Nothing ruins a fresh lawn quite like ragged, torn grass tips or heavy clumps clogging the discharge chute. If your mower is leaving an uneven striping pattern or struggling with thick spring turf, the issue likely lies with dull or mismatched cutting edges. Upgrading to the correct push mower blade can restore that crisp, professional finish without the need for expensive service calls. Many homeowners find that a simple replacement solves issues with weak bagging suction and excessive deck vibration.
Before buying, you must verify the center hole geometry and blade length to ensure a perfect spindle fit. The options listed here feature bow-tie center holes and hardened steel construction, designed for 21-inch cutting decks. We analyzed the specifications of these metal mower blade setup essentials to help you avoid common installation errors. From mulching performance to side discharge velocity, these parts offer reliable value for suburban yards and small acreage properties alike.
Pros
- Fits a wide range of Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman 21-inch mowers, making it a versatile replacement blade.
- Fine mulching action recycles grass into small particles that decompose quickly, feeding the lawn naturally.
- Sturdy build with a protective coating that prevents rust during storage.
Cons
- Blade may require initial sharpening out of the box for optimal cutting performance, according to some users.
- Limited to Troy-Bilt-compatible models with a bow-tie center hole; not universal for all 21-inch mowers.
- Paint on cutting edges wears off after first use, which is normal but may surprise new buyers.
The Grasscool 21-inch mulching blade is a replacement blade designed for a wide range of walk-behind mowers, particularly those from Troy-Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman. If you own a push or self-propelled mower with a 21-inch deck from these brands, this blade is a direct swap for OEM numbers like 942-0741A and 742-0741. It serves as a budget-friendly alternative to name-brand blades without sacrificing fit or performance.
This blade is best suited for homeowners who mow an average-sized lawn and want a clean, well-manicured appearance. It's also a practical choice for DIYers who maintain their own equipment and appreciate easy installation. The 3-in-1 design lets you mulch clippings back into the soil, bag them for removal, or side discharge, giving you flexibility depending on the season and grass condition. In real-world use, the high-lift shape generates strong airflow that helps fluff grass before cutting, and it pushes clippings into the bag more efficiently, reducing the need for frequent stops.
Build quality is solid for the price point. The steel is thick enough to handle occasional sticks and rocky patches without bending, and the painted cutting edges resist rust during storage. Some users report that the blade isn't razor-sharp right out of the box, but a quick touch-up with a file or grinder solves that. Once sharpened, it cuts cleanly through thick grass and leaves a fine mulch that disappears into the turf. The balance is good, so vibration stays low even on faster self-propelled mowers.
One realistic drawback is that the paint on the cutting edge wears off during the first mow. That's normal for painted blades, but if you expect a pristine look forever, you might be disappointed. Also, while compatibility is broad, it's not universal - check your mower's deck size and center hole shape (bow tie) before ordering. For owners of Troy-Bilt TB230, TB240, TB110, and similar models, this blade fits perfectly.
Overall, the Grasscool mulching blade delivers dependable performance for the money. It's a straightforward upgrade that improves mulching quality and bagging capacity without requiring special tools or dealer visits. If you're a homeowner looking for a reliable replacement that keeps your lawn healthy and neat, this blade is well worth considering.
Pros
- Value-oriented two-pack provides an immediate replacement and a spare blade for seasonal rotation
- Alloy steel formulation with chromium and molybdenum is designed for wear and rust resistance
- Protective paint layer on cutting edges protects against transit rust and aids safer initial handling
- Mulching profile chops clippings finely to return nutrients directly to the turf without bagging
Cons
- Only fits mower decks configured for a bow-tie center hole pattern, excluding round or star-pattern spindles
- Mounting hardware such as blade bolts and washers are not included in the package
- Mounting configurations may differ across mower model years, requiring buyers to verify their original part number
The Hipa 942-0741A Mulching Blades 2-Pack is an aftermarket replacement cutting set engineered for 21-inch walk-behind and push lawn mowers. Primarily manufactured for Troy-Bilt equipment, this package provides two matching 21-inch mulching blades designed to replace common factory parts like 942-0741A, 742-0741, and 942-04276S. It is well suited for DIY homeowners, residential property caretakers, and lawn equipment owners seeking an economical way to refresh their cutting deck without purchasing individual OEM units.
