Mow With Me | Stihl RMA 510 V Mowing Review

Mowing review of the Stihl RMA 510 V. Stihl's new self-propelled walk-behind mower.
We test the mulching, bagging and side discharge. We also show you the Stihl FSA 90 R commercial string trimmer.
You can also watch the full walk-around review of the 510 V here:
Check out Jason's KZbin Channel! / @jasonpaul8199

[@PaulSikkema]

Feel free to leave a comment below. (I do moderate the comments so it may not show up right away) Thanks for watching and please Subscribe!

[@hankrabe4663]

Thanks for the review I am very interested as I will go down to my dealer next week and have a good look and test. But your sound sucks got my sound turned to max and can hardly hear what you are saying.

[@PaulSikkema]

Hank, Make sure the volume is turned up on the You Tube screen. That said, yes, my microphone was broken and I didn't realize it until the filming was all done.

[@hankrabe4663]

@@PaulSikkema My screw up did not realize that the volume on KZbin was low. Much better

[@Brian-Outdoors]

Thanks for the video Paul I didn’t even have Stihl on my radar for a battery mower. Now I think this or the Toro are my best options. Thanks again for the great video!

[@Seven-Seven-77]

Thanks for the vid, I just picked a 510V with a 300S battery, it’s on charge so I’m looking forward to giving it ago, I was pretty impressed by your vid and others that have reviewed the 510V with the 300S battery

[@eliofranco2251]

Thank you for your review. It's greatly helped me decide to buy one. Your review is the only review that showed you can indeed was it with a hose, which I think is imporotant to know. thank you again. cheers

[@elijames3041]

I am doing ok thanks for the all great comments

[@KevinPGA]

I still think I like the Toro 60V better, but combining the Stihl mower/battery with the Kombi 135 R and blower may be the best combination out there. Maybe 5 more years of your wonderful videos and I’ll make up my mind! 😂😂😂👍👍👍

[@markd.9596]

Love the great review, plenty of detail and info paul!!

[@floydtcgibbons6542]

Cut the grass shorter to see how it cuts

[@thomko1318]

Looking good

[@JohnSmith-ug5ci]

Wow that thing does a terrible job. It looked like it hardly cut it at all.

[@tedschmitt178]

Yea, when the cutting height is set really high it DOES hardly cut anything at all.

[@mattp4813]

I'm sold. Would be nice if you would include a note on the deck height and cutting width. Those little bits of info are great to know. Super job though.

[@PaulSikkema]

I did that in the walk-around video but it will cut up to 3 3/4 inches and is a 21 inch cut.

[@Corvette1658]

I just got yesterday it’s actually for my sister house.

[@justincaseyouseeme]

You mention at 18min in this was the smaller of the batteries but from what I can find the AP 300 is the largest battery they make.

[@PaulSikkema]

There is one more larger before you get into their backpack batteries. The 300 is a 36 volt, 6.3 Ah. 227 Wh battery The 300 S is a 36 volt, 7.8 Ah. 281 Wh battery. www.stihlusa.com/products/battery-products/ap-series/

[@freedom9041]

Best mower in the market as of today. Can't be happier. But don't wash the mower. You can use some plastic scrapper with teeth to remove all the build up and then clean with damp cloth. That's what I do. I picked up Toro 60W and EGO 56v, and Makita 18vx2. I would say Stihl undoubtedly the best one out there, followed by Makita. But my main mower is Gardena cylinder mower on my new sod for perfect cut. No rotary mower comes even closer to cylinder mower.

[@PaulSikkema]

I like both the Sthl and the Toro 60 volt. Both well built metal deck mowers that cut well!

[@joaneigenbrod2058]

This video was very good but I'd like to know if this mower can be used on an sloping yard which I have as well as flat sections.

[@PaulSikkema]

Yes, this mower is rear wheel drive so it's great for mowing slopes. The rear wheel drive gives you the traction you need to go up and down the hills.

[@simmran1]

I missed where you explained the cutting width on the Stihl 510v. Also are there two battieries included with purchase? Thanks

[@PaulSikkema]

21 inch. Stihl does not include batteries. They have many options and the dealer and you will pick the best ones for your yard. Personally, I like the AP 300S. They have plenty of power to handle any task

[@speaknup8009]

Question about this mower. Does the self propelled mechanism work without the mower blade running? The reason I ask is that I have a steep lot and it would be nice to have the mower walk itself back up the hill when I'm done mowing. Like you, I have a bum knee and I need all the help I can get. Also, do you have any thoughts about how well this mower will do when mulching leaves?

