| Best Choice |
|
Grizzly Lawn Gear Blade Sharpener | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
|
Smith’s Jiffy-Pro Handheld Sharpener | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
|
Sharpal Lawn Mower Sharpener | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
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
If you’re looking for a tool that’s easy to use and will get the job done quickly, the Grizzly Lawn Gear Blade Sharpener is a good way to go. It incorporates a powerful sharpening stone that is thick enough to grind the blade down quickly. This is largely thanks to the high-corundum stone. You can use this drill attachment-style sharpener on blades of any size, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility. In terms of user-friendliness, the bit attaches to the head of your drill efficiently. The intuitive design makes this stone sharpening set a great choice for the ease of function. It comes with enough sharpeners to last all season, plus the open design means you can use this sharpener on more than one thing in your garage.
The only downside is that it does require an electric drill. So long as you have one, however, this is a great choice overall since it makes light work of the chore.
- Drill built attachment sharpeners
- Comes with three stones
- Designed to sharpen quickly
- Corundum stone is very durable
- Brand Grizzly Lawn Gear
- Model B07W3ZGQRN
- Weight 12 ounces
Doesn’t require elbow grease
Works on blades of all sizes
Comes with protective gloves
Requires a power drill to work
So powerful it can wear down blades
Can cause strain on your hands
Need something that will return your lawnmower to its former glory but won’t cause you to overspend? Check out the Smith’s Jiffy-Pro Handheld Sharpener for its low price point and strong sharpening abilities. It is a handheld sharpener that incorporates a curved handle. This is to make it easier to keep a steady grip as well as to prevent soreness in your arm muscles. The sharpener is made out of a synthetic material that is resistant to rust and corrosion (excepting the screws and other small hardware). The sharpening component is powerful; and, coupled with the design of the sharpener, it can get your blades back to par quickly.
Keep in mind that, though this sharpener is cost-effective, it does take more time to finish the project than it would with an electric counterpart. If you’re not hurried, however, this is a cost-effective solution.
- Handheld sharpening tool
- Works with most blade sizes
- Ergonomic grip handle
- Made of sturdy polymer
- Brand N/A
- Model 50185
- Weight 5.6 ounces
Requires no electricity
Tough and durable design
Lasts for multiple uses
Requires effort during sharpening
Takes more time to sharpen
Hardware vulnerable to rust
If you’re going to add a tool to your kit to save space, it helps to get a multipurpose tool like the Sharpal Lawn Mower Sharpener. This tool functions as a knife and pruning tool, in addition to its base function as a blade sharpener. It is meant to last for a long period, thanks to the five layers of sharpening components. This, coupled with the trip of slots lets you find the precise placement for the blade which you are sharpening. As a result, you get a longer-lasting sharpness. The tungsten is fortified with carbide to ensure lasting strength. With a massive handle that is easy to grip, this lightweight tool is very user-friendly.
It is worth noting that, while the sharpener is effective, it is not a dedicated sharpening tool. As such, it’s vulnerable to wear and tear from use in other activities.
- Multipurpose design and structure
- Works as knife, shears, and sharpener
- Handheld structure
- Brand Sharpal Inc.
- Model B01L8Q3J5M
- Weight 6.4 ounces
Lightweight and long-lasting
Functions as a full-service outdoor tool
Doesn’t require electricity
The polymer is vulnerable to extreme cold
Takes elbow grease to work
Not a dedicated sharpener
Those who are looking for the quickest way to restore their mower blades and get the yard done will benefit from the Lavizo Universal Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener. It comes with several drill attachments made with two layers of corundum stone. The high melting point ensures that the stone won’t wear down too quickly. You can use this sharpener on any type of lawn mower, largely due to the ease of access from the small drill attachments. Working on everything from an industrial tractor mower to a basic sickle-style landscaping tool, this sharpener is versatile. Compatible with any standard hand drill, it is a quick way to get your landscaping done.
Bear in mind that, though the bits have two layers of hardy material, it will still wear down over time (especially when using it on multiple mowers).
- Each sharpener has two layers
- Made of corundum stone
- Power drill attachments
- Fits most standard hand drills
- Brand Lavizo
- Model B088R5F7WZ
- Weight 5.6 ounces
Works powerfully and quickly
Comes with multiple sharpeners
Can sharpen blades of all sizes
Requires electrical drill
Works better with trained hands
Stones wear down over time
Made by a reputable equipment company, the Vevor Lawn Mower Grinder Blade Sharpener is a powerful tool to have around. The device is built out of tough iron, fortified by materials to prevent the risk of corrosion. Unlike other selections that use elbow grease to power the sharpener, this motorized solution grinds down evenly every time. Equipped with a bevel component, you can sharpen blades at a 30-degree angle for optimal control. The set is easy to put together, connecting to a sturdy base that prevents vibrations during operation. Complete with an adjustable ring, you can use this lawn mower blade sharpener on any type of blade. The grinder works quickly and results in a very sharp edge. As a result, this is a great choice for larger landscaping projects.