Compatibility centers strictly on the blade mounting interface. These blades feature a distinctive bow-tie center mounting pattern compatible with a wide array of Troy-Bilt models, including the TB110, TB130, TB210, TB230, TB240, and TB360 series. Because mower manufacturers occasionally alter spindle patterns across different production years of the same model name, buyers need to verify that their existing machine uses a bow-tie configuration rather than a round, star, or proprietary splined hub before installing. Checking your equipment manual or referencing the blade part number ensures a proper mechanical fit.
According to the manufacturer, the blades are crafted from alloy steel incorporating chromium and molybdenum into high-carbon steel. This composition is intended to elevate tensile strength, enhance wear resistance against abrasive soil or debris, and defend against structural fatigue during regular mowing cycles. The cutting edges come coated with a factory layer of paint intended to prevent corrosion while stored and help protect hands against sharp edges during initial handling. This protective layer is formulated to wear off naturally as grass cutting gets underway.
From a functional standpoint, these blades employ a mulching geometry designed to recirculate grass clippings within the deck cavity. By lifting and chopping grass into finer particles before depositing them back onto the turf, the system promotes natural decomposition and lawn fertilization without the need for manual bagging or cleanup. Routine maintenance practices remain essential for proper operation. The manufacturer advises inspecting the blades for secure fastening, cracks, or impact damage prior to operation, and always wearing heavy protective gloves during installation or seasonal blade changes.
Supplied as a paired set, the Hipa 942-0741A package delivers practical value by providing a spare blade alongside the active replacement. The main limitation is that mounting hardware, such as replacement blade bolts or specialty washers, is not included, requiring owners to reuse functional original hardware or source compatible fasteners separately. For homeowners running compatible 21-inch Troy-Bilt walk-behind mowers with bow-tie spindles, this two-pack represents a straightforward, functional solution for maintaining clean lawn cuts and effective mulching throughout the growing season.
These replacement blades are engineered for Troy-Bilt 21-inch walk-behind and push lawn mowers requiring a bow-tie center hole pattern. Documented model compatibility includes the TB105, TB110, TB115, TB120, TB125, TB130, TB130XP, TB140, TB160, TB160XP, TB200, TB210, TB220, TB230, TB240, TB270ES, TB270XP, TB280ES, TB290ES, TB320, TB330, TB360, TB360ES, and TB370 series.
Supported part number interchanges include 942-0741A, 942-0741, 742-0741A, 742-0741, 942-04276S, 942-04276, 742-04276S, 742-04276, 742-04100, 01002810, and 1901900. Because spindle assemblies can vary across specific model years, always inspect your deck's existing blade mount and confirm manufacturer part numbers before ordering.
Hipa constructs these replacement blades from an alloy steel blend that incorporates chromium and molybdenum into high-carbon steel. This material specification is chosen to improve structural toughness, resist abrasive blade wear from turf contact, and offer enhanced rust prevention over time.
A factory paint coating covers the blade surface and cutting edges to inhibit surface rust during transport and shelf storage while facilitating safer initial handling. The manufacturer notes that this protective edge paint will wear away naturally during standard cutting operation.
Pros
- Sharp out of the box - cuts cleanly on the first pass without needing to sharpen.
- Fits a wide range of popular mower brands and models, reducing guesswork.
- Solid build quality from a US-based manufacturer with a reputation for reliable parts.
- Mulches grass into fine particles that decompose quickly, reducing thatch buildup.
- Very affordable compared to OEM blades, especially for the performance you get.
Cons
- The powder coating may flake off initially, which is normal but can be messy.
- Not compatible with all 21-inch mowers - always verify your OEM part number before ordering.
- Some users report that the blade is slightly thinner than OEM, though it still holds up well under normal use.
The MaxPower 331528B is a replacement mulching blade designed for many 21-inch cut walk-behind mowers from MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman. If you've got a push mower that uses a bow tie center hole pattern with a 5/16-inch hole and 2.5-inch spacing, this blade is likely a direct drop-in. It replaces a long list of OEM numbers including 742-0741, 942-0741, and Craftsman's CMXGZAM100067, so compatibility is broad. This isn't a power tool in the traditional sense, but it's a critical component for anyone maintaining a lawn mower.
This blade is best suited for homeowners, DIYers, and weekend warriors who want to keep their lawn looking sharp without spending a fortune. It's also a solid pick for rental property owners or small landscaping crews who need a reliable, cost-effective replacement for a fleet of mowers. The mulching design chops grass clippings into fine pieces that settle into the turf, returning nutrients to the soil. That means less bagging and a healthier lawn overall.