[@PaulSikkema]

Yes, the self propel works with the blade turned off. It will mulch dry leaves into 1/4 inch pieces

[@gabeferreira9500]

When do you think we’ll see the RMA765 in North America? It’s the commercial version of this 510 V which I have and love! Love these reviews too! Can you do Greenworks Commercial reviews at some point?

[@PaulSikkema]

I won't have a chance to talk to Stihl until October but I'll ask my dealer to ask his district rep. I'll get back in a couple of weeks.

[@deanb3033]

Hi Paul, I really enjoy your videos. Page 11 of the Stihl rma510 manual says "do not spray mower with water", only use a damp cloth or brush. I personally prefer to spray under my deck to keep it clean, but I'm hesitant to do that with my Stihl after reading that section in the manual. What do you think?

[@PaulSikkema]

I'm sure Stihl is worried about the owner using a pressure washer to clean the unit and/or getting water into the battery compartment. If you just use a garden hose with normal city water pressure I don't see any difference between that and mowing wet grass.

[@patbowman9959]

Have sprayed the underside of my Stihl with the garden hose for the 3 years I've owned it (not self propelled, I'm jealous). I spray the undercarriage & blades with silicon before I mow.

[@stevethomas2285]

I considered this unit but bought the Toro because of the Personal Pace feature; Toro Service is a mile from me; finally,, there's no plug to bag/mulch. Otherwise, it's seems they're comparable and both are solid units. My battery lasts about 45 minutes which is enough for me. I think it's great that the battery mowers are so good now; thanks for the insight, much appreciated!

[@candlercando]

So did I. Admittedly, I would prefer the Toro to have a single point adjustment and wheel bearings, but the personal pace and mulching quality I think is tops. Shout out to Paul for his videos.

[@stevethomas2285]

@@candlercando Good points on the ball bearings and single height adjustment. I think markings on the notches would be good. I bought the extended warranty so if the wheels fall off, I'm still good!

[@jmljml5065]

I'm already into the Stihl AP battery line. The only thing that keeps me from buying this is it's bagging ability. I've read some reviews where some folks say it doesn't bag well; leaves stuff on the grass. And curious how it would handle a lot of leaves. What's your assessment of that? Appreciate your input.

[@PaulSikkema]

If you have a lot of leaves - no walk-behind will pick it all up on the first pass. Personally, if I have a lot of leaves I'll mulch them first and then use the bagger to pick up the smaller pieces. The really fine mulched pieces that don't get sucked up fall into the grass and help fertilize the lawn over winter.

[@matthansen6341]

Where is it made? Well, the Stihl dealer told me it was made in Virginia. I went down and bought one assembled off the showroom floor. Took it home and noticed the label says "Made in China" (the battery says made in Germany). LOL. I guess the gas-powered Stihl products are the ones made in Virginia? Welp, at least it seems well-built and sturdy. Time will tell. My previous cordless mower (Neuton) was made in the far East. It was kind of like a Volkswagen - really nice at first but then things just start breaking.

[@PaulSikkema]

Thanks for looking at the box and letting us know. It appears the info I have was half-right :) I have the FS 90 R trimmer and the BSA 85 blower and I'll tell anyone that of ALL the trimmers I've tested they are the best built and have the most power. They are quiet. I always grab the BSA 85 blower when I want to move large amounts of leaves. I also like that the trimmer has the same commercial head that they put on the gas models. It's not an easy-wind head but it always feeds correctly and will last the life of the trimmer.

[@juliacartman8819]

If anyone is not happy with the blade on this mower... have a look at the Greenworks 60v pro 21 inch high lift blade. It should be a direct fit.

[@user-vg7hb9mz2n]

When cleaning deck instructions have to set cutting height to #6. Tilt handle forward. It locks in place. Then mower can stand upright for cleaning or storage. Of course remove the battery and fuse when doing this cleaning. Pays to read the instructions so you don't damage the mower. ONCE AGAIN, you do NOT spray mower with water.

[@mikesr3011]

Just purchased a Kombi 135 R, string trimmer and edger attachments. I need a blower and mower. I love Stihl products and hope I did the right thing going with battery powered lawn tools. I use themas a homeowner on a relatively small piece of property. Truthfully I am n the fence about buying a Still lawn mower and blower. Pricey compared to others and not a lot of reviews out there on it. Wondering about the longevity of both.

