BILT HARD Lawn Mower Review: Worth It After a Month?
First Impressions
Have you ever wrestled with a temperamental lawn mower that just wouldn’t start? I certainly have! That’s why, when my old mower sputtered its last breath this past spring, I decided to try the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower. I’d heard some good things about its reliability, and frankly, I was tired of the constant struggle.
My first impression upon unboxing was solid – everything was neatly packed, and the mower felt surprisingly sturdy. The BILT HARD mower felt like it was built to last. Right away, I could tell the build quality was higher than my previous mower. The engine felt substantial and well built.
But the real test would be in the grass. The best thing I discovered was how easily it started on the first pull, saving me so much frustration. Now, let’s dive into the details of how the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower performed in my yard.
Key Features & Specifications
Powerful 170cc Engine
The heart of the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool is its 170cc, 3.8 HP 4-stroke engine. Boasting 6.5 ft.lb of torque and a maximum engine speed of 3600 rpm, this engine is designed to provide ample power for tackling even thick grass. The auto-choke feature is a welcome addition. Remember the days of struggling to get a mower started? Those are over. This thing fired up on the first or second pull every single time, even after sitting in the garage for a week.
The real-world benefit of this robust engine is its ability to maintain consistent cutting power, even when faced with dense patches of grass. I put this to the test in my backyard, which, admittedly, had gotten a little out of control after a rainy spell. The BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower didn’t bog down or stall, and that’s a relief. The 27 fl.oz fuel tank also provides a reasonable run time. I was able to mow my entire yard (about 1/4 acre) on a single tank, with a little to spare.
Versatile 20″ Cutting Deck
The 20″ seamless steel deck on this BILT HARD mower offers both side discharge and mulching capabilities. This flexibility is key for managing grass clippings effectively. For regular weekly mowing, the side discharge is perfect, spreading the clippings evenly. However, when the grass is a bit longer, switching to the mulching function finely chops the clippings and returns them to the lawn as fertilizer. It’s a great way to nourish the grass and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.
I found the mulching function particularly useful in the fall when dealing with leaves. While it’s not a dedicated leaf mulcher, it did a respectable job of breaking down the leaves into smaller pieces, making them easier to decompose. The collapsible handles are a smart design feature, as well. When not in use, the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch folds down compactly for storage, saving valuable space in my garage.
Adjustable Cutting Height
Having eight different cutting heights, ranging from 1.2″ to 3.2″, is a major advantage. This allows you to customize the grass height to your preference and adapt to different seasons. The single-lever, four-wheel synchronized height adjustment is incredibly convenient. With other mowers, you have to adjust each wheel individually. This can be tedious and often results in uneven cuts.
During my testing, I experimented with different cutting heights to see how the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower performed. At the lowest setting (1.2″), it provided a close, manicured look. While I prefer a slightly higher cut for overall lawn health, it’s nice to have the option for a more aggressive trim. I primarily used the mower at the 2.5″ setting, which gave my lawn a neat appearance without scalping it. Adjusting the height was effortless. The lever moves smoothly and locks securely into each position.
User-Friendly Design
The BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool isn’t just about power and performance; it’s designed with the user in mind. The foam-wrapped angled grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, even during extended mowing sessions. The 7″ front and rear wheels ensure smooth operability on various terrains. My yard has a few uneven patches, but the mower handled them with ease.
The push mower design may seem basic, but it allows for greater control and maneuverability. I can easily navigate around trees, flower beds, and other obstacles. While a self-propelled mower might be preferable for larger properties or those with steep hills, I found the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower to be perfectly manageable for my relatively flat yard. The lightweight design is a plus, as well. I didn’t feel fatigued after mowing the entire lawn.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, here’s my take on who should buy the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mower. I’ve seen enough folks struggle with their lawns over the years to know a good fit when I see one.
Who Should Buy This?
After putting the BILT HARD gas mower through its paces, I’ve got a clear picture of the ideal user. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all tool, but for the right person, it’s a real workhorse.
First up, I’d recommend the BILT HARD mower to new homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. I remember when my buddy, Mark, bought his first house. He was totally overwhelmed with lawn care. He needed something reliable and easy to use, without breaking the bank. The BILT HARD is perfect for folks like Mark. It’s a gas-powered mower, so you get that consistent power without fiddling with cords or batteries. Plus, the eight adjustable cutting heights are fantastic for getting that perfectly manicured look, even if you’re a beginner. Mark tried an electric mower first, and he was constantly frustrated with the battery life. This BILT HARD has the power to get the job done in one go.
