Does the thought of mowing your lawn feel more like a chore than a satisfying task? Many homeowners face this exact problem when trying to find a reliable and powerful lawn mower. Craftsman is a name many trust, but with so many models—from push mowers to riding tractors—how do you pick the perfect one for your yard?
Choosing the wrong mower can lead to frustrating breakdowns, uneven cuts, and wasted time. You need a machine that fits your lawn size and your budget. That’s where we come in. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key features, compare popular Craftsman lines, and show you exactly what to look for.
By the end of this post, you will feel confident knowing which Craftsman lawn mower best suits your needs. Get ready to transform your yard work from a struggle into a smooth, efficient routine. Let’s dive into the world of Craftsman power!
Top Craftsman Lawn Mower Recommendations
- 13 Amp Motor with 20 inches Deck - Power through tall grass
- 3-in-1 Capacity - Rear Bagging, Mulching and Side Discharge
- Winged Blade - Improved Cutting Performance
- Easy Fold Handle - Allows for Vertical Storage
- 3 Year Limited Warranty, refer to "Warranty & Support" section below for full details
- Up to 45 min. of runtime – finish the job efficiently with a battery lawn mower that features a powerful motor for extended use
- Conserve storage space – store in a crowded shed or garage with a push lawn mower that's 36% more compact
- Lightweight and maneuverable – ease the stress of yardwork with a design that is 29% lighter than traditional walk-behind lawn mowers
- Efficient grass collection – help fill the grass bag to optimal capacity with the fan-assisted 15 in. cutting system
- Twist-and-switch functionality – seamlessly go from mulching to bagging with the turn of a dial (no mulch plug required)
- Effortless Power for ½ Acre Yards- Experience gas-like performance without the hassle—35 minutes of continuous runtime from a single 4.0Ah battery (full charge in 2 hours). Perfect for small to medium lawns up to ½ acre.
- Ultra-Lightweight Design (35% Lighter)- 16" cutting deck with ergonomic handles and push-button start makes maneuvering effortless—ideal for users prioritizing comfort and ease of storage.
- Smart Cut Adjustment System- Single-lever 5-position height control (1.25"-3.375") adapts to any grass type. 2-in-1 mulching/rear-bagging system maximizes clippings management.
- Zero Maintenance, Maximum Savings- No gas/oil costs, emissions, or engine tune-ups. Save $200+ annually vs gas mowers with whisper-quiet operation (<75dB).
- Complete Ecosystem Value- Includes battery, fast charger, grass bag & 3year tool + 3year battery warranty Works with 75+ Greenworks 40V tools(trimmers, blowers, chainsaws...)—expand your cordless toolkit.
- High-performance -the high efficiency cutting system with dual blades and a brushless motor is designed to minimize energy use which helps maximize runtime.
- Long runtime - ideal for lawns up to 1/2 acre with up to 70 minutes of runtime.
- Easy transport & storage - use the one-touch folding handle to quickly store the mower upright–takes 79% less space in vertical storage vs in operation**.
- Cutting options - the 3-in-1 steel deck allows you to mulch, bag, or side discharge clippings.
- Help conserve your energy - stop pushing, dial in your speed, and tackle yard work with the self-propelled mower that does the hard work for you.
- Powerful brushless motor: provides up to 50 minutes runtime**
- Vertical space savings: takes up 78% less space in vertical storage
- Reach small areas: low-profile design (10 in deck in height setting 1) allows for clearance for easy access under and around obstacles
- Range of cutting options: dual-lever height adjust from 1. 5 in to 3. 5 in
- Lightweight: for easy transport and maneuverability
- 36" GAS RIDE ON MOWER: Provides the optimized power and performance that reduces the amount of time and labor needed to maintain the beauty of your yard
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE ENGINE: Powered by a reliable 11.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine that delivers easy starting and superior results every time
- DURABLE AND EFFICIENT: Rugged 36" reinforced stamped steel deck cuts up to 2 acres of grass and fits through most gates and tight spaces, and the included mulching kit allows you to cut and finish like a professional
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: 18" turning radius and heavy-duty Turf Saver wheels make it easy to navigate around obstacles and get the job done efficiently
- RIDE IN COMFORT: 7-speed manual transmission allows you to choose the perfect speed for the task, and the contoured low-back seat provides a comfortable ride every time
- POWERFUL 144CC 4-STROKE ENGINE- Start mowing right away with this gas powered lawn mower—its 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine comes equipped with an auto choke system for fast, reliable starts. The forced air-cooling system keeps the gas lawnmower engine performing efficiently, making it ideal for steady, uninterrupted mowing, whether you're trimming your front yard or handling a full day of lawn work
- HEAVY-DUTY 21" STEEL CUTTING DECK- Get a clean cut every time with the 21-inch reinforced steel deck and tough, high-performance blade. This push gas lawn mower delivers consistent results with every pass—no need to repeat sections—making it perfect for homeowners looking for a dependable gas lawnmower that tackles tough grass effortlessly
- TRIPLE FUNCTION: BAG, MULCH & SIDE DISCHARGE- This versatile gas lawnmower rear bagging system lets you choose how to manage your clippings—switch easily between rear bagging, mulching, or side discharge. With a 1.4-bushel grass catcher included, this all-in-one lawn mower gas powered setup gives you full control over your lawn’s appearance, whether you want a clean yard or nutrient-rich mulch
- 6 HEIGHT OPTIONS WITH SINGLE LEVER ADJUSTMENT- Adjust to the season with six cutting heights ranging from 1.5" to 3.9", all controlled by a single, easy-to-use lever. This gas push lawn mower is perfect for adapting to varying grass lengths in spring, summer, or fall, giving you precision and flexibility in one rugged push lawn mower package
- LARGE WHEELS FOR EASY CONTROL- Navigate uneven terrain with confidence thanks to 7" front wheels, 10" rear wheels, 1.5" wide treads, and durable double ball bearings. Whether you're pushing through thick grass or going over bumps and slopes, this push gas lawn mower offers smooth control and reliable traction every step of the way
- Gas Powered Engine: A 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine equipped with recoil starter and auto choke for easy start, delivers strong power.
