American Lawn Mower 1204-14 Review
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a 14 inch, 4 blade push reel mower designed for homeowners seeking an environmentally friendly, low maintenance alternative to gas or electric mowers. With its lightweight design and straightforward operation, it appeals to those with smaller lawns and a preference for simplicity.
Key Features
Manual Operation: This mower operates without gas, oil, or electricity, relying solely on human power. This design eliminates emissions, reduces noise, and minimizes maintenance requirements.
Cutting Width and Blades: Equipped with a 14 inch cutting width and a 4 blade reel made of heat treated alloy steel, it delivers clean, scissor like cuts suitable for various grass types, including fescue, rye and bluegrass.
Adjustable Cutting Height: The mower offers a cutting height range from 0.5 to 1.75 inches, allowing users to customize the grass length to their preference.
Lightweight Design: Weighing approximately 19 pounds, the mower is easy to maneuver, making it ideal for small lawns and users seeking a manageable mowing experience.
Durable Wheels: The 8.5 inch polymer wheels provide stability and smooth operation across various terrains.
Performance
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 delivers consistent, clean cuts ideal for small, well maintained lawns. Its 14 inch cutting width and 4 blade reel offer precise, scissor like cutting action that promotes healthy grass, especially on cool season varieties like fescue and bluegrass.
Best suited for grass under four inches tall, the mower performs well on even or gently contoured terrain. Its 19 pound frame and 8.5 inch wheels make it easy to maneuver, especially around tight corners or garden beds. The manual design means no charging or fuel—just quiet, immediate operation with minimal maintenance.
While the narrow cutting width may require more passes and the 0.5–1.75 inch height range may not suit all preferences, the 1204-14 excels in delivering a smooth, eco-friendly mowing experience for smaller yards.
Pros
Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions and quiet operation make it environmentally and neighborhood friendly.
Low Maintenance: No need for gas, oil, or electricity; blade sharpening is infrequent, typically every 3-5 years.
Lightweight and Maneuverable: At 19 pounds, it’s easy to push and navigate around obstacles.
Cost-Effective: Priced under $100, it offers an affordable lawn care solution.
Quiet Operation: Ideal for noise sensitive environments.
Cons
Limited Cutting Height: The maximum cutting height of 1.75 inches may not suit all grass types or user preferences.
Manual Effort Required: Physical exertion is necessary, which may not be suitable for all users.
No Grass Catcher Included: Clippings are left on the lawn unless an optional catcher is purchased separately.
Assembly Needed: Requires assembly upon purchase; tools are not included.
Debris Sensitivity: Sticks and stones can jam the blades, necessitating a clean mowing area.
Comparison
Great States 304-14
Cutting Width: 14 inches
Blades: 5-blade reel
Cutting Height: 1 to 1.75 inches
Weight: 21 pounds
Grass Catcher: Optional
Warranty: 90 days
Compared to the 1204-14, the Great States 304-14 offers a similar cutting width but includes a 5 blade reel, potentially providing a finer cut. However, it is slightly heavier, which may affect maneuverability for some users.
Scotts 2000-20S
Cutting Width: 20 inches
Blades: 5 blade reel
Cutting Height: 1 to 3 inches
Weight: 34 pounds
Grass Catcher: Optional
Warranty: 2 years
The Scotts 2000-20S provides a wider cutting path and higher cutting height options, making it suitable for larger lawns. However, its increased weight may make it less maneuverable than the 1204-14.
Conclusion
The American Lawn Mower Company 1204-14 is a practical choice for homeowners with small lawns seeking an environmentally friendly, low maintenance mowing solution.
Its lightweight design and precise cutting capabilities make it user friendly, while its manual operation ensures quiet, emission free performance. However, its limited cutting height and manual effort requirements may not suit all users or lawn types.
For those with small, well maintained lawns and a preference for sustainable practices, the 1204-14 offers excellent value and performance.
