Craftsman 13 Amp 20-in. 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower

Craftsman's 13 Amp 20-in. 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower, model number CMEMW213, is a tool that seems to generate mixed emotions among users. Having spent some time with this mower, I can understand why. It offers a blend of strengths and weaknesses that make it a unique option in the realm of lawn care.

First and foremost, the power of this mower is undeniable. The 13 Amp motor delivers a robust performance, capable of cutting through tall grass with ease. This mower doesn't shy away from a challenge, and I found it particularly effective on my uneven terrain, provided I kept the height adjustment on the higher side. The single lever height adjustment is a nice touch, offering a range from 1.5 inches to 4 inches, which allows for some flexibility depending on your lawn's needs.

One of the standout features of this mower is its 3-in-1 functionality, allowing for mulching, bagging, and side discharge. This versatility is a significant advantage, especially for those who like to vary their lawn care routine. However, I did encounter some issues with grass clippings escaping from the back when not using the bagging attachment. It seems that the spring holding the flap shut isn't quite strong enough, leading to a bit of a mess. A simple fix with some duct tape or a bungee cord could mitigate this, but it's a design flaw worth noting.

The mower's build quality leaves something to be desired. While it is lightweight and easy to maneuver, the plastic components feel somewhat flimsy. The wheels, in particular, seem like they might not withstand prolonged use. During my first use, the mower deck developed a crack, which was disappointing. The lightweight nature of the mower does make it easier to handle, especially for those with physical limitations or steep slopes in their yard, but it seems to come at the cost of durability.

Storage is another area where this mower shines. The folding handles make it relatively compact, and the transport handle is a thoughtful addition for moving it around. However, I found the process of folding and unfolding the handles to be a bit cumbersome. The zigzag pattern in which the pieces fit together can be challenging to manage, even after loosening the bolts. If space allows, it might be simpler to leave the handles unfolded.

One of the most significant drawbacks of this mower is the cord. While being corded eliminates the worry of battery life or running out of gas, the cord itself can be a real nuisance. It's constantly in the way, and navigating around obstacles in the yard becomes a bit of a dance. For those with smaller, unobstructed lawns, this might not be a deal-breaker, but for anyone with a more complex yard layout, it can be a significant hassle.

In terms of ease of use, the mower is straightforward to set up and start. The push-button start is a welcome feature, especially for those who have struggled with pull-start gas mowers in the past. It's also relatively quiet, which is a nice change from the roar of traditional gas mowers. However, I did experience some issues with the mower shutting off unexpectedly. It seemed to be related to the electric motor overheating, which required a cool-down period before restarting.

Maintenance-wise, the mower is relatively low-maintenance compared to gas mowers. There's no need to worry about oil changes or fuel storage, which is a plus. However, finding replacement blades proved to be a bit of a challenge, which could be a concern for long-term use.

From an environmental perspective, the corded electric design is a more eco-friendly option compared to gas mowers. It produces no emissions and operates more quietly, which is better for both the environment and neighborhood peace.

In conclusion, the Craftsman 13 Amp 20-in. 3-in-1 Corded Lawn Mower is a mixed bag. It offers powerful performance and versatility with its 3-in-1 functionality, making it a strong contender for those with smaller, simpler lawns. However, its build quality and the constant battle with the cord are significant drawbacks. If you're looking for a lightweight, easy-to-store mower and don't mind dealing with the cord, it could be a good fit. However, for those seeking a more durable, hassle-free option, it might be worth exploring other alternatives. Ultimately, whether I would recommend this mower depends on your specific needs and tolerance for its quirks. For small, uncomplicated lawns, it offers good value and performance, but for more demanding tasks, you might want to consider other options.