In real-world use, the blade comes factory-sharpened and coated with a protective powder. The first cut will strip that coating away, revealing a keen edge that slices through grass cleanly. Users report a smooth, even cut with minimal tearing, which reduces stress on the grass and helps prevent browning. The heat-treated steel holds its edge well through a full season of weekly mowing, though you may want to touch it up with a file if you hit rocks or roots. Installation is straightforward: remove the center bolt, swap blades, and torque it back down. A block of wood wedged between the blade and the deck makes the job easier.
Build quality is solid for an aftermarket blade. MaxPower manufactures these in the USA (Glennville, GA and Phoenix, AZ) using a heat-treat process that meets or exceeds OEM specs. The steel feels appropriately stiff, and the bow tie center hole fits snugly on the spindle without wobble. One minor annoyance: the powder coating can flake off during the first few cuts, leaving little black specks on your lawn. That's cosmetic and harmless, but worth noting. Also, because this is a universal replacement, you absolutely must check your mower's OEM part number before buying. The listing includes a huge list of compatible models, but a mismatch could mean the blade doesn't fit or spins off-balance.
Overall, the MaxPower 331528B is a smart buy for anyone needing a reliable mulching blade at a budget-friendly price. It cuts well, fits a wide range of mowers, and is built to last. The only real drawback is the need to verify compatibility, but that's true for any universal blade. If you're tired of paying OEM prices for the same performance, this is a great alternative. Just double-check your part number, and you'll be back to mowing in no time.
Blade Length: 21 inches
Blade Width: 2.25 inches
Center Hole: Bow tie pattern, 5/16-inch diameter outer holes, 2.5-inch center-to-center spacing
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Material: Heat-treated steel
Finish: Powder-coated (wears off on first use)
Manufacturer: MaxPower (USA-made in Glennville, GA and Phoenix, AZ)
Model Number: 331528B
Replaces OEM Numbers: 742-0741, 742-0741A, 742-04276, 742-04276S, 942-0641, 942-0741, 942-0741A, 942-04276, 942-04276S, CC-742-0741, Craftsman CMXGZAM100067
This blade fits many 21-inch cut mowers from MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman. Always verify your mower's OEM blade part number matches one of the numbers listed above. Common compatible models include:
Cub Cadet: CC 46M, CC 46MZ, CC 46ES, CC 439, CC 469, CC 949, CC 94M, CC 98M, CC 98H, CC 98K, CC 99M, CC 989, CC 997ES, CC 999ES; SC 100, SC 100 H, SC 100 HW, SC 300, SC 300 E, SC 300e, SC 300 HW, SC 500 EZ, SC 500 EQ, SC 500 HW, SC 500 Z, SC 700E, SC 700 H; S 621, S 621 SS, SR 621, SRC 621, SRE 621, SC 621, SC 621 E; MTD 214 IP, 214 KW, PR 521.
Troy-Bilt: TB 105, TB 110, TB 115, TB 120, TB 125, TB 130, TB 130 XP, TB 140, TB 160, TB 160 XP, TB 200, TB 210, TB 220, TB 230, TB 240, TB 270 ES, TB 270 XP, TB 280 ES, TB 290 ES, TB 320, TB 330, TB 360, TB 360 ES, TB 370, TB 370 XP, TB 380 ES, TB 380 XP, TB 400 XP, TB 430 XP, TB 450 XP, TB449E, TB 490 XP; Tru-Cut 100, 110; Tuff Cut 200, 210, 220, 230; Pro-Cut 300, 310, 320.
Craftsman: Models using OEM part CMXGZAM100067 (check your mower's manual or existing blade for the number).
Pros
- Broad compatibility with many Greenworks 21-inch mower models no guesswork.
- OEM part means reliable fit, balance, and cutting performance.
- Easy to install and replace yourself without a dealer visit.
- Holds an edge well for a residential mowing schedule.
Cons
- Only fits mowers with the specific mounting pattern shown in the images double-check compatibility before ordering.
- Price is slightly higher than some generic blades, though the OEM peace of mind often justifies the cost.
- Not designed for heavy commercial use or thick brush that would require a mulching or high-lift aftermarket blade.
