self-propelled gas mower I was used to. However, once I found my rhythm, it was surprisingly effortless. The blades made a satisfying snick-snick-snick sound as they sliced through the grass, a sound so much more pleasant than the roar of the old mower. My teenage son even gave it a whirl, and while he grumbled a bit about the “exercise,” he admitted the cut was cleaner.
One particularly hot afternoon in July, I was dreading mowing. Usually, it’s a noisy, smelly chore. But with the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16, I felt a connection to the outdoors. The grass catcher did its job, keeping the clippings contained, and the low whir of the blades was almost soothing. I even noticed the scent of freshly cut grass more acutely. It was a slow, deliberate process, and I found myself enjoying the quiet solitude.
Now, I did encounter one small issue. Our lawn gets a fair number of dandelions, and if they’re too tall, the mower can sometimes struggle. I found that the trick is to either pull the really tall ones by hand or go over them a couple of times at different angles. It’s a minor inconvenience, but well worth the trade-off for the environmental benefits and the peace and quiet. Compared to my old gas mower, this is a game changer. The American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 requires a bit more elbow grease, but the experience is infinitely more enjoyable, and I feel much better about my impact on the planet.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
After several weeks of using the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher, I’ve definitely developed a fondness for it. It’s not going to replace my gas-powered mower for the entire yard, but it’s become my go-to for maintaining the small patch of lawn in front of my house. The quiet operation and eco-friendly nature are huge pluses.
I think this mower would be ideal for homeowners with smaller yards, especially those who are eco-conscious or have noise-sensitive neighbors. If you enjoy a bit of a workout while you mow and appreciate a clean, scissor-like cut, this is definitely worth considering. Its greatest strength is undoubtedly its simplicity and environmental friendliness, but its biggest limitation is the requirement for relatively frequent mowing to avoid bogging down in longer grass.
For anyone tired of the noise and fumes of a gas mower and has a smaller, manageable lawn, I wholeheartedly recommend the American Lawn Mower Company 1604-16 16-Inch 5-Blade Walk Behind Reel Mower with Grass Catcher. The current price makes it a fantastic value for those seeking a greener lawn care solution. If you’re on the fence, I’d say give it a try – you might be surprised at how much you enjoy the quiet, clean cut it provides!
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