Bermuda Reel Mower

[@benkanobe7500]

Doc. I held my tongue when you said your new JD was ".....the best .... for Bermuda Grass". :-) I have learned a great deal from you and use the products you have recommended with great success. Thank you. Maybe I can help you a little bit- I have had my 20" McLane here in SoCal for over 22 years cutting 1 acre of Bermuda. I have only replaced the belt a couple of times (see below), had the reel sharpened twice, and replaced the drive wheels once. I keep the bed knife adjusted and lapped. It still has the original 3.5 horse Briggs that has never failed (only a couple spark plugs and air filters added in maintenance with loving oil changes). I love it. I did add a full-width roller when they became available. But none of that is important. This is: Adjust your walking speed with the throttle just set it to a low speed you feel comfortable with. You can also use the clutch handle the way you are now, but try setting the throttle first and use the clutch handle for fine finesse. You will be amazed how slow you can run your HONDA or Briggs and still get an amazing cut with your McLane. I learned this from a McLane Lifer that used only McLane in his landscape business. No, it does not hurt the motor (mine is perfect evidence of that). So, you have one more thing you can do to make it comfortable for the conditions. Try it. You will be amazed.

[@garretbryl625]

Great review. I just wore out my first McLane. It mowed 15,000 sq ft. of Tiff Sport for 17 years. The engine was showing signs that it needed to be rebuilt last year and this year the reel was ground to the minimum. It was a great mower. The only things that I didn't like about it is that the rear drive wheels will sometimes leave skid marks, it's a little more difficult to backlap than other reels, and the bed knife is not easy to replace

[@stevenc8053]

I picked up a 93 Mclane built Craftsman not long ago. With the exception of the roller and that one being 25inches there identical. Really says something about the design when it can be built that long and still be a great mower.

[@CH-xo8ss]

Great to know!! Gonna replace my rotary with one of these one day!! Starting to see some green up. THANKS FOR THE INFO!!

[@thimitri1]

Never really new the McLane has same features as my 40 year old 25" trimmer.. but the added little features such as grass drift going into your catcher is a major plus and the hand grip clutch.. The trimmer rolls very easy and smooth as well.. but she's a heavy beast with the added weight of the Briggs and stratton engine.. I now like a McLane mower!!!

[@webfeet1564]

Informative video. Thanks! If you wouldn't mind, please consider making a video showing how to adjust the clutch plates on a TruCut.

[@td4611]

They delivered my brand new McLane today. Looking forward to using it.

[@francesnieznay6623]

Thanks,the tru cut looks alot like the King-o-Lawn made in the 60's,had many hrs behind these. the larger models had a sulky option,made mowing larger lawns a sit down job.

[@jgulley12]

I was actually sold on the Swardman until I priced everything out to nearly 4k. I guess it'll be the McLane. Just wish McLane was more versatile and maintenance friendly as the Swardman.

[@HowTowithDoc]

It's a fairly simple process actually.... and actually one of the things I ENJOY doing to the unit. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZTShKFmapWDosk TruCut back lap.

[@diegotheroofer]

I want to be like Sensei Doc when I grow up!! I’m planning to do lawn leveling this coming spring. If i can $$ I’ll plan to buy a reel mower! Keep up the good work!

[@CarrG7]

Awesome review Doc. I’ve been toying with the idea of buying a reel mower, and this video was so in depth and informative. You rock

[@CP-rm7rz]

great compare and contrast of design, functionality , strengths and weaknesses

[@demetriuslynch8528]

Doc, I'm loving this review. Was just about to get a Tru Cut but looks like the McLane is in my future....after I can save up for 5 years for it! Lol

[@BudgetLawns]

Haha, I feel ya there, bro. These dang things are pricey. Looks like Imma start out with an Earthwise 16", 7 blade manual one. Goes down to 1/2 inch with a couple extra blades than most manuals to help get through the thick bermuda.

[@joeb1906]

Just bought this exact mower in great condition off the offer up app for $40. After watching this I think I really scored. Can’t wait for my grass to come out of dormancy. It did not come with a roller. Looks like that’s a great feature

[@SuperTA329]

Man; what I would do for a reel mower. Love the cut and look vs. rotary.

[@TheSouthernReelMower]

Good review! I have a Toro and a John Deere reel mower.

