Looking for the best 21 inch mulching blades? You’ve come to the right place. Many landscapers own mowers that are compatible with 21″ mulching blades. Getting the right blades would solve all your mowing woes and improve the efficiency of the lawnmower.
Buying the right 21-inch mulching blade is more challenging than it seems. You have to look beyond compatibility when choosing the perfect unit. The durability, material, and strength of the blade matter as well.
To help you out with your purchase, we’ve rounded up a few of the top 21-inch mulching blades.
Best 21 Inch Mulching Blades Comparison
| # | Image | Mulching Blade Name | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Maxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Mulching Blade | Universal compatibility | Check |
| 2 |  | Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set | Best for commercial applications | Check |
| 3 |  | Oregon Gator G3 Blade | High-lift Design | Check |
| 4 |  | Oregon Longer Life 596-900 Gator Fusion G5 3-in-1 Mulching Blades | Fit for heavy-duty usage | Check |
| 5 |  | Maxpower 331387XB Commercial Mulching Blade for 21-inch | Affordable | Check |
Best 21 Inch Mulching Blades
1. Maxpower 331981B 21-Inch Universal Gold Mulching Blade
Best Feature
Universal compatibility
Reason Why it is Better Than Others
This blade is truly a game-changer not just in terms of compatibility but performance as well. Many landscapers found this all-rounder blade to be a perfect fit for their mower. It is a significantly better version than Maxpower 5611492B and 561144B.
My Experience After Using
I was blown away by its cutting quality and compatibility after my first use. It sliced through the toughest grass and turf with absolute ease. As a busy corporate worker, I do not have much time to spare for mowing. This blade has made mowing tasks a breeze without requiring much time and effort.
Cutting Quality – Just because it is universally compatible does not mean you would have to settle for inferior cutting quality. It cuts through anything in its path like butter and converts thicker grass into finer mulch.
Importantly, it works on damp and dry grass, so you can mow seamlessly even after rain.
Design – These mowing blades have longer cutting surfaces and sharper cutting teeth extended in a way to produce finer mulch. In addition, the centrifugal design and curved cutting edge produce a strong vacuum effect which lifts and circulates it in the cutting deck to turn it into small clippings.
Enhance Mower Efficiency – This lightweight design does not consume much vibrations from the engine. In fact, it contributes to improving the mower’s ability to move the blade and cut it into pieces.
- Made in the USA
- Circular 1-inch hole for easy mounting
- Universal compatibility
- Lightweight design and curvy angle for a more precise cut
- Works for damp and dry grass
- Not easy to install
Main Features
- Measures 21″ long and 2 ½” wide to fit most 21″ mower models
- Comes with a cover washer and six reducing washers (⅜”, 7/16″, ½”, ⅝”, 3/16″, and 9/16″)
- Sharpened teeth
Compatibility
Compatible with most 21-inch mowers
2. Maxpower 561713XB Commercial Mulching 2-Blade Set – 21-inch
Best Feature
Best for commercial applications
Reason Why it is Better Than Others
Another high-performing mulching blade is also from Maxpower which provides exceptional versatility and advanced functions. It leaves behind many maxpower blades like 331528B when it comes to performance. Its cutting quality is unparalleled and thrives well in tough mowing conditions.
My Experience After Using
I had read a lot of positive reviews about the blade before buying it. Consequently, the expectations were high and I am glad to inform aspiring buyers that it exceeded my expectations. Maxpower made a true performer that exceeds the OEM blade specifications.
Performance – Firstly, it has one of the highest cutting depths among all Maxpower mulching blades. As expected from a commercial blade, its mulching capabilities are unmatched. It mulches and side-discharges effectively without having the need to clean up later.
Design – The sharp teeth of the blade ensure faster cuts without making any noise. Thanks to the adequate cutting length and sharp edges, you would not have to go over the same area twice.
Easy Installation – The 5-point star mounting hole makes it easy for landscapers to fit it over a spindle. This robust blade fits perfectly without needing any additional tools.