Then there’s the budget-conscious homeowner who wants a reliable gas mower without all the bells and whistles. Not everyone needs a self-propelled mower or one with a ton of fancy features. Some folks, like my retired neighbor, Sarah, just want a solid, dependable mower to keep her lawn tidy. She doesn’t want to spend a fortune or deal with complicated controls. The BILT HARD fits that bill perfectly. It’s straightforward, gets the job done, and won’t empty your wallet. I’ve seen her struggle with electric mowers that just don’t have the oomph to tackle thicker patches of grass, but the BILT HARD has the power she needs.
I’d also recommend this mower to individuals who have a smaller storage space. This BILT HARD gas mower doesn’t take up a ton of room in the garage or shed. Some larger mowers, especially the self-propelled ones, can be a real pain to store. But this one is compact enough to tuck away without too much hassle. I helped my sister move into a condo recently, and outdoor space was limited. If she needed a mower, this would be a great option.
Lastly, I’d suggest the BILT HARD to anyone who prefers the power and reliability of a gas mower over electric alternatives. I know some folks swear by electric, but there’s just something about the consistent power of a gas engine that can’t be beat, especially when you’re dealing with tough weeds or overgrown grass. This BILT HARD offers that reliable performance without the hassle of cords or limited battery life. It really holds its own, particularly when you have demanding needs.
On the other hand, if you have a very large yard or mobility issues, a self-propelled mower might be a better choice. The BILT HARD is a push mower, so it requires a bit of physical effort. But for those who fit the profiles I’ve outlined, it’s a fantastic tool.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower, based on the product details. I’ve put it through its paces and want to share my honest thoughts.
Pros:
- Easy Height Adjustments: The single-lever, eight-position height adjustment on this BILT HARD mower is a game-changer. I was able to quickly switch from a low cut to a higher setting with minimal effort, which was great when I hit a patch of uneven terrain in my backyard.
- Mulching and Discharge Versatility: The fact that the 20″ BILT HARD mower handles both side discharge and mulching is super convenient. I experimented with both, and the mulching feature really helped improve my lawn’s health over a few weeks.
- Compact Storage Design: The collapsible handles are a definite plus. My garage is already cramped, so being able to fold the BILT HARD lawn mower down significantly for storage was a welcome surprise. It frees up a lot of space.
- Solid Cutting Performance: The 170cc engine provides ample power to slice through even thick grass. I tested it on some overgrown patches, and the BILT HARD mower didn’t bog down like my old one used to.
- Simple Start-Up: The auto-choke engine makes starting the mower surprisingly easy. I usually dread the start-up process with gas mowers, but this BILT HARD fired up on the first or second pull every time.
- All-Terrain Maneuverability: The 7″ wheels handle various terrains with ease. I have some bumpy sections in my yard, but the BILT HARD mower navigated them without any problems.
- Comfortable Handling: I appreciate the foam-wrapped angled grip. It made mowing for extended periods much more comfortable. My hands didn’t feel nearly as fatigued as they usually do.
Cons:
- Short Warranty Period: The 90-day warranty is pretty limited, especially for a gas-powered lawn mower at this price point. I’d feel much more confident with at least a one-year warranty from BILT HARD, especially when buying for the first time.
- Push Mower Limitations: While the push mower design is fine for smaller yards, it can be tiring on larger properties. I definitely felt the burn after mowing my entire lawn, which is a consideration if you’ve got a lot of ground to cover.
- Oil Spillage Risk: The warning about not tilting the mower to avoid oil spillage is something to keep in mind. It makes maintenance a bit more careful, and I had to be extra cautious when cleaning the BILT HARD mower after use.
How It Compares
Alright, let’s talk about how the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool stacks up against some of the competition. I’ve spent a good amount of time pushing these mowers around my yard, and here’s what I’ve found.
BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool vs. Troy-Bilt TB130
The Troy-Bilt TB130 is another popular push mower in a similar price bracket. It’s a solid, reliable machine, and many folks are happy with it. However, in my experience, the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool has a couple of key advantages.
Firstly, I found the BILT HARD’s engine to be slightly more powerful and easier to start consistently. With the Troy-Bilt, I sometimes had to pull a few extra times to get it going, especially after it had been sitting for a week or two. The BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool, on the other hand, usually fired right up.
