Does your lawn mower sound more like a struggling beast than a powerful machine? A dull or incorrect blade can turn a simple chore into a frustrating battle. Many homeowners face the same challenge: choosing the right lawn mower blade feels complicated. You want that perfectly manicured lawn, but the wrong blade can tear the grass, leave messy clumps, or even damage your mower.
Understanding blades is the secret to a beautiful yard. These sharp pieces of metal do all the heavy lifting! If you pick the wrong type—like using a mulching blade when you need a bagging blade—your results will suffer. Stop guessing and start cutting smarter.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the different blade types, explain what sharpness really means, and show you exactly how to match the perfect blade to your mower and your grass. Get ready to transform your mowing experience from a headache to a highlight. Let’s dive into the essential world of lawn mower blades!
Top Blades For Lawn Mower Recommendations
- Includes 2 blades that fits many 42-in cut Poulan, Husqvarna, and Craftsman mowers - Please Match Current Blade OEM Number to Confirm it fits your Mower
- Replaces OEM numbers 127843, 138498, 138971, 138971X431, 532138971, 532127843, 532138498, CMXGZAM110136
- BLADE SIZE: Each blade measures 21 in. L and 2-1/4 in. W
- 5 point star center hole.
- PROUDLY MADE IN USA
- Includes 1 mulching blade for many 21 in. cut MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman mowers. Must Match Current Blade OEM Number to insure exact fit.
- Replaces OEM #'s: 742-0741, 742-0741A ,742-04276, 742-04276S, 942-0641, 942-0741, 942-0741A 942-04276, 942-04276S, CC-742-0741; Craftsman CMXGZAM100067
- Fits Cub Cadet Models: CC Series- CC 46M, CC 46MZ, CC 46ES, CC 439, CC 469, CC 949, CC 94M, CC 98M, CC 98H, CC 98K, CC 99M, CC 989, CC 997ES, CC 999ES; SC Series- SC 100, SC 100 H, SC 100 HW, SC 300, SC 300 E, SC 300e, SC 300 HW, SC 500 EZ, SC 500 EQ, SC 500 HW, SC 500 Z, SC 700E, and SC 700 H; S/SR/SRC/SRE Series: S 621, S 621 SS, SR 621, SRC 621, SRE 621, SC 621, SC 621 E; and other models- MTD 214 IP, 214 KW, and PR 521.
- Fits Troy-Bilt Models: TB 105, TB 110, TB 115, TB 120, TB 125, TB 130, TB 130 XP, TB 140, TB 160, TB 160 XP, TB 200, TB 210, TB 220, TB 230, TB 240, TB 270 ES, TB 270 XP, TB 280 ES, TB 290 ES, TB 320, TB 330, TB 360, TB 360 ES, TB 370, TB 370 XP, TB 380 ES, TB 380 XP, TB 400 XP, TB 430 XP, TB 450 XP, TB449E, TB 490 XP; Tru-Cut- 100, 110; Tuff Cut- 200, 210, 220, 230; Pro-Cut- 300, 310, 320.
- CENTER HOLE: Bow Tie Center Hole Pattern. Diameter of Outside Hole is 5/16". Center to Center of outside Hole is 2.5"
- Stop the guesswork! Cub Cadet XT1-42 XT2-42 ZT1-42 model uses two different blade types.Before ordering our blades,identify your current blade's center hole.Our blade's center hole is 6 Star Shaped.If your blade's center hole is S-shaped,use MPN 742-05177 742P05177 to order your correct blades elsewhere.