[@PaulSikkema]

I bought this mower 2 years ago. The first year I used it as a trim mower. Last year I gave it to my son-in-law in the spring and he used it all season to mow his lawn. I loved the mower and he does too. This one uses the AP batteries and both the mower and batteries have performed flawlessly. I really like how well-built the mower is compared to the other battery mowers. He also has my BGA 85 Blower and FSA 90 R trimmer. If you get a lot of leaves the Stihl blowers are very high volume - meaning they will move a lot more leaves than other brands. In other words, yes, they are more money but Stihl's quality is a solid step above anything else on the market. I've used many brands over the last 30 years and I always come back to Stihl when I want something that will last and last and last.

[@LL-mt2nz]

How would the 510 compare against the Toro Super Recycler 60v?

[@PaulSikkema]

I like both mowers a lot. The Toro is the best mulching mower on the market right now but the Stihl also does an outstanding job when you mulch correctly. (raise the mower as high as it will mow, mow as often as needed so you are only cutting 1/3 of the grass blade) The biggest problem for you is having to buy another set of batteries for the Toro. I recommend two 7.5 AH batteries. If you wanted a battery snowblower also then it would make sense to invest in the Toro. The mower is great but the single and two-stage Toro snowblowers are a solid step above all the other battery snowblowers on the market.

[@LL-mt2nz]

@@PaulSikkema Thanks. I will go with the Toro SR 60v since it comes with the 7.5 as you suggested

[@charliebell5073]

What model is the string trimmer? You seem to like it a lot.

[@PaulSikkema]

That is the FSA 90 R. It's commercial trimmer with a throttle lock. It uses the same trimmer spool/head as the gas powered models. Yes, I like it a lot and no one else makes one as rugged and built to last.

[@Boyo1956]

EGO does not recommend washing the lawnmower with water or cutting the grass in the rain.

[@algorel4763]

Hey Paul great video! People should consider a Gas unit from Toro or Honda. This narrow unit is a Christmas toy for someone’s son. When battery development develops and more powerful mowers mature that’s when it will be accepted. 5-10 years out. What ever people buy today (cordless) will be obsolete very soon and a wasted of good hard earned money. More development is needed!

[@PaulSikkema]

At this point in time you get what you pay for. A $149 Poulan Pro at Menards and a comparable Greenworks™ 20" 40-Volt Cordless Push Lawn Mower don't mow well and won't last long. But when you get up into the Toro 60 volt, this Stihl and comparable Toro recycler the quality and long life is a lot closer than most people think. And you are right - within 5-10 years the 21 inch gas push mower will be obsolete in most areas of the world.

[@nkystevep7007]

Al I was thinking the same thing, I love the idea but besides the battery I am concerned because in the spring my backyard is very wet so my current 21 year old gas Toro Needs to be sprayed down often in the spring

[@melainkinney7213]

my stihl 510 not V has 6 amp battery i never need 2 battery i/ve been shocked i have older sunjoe i use also stihl was replacement for sunjoe it 4 years old it use both batteries but its 17 inch 36 volt vs stihl 510

[@matthansen6341]

Where is the Stihl made? I'm tired of low-quality, under-engineered products from certain countries with poor labor and environmental protections. The Stihl looks sturdy but would like to know more.

[@PaulSikkema]

From the info I have all of their electric products and lithium ion products are made in Austria / Germany.

[@matthansen6341]

Paul Sikkema fantastic, thanks

[@spg5658]

​@@PaulSikkemaThis mower is made in China. Many of the batteries are made in Germany. I own several products of theirs (including a trimmer and blower) all made in VA Beach.

[@landscapingspecialist]

I feel like the speed control slider is poorly placed. I can see tree branches etc getting caught on it when mowing underneath low hanging trees or next to shrubbery and hedges. Change the location of it and make the speed selection lock firmly into place. Or simply make it a dial that sits flush to the panel

[@Garfinkel64]

How long will it run?

[@PaulSikkema]

It depends on the battery or batteries you get with it. Your local Stihl dealer will help your select the right battery and charger to match the amount of lawn you want to mow.

[@tedschmitt178]

I like this mower, but I bought the Greenworks version (exactly the same mower but with 60V and no self propel) for 1/3 of the price. $719 is entirely too much for this mower.

[@PaulSikkema]

So your mower doesn't have self-propell and the Stihl batteries or motor or ball bearing wheels? And - your mower doesn't come with the great service after the sale that your local Stihl dealer offers?