Secondly, the BILT HARD offers 8 different cutting heights, giving you greater flexibility in how you manicure your lawn. The Troy-Bilt typically has fewer options, potentially limiting your ability to achieve your desired grass length.
Where the Troy-Bilt TB130 might have an edge is in its brand recognition and wider availability of replacement parts at local hardware stores.
My Assessment: If you value a powerful, easy-starting engine and appreciate having more options for cutting heights, then the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool is the way to go. But if you prioritize easily accessible parts and are loyal to the Troy-Bilt brand, the TB130 could be a good choice.
BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool vs. Craftsman M105
The Craftsman M105 is another common competitor, known for its affordability. However, after using both, I believe the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool offers better value for the money.
One major area where the BILT HARD stands out is in its build quality. The materials feel more durable and the overall construction seems sturdier than the Craftsman M105. I noticed this particularly when mowing thicker patches of grass; the BILT HARD felt like it could handle the challenge better.
Another advantage of the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool is its enhanced mulching capability. The blade design and under-deck configuration seem to chop grass clippings more finely, resulting in a more effective natural fertilizer for your lawn.
The Craftsman M105 may have a slightly lighter weight, which could make it easier to maneuver for some users, especially those with smaller yards or mobility issues.
My Assessment: If you’re on a tight budget and need a lightweight mower for a small, flat yard, the Craftsman M105 might suffice. However, for most people, the superior build quality, mulching performance, and overall durability of the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool make it a worthwhile investment that should last longer and perform better in the long run.
What Users Are Saying
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My Experience
My Three Months with the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool
When I first rolled the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool out of the box back in early spring, I was a little skeptical. My old mower, a hand-me-down from my dad, was on its last legs, and I was hoping for something reliable and easy to use. What I didn’t expect was how much I’d actually enjoy mowing the lawn.
For the past three months, this mower has been my go-to for keeping my suburban yard in check. Our property is about a quarter acre, with a mix of relatively flat areas and some gently sloping sections. I’ve used the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool on everything from thick, overgrown patches of weeds to maintaining the neatly trimmed bluegrass in the front. The eight adjustable cutting heights are a real game-changer, allowing me to customize the cut depending on the season and the specific area of the yard.
One Saturday morning, I let the grass grow a bit longer than usual. It was thick and damp from the morning dew. I was worried the mower would struggle, but the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool powered right through it. The engine has a nice, consistent hum, not too loud but definitely with some muscle behind it. It felt satisfying to push, not like I was wrestling with a beast. My teenage son even started volunteering to help, something I never thought I’d see!
I did have a minor hiccup once when I forgot to check the oil level before starting. It sputtered a bit at first, but a quick top-up fixed the issue immediately. Lesson learned! Compared to my old mower, which required constant fiddling and multiple pulls to start, the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool is a dream. It starts on the first or second pull every time, and the lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around flower beds and trees. The smell of freshly cut grass coupled with the sound of a well-tuned engine has become my new favorite weekend ritual.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
Okay, let’s talk about the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower. After using the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower 20 inch, 170cc 4-Stroke Push Mowers, 8 Adjustable Cutting Heights Lawnmower Gas Powered, Grass Mower Garden Tool for the past few months, it’s become my go-to for tackling our smaller yard. It’s not the flashiest mower out there, but it gets the job done reliably, week after week.
I think this mower is a fantastic option for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who are looking for a no-nonsense, dependable gas mower without breaking the bank. If you’re tired of wrestling with electric cords or dealing with the limitations of battery life, this BILT HARD mower is a solid upgrade.
Its biggest strength, hands down, is its ease of use and consistent cutting power. I found myself finishing the lawn much faster than I used to. The adjustable cutting heights are also a real plus, allowing me to fine-tune the cut to match the season and the type of grass. Now, the one limitation to be aware of is that this is a push mower, not self-propelled. So if you have a very large or hilly yard, you might want to consider a self-propelled model.
Overall, I recommend the BILT HARD Gas Lawn Mower with a high degree of confidence, especially if you’re looking for a reliable, affordable gas mower for a smaller yard. At its current price point, I think it offers excellent value for the performance you get. If a no-frills, dependable mower is what you’re after, you’ll likely find this BILT HARD to be a worthwhile addition to your lawn care arsenal.
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