If you have a yard, then mowing the lawn is an unavoidable chore. Now, if you’ve got some suds in one hand and a mower in the other, it can be a pleasant way to get some sun. Nothing beats the smell of freshly cut grass. Of course, you can only cut the grass properly with sharp mower blades. Ever tried to cut your lawn with dull blades? The blunted edges not only fail to get the job done, but they also leave clumps of grass that build up in your mower. The solution is simple: lawn mower blade sharpeners. These essential tools work to keep the blades on your lawn mower as sharp as possible. You can find manual options and rotating heads that attach to power drills.

The best lawn mower blade sharpeners work quickly, last for multiple uses, and match the style of your mower. This list breaks down everything you need to know about this critical piece of lawn care equipment, showcasing the best sharpeners you can get. Let’s mow through the options.

The Best Lawn Mower Blade Sharpeners

Best Lawn Mower Blade Sharpeners Buying Guide & FAQ

If you are on the hunt for a lawnmower blade sharpener that works and lasts, there are some things to keep an eye on. The first is identifying what you plan to gain out of the sharpener. Are you going to use it for multiple tools around the garage? Or is it something you plan to use exclusively with your push mower? 

Picking the right tool comes down to the benefits you expect. Once you figure out what you’re expecting from the sharpener, you can narrow down your search. So long as it is made out of quality materials that integrate into a user-friendly design, you are well on your way. The most important thing is to find a sharpener that benefits you specifically. 

Benefits of Owning a Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener

Anyone with a lawn mower needs a blade sharpener. Imagine cooking with a dull knife — that’s just dangerous and irritating. It’s the same with your lawn mower. If it can’t properly slice through the grass, things get messy quickly. A blunt edge will damage the grass, but not cut it. This results in clumps of grass from the released moisture. Not only do you have to clean the mower more frequently, it also takes more fuel to get the job done. A lawn mower blade sharpener ensures that the job gets done right the first time, while saving you from having to replace the blades. 

Plus, it’s not like there is a rule stating that you can only use a lawn mower blade sharpener on a lawn mower. Sharpeners are surprisingly versatile. From hunting knives to household appliances, the ability to evenly sharpen is valuable. A quality sharpener shores up the lifespan of your equipment by abrading the surface evenly. It also mitigates the risk of injury from a dull or broken edge. Easy to store and with an impressive amount of utility, there are tons of advantages to keeping these tools around. 

• Helps your lawn mower work more efficiently, decreasing fuel usage.
• Available in multiple formats for either manual or electronic application.
• Slows the wear and tear on the lawn mower blades themselves.
• Sharpeners are available for any blade size and type. 
• Versatile sharpening application adds to overall utility value. 
• Durable tools that take up very little space in the garage. 
• Works with your existing power drills or grinders to sharpen tools.

Types of Lawn Mower Blade Sharpeners

Every lawn mower blade sharpener has the same goal: to shave off the flaws on the side of the blade, leaving it sharp and smooth. Each type of blade sharpener takes a different approach to reach this goal. There are some made for analog use while others rely on power tools you are likely to have on hand.

There are benefits to all the different types, with each one being better suited to different situations. If you have a massive yard and are relying on a ride-on, you aren’t going to want to hand-file your mower blades. Conversely, if you’re just mowing a small patch outside a condo with a small-scale push mower, going overboard on a power tool just doesn’t make sense.

When you’re picking out the right blade sharpener, factor in how many times you are likely to use it and make sure you can store it easily.

Handheld

Ideal for those who prefer to keep things old school, these files are best for small grassy spaces. The versatility lends them an edge, since these can sharpen household knives and other appliances. It will take more elbow grease (and more time) than other options, but there are benefits too. You get full control over the results, it’s as eco-friendly as you can get, and it gets the job done all the same.

Of course, if it was perfect, the other types would have never been invented. Handheld files take more time. You need at least 30 pulls across the blade (per side) to do the trick. It doesn’t take an immense amount of force, but 30 reps of anything adds up. Plus, the results might not be as effective as powered models. Handheld sharpeners are perfect for small areas, but a nightmare for larger yards.

Drill Attachment

Next up, we’ve got drill attachments that use a quarter-inch hex to connect to any drill you have on hand. Made out of beveled corundum, these come with a guide that enables you to position it precisely. Connecting to the angle of the blade, it uses rapid rotations to smooth out the blade. Working quickly, you’ll need more time in setup but way less time in actual application.