The only downside is that the grinder doesn’t come with the motor. Though the set works powerfully, if you don’t have access to a motor for the sharpener, it probably isn’t the right fit.
- Made of rust-proof metal
- 30-degree bevel sharpening
- Firm base for added safety
- Brand Vevor
- Model GCJDPMJBHDJ000001V0
- Weight 14.3 pounds
Removes the need for elbow grease
Comes with sharpener blades
Universally compatible sharpener
Includes grinder without motor
Requires power to function
Too heavy duty for small-scale use
No matter what type of mower you have, the Geloneve Lawn Mower Blade Sharpener Set can get the job done. This set of four sharpeners is meant to attach to any standard power drill. It features a rounded surface that consists of a relatively porous material. This scrapes off the finer parts of the metal on the edge of the blade. With a grinding wheel thickness of almost an inch, it is thicker than most other models. The corundum isn’t prone to excessive dust, so you can tackle the sharpening project indoors or outside. Featuring a 25-degree cutting angle at the edge of the stone, it connects evenly with the blade surface. The result is quick sharpening of any lawn mower blade type.
It’s worth a note that these are not made to last forever. After each use, the point of connection diminishes in quality, meaning it works more poorly each time you sharpen. The good news, the set comes with four sharpeners, so it should last at least a full season.
- Comes with four sharpener pieces
- Compatible with any power drill
- Well-balanced design for even results
- Brand Geloneve
- Model 2034024
- Weight N/A
Works with any lawnmower blades
Simple tools to use
Last for multiple uses
Needs power to operate
Wear and tear can be uneven
Create dust when sharpening
Do you prefer precision over speed? If that’s the case, then the Smith’s Lawn Mower Essential Sharpener is a great way to go. It is a handheld device that keeps you in the driver’s seat when you are working. It incorporates a safety guard to prevent the risk of injuries. Plus, the handle is large enough to let you wear gloves while working. It’s simple to use, too. Just pull the blade through the opening and the carbide material (and the grit surface) will return the sharpness. Coming with a cleaning brush to help you wipe down the debris, this is an excellent way to return your lawnmower blades to their former state.
Keep in mind that, while the sharpener is effective, it does take a bit more time to work with. That said, if you want a sharp blade that you can rely on, the control offered by this sharpener makes it well worth an honorable mention.
- Handheld design
- Comes with a cleaning brush
- Large handle to accommodate gloves
- Coarse carbide does sharpening
- Brand Smiths
- Model 50603
- Weight 6.1 ounces
Gives space for use with gloves
Ergonomic and grip-friendly design
Sharpens edges fairly quickly
Requires physical effort to sharpen
Small parts are vulnerable to rust
Vulnerable to breaking on impact
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.
The first sign will be the lawn itself. After you mow, if it looks uneven, that’s a key sign to look at the blades. If the grass seems bent or crushed, that’s another tell. Look at the blades themselves and check the edges. If they are blunt, it’s time to sharpen them.
Yes, mower blades can be too sharp. For starters, you don’t want to cut your finger if you touch them. Plus, if the metal is that thin, if it hits a pebble, the structural integrity of the blade is compromised. You can cause blade damage by overdoing it. Take it slow to keep your blades working longer.
You sharpen the cutting edge of the blade. Some lawn mowers have single-sided blades, whereas others come with a pointed edge. If you’re in doubt, look at the specs of the blades themselves. Otherwise, find the cutting side and sharpen it.
You can use either a hand or a power tool. Popular approaches are angle grinders and hand files. The former is powerful and results in sharp blades quickly. It does, however, need electricity. Hand files can be more straining to use, but they are more versatile, also working as a sharpener for knives and other tools.
Some lawn mower blade sharpeners let you do a quick sharpening job without removing the blades. Keep in mind that you will get more even and longer-lasting results when you do take the blades off to sharpen them. If you don’t remove the blades, it’s more likely that they will get damaged during sharpening.
To get it professionally done could cost $100 or more. It’s far more economical to do the job yourself. Even the highest-end sharpener won’t run you more than $20.
To get the best results, your lawn mower blade should be angled at 45 degrees.
Ideally, you should sharpen your blades after every 20 hours of use.
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:
- Sharpening of Lawn Mower Blades – wikiHow
