Rotary Mower Vs Cylinder Mower

Rotary Mower vs. Cylinder Mower: Choosing the Right Lawn Mowing Machine for Your Needs

Choosing the right lawn mower can feel like navigating a minefield of confusing jargon and conflicting features. Two prominent contenders often top the list: rotary mowers and cylinder mowers. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key differences between these mowing machines, helping you understand their strengths and weaknesses to make an informed decision that best suits your lawn and your needs. We'll cover everything from cutting mechanisms and maintenance to cost and suitability for different lawn types.

Understanding the Cutting Mechanisms: A Key Difference

The fundamental difference between rotary and cylinder mowers lies in their cutting mechanisms. This difference dramatically impacts the quality of cut, the type of grass they handle best, and even the noise level.

Rotary Mowers: The Blades of Whirlwind

Rotary mowers utilize a spinning blade, or a series of blades, mounted on a horizontal shaft. This rapidly rotating blade cuts the grass by impacting and tearing it. Think of it like a tiny, high-speed guillotine. This method is highly effective at cutting through tough, coarse grasses and even small weeds. The aggressive cutting action makes them suitable for larger lawns and areas with uneven terrain.

• Pros: Powerful, efficient for large areas, handles tough grasses well, generally more affordable.
• Cons: Can leave a coarser finish, more prone to scalping (cutting too close to the ground), can be noisy, may not be ideal for fine lawns or delicate grasses.

Cylinder Mowers: The Precision Cut

Cylinder mowers, also known as reel mowers, employ a cylinder with several blades rotating against a stationary bottom blade (bedknife). The grass is cut cleanly and precisely, like a pair of scissors. This results in a far neater, more manicured finish. This precise cutting action is gentler on the grass and promotes a healthier lawn. However, they are less powerful and struggle with taller, thicker grasses.

• Pros: Provides a very fine, even cut, healthier lawn, quieter operation, ideal for fine lawns and delicate grasses.
• Cons: Less powerful than rotary mowers, struggles with tall or thick grass, requires more frequent mowing, generally more expensive.

Performance Comparison: Cut Quality, Grass Types, and Terrain

The choice between a rotary and cylinder mower largely depends on your lawn's specific characteristics and your desired aesthetic.

Cut Quality: A Visual Feast

Cylinder mowers deliver a superior cut quality, resulting in a finely manicured lawn. The blades shear the grass cleanly, leaving a neat, even finish. This precise cut promotes healthy lawn growth and reduces the risk of grass disease.

Rotary mowers, on the other hand, produce a coarser cut. While perfectly acceptable for many lawns, the tearing action of the blade can leave ragged edges and a less polished look. The cut quality can vary depending on the blade sharpness and the speed of rotation.

Grass Types: Adaptability Matters

Rotary mowers are well-suited for various grass types, particularly those that are tough and coarse. They can handle tall grasses and even small weeds without much difficulty. Their robust cutting action makes them suitable for less manicured lawns.

Cylinder mowers, however, are more selective. They are best suited for fine lawns with delicate grasses like fescue or bentgrass. Their precise cutting mechanism can struggle with tall, thick grasses, resulting in clogging or an uneven cut.

Terrain: Navigating the Landscape

Rotary mowers are highly versatile regarding terrain. Their powerful engines and robust design allow them to handle uneven landscapes, slopes, and obstacles with relative ease. Many models offer self-propelled or all-wheel-drive options for added convenience.

Cylinder mowers are generally less adept at handling uneven terrain. Their simpler design and lower power output make them more suitable for relatively flat lawns. Attempting to use them on slopes or uneven ground can lead to scalping or an inconsistent cut.

Maintenance and Upkeep: A Long-Term Commitment

Both rotary and cylinder mowers require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. However, the specific maintenance tasks differ slightly.

Rotary Mower Maintenance

• Blade Sharpening: Regular sharpening is crucial to maintain cutting efficiency and prevent scalping. Dull blades tear the grass, leading to a ragged cut and potentially damaging the lawn.
• Blade Balancing: An unbalanced blade can cause vibrations and damage the mower. Regularly check and balance the blade to ensure smooth operation.
• Air Filter Cleaning: A clean air filter ensures proper engine performance. Clean or replace the air filter as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Spark Plug Replacement: The spark plug should be replaced periodically to ensure reliable ignition.

Cylinder Mower Maintenance

• Bedknife Adjustment: The bedknife needs to be accurately aligned with the cylinder blades for optimal cutting performance. This alignment requires precise adjustment and may require specialized tools.
• Cylinder Blade Sharpening: Similar to rotary mowers, regular sharpening of the cylinder blades is essential for a clean cut. However, this often requires professional sharpening or specialized equipment.
• Cleaning: Cylinder mowers require regular cleaning to remove clippings and debris that can clog the cutting mechanism.

Cost and Budget Considerations: A Matter of Investment

Generally, rotary mowers are more affordable than cylinder mowers. The lower initial cost makes them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. However, the long-term cost can vary depending on factors like maintenance frequency and potential repair needs.

Cylinder mowers, on the other hand, are typically more expensive upfront. The higher initial investment reflects their more sophisticated design and precise cutting mechanism. However, the superior cut quality and potential for a healthier lawn might justify the increased cost for some homeowners.

Power Options: Electric vs. Petrol

Both rotary and cylinder mowers are available in various power options, including electric (corded or cordless) and petrol (gasoline). The choice depends on factors like lawn size, terrain, and personal preference.

• Electric Mowers: Offer quiet operation, are environmentally friendly, and are generally easier to maintain. However, corded electric mowers have limited reach, while cordless mowers have shorter runtimes.
• Petrol Mowers: Provide more power and longer runtimes, making them ideal for larger lawns and challenging terrain. However, they are noisier, require regular maintenance, and produce emissions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a rotary mower on a slope?

A: Yes, many rotary mowers are designed to handle slopes, but it's crucial to check the manufacturer's recommendations and proceed with caution. Steep slopes can be dangerous, regardless of the mower type.

Q: How often should I sharpen the blades on my rotary mower?

A: Ideally, sharpen your blades once or twice a year, or more frequently if you notice a decline in cut quality.

Q: Can I use a cylinder mower for weeds?

A: Cylinder mowers are not ideal for tackling weeds, especially those that are thick or tough. They are best suited for maintaining a well-established, fine lawn.

Q: Which type of mower is best for a small lawn?

A: For a small, relatively flat lawn, a manual push cylinder mower or a lightweight electric rotary mower would be suitable.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

The choice between a rotary and cylinder mower depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the size and type of your lawn, the desired cut quality, your budget, and your maintenance capabilities.

Rotary mowers are a versatile and affordable option suitable for various lawns, especially larger ones with tough grass. They are powerful, efficient, and can handle uneven terrain.

Cylinder mowers offer superior cut quality, promoting a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing lawn. However, they are better suited for smaller, flat lawns with fine grass and require more frequent maintenance. Ultimately, careful consideration of these factors will lead you to the perfect lawn mowing machine for your needs.