- Efficient cutting performance and discharging capabilities
- All-rounder
- Durable and sturdy lawn mower blade
- Works quietly
- A bit heavy
Main Features
- Measures 2 ½” wide and 21″ long
- 5-point star mounting hole for easy installation
- Expertly designed to exceed OEM blade specifications
- Fits several renowned mower brands
Compatibility
Replacement – Replaces Husqvarna, Poulan, and Craftsman 134149, 138971, 138498, 127843, PP24003, AYP7143A79, AYP7158A49, AYP9149A69, DPR20H42STA, TS14H42C, 2P4B9A, 9169A99, and 9178B99
Snaps of Maxpower 561713XB 21-inch Mulching Blade
3. Oregon Gator G3 Blade
Best Feature
High-lift Design
Reason Why it is Better Than Others
This blade is a good option if you want a top-notch mulching blade for residential mowing applications. While G5 and G6 are more advanced, it is perfect for 21″ residential mowers. Oregon gator blades are constructed from heavy-duty material and surpass many similar products in cutting quality.
My Experience After Using
I decided to buy it after reading the mostly positive reviews it received. Also, my friends were singing praises for the blade and decided to purchase it to mow my backyard. In my opinion, it is a good option for small to medium-sized lawns.
High-Lift Design – Its cutting capabilities are further enhanced due to its ¾” lift. The high-lift design holds up the grass and trims into smaller clippings. Moreover, this design improves its discharging capabilities without having the need to clean up debris and clippings later.
Cutting Quality – The curvier angle of the blade makes it slice through the toughest turf without any hassle. It also improves the efficiency of the mower, produces finer mulch, and evenly distributes it onto the topsoil.
Grass Handling – This mulching blade is made to handle tough mowing conditions. It mulches efficiently whether the grass is dry or damp. In addition, you can mow even after heavy rain.
- Durable, heavy-duty build
- Fits many 21″ mowers
- A perfect alternative for OEM blade
- Do not leave piles of long grass
- Not as good at cutting as G5 and G6
Main Features
- Made in the USA in accordance with quality and safety standards
- Versatile blade providing multiple functions
- Thicker and stronger
- Consumes low vibrations
Compatibility
OEM – Replaces AYP, Sears 175064, 11878, 406706, 406712; Husqvarna 532175064, 532189028; Craftsman, AYP, Husqvarna, and Poulan 580258101
4. Oregon Longer Life 596-900 Gator Fusion G5 21-inch Mulching Blades
Best Feature
Fit for heavy-duty usage
Reason Why it is Better Than Others
It is a no-brainer that Oregon Gator G5 deserves a spot in the top five. It is one of the best-selling mulching blades out there, so you can expect an exceptional cutting performance. In addition, it is an upgraded model of G3, well-designed to work with commercial mowers.
My Experience After Using
I find it to be a worthwhile investment for lawn maintenance. The blade I used lasted many seasons without breaking, bending, or developing any other flaw. Plus, it cuts through the thickest grass with ease. It saves a lot of time and it is like having an assistant landscaper.
Cutting Edge – It has a longer cutting edge than most blades on the market. On top of that, it is fused with tungsten carbide to enhance its longevity. Also, it ensures that the blade retains its sharpness and shape for a long period of time.
Design – This blade has curved cutting flaps which are extended in a way to increase the airflow. As a result, the lifting abilities of the blade are significantly improved. Not only does it hold up the grass but also circulates it inside the cutting deck to cut it repeatedly.
Mulching Abilities – Here’s the important part, its mulching abilities are unmatched. It is specifically designed to produce the best mulch and convert thick grass to smaller clippings.