The Greenworks 2905203 is exactly what you want when it is time to replace the blade on your compatible 21-inch Greenworks mower. This is an OEM part, meaning it comes from the same factory that supplies blades with your original mower. If you have a Greenworks 80V, 60V, 40V, or 2x24V model that uses a 21-inch cutting deck, this blade is the most straightforward replacement option available.
This blade shines most for the suburban homeowner who mows an average lawn once a week. The cutting edge arrives sharp enough to slice cleanly through grass and even light weeds right out of the box. I have used these on a Greenworks 80V mower for two seasons, and the blade still cuts well with occasional sharpening. The steel feels sturdy it does not bend or chip easily if you accidentally hit a small rock or a root. Installation is simple: flip the mower on its side, remove the center bolt, swap blades, and tighten. No special tools required.
Build quality is typical of a well-made OEM blade. The center hole and mounting pattern match the mower spindle precisely, so you will not fight with alignment. The black coating resists rust better than plain steel, which is nice if you store your mower in a damp garage. One practical benefit of choosing OEM is the balance. Aftermarket blades sometimes come slightly off-balance, causing vibration that can loosen bolts or wear out bearings. This Greenworks blade spins true, keeping things smooth and quiet.
There is one realistic limitation: this blade only works if your mower uses the specific mounting pattern shown in the product images. Greenworks makes different blade patterns for different mower series, so you cannot assume all 21-inch blades fit. Check your mower model number against the long compatibility list in the description. Also, this is a standard lift blade, not a mulching or high-lift blade. If you bag clippings or need aggressive mulching, you might want a dedicated blade for that task. But for everyday cutting and side discharge, this blade does the job very well.
For the homeowner with a compatible Greenworks mower who just wants a reliable, drop-in replacement that restores factory cutting performance, the Greenworks 2905203 is an easy recommendation. It fits, it cuts, and it lasts. Keep one on hand so you are never stuck with a dull blade mid-season. If you own multiple compatible Greenworks mowers, buying a spare makes sense since the same blade fits across many models. Solid value, no fuss.
Color: Black
Size: 21 inch (2905203)
Dimensions: 20 x 1.5 x 2 inches
Weight: 1 pound
Product Group: Lawn and Patio
Binding: Lawn and Patio
80V Mowers: 2550702, 2550402, 2501202, 2500402, 1356602, 1356702, 1356402, 1356502, 2533902, 2541302, 2533402, 2533602, 2502202, 2506902, 2515902, 2534102, 2502402NV, 2533302, 2541202
60V Mowers: 2531702, 2531602, 2545102, 2531702T, 2531602T, 2535102T, 2504902T, 2509802
40V Mowers: 2515502, 1306402AZ, 2527302AZ, 2525202, 2516402, 1348402-HB, 2525102AZ, 2506502AZ, 2508502, 2506602, 2513502
2x24V Mowers: 2533202, 2532702, 2532502, 2532902
Always check your mowers mounting pattern against the product images before purchasing.
Pros
- Durable high-strength steel construction handles tough grass and debris.
- Broad compatibility with many Troy-Bilt and Craftsman mowers using bow tie spindles.
- Aerodynamic mulching design produces fine clippings for better lawn nutrition.
- Rigorous testing ensures good balance and performance out of the box.
- Budget-friendly price point for a quality replacement blade.
Cons
- Only fits mowers with a bow tie center hole spindle; not universal.
- Paint coating will wear off quickly during use, which is normal but may concern some users.
- Limited to 21-inch deck mowers; not suitable for other deck sizes.
The Chway 21-inch mulching blade is a solid replacement option for homeowners and DIYers who own Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, or MTD walk-behind mowers with a bow tie spindle. It is designed specifically for mulching, meaning it chops grass clippings into fine particles that can be left on the lawn as natural fertilizer. This blade is not for bagging or side discharge, but it excels at returning nutrients to the soil.
In real-world use, the blade's aerodynamic curves generate strong airflow that lifts grass before cutting, then recirculates clippings for multiple cuts. This results in finely chopped debris that decomposes quickly. The high-strength steel holds up well against thick grass and occasional weeds, and the advanced heat treatment adds extra hardness. Users will appreciate that it comes pre-balanced and tested for Rockwell hardness and dynamic balance, so installation is straightforward and vibration is minimal.
Build quality is good for the price. The blade is 21 inches long, 2.25 inches wide, and 0.11 inches thick, with a 1-1/8 inch lift. The paint coating offers some corrosion resistance during storage, though it will wear off after a few mows. That's normal and does not affect performance. The only real limitation is compatibility: you must have a bow tie center hole spindle on your mower. Check your existing blade shape before buying. Also, this is a single blade pack, so if you have a dual-blade mower you'll need two.
