Milwaukee 21" Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower Kit

In the ever-evolving world of landscape maintenance tools, Milwaukee’s 21” Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower Kit (model 2823-22HD) has caught my attention. As someone who has relied on gas mowers for years, making the switch to an electric mower felt like a big leap. However, my first experience with this mower left quite an impression.

Assembly and Initial Impressions

Straight out of the box, the Milwaukee mower is incredibly user-friendly. Assembly is a breeze, requiring minimal effort, and the dual rapid charger ensures the batteries are ready to go in no time. The mower boasts a range of features that immediately set it apart: variable speed control, a steel deck optimized for airflow, three-in-one grass management options (mulch, bag, and rear side discharge), and instant throttle response. The front and side LED lights add a nice touch for those early morning or late evening mowing sessions, and the vertical storage capability makes it convenient to stow away in a crowded garage.

Performance and Usability

Once I began using the mower, it was clear that Milwaukee has put a lot of thought into its design. The 21-inch steel deck provides a good balance between coverage and maneuverability. The rear-wheel drive offers strong propulsion, making it easier to handle slopes and uneven terrains. The variable speed control is intuitive, allowing me to adjust the pace effortlessly, although it does take a bit of time to get used to balancing too fast and too slow, especially when making turns.

One of the standout features is the mower's power. The instant throttle response and torque demand blade speed adjustment are impressive. The mower recognizes thicker or higher grass and automatically increases the blade speed for a better cut. This feature is particularly useful in areas with dense grass, ensuring a clean and even cut without bogging down.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is often a concern with electric mowers, but the Milwaukee mower does not disappoint. The M18 batteries provide sufficient runtime for my needs, comfortably covering my 1/4 acre lawn on a single charge. The dual rapid charger is a significant advantage, reducing downtime between mowing sessions. However, for larger lawns or professional use, having a second set of batteries might be a wise investment.

Cut Quality

Initially, I was skeptical about the cut quality, especially when compared to my old gas mower. The Milwaukee mower performs admirably, providing a clean and even cut. However, there are some caveats. The standard blade included with the mower is functional, but I noticed a significant improvement when I switched to the high-lift blade, which unfortunately is not included in the original package. The high-lift blade enhances the mulching performance and overall cut quality, making it a worthwhile addition.

One area where the mower could improve is its handling of wet grass. Mowing damp grass tends to result in clumping and caking on the underside of the deck. This issue affects the performance and requires frequent cleaning to maintain optimal functionality. Additionally, the cut height adjustment, while easy to use, could benefit from more granular settings, as the available options may not suit everyone's preferences.

Build Quality and Durability

Milwaukee is known for its durable and high-quality tools, and this mower is no exception. The build quality is robust, with a sturdy steel deck that feels solid and well-constructed. The wheels roll smoothly, making it easy to maneuver, even without the self-propelled feature engaged.

However, there is room for improvement. The battery compartment cover tends to accumulate dirt and grass clippings, which can be a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the single-point lift system, while convenient, may result in a less precise cut in corners, as the front of the deck has a housing that affects the cutting radius.

Practical Considerations

From a practical standpoint, the Milwaukee mower has several benefits. The lack of gas, oil, and reduced noise levels make it an eco-friendly and neighbor-friendly option. The upright storage capability is a space-saver, and the overall ease of use makes mowing less of a chore. However, it’s essential to handle the mower with care, as hitting hard objects can cause significant damage to the motor housing. This aspect raises concerns about the mower’s durability in less-than-ideal conditions.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the Milwaukee 21” Self-Propelled Dual Battery Mower Kit offers a compelling package for both residential and professional users. Its powerful performance, ease of use, and thoughtful features make it a strong contender in the electric mower market. However, it is not without its flaws. The need for an additional high-lift blade, challenges with wet grass, and potential durability issues are factors to consider.

Would I recommend this mower? Yes, but with reservations. If you are looking for a powerful, eco-friendly alternative to gas mowers and are willing to invest in the high-lift blade and handle it with care, the Milwaukee mower is an excellent choice. It offers impressive power, long battery life, and a range of features that make mowing more efficient and enjoyable. However, if you require a more rugged mower for challenging conditions or have a larger lawn, you may need to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Overall, the Milwaukee mower is a step in the right direction towards sustainable and efficient lawn care.