[@mathieub7826]

I went to store today to buy one... after inspection in comparison with the non traction model... front wheel seems being soft like there is suspension.. almost 3/4 of an inch... seller told me this is the 2 first unboxing of the season and both are doing this.... there is also a clicking noise from rear axle when I lift off the front wheel just a little bit and drop it on the floor.... do you encounter the same situation with yours !?! I beleive it may not effect the use of this mower. But this stihl is my last choice before I go back with my first choice. A Honda HRX. Thank you for your answer... the dealer also sell the Toro model which i did not like because of the wheel that looked like flimsy ...

[@mathieub7826]

I also want to mention i would really like to switch to battery mower. Just for the sound maintenance and cost of use. I am not worry about paying the high price but any battery power model does not lool like as solid as a honda premium heavy duty model !

[@PaulSikkema]

Hi Mathieu, No this one does not have any bounce in the front end or a clicking noise when I raise the rear. I suspect the bolts that hold the front of the mower on the deck are not tightened completely. For the rear I suggest flipping the mower on its side, wiggling the wheels, and wiggling the rubber flap to see if anything is loose. When comparing the battery models to gas I look at the price of the mower - less the batteries. The cost of the batteries relates to the operating cost of the gas mower. In this case, I expect the Stihl batteries to last 1500 charges which relates to about 10 years of use. Relate that battery cost to 10 years of gas, oil, air filters, gas can, stabil, and at least one carb rebuild.

[@mathieubou9425]

Thank you for your answer ! Which combo mower/trimmer do you prefer between stihl and toro. I'm someone who work fast and efficient as possible. I saw that greenworks pro 80v sold from costco has the same deck for 700$ insted of 1000$ for stihl... I hope i would pay for engine technology and reliability on stihl engine 281Wh x 2 on stihl 360Wh on Greenworks.... i have 6000sq ft to mow.

[@PaulSikkema]

That's a tough choice for me. I love the AP series Stihl trimmers and blowers. The mower is better than most. But I love the Toro personal pace mower and snow blower with the Toro. The Trimmer and blower are better than most. So, if my primary reason to go electric is to mow, I'd go with the Toro Personal Pace with 7.5 AH battery. Then get a 2.5 AH battery for the Trimmer and blower.

[@rayt4491]

Paul could you go back to cutting you make it look muck better thanks 😊

[@PaulSikkema]

I'd love to but I have a bum knee and can hardly walk. Of course I can't even get it looked at until late July.

[@rayt4491]

Paul Sikkema thanks still love your video can’t wait for the toro rider hope you feel better.

[@thedungeon1288]

I think these battery powered mowers are likely the future standard. By right now I think they are still lacking. My 190 cc Briggs would cut circles around it both that yard and special circumstances. For example my Briggs cut 3 foot thick grass the other day so I bag some clippings. That is not knocking this mower. I think the quite cutting is nice. I just think maybe in about 10 years or so perhaps battery powered mowers can compete in power.

[@PaulSikkema]

You are correct. This mower will not have the excessive power your 190cc does but it will be very comparable to the 6-7.5 ft.lb. 160cc engines most people buy. I have a super recycler showing up next week- we'll try them out side-by-side.

[@stevethomas2285]

I don't disagree, but I have about 5,000sf of flat, easy grass, so for me, battery is great. And quiet, too. But it's certainly not for everyone.

[@ed-gw3ov]

Not to knock you, but who is cuttin' 3-foot high grass with a walk-behind? I'm looking for a new self-propelled walk-behind. Not looking to mow a hay-field, just a residential lawn.

[@PaulSikkema]

About half the people who use a rider and only use the mower as a trim mower :) The lawn in this video is only 7 days growth. Certain times of the year my lawn can grow 6-7 inches. Many people mow when they have time to mow - not when the lawn needs to be mowed and they try to mulch way more than the mower was designed for.

[@paulinemercer538]

Just remember it’s a electric motor and they do not like water when washing I blow of with air gun when finished

[@Seven-Seven-77]

I’m pretty sure that base is not steel it’s carbon

[@PaulSikkema]

I'm pretty sure it's not carbon. Magnets stick to it and it's showing a little rust underneath :)

[@PaulSikkema]

It get's used weekly in the summer.

[@bertraminc9412]

Unfortunately, it’s made in China and not Austria or Germany like other items from Stihl.

[@PaulSikkema]

Yes, but do you know why?

[@trebor0278]

Au premier coup d'oeil, la coupe n'est pas très belle!