The top 3 recommendations and buying guides

Our recommendations

Buyers of the HECHT gasoline bar mower particularly praise its excellent price-performance ratio. Customers also positively emphasize the ease of use of the machine.

Thanks to the strong output of 3.6 kilowatts, the device can easily cope with even the most complicated meadows and lawns.

Compared to the previous model, the current version of the HECHT gasoline bar mower impresses with the Much more powerful engine, the larger tires including the terrain profile and the more flexible Working height.

A little tip: If you have difficulties setting up, please do not hesitate to contact HECHT customer service. Reviewers on Amazon state that the manufacturer responds quickly, kindly and competently.

The two separate clutch levers for the drive and the mower are one of the greatest features of the MTD bar mower. Buyers are very satisfied with the work done and the results achieved.

The bar mower should run fast and challenge the mower in a sporty way.

In winter you can equip the MTD bar mower with a snow plow in winter to efficiently push snow to the side of the road.

The operating instructions are viewed critically and described by several reviewers as inadequate. Inexperienced users should not assemble the device themselves - a friend may be able to help, otherwise there are also tips on the Internet.

With the AL-KO bar mower, work can start quickly: Buyers mention that it starts quickly. In addition, the device should run quite smoothly, making mowing particularly pleasant.

The integrated grass deflector ensures that no more grass remains on the cover. This in turn makes it easier to care for and shortens the time it takes to clean the double knife after use.

Some customers describe the operating instructions or the assembly manual as unsuccessful. It is advisable to consult an expert if necessary, in order to assemble the device correctly.

Purchase criteria

Essay vs. standalone device

Essay: Cutter bars are available as attachments for an agricultural machine such as a tractor, combine harvester or other ride-on element. In this case, the mower only needs to be mounted on the respective base.

Standalone device: As a stand-alone device, the bar mower has an axle with two wheels (hence the name single-axle) and two handles for pushing it. It is handled in a similar way to a classic lawn mower.

Engine power

Depending on the intended area of ​​application, the bar mower should not fall below a certain engine output - measured and specified in kilowatts. If you only want to mow tall grass with the device, 1.7 kW are absolutely sufficient. But as soon as you go into hilly and / or heavily overgrown areas, you need a more powerful device with at least 2.3 kW.

transmission

1-speed gearbox: A small bar mower with a 1-speed gearbox only offers one forward gear. In order to cut forgotten / overlooked grass behind you, you have to turn the whole (heavy) device over - it can be a hassle.

Multi-speed transmission: A professional machine usually has both a forward and a reverse gear, making work easier. This is particularly noticeable on slopes and other impassable areas. Some bar mowers are even equipped with two forward and two reverse gears - good for trimming very dense grass and small bushes, bad for your wallet / bank account.

Cutting width

A mower that tends to be narrow is preferable for an angled area. On a relatively uniform and large area, on the other hand, you should choose a wider bar. Most devices have a cutting width of 87 centimeters. 72, 98 or 102 centimeter wide cutter bars are also available as alternatives.

Working height

Depending on the model, the cutter bar of the bar mower can be raised up to nine centimeters and / or lowered to ground level. What cutting height are you aiming for?

ergonomics

You should be able to set the bar mower correctly, i.e. be able to adapt it to your needs in every respect. Easily adjustable screws with regard to the working height are just as important as a height-adjustable handlebar in order to adapt it to your body size and to prevent back pain. It is also practical if the handlebar can be folded up - for compact, space-saving storage.

frequently asked Questions

How is a bar mower constructed?

The bar mower owes its name to the bar-shaped device at the front, the so-called cutter bar. Two counter-rotating knife rails with many triangular knives, one on top of the other, are attached to the wide bar. The length of the knife is each up to five centimeters, its width up to three centimeters. There are also two wheels, a handlebar and an internal combustion engine with a fuel tank.

Note: Often, bar mowers with electric or battery drives are also searched for. However, the devices are usually gasoline-powered. This is also necessary in order to be able to provide the intended service.

How does a bar mower work?

The combustion engine drives both the wheels and the rotating mower. The latter gently cuts grass up to two meters high by cutting movements in opposite directions, i.e. without tearing it. So the grass plant is not burdened or injured. As a result, it can grow back easily after the cut.

Where is a bar mower used?

Bar mowers are primarily used by farmers, horticulturists and landscapers. But home gardeners with a large, heavily overgrown meadow area also benefit from such a device. A bar mower is also very helpful for mowing uneven surfaces, tall grass, finer woods or grain.

Which brands are recommended for bar mowers?

Examples of good bar mower brands are MTD, HECHT, AL-KO, Güde and Agria.

How much does a bar mower cost?

Bar mowers are expensive. For a complete device you have to calculate with 500 euros upwards. The prices for cutter bars as attachments start at 250 euros. It may be worthwhile to study the Amazon marketplace and buy a solid used device. If you only need the bar mower every few years, it makes sense to rent it from a hardware store rental.

Is there a bar mower test by Stiftung Warentest?

No, to date there is no specific bar mower test by Stiftung Warentest.

How do I care for a bar mower?

• Remove stalks, leaves and soil as well as other contaminants from the top and bottom blades of the bar mower after each use.
• If necessary, re-sharpen the knives with a sharpening device. If you don't feel comfortable doing this yourself, leave the sanding to a professional.
• Maintain the device regularly and obtain spare parts only from the manufacturer of the bar mower.

equipment

Snow plow

Many bar mowers allow you to mount a snow plow on the bar in winter. This makes pushing snow easier (more). Don't forget to attach snow chains to the mower's wheels.

Double knife sharpener

In order to be able to sharpen the knife of the bar mower yourself, you need a high-quality sharpening device that is also suitable for double knives.