- 2-in-1 Steel Deck: All-steel deck built to last, combine mulching and bagging capabilities in 1.
- 21" Cutting Blade: The heavy-duty blade delivers better cutting effect, allowing you to mow more in less time.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Dual-lever height adjustment with 6 cutting positions allows you to choose your cut from 1.5" to 3.9".
- Easy to Assemble: Foldable design saves 70% storage space, making it more convenient to unfold and use.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your New Craftsman Lawn Mower
Choosing a new lawn mower can feel like a big job. Craftsman has been a trusted name in tools for a long time. They offer many mowers for different yards. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When you look at Craftsman mowers, certain features really matter. Think about what makes mowing easier for you.
Engine Power and Type
- Engine Size (CCs): Larger yards need stronger engines. Look for higher CC numbers if your grass is thick or your yard is big.
- Fuel Type: Most Craftsman mowers use gasoline. Some newer models use batteries (electric). Battery mowers are quieter and need less maintenance.
Cutting Deck Size
The deck size tells you how wide the mower cuts in one pass. Bigger decks mean you finish faster.
- Small yards (under 1/4 acre) do well with 21-inch decks.
- Medium to large yards benefit from 30-inch to 54-inch decks on riding mowers.
Drive System
Do you want to push the mower, or have it drive itself?
- Push Mowers: You provide all the power. These are great for small, flat yards.
- Self-Propelled: The engine powers the wheels. This is a lifesaver on hills or for bigger areas. Look for variable speed control so you can match your walking pace.
Cutting Options
How do you want to handle the clippings?
- Bagging: Collects grass neatly into a bag.
- Mulching: Cuts grass into tiny pieces that feed your lawn nutrients.
- Side Discharge: Throws clippings out the side.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The quality of the materials affects how long your mower lasts.
Deck Material
Most Craftsman decks are made of steel. Look for decks that resist rust. Some higher-end models use durable composite materials. These materials do not rust and often last longer.
Wheels and Tires
Good wheels make steering easy. Wheels with metal hubs last longer than those made entirely of plastic. Tall rear wheels help you maneuver easily on uneven ground.
Engine Brand
Craftsman often uses engines from well-known manufacturers. A reputable engine brand usually means better parts availability and easier repairs later on.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things boost a mower’s performance, while others can cause problems.
Quality Boosters
- Electric Start: Instead of pulling a cord, you push a button to start the engine. This is very convenient.
- Washout Ports: Many decks have a port where you attach a hose to clean the underside. Keeping the deck clean prevents rust and keeps the blades working well.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: Easy-to-use levers allow you to quickly change how high or low you cut.
Quality Reducers
- Plastic housing around the engine components can break easily if bumped.
- Flimsy handles on push mowers can vibrate too much, making the job uncomfortable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider where and how often you mow. This shapes your best choice.
For Small, Flat Yards (Walk-Behind Mowers)
You need something light and easy to store. A simple push mower or a small, battery-powered model works perfectly. Maneuverability is key here.
For Medium Yards with Some Hills (Self-Propelled Walk-Behind)
A self-propelled model saves your energy. Look for good traction on the drive wheels. This prevents slipping when you go uphill.
For Large Properties (Riding Mowers/Tractors)
Time is money on big yards. You need a powerful engine and a wide cutting deck. Comfortable seating and easy controls are important because you spend a long time on the machine.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Craftsman Mowers
Q: Are Craftsman mowers reliable?
A: Yes, Craftsman mowers are generally reliable, especially if you maintain them properly. They use dependable parts.
Q: How often should I change the oil in a gas Craftsman mower?
A: You should change the oil at least once per mowing season, or after every 25 to 50 hours of use. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact recommendation.
Q: What is the difference between a Craftsman push mower and self-propelled?
A: A push mower requires you to supply all the forward movement. A self-propelled mower uses the engine power to move the wheels forward.
Q: Can I use regular gasoline in my Craftsman mower?
A: Most Craftsman gas mowers run fine on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). Do not use gas with more than 10% ethanol (E10).
Q: How do I know what size deck I need?
A: A smaller deck (like 21 inches) is great for tight spaces. A larger deck cuts more grass at once, saving time on bigger lawns.
Q: Are Craftsman electric mowers powerful enough?
A: Modern battery-powered Craftsman mowers are surprisingly strong. They handle normal suburban lawns very well and are much quieter.
Q: Where can I find Craftsman mower parts?
A: Parts are usually available at major hardware stores or directly through authorized Craftsman service centers.
Q: Do Craftsman riding mowers come with mulching capability?
A: Many riding mower models include a mulching kit, or they are designed to mulch right out of the box. Check the specific model features.
Q: What is the best way to clean under the deck?
A: Disconnect the spark plug first for safety! Use a putty knife to scrape off thick grass buildup. Then, use a hose at the washout port if your model has one.
Q: How long should a Craftsman mower last?
A: With regular maintenance (oil changes, sharp blades), a well-cared-for Craftsman gas mower can easily last 10 to 15 years.