Reel Mower Sharpening-Honing Kit

Available for most reel mowers. The notched socket-style handle fits over the reel shaft and pawl. Fiskars and Mclane mower sharpener handle socket uses an Allen set screw to secure the reel pulley shaft for turning. (Allen wrench is not included) Select different kits using the drop-down boxes. The Mascot kit will fit Mascot mowers with a 1/2" shaft and pawl. All others will fit up to a 5/8" shaft without the pawl. A set screw will secure the drive enough to turn the blades.

The bed knife is set just touching the reel, and a paintbrush is used to coat the knife bed with water-soluble 80-grit as the reel is spun backward for 7 minutes, then recoated and spun again for another 7 minutes.

The kit is not intended to revitalize a reel mower that has worn to the point where the bed knife has lost its angled edge and is smooth and rounded, like a worn rotary mower blade. Instead, it’s a great touch-up sharpener in between professional sharpening. Because of the overall balance of the blades and the critical alignment of the bed-knife, hand sharpening should never be attempted.

Depending on your yard size, this sharpening-honing kit may keep you going for many years without needing a professional sharpening. Those who use a reel mower frequently and cover large areas may need to have it professionally sharpened every 3-4 years, while using this honing kit annually. Check with local golf courses for reel mower sharpeners; some larger courses may have a reel mower machine and sharpen them for a fee. If needed, we can arrange for you to send your reel to the Mascot shop in PA for sharpening.

Safety Disclaimer: Reel mower blades and bed knives are very sharp. Common sense should always be used: wear leather gloves and keep your hands and fingers clear while spinning the reel, especially when using the drill-powered model. An extended handle tapped to the paintbrush will keep hands and knuckles clear of blades when applying the additional lapping compound.