DeWalt 21 in. High Wheel Self-Propelled Mower

The DeWalt 21 in. High Wheel Self-Propelled Mower, model DW12A-AVP2R3739, promises a robust mowing experience with its 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine and a steel deck designed for durability. As someone who has had the opportunity to test this mower extensively, I have a lot to share regarding its performance, strengths, and areas for improvement.

Build Quality and Design

Starting with the build, DeWalt has always been synonymous with ruggedness, and this mower largely lives up to that reputation. The steel deck feels solid and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The 11-inch high rear wheels are a thoughtful addition, making it easier to navigate uneven terrain. However, the overall fit and finish could use some refinement. Some parts, like the cord clips, feel a bit flimsy, and there have been instances where the assembly wasn’t as tight as expected right out of the box.

Performance and Power

The 163cc Briggs & Stratton engine provides ample power, allowing the mower to cut through thick, week-old grass without much struggle. The rear-wheel-drive system is particularly useful for tackling slopes and uneven ground, giving better traction and control. The variable speed dual lever drive control is intuitive and allows for easy adjustments based on your walking speed and the lawn’s condition.

However, one glaring issue is the mower's tendency to clog, especially when the grass is slightly damp. This is exacerbated by the mower's inability to ramp up power adequately when encountering tougher patches of grass. The cutting deck height is adjustable from 1.25 to 3.75 inches, which is a decent range, but the mower struggles to maintain consistent cutting quality, often leaving behind uncut patches or "mohawks."

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a significant concern with this mower. Despite being equipped with two 10Ah batteries, the runtime is often insufficient for anything larger than a small to medium-sized lawn. On a full charge, the mower can handle about 20-30 minutes of mowing, which is disappointing for a tool in this price range. Charging the batteries is another pain point, as it can take up to eight hours for a full charge. This slow charging time can be a major inconvenience, especially if you need to mow a larger area and don’t have spare batteries on hand.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this mower is its ease of use. The self-propelled mechanism significantly reduces the effort required to mow, especially on inclines. The mower is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to maneuver. The large 2.3-bushel grass bag is convenient and reduces the frequency of emptying, although it doesn’t fill up as efficiently as one would hope.

Maintenance and Durability

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, which is a plus. The mower is easy to clean, and the blade is simple to sharpen or replace. However, finding replacement blades can be a challenge, as they are not readily available at most retailers. The durability of some components, particularly the batteries, is questionable. Many users have reported significant degradation in battery performance after just one season of use, which is concerning given the high cost of replacement batteries.

Noise Level

The mower operates quietly compared to gas-powered models, which is a notable advantage for those living in noise-sensitive neighborhoods. The reduced noise level makes for a more pleasant mowing experience overall.

Recommendations and Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the DeWalt 21 in. High Wheel Self-Propelled Mower has several commendable features, such as its powerful engine, ease of use, and quiet operation. However, it falls short in critical areas like battery life, charging time, and consistent cutting performance. The build quality, while generally robust, has some minor issues that could be improved.

Would I recommend this mower? It depends on your specific needs. If you have a small to medium-sized lawn and value quiet operation and ease of maneuverability, this mower could be a good fit. However, if you have a larger lawn or require a mower with longer battery life and more consistent cutting performance, you might want to consider other options.

DeWalt has a strong reputation for quality tools, but this particular model leaves room for improvement. Until these issues are addressed, it’s hard to justify the high price tag, especially when there are other mowers on the market that offer better performance and reliability.