[@charlesepps6631]

Awesome breakdown of the McLane. I'm with you Doc, I like easy.

[@alexanderquesada1340]

I don't have a flat yard. Do these reel mowers work well in uneven yards? Or should I still use my rotary mower? Thank you

[@ashleyrichards4241]

Do enjoy my reel mower. Tho I like the older systems. Mine is old enough it has a flathead Briggs on it. But my lawn isnt large and I enjoy fiddling with the mechanical side of things. One thing I notice is these mowers dont have the big weighted rear rollers. Is this something you prefer not to have? Mines a minor 20" cut which is still large for my lawn. I do thoroughly like that powerless free push feature. That McLane is a beautiful mower. From what I've seen I'd rather that than the tru-cut

[@billyhenderson1911]

Dr. Love your show great information I will love the hair one of those true cuts but I would love to see how close you get to the ears of your walkway your driveway and see how it does and what do you do from the blade hitting actually the The driveway in your payment you make it seem so easy oh my goodness everybody should be getting one if I get one I have to level my lawn

[@andrefamily883]

the Mclane design is almost identical to the California trimmer reel mower.

[@dolphinope]

The McLane is 100% made in the USA - The California Trimmer in CHINA!

[@LetsGoitsBrandon]

Glad I stumbled across your channel a few weeks ago. Very much enjoy the information and look forward to seeing what content you put up next. That McLane is SWEET!!! Selling my house now so hopefully the next one I can get the lawn and yard looking amazing using the information I am learning from watching your videos.

[@goodymb]

Ordered one last week, should be here this week and looking forward to it. Thanks keep up the good work.

[@rudiwillems1166]

Awesome video Doc, about mower for Bermuda grass, greethings from belgium, us fan.

[@wiredawg2005]

Great Vid Doc...still own a rotary, but really thinking about getting one of these and I feel like you sold me on the McLane.

[@fenceman53]

Next year you could try a Swardman reel mower

[@gardenmoose4648]

So excited to reel mow

[@kevinbell1785]

Nice review! I'd love to have a reel mower, but I'm up North with a fine fescue lawn and don't know if this will work on that type of grass. Any thoughts?

[@Brettsgrasscapades]

You absolutely can vary your speed with a greens mower. The speed is determined on the throttle.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Talking about instant speed variance WITHOUT throttle adjustment. i.e. a clutch system.

[@Brettsgrasscapades]

@@HowTowithDoc the McLane is controlled the same though. You can engage it half way by not squeezing the handle but you can do that on the Toro greensmasters as well. A greens mower will also give a far superior cut and many can be taken up to an inch of higher. I don't know anyone who has mowed with a greens mower and a McLane or tru cut and says "yeah the McLane is a better option"

[@thimitri1]

Good point!!.Same with the cal trimmer using your thumb to bring down the throttle when coming up to landscape edges..

[@thimitri1]

@@HowTowithDoc .. in away, when slightly disengaging the clutch (belt) to a slower speed on a McLane, the reel also slows just as you would be bringing down engine speed on a trimmer.

[@adamproud1]

@@HowTowithDoc Doc, I thought the reason you originally liked the Tru Cut was that there is no loss of blade speed while slowing the walking speed. It seems the McLane slows both walking speed and blade speed. Is this something that you believe is no longer a concern?

[@jaredreyes2811]

Good video. Thanks for the tip, Doc. Last Sunday I got the link off your website and ordered it from that place in Florida... Hope to get it by the first of next week..🤞

[@mhuntercorrell]

I’ve never won, anything! This is it, Doc!

[@nicolebolston4906]

Doc you almost have to jog behind that thang!! Looks nice!! I’m winning it!! Lol

[@JohnDoe-xu2vx]

I just had my first experience with my new 20" true cut today. I had to let it go into my wall twice....dangerous mower! Going to try to return it tomorrow. True plastic front bucket was a bitch to put on and off.

[@jim282771]

I'm sorry for the late question. I hope its not too late to get your attention. I have a small Bermuda lawn (about 2200 sq feet). The front yard is fairly flat. The side yards are long and narrow (65'x 10-15 feet with a 30-35 degree hill on the short sides). The back yard is quite small but mostly flat. I currently have a rotary mower and a hand push reel mower (18" mascot). I find I have to use rotary mower more once the grass thickens up in the summer months. It's just too hard to push the reel mower, particularly on the side hills. Here's a question for you. Do you think a McLane 25" or even the 20" mower is overkill for my small lawn (2200 sq ft)? I am concerned that the mower will be to big and unwieldy for my lawn. Thanks in advance.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Not at all... in fact mowing will be FUN again... since you don't have to PUSH it. Such a nice mow and will be doing another video soon.