- Thicker, sturdier, and sharper
- Durable
- Tungsten carbide fused cutting-edge
- Unparalleled cutting performance
- Slightly wider
Main Features
- Features a 5-point star installation hole
- Measures 3″ wide, .164″ thick, and 21″ long
- Extended cutting edge with Tungsten Carbide fused into it
Compatibility
AYP – 127843, 131323, 133128, 134149, 138498, 138498MS, 138791, 138791P, 138971, 139775, 139775MS, 139775P, 24676, 422719, 532127843, 532131323, 532138498, and 532138971
Poulan – 532-134149, 532134149, 532-139775, and 532139775
Sears – 127843, 131323, 138498, 138791, and 138971
5. Maxpower 331387XB Commercial Mulching Blade for 21-inch
Best Feature
Affordable
Reason Why it is Better Than Other
Lastly, we are concluding our list of the best 21 in mulching blades with another gem from Maxpower. Not only does it offer the best mulching capabilities similar to 331981B and 561713XB, but this blade is also affordable. Since it is a Maxpower blade, you can rely on it to get the best cutting quality.
My Experience After Using
My neighbor was looking for an affordable mulching blade, so I recommended this blade to him. Ever since then, he has been raving about this blade, and rightfully so. Many blades at a similar price point do not deliver an exceptional performance. However, this one is an exception and packs a powerful performance.
Construction – This blade is crafted from a commercial-grade quality raw material to make it last for years. In addition, state-of-the-art technology is used in the manufacturing process to further strengthen it. These lawn mower blades undergo a heated process to enhance durability and add years to the lifetime of the blade.
Design – It has curved, sharp teeth to turn any kind of turf, weeds, and leaves into smaller clippings. Moreover, the curved angle ensures good lift and discharging capabilities. With this blade, you would not have to deal with trails of grass anymore.
Mower Efficiency – It does not make noise or consume excessive mower vibrations to work. Make sure that it fits perfectly over the shaft for less RPM consumption.
- Affordable and durable
- Sharp
- Aggressive mulcher
- Mows thick grass
- Easy installation
- Needs sharpening before use
Main Features
- Measures 2 ¼” wide and 21″ long
- Features three round mounting hole
- The circular hole has a diameter of 7/16″
Compatibility
OEM – 0954-03, 116-4500, 1164500S and 1350413S
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best 21″ Mulching Blades
Before you make a purchase, there are a few factors to consider to pick the right blade for your mower. While it may not seem challenging to buy a 21-inch mower blade, a multitude of factors needs to be taken into account to distinguish top units from inferior ones.
Compatibility
First and foremost, it is important to check the mulching blade’s compatibility with your mower. No matter how good the blade is, there is no use buying it if it is not compatible. Match the OEM number of the original blade you are replacing, if it matches, you’re good to go.
Alternatively, you can check the mower manual to determine what blade would fit the mower. In addition, you may find recommendations from the mower manufacturer about the kind of blade to buy.
Length, Weight, and Thickness
These three factors directly determine whether or not the blade would be compatible with your mower.
- Length – Make sure it is not longer or shorter than 21″ to ensure a proper fit for a mower with a 21″ cutting deck. A longer blade would not fit and a shorter blade would not only reduce the cutting area but affect the performance as well.
- Thickness – While a thicker blade means added strength, it is not advised to go for overly thick blades. Too thick blades do not score high on the efficiency meter. With that said, these blades are resistant to bending and breaking, however, may negatively influence the mower’s efficiency. On the contrary, blades with inadequate thickness easily bend or break when bumped into stones or a solid object.
- Weight – Heavy blades slow down mowers and consume more vibrations. In contrast, too lightweight blades are not long-lasting. So, check the weight of the blade to determine its durability and longevity.
Price
Undoubtedly, it is a determining factor when it comes to buying any lawn equipment. Usually, blades are not that expensive and an aspiring buyer can find a set of two blades at an affordable price. Generally, a pack of two or three blades are most cost-effective as you can keep the spare blades as a backup.
Conclusion
Lastly, blades from Maxpower and Oregon are the top picks as they offer unmatched cutting performance. While these are the best units, the decision to pick the right blade ultimately comes down to the type of grass, the size of the lawn, and personal preferences.