- Stop the guesswork! CRAFTSMAN T110 LT1000 LT2000 model uses two different blade types.Before ordering our blades,identify your current blade's center hole.Our blade's center hole is 6 Point Star Center Hole.If your blade's center hole is 5 Point Star Center Hole,Use MPN 138971 532138971 to order your correct blades elsewhere
- 942-04308 Mower Blades Replace Number Cub Cade MTD Troy-Bilt 742-04308 742-04308A 942-04308A 942-04308 742-0656 942-0656 490-110-M108, 742-04312, 942-04312,490-110-M108, OCC-742-04312, OEM-742-04308
- 942-04308 Mower Blades Compatible with Troy-Bilt 42 inch Deck Mower,model# Super Bronco 42 Hydro, TB42, Pony 42X, Pony 42T, Pony 42, Bronco 42 Auto, TB1942, Pony, Bronco, TB42 Hydro, TB2142, Colt XP, Mustang XP 42, Range Rider, RZT 42,Mustang Z42, Mustang 42 Lawn Mower
- 942-04308 Mower Blades Compatible with Cub Cadet 42 inch Deck Mower,model# XT1 LT42 C, LT42 EFI, LT42 KH and XT2 LX42 EFI, LX42 KH and LX42 KW;RZT42, RZT-L42 KH, RZT-L 42, RZTS 42 and RZT-SX 42 KH, ZT-1 42KH
- Includes 3 blade for many 54 in. cut MTD, Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt mowers
- Replaces OEM #'s 942-05056A, 742-05056 and 742-05056A
- Also fits Craftsman CMXGZAM110143
- Each blade in this set measures 18-5/8 in. L with 2-1/2 in W
- 6 point star center hole
- Stop the guesswork! John Deere 48" Deck Zero Turn Mower uses two different blade types.Before ordering our blades,identify your original blade's Mounting Pattern.Our blade's Mounting Pattern is 7 Star Shaped.If your blade's Mounting Pattern is Circle Shaped,use MPN M145476 GY20568 to order your correct blades elsewhere.
- Fits For John Deere 48 Inch Mower Blades, Replaces Number: John Deere GX21784 GY20852 AM137757 AM141035.
- Fits For John Deere Mower Blades 48 Inch Deck, Compatible with John Deere 145 155C D140 D150 D155 D160 E140 E150 E160 E170 L120 LA130 LA140 LA145 LA155 LA165 S140 S160 S170 X140 X165 X166 X167 Z245 Z255 Z355E Lawn Tractor.
- BLADE SPECIFICATION: Length: 17-1/8"(435mm), Width: 2-3/4"(70mm), Thickness: 5/32"(4mm), Center Hole Shape: 7 Point Star, For Deck Size: 48", Lift: 1-3/16"(30mm), Mower Blade Type: Mulching Blade.
- 3-IN-1 BLADE: Serves 3 purposes (mulching, bagging, and side discharging) at the same time. Featuring numerous curves that cuts and re-cuts grass to smaller pieces, and recycles them back into the soil as nutrients to promote healthy lawn growth. Additionally, its high-lift increases the bagging capacity by 50%.
- Includes 3 blades for many 54 in. cut Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan mowers
- Replaces OEM #'s 187256 and 532187256
- Each blade measures 18-1/2 in. L and 2-1/2 in. W
- 5 point star center hole
- Manufactured to meet or exceed all OEM specifications
- Length: 20-7/8" | Width: 2-1/4" | Thickness: .157" | 5-Point Star Center Hole | 42" Mower Decks | High Lift Blade
- Replacement part for: Craftsman 127843, 134149, 138498, 138971, 917127843, 917131323 | Husqvarna 532127843, 532138498, 532138971, 531307224, 532134149 | Snapper 704429
- Compatible with: Husqvarna 2042LS, LT16542, LT152, LT18542, LTH18542, LTH174, LTH1842, LTH2042, TS142, TS242
- Compaitble with: Husqvarna 2042LS, LT2223A2, LTH152, LTH174, LTH1842, LTH2142DR, YT1942, YTA18542, YTA19K42, YTH1542XP, YTH1842, YTH2042, YTH2242A, YTH2242B, YTH180, YTH184, YTH18542, YTH2042, YTH20K42,
- Compatible with: Poulan PB185A42, PB195H42LT, PB20H42YT, PO17542LT, PP175G42, PP185A42, PP19A42, PXT12538
- Includes 2 blades for many 46 in. cut MTD, Cub Cadet, and Troy-Bilt mowers
- Replaces OEM #'s 942-04244, 942-04290, 94204244A, 742-04290, 742-04244, CMXGZAM110131
- Each blade measures 23-1/4 in. L and 3 in. W
- 6 point star center hole
- PROUDLY MADE IN USA: All MaxPower blades are sharpened during the manufacturing process and then powder coated for your protection. This coating will come off during the first cut to reveal a precision sharpened blade.
Choosing the Right Blades for Your Lawn Mower
Your lawn mower blades are the unsung heroes of a beautiful yard. Dull or wrong blades make mowing hard work. They tear grass instead of cutting it cleanly. This guide helps you pick the best blades for your machine and your lawn.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for new blades, several features matter a lot. These details decide how well the blade cuts and how long it lasts.