[@robertmailhos8159]

I saw a Jacobson multi reel mower. Back in late 80s or early 90s that cost $27 k it was for the golf course in Griffin ga 😎

[@markmoore4373]

enjoyed the video, thanks for all you do, to help us all out.very informative like always. thank you.

[@caligolfnut]

Hi Doc, what do you think about a push, manual reel mower for cutting a small 1000sq ft flat lawn? Will i get golf course quality with a manual vs motorized?

[@tonecrazy88]

I paid 380 for my 20 inch mcclane. Guy used it for 1 month then found out he needed to move. Best deal ever.

[@inf25th]

Doc, very comprehensive review!! Great job!

[@jerryhurlock8827]

Very informative information thanks

[@robertramos630]

Doc, what do you think about the California Trimmer? Thank you!

[@joejenkins4513]

Great information on the McClain reel mower. I've been using the other brand of mower in your video for many many years. You hit some key points and features on the McClain unit that now I'm going to give them a serious look now. I have scheduled a demo for both the 25" unit and the 25" Greens Master unit from my local dealer in my area. Keep up the good work and happy mowing. Regards, Joe

[@williamgarvin8159]

Well Doc, if you have any old push mowers or spreaders you don't use anymore, feel free to send one my way!! Lol

[@kc-C3]

I’m new to mowing. My husband passed recently and I want a great looking lawn. I have centipede grass now. Would like to go to Bermuda. Can I seed Bermuda to get it going? In SC. Also can I use the McClan now while I convert grasses? I have half an acre. Thanks

[@Iexpedite1]

I have a Cal Trimmer and when it isn’t running it is really hard to move. I have a roller on the front but the rear wheels are narrow and don’t push easy.

[@95toycrawler]

Please please. I would love a nice reel mower.

[@tomjones4318]

That McLane looks like a practical reel for most homeowners but it has to cut higher than a putting green.

[@andrewsanders1711]

it cuts up to two inches

[@dgoode2846]

Good review Doc, thank you.👍👍

[@marcdrobny7621]

I like the Mclaine GR fine but i do wish i could cut lower than 3/4". I thought i would be able to scalp with this but i can't. doesnt go low enough. :-(

[@williamgolden5493]

Doc, I have a Trucut C25, it is used, I know I know should have bought new, but got a deal. My question is on the height adjustment I have 11 holes, what is the spacing between the holes. I cant get the math to come out correct from lowest at a 1/4 to height of 2 1/2?

[@kyledrumm7093]

To back lap Mclane makes a reverse spin retrofit kit. “You’re Welcome. 😃

[@stanhall4276]

great vid. since im not a mechanic or a pro lawn keeper, I am now seeking a McLane--the belt, the catcher, and the height adjustment and speed control sold me. question- some of the used ive seen are McLane "commercial" but I don't see much difference.. what do you think? Also, grteat choice of background music for the diagonal cut video-im a banjo player and that was really good.. is it a band you can identify?

[@jimcharles7252]

Great review! I have a older McLane that I truly enjoy. After you introduced the True Cut I was thinking about going to that. But now guess my McLane is going to stay. I have a solid roller on mine that makes great stripes. The newer slotted roller is neat! Thanks for all of your videos. They have made my lawn the envy of my neighbors.

[@HowTowithDoc]

I wasn't sure I would like it over the TruCut... but my LEFT THUMB... sure likes the Mclane better.

[@thebrowncrew]

Can you add slotted front roller to the Mclane 25 reel mower?

[@miketaus1967]

Hey Doc. Live in Illinois and looking for a reel mower. My lawn is not a traditional bluegrass. My lawn consists of. Award, nu blue rugby3 and jackpot. My question is where do u recommend the purchase of. Thanks

[@gradyanderson5651]

Love this. Currently, unable to afford a powered reel. I have a B&S rotary mower and a manual reel cutter. Love the reel style and though yard is small, still takes a too much of my time. Subscribed and have the email from website (hope different emails are ok though).

