Reel mowers are becoming a more common sight in our neighborhoods. The first reason people are making the transition to these mowers is environmental: a typical gas mower produces a surprising amount of pollutants – both in exhaust and in spilled fuel. The second reason is quality: reel mowers deliver a superior cut because they shear grass rather than tear it. Tearing gives an uneven cut and causes tip browning. As a result, reel mowers have replaced rotary ones as the mower of choice on golf courses and estates. Another obvious reason for spurning gas mowers is that their sounds and smells are generally unwelcome on a beautiful summer evening. While reel mowers require more heft than power mowers, these modern models are much lighter and easier to push than the heavy cast-iron versions of old.