Blade Type
Mower blades come in different shapes for different jobs:
- Standard/High-Lift Blades: These are common. They lift the grass up high before cutting it. This is great for a clean look. They also move clippings out well.
- Mulching Blades: These blades have curves or extra wings. They cut the grass multiple times into tiny pieces. These small pieces fall back onto the lawn as natural fertilizer.
- Bagging Blades: Similar to high-lift blades, they move air strongly. This pushes clippings directly into the collection bag.
Blade Length and Hole Size
This is crucial! Measure your old blade from end to end. You must match the length exactly. Also, check the center mounting hole shape (circle, star, bow-tie). If the hole doesn’t fit your mower’s spindle, the blade won’t attach safely.
Important Materials Matter
What a blade is made of affects its sharpness and strength.
- Standard Steel: Most common blades use good quality steel. They work fine for normal lawns.
- Hardened Steel or Titanium Coated: These cost more but resist wear much better. If you cut through sticks or tough weeds often, these are worth the extra money. They stay sharp longer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the metal. How the blade is shaped affects performance greatly.
Sharpening and Balance
Look for blades that come pre-sharpened. A good blade must be perfectly balanced. An unbalanced blade causes the mower engine to vibrate a lot. This vibration wears out your mower parts quickly. Always check customer reviews for notes on balance.
Thickness and Gauge
Thicker blades (higher gauge) bend less when they hit a hard object. Thin blades might snap or bend easily, reducing safety and cutting quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your yard type dictates the best blade choice.
- For Smooth, Regular Lawns: A standard high-lift blade works perfectly. It gives that clean stripe look.
- For Thick or Overgrown Grass: Use a mulching blade. It breaks down tough clippings so they don’t clump up on the lawn.
- For Sandy or Rocky Areas: Choose the thickest, hardened steel blade you can find. You need maximum durability here.
Remember to always replace blades in sets of two or three (depending on how many blades your mower has). Replacing only one unbalanced blade causes severe vibration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lawn Mower Blades
Q: How often should I replace my lawn mower blades?
A: You should sharpen your blades at least twice a season. Replace them entirely if you see deep nicks, bends, or if sharpening no longer restores a good edge. Most homeowners replace blades every 1 to 3 years, depending on use.
Q: Can I use mulching blades if I want to bag my clippings?
A: Yes, you can. Mulching blades cut grass very small. If you are bagging, the small pieces are easier for the vacuum system to handle. However, a dedicated bagging blade might move air slightly better.
Q: What happens if I use a blade that is too long?
A: A blade that is too long can hit the sides of the mower deck or the discharge chute. This causes immediate damage to the blade, the deck, and potentially the engine crankshaft. Never use a longer blade.
Q: Are universal blades a good idea?
A: Universal blades fit many mowers because they have multiple hole patterns. They can work, but they often don’t match the exact lift or balance of your mower’s original design. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) blades are usually the safest bet for best performance.
Q: Should I install the blades myself?
A: If you are comfortable working with tools, yes. Always disconnect the spark plug wire first for safety! If you are unsure, a local small engine shop can install them quickly for a small fee.
Q: What is “blade lift”?
A: Blade lift refers to how well the blade moves air. A high-lift blade creates a strong vacuum underneath the deck. This stands the grass blades upright so the cutting edge hits them squarely.
Q: Does blade thickness affect cutting height?
A: No, blade thickness does not change the height the grass is cut. Cutting height is controlled by adjusting the wheels or the deck height setting on your mower.
Q: What is the best way to clean my old blades before inspection?
A: Wear heavy gloves! Use a putty knife or a stiff wire brush to scrape off caked-on grass and dirt. Never use a high-pressure washer on the engine area, but cleaning the blades helps you see damage clearly.
Q: Why do my new blades vibrate badly?
A: This usually means the blades are not balanced correctly, or the center mounting hole is slightly off-size for your spindle. Stop using the mower immediately to prevent engine damage.
Q: Are painted blades less durable than black or gray ones?
A: The paint itself doesn’t matter much. High-quality blades are usually coated with a protective layer (paint or powder coat) to prevent rust before they are installed. Focus on the steel quality underneath the paint.