[@Jeffhuebner]

Both of the mowers are some beautiful engineering. Is the Mclane as easy to adjust the height of cut as the tru-Cut?

[@HowTowithDoc]

Yes... however if you want to change your RANGE greatly... you need to make one extra adjustment.

[@CoachKepler]

For the used buyer do you know if the older model features are similar?

[@jamesbeacham5628]

Doc, thanks for the recommendation...My McLane 25" Greens Keeper mower was delivered yesterday. One question: You are a fellow dog owner, I have 3, what about Dog poop? Do you pick it up constantly or, do you just mow? And if so, how does the reel mower handle it? Curious. Before, in my backyard I just ran over everything with my 60" Kubota zero turn....

[@HowTowithDoc]

lol......... pick it up. It throws it back out front and keeps chopping it.

[@brianm7402]

I wish I could reel mow. My yard is so undulated, I don't think it would work out. Anyone know about how much yard leveling is?

[@richiebenjamins9087]

Hey Doc, good comparison. When will we see the California Trimmer review added to the list? Can you comment on the noise level between the Tru-Cut 20, 27 and Mclane 25? How do you think the Mclane would handle inclines, say about 35 degree?

[@HowTowithDoc]

All about the same because they are running about the same size Hondas. I feel the NEED to always wear hearing protection on my John Deere but always forget with the reels. Not bad at all

[@littlefinkle7757]

Great reviews !

[@jamesbeacham5628]

Doc, I was looking at the true-cut...Now with your rec I'm going with the McLane. My question is on size... My yard is not close to be level like your's is. I know from zero turns, the larger size on uneven ground the worst it scalps, if your not really careful. For this case the power equipment salesman was saying go for the 20 inch. But I'm leaning more to the 25 inch, because I am slowing working to leveling the lawn like yours. So, is the 25 inch the best choice? James

[@HowTowithDoc]

Def go with the 25".... the more unlevel it is... the wider the better in reel mowers.

[@jamesbeacham5628]

@@HowTowithDoc Thanks Doc...Just goes to show you salesman are not always right. Calling McLane tomorrow.

[@webfeet1564]

Noticed the Mclane has a cover on the exhaust port of the Honda that will help point the exhaust away from the operator. Would you mind providing a link for that part? Thanks!!

[@HowTowithDoc]

Came with the unit. I'm sure you can find one pretty easy online.

[@webfeet1564]

Thanks for the reply. I'm pretty sure the one I found on Amazon is gonna work (fingers crossed).

[@mikefitzpatrick5209]

what is BACK LAPPING the reel blades?

[@JohnDoe-xu2vx]

That Jack Russell is checking the perimeters of his territory. I would have to put my Jack in the house when using power tools, he wanted to attack everything.

[@mikepropst6587]

Question - with the single action to control reel & drive does the reel slow down when wheels are not fully engaged??

[@HowTowithDoc]

Yes, the reel matches the walk speed.

[@kellkelley5743]

Hey Doc. I just purchased a trucut 25. Will small pebbles effect the blade system. I know it sounds like a stupid question but my lawn has some.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Yes.... not good for the blade. Time to rake.

[@brentgearhart2633]

How does it do for lawn striping?

[@VicenteHernandez-qz4qw]

I live in Raleigh North Carolina as I can order online

[@chevyvega6622]

how do these compare to john deere or allen??

[@justinhuynh4849]

Hey doc I’m currently using the trucut as well for my yard. What height of cut are you using for your front yard? What hole do you use on the machine? Thanks!

[@HowTowithDoc]

The front is pretty tall... about 1.5" because of drought. Almost the last slot.

[@justinhuynh4849]

How To with Doc same here I’m at the second to last but I’m hoping to cut it down to maybe 1 next spring. Thanks for all your help. Did a summer scar three weeks ago with pgf. Looking great!

[@billyhenderson1911]

Oh I’m sorry Dog I’m in Dallas Texas I will learn all the seed now but I’ll probably wait and pre-emergent heavenly and wait to the weather just about over to receive when I have a cooler climate for one month what do you think I Bermuda grass Hiebert I love to put down some quality grass seeds

[@ATO.21]

That's why I didn't win the TruCut, because I was destined for the McLane. Yes!

[@alexlowery8925]

What brand roller do you have on there?