Some downsides are that an inexperienced hand can overdo it easily, leaving you with an off-balance result. Angle grinders are less likely to result in user area, so drill types are better for experienced users.  

Angle Grinder

Preferred by many landscaping professionals, angle grinders might cost a bit more than other options, but the results make it worthwhile. These handheld tools use a rotating disc that connects with the blade edge at an angle controlled by your hand. Many even include multiple handles to give you the perfect balance of speed and control. Most operate using an AC power cord, though you can find some that rely on rechargeable batteries.

These are the best-suited for commercial use, since they rapidly restore mower blades. The results are typically even and the design of the disc is less likely to damage the integrity of the lawn mower blade. Provided you have a dedicated disc, you can get multiple sharpening jobs out of the same tool. The versatility of angle grinders is what really sells it though, with uses ranging from construction to metalworking. If you don’t already have an angle grinder on hand, the versatility of this rotating tool makes it worth the investment.

What to Consider When Buying a Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener

When choosing your lawn mower blade sharpener, there are a few things to be aware of to pick the best option. The first is performance. The goal of any sharpener is to ensure that you get as fine of a blade edge as possible. Especially if you plan to use this on your lawn edger as well, the value of precision is significant. 

Next, you will want to consider ease of use. While a drill attachment blade sharpener is effective, if you won’t have access to a power source, it is much less useful. Plus, if you don’t use a drill, it won’t be viable at all. Make sure that you choose a sharpener that works for your situation. 

Finally, you will want to consider how long you can expect the sharpener to last. Sure, everything is vulnerable to wear and tear, but some sharpeners last longer than others. For the most part, handheld options are longer lasting (though they are harder to use). If you plan to use the sharpener on other tools like your pole saw or other blades, factor in the extra strain and pick something that will last.

The Most Important Features of Lawn Mower Blade Sharpeners

By assessing the individual features of a tool, you can get a better idea of how well it will perform. Just like determining the viability of your bench grinder or miter saw, it’s only by the parts working together that the tool functions properly. 

Instead of looking at the tool as a whole, first, investigate each feature. These essential components give you a good understanding of the sharpener’s quality. When the individual features are well-constructed, you can rely on the product more easily. So long as you identify the type of sharpener you need, the features will tell you whether it works. 

Sharpening Material

The sharpening material refers to the grit which grinds away at the metal on the blade. Depending on the type of sharpener, the material used will differ. However, the two main components used in blade sharpeners are carbide and corundum. Both materials are harder than the metal found in the blades, resulting in a successful sharpening. 

Corundum is common to drill-type sharpeners. This aluminum oxide is very hard, giving it the necessary strength to shave down the edges of the blade. Carbide is a carbon-heavy metal whose molecular structure gives it the strength needed to work as a sharpener. This is more common in handheld sharpeners. 

Sharpening Method

This feature refers to the actual approach used to achieve a sharp edge. With drill attachments, this is fairly straightforward. The sharpener attaches to the drill and relies on the motor to grind down the surface. It helps for there to be two layers of stone to improve the balance of the sharpener over time. 

Handheld sharpeners function differently. Some have an opening where you can pull the blade smoothly through. This evenly grinds the sides away and leaves you with a sharp edge. With handheld models, it’s important to be sure that the blade will fit with the sharpener’s design. So long as it does, this feature can give you very even sharpening results. 

How to Use a Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener 

It might look intimidating at first glance, but with the right tools, sharpening lawn mower blades is pretty easy. Specifics will vary based on the type of lawn mower you’re using — a ride-on won’t be the same as a push-mower. Even with the differences, the fundamentals remain true. 

Setting Up

Your first task is to get your workspace and tools ready. Have your sharpening supplies on hand, including a power source if you have an electric model. Make sure that you have proper working gloves and safety goggles to protect your eyes. Depending on how loud your lawn mower blade sharpener is, you’ll need hearing protection. Finally, be sure to have a set of adjustable wrenches to remove the blades, the next step in the process. 

Removing the Blades

Make sure that the lawn mower is off and disconnected from its power source. Drain the gas tank to prevent spills. Place the mower on its side, ensuring that the filter and carburetor are upwards facing. A good tip is to mark the bottom of the blade with a marker (it will be useful later). Locate the nut that connects the blade to the unit. Wrench it loose until the blade releases. It will probably be covered with dry bits of grass and dirt, so you’ll need to clean it first. 