[@debow567]

To bad I have a fescue lawn I’d get one!

[@diyard3001]

Doc, which mower would you say would be better on hills? Tru-Cut or McClane?

[@HowTowithDoc]

I would say Mclane simply due to the WEAR on the overall unit. Clutch plate vs belt. Not talking about how they move... simply the concern about wear on the parts. My 20" already needs adjustment from hill travel.

[@gabrielsalazar5651]

How heavy is the Mclane?

[@dakotamiller6435]

If everyone will just unsubscribe during the time he’s giving it away, then I’ll let everyone know when it’s ok to subscribe back! 😂 I want to get my hands on one of those bad boys!

[@walterbirden3656]

What about doing stripes

[@benfoust7424]

Dear Santa!

[@sdstallion]

where did you get the grooved roller for the McLane? I've been looking for one

[@HowTowithDoc]

Comes with it. Maybe you can contact them. www.howtowithdoc.com/bermuda-grass-reel-mower/

[@gahomegarden]

Why didn’t you make a video on who won the other giveaway of a reel mower? Did you ever give it away?

[@HowTowithDoc]

It's on the website.

[@brentd]

I'm all for supporting small(ish) businesses, but buying a Mclane from those folks is about $350 more than buying it from Mclane's website for the same model and grass catcher. Freight included.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Not true.... Mclane does not sell the grooved roller. Only available via the link on the site as the owner designed the package. Exact same price.

[@mrkraymnd]

Doc - what do you think about the California Trimmer?

[@HowTowithDoc]

I assume they are fine units.... but I won't use one due to the lack of SPEED feathering. i.e. some sort of clutch system on the walk speed.

[@tommykirk3626]

Have you looked at Allett Mowers

[@HowTowithDoc]

25" is the smallest reel I recommend. For most lines that is a commercial version and the price is well over 5k

[@kendelljackson8357]

Great video as always Doc!!! What’s your thoughts on grooved vs smooth rollers?

[@HowTowithDoc]

Still have to do some testing on longer grass.

[@jaredreyes2811]

Doc, just got my Mclane in today. I didnt get the grass catcher. Did urs come in with that attachment?

[@HowTowithDoc]

It was a winter promotion. I never use mine anyways. Not once on reg cutting. Just return the clippings.

[@jaredreyes2811]

Thanks for the response, Doc. Good to know.

[@jaredreyes2811]

@@HowTowithDoc, one more question if I may. I adjusted the front roller bar as required to get a low setting. I just noticed in the owners manual the rear wheels can be adjusted also. By the diagram, ill have to take out all the gas, oil, flip it over and taken the whole damn thing apart. I was wondering if you did that or did you just leave it on the factory setting?

[@HowTowithDoc]

Leave it.... You can get about another 3/16 lower of you skip the last NOTCH... and hold that position with wire of tape. Hence the black tape on my bar in the back lap video.

[@jaredreyes2811]

Lol I did notice that today when I watched the video... i appreciate u taking the time to answer my questions man.. take care.

[@WhittyPics]

So McLane is the winner. Too expensive for me though. How often do you have to replace that belt?

[@HowTowithDoc]

I'm guessing every 1-2 years. Not sure. It's only about $9

[@jimcharles7252]

I have had my McLane for about 6 years and have replaced the belt once. The chain do get stretched out and loose and replaced them twice.

[@Azaron83]

I want to reel mow but my house is on a hill :(

[@markworthen8878]

my tru cut goes up and down hills just fine with the drive on the out sides not in the center main reason I got it yes a steep hill and you control the speed the only thing I wish if they had a grooved roller

[@td4611]

V S I have a tru cut and my house is on a hill too. I’m a 56 year old female and take care of my entire yard by myself. Tru cut handles hills very well

[@AndyMillerPhotoUK]

Nice review -- but you maybe should provide a little explanation as to why your lawn looks so bad in the vids.

[@HowTowithDoc]

Dormant Bermuda?

[@trevormuggeridge4560]

First Aussie 😁

[@ericwells9482]

Doc i see you have a dog. Do they pee and poop on your lawn and do they create dead spots?

[@robertmailhos8159]

If you don't like the McLane you're insane in the brain ☹️☹️☹️☹️ main thing is that the mower has a Honda on it 👍👍👍👍👍