Clean the Blades 

Now that your blades are separate, you can move on to the next step. Use a dry cloth to clean the surface. If there is particulate that is more ingrained on the blade, then you can apply something like WD-40 or another lubricant. Be sure to let it set for the appropriate amount of time before you proceed. Once the surface is dry and clean, it’s ready for sharpening. 

Sharpening: Files, Grinders, and Drills 

The first step to sharpening is gripping the blade in a set position. Use a vise grip to clamp it into place. Be sure that the cutting edge of the blade is facing upwards. Check it for any type of dent or crack and be sure that sharpening is better than replacing them. Now that you’re ready, you take whichever type of tool you’re using and get to work.

Hand Sharpener

Place the sharpener at the top of the cutting edge of the blade. Only move the file with the grain, meaning in a single direction. Back and forth motion can result in damage to the blade (and the sharpener). When you move the sharpener, you will likely feel protrusions on the blade. This tells you that you’re applying the right amount of pressure. Otherwise, use a bit more force. Trace the sharpener over the angled edge of the blade. In most situations, it will require fewer than 50 file strokes to get the job done. Once you’re smoothed out all the rough patches, flip it over and repeat the process on the other edge.

Drill-Powered Tool

When using power tools, you’ll need gloves and eye protection. Follow the same clamping process as in the manual approach. Standard drill attachments use a quarter-inch shank and include a guide piece. The beveled side gives you the proper angle while sharpening. Hook it up to your drill, plug it in (or turn it on), and position the guide against the blade’s rear. The edge of the blade should fit into the bevel, giving you the precise angle for sharpening. Using light-to-medium pressure, run the sharpener over the blade. It shouldn’t take more than two passes per side.

Angle Grinder

Most professionals prefer this sharpening approach due to its relative ease and efficiency. Clamp the blade as you would for other sharpening methods. Set your angle grinder up with a flap disc. Many sets include this part. Line the grinder blade with the mower blade’s cutting edge. Going back and forth, move the grinder while applying minimal pressure. Trace the angle of the blade’s edge to smooth out rough patches. 

Balancing the Blades 

An important (and often forgotten) step is to balance the blade. If you don’t sharpen the blade evenly, then one side can grow lighter than the other. This compromises performance by wobbling, not to mention adding vibrations and damaging the mower itself. Use a screwdriver and balance the blade on the handle, holding it laterally. It should keep its position; and, if it lowers in either direction, then you must sharpen away the difference until it is even.

Re-Installing the Blades

The final step in the process is to re-install the blade on the lawn mower. Clean out the surrounding area and get rid of any left over debris or caked on grass. Look at the blade and identify the mark you made earlier when removing it. Insert the blade accordingly onto the bolt, tightening it with a socket wrench. Ensure that the blade is firmly in place. Reconnect the electrical parts. If it is a fuel-powered model, refill the tank. 

Start Mowing

After a quick check that the mower starts properly, run it over a patch and make sure everything is in working order. It should cut smoothly and evenly. So long as it does, you should be set for the equivalent of 20 hours of mowing. It typically results in you needing to sharpen the blades at least twice a year. However, once you’ve sharpened them once, you can do it with your eyes closed (don’t, though). By incorporating sharpening as a part of regular maintenance, you can get a nicer lawn and save yourself the trouble of buying new blades.

Best Lawn Mower Blade Sharpeners FAQ:

Landscaping is a major facet of home value, so it only makes sense to up your lawn-care game. That means asking questions and staying on top of new tech and developments. The whole goal is to give you a well-cuticled lawn without the hassle of dull blades. Every yard is different, and learning the ins and outs of these sharpeners is key to getting the job done properly. 

Our Top Pick

After careful consideration, we’ve named the Grizzly Lawn Gear Blade Sharpener as our top pick. Given its ease of use and powerful sharpening abilities, it can quickly get you back to mowing. The well-balanced design and strong corundum stone make this a solid choice overall. 

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re familiar with the ins and outs of lawn mower blade sharpeners, you can make your pick. It could be the Grizzly Lawn Gear Blade Sharpener or the low cost of the Smith’s Jiffy-Pro Handheld Sharpener. There’s an option for every yard. Happy mowing!

Sources:

1. Sharpening of Lawn Mower Blades – wikiHow