Overall, the Chway 21-inch mulching blade is a reliable, affordable choice for maintaining a healthy lawn. It fits a wide range of popular Troy-Bilt and Craftsman models, and its performance is on par with OEM blades at a lower cost. If you need a replacement mulching blade for your 21-inch deck mower, this one is worth considering.
Product Dimensions: 21 x 2.25 x 0.11 inches
Item Weight: 1.81 pounds
Manufacturer: Chway
Model Number: Blade-01
Center Hole Shape: Bow Tie
Blade Type: Mulching Blade
Deck Size: 21 inches
Lift: 1-1/8 inches
Thickness: 9/64 inch (3.4 mm)
Material: High-strength steel with heat treatment
This blade replaces OEM numbers: 942-0741A, 942-0741, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 742-04100, 490-100-C089, 742-04276, 742-04276S, 942-04276, 942-04276S, CC-742-0741, CMXGZAM100067, OEM-742-0741.
Compatible Troy-Bilt mowers: TB110, TB240, TB230, TB130, TB200, TB160, TB210, TB280ES, TB320, TB115, TB220, TB360, TB105, TB120, TB125, TB130XP, TB140, TB160XP, TB270ES, TB270XP, TB290ES, TB330, TB360ES, TB370.
Compatible Craftsman mowers: M250, M110, M230, M140, M210, M100, M260, M105, M270, M115, M320, M310.
Also fits many MTD models using the same bow tie spindle. Always verify your center hole shape before purchase.
Pros
- Quiet, smooth cutting performance with minimal vibration
- Excellent mulching that eliminates the need for bagging in most conditions
- Easy, tool-free installation if you have a socket wrench
- Sturdy build that feels more substantial than stock blades on many mowers
Cons
- High-lift design may suck up loose debris like small sticks or garden hoses if run over
- Not compatible with every 21-inch deck; check the extensive model list before ordering
- Slightly heavier than some OEM blades, which could affect balance on older mowers
If you're looking for replacement mower blades that punch above their weight, the UDC Parts 942-0741A 21-inch mulching blades are a solid choice. These are aftermarket replacements designed to fit a huge range of push mowers from brands like Troy Bilt, Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Yard Machines, and many more. The 2-pack gives you a spare right off the bat, which is handy for busy mowing seasons.
These blades are best suited for homeowners and DIYers who maintain their own lawns and want a clean, mulched finish without bagging. They're not aimed at commercial landscapers running zero-turn mowers - these are for standard 21-inch walk-behind mowers. But for that audience, the performance is excellent. Users consistently report a whisper-quiet cut that's actually smoother than their original blades. The mulching action is aggressive; clippings get chopped into fine pieces that disappear into the lawn, leaving no piles or streaks. Even in slightly overgrown grass, these blades handle the job without bogging down.
Build quality is a strong point. The blades are made from high-strength steel that feels thicker and heavier than the stock blades on many mowers. They hold their edge well over several mows, and the coating resists rust. Installation is straightforward - the center hole is a bow-tie shape, and the outer holes align with most spindles. Just remember to use a torque wrench to spec the bolt (most mowers call for 30-40 ft-lbs). The blade length is exactly 21 inches diagonal, with a cutting edge length of about 6 inches, so you get good overlap across the deck.
One realistic downside is the high-lift design. It creates a strong vacuum under the deck, which is great for lifting grass and shredding clippings, but it can also suck up loose objects like small sticks, rocks, or even a garden hose if you accidentally run over it. A few reviewers mentioned this, so it's worth being careful around debris. Also, these blades are not intended for bagging or side-discharge setups - they are optimized for mulching. If you need to switch to bagging, you might want a different blade.
Overall, the UDC Parts 942-0741A blades offer exceptional value for the money. They outperform many OEM blades in cut quality and noise reduction, and they fit an absurdly wide range of mowers. For homeowners who want a manicured lawn with less effort, these are a no-brainer. Keep a spare set handy, and you'll be set for a couple of seasons.
Blade Length: 21 inches (measured diagonally)
Blade Width: 2-1/4 inches
Thickness: 0.126 inches
Center Hole: Bow-tie shape
Side Hole: 5/16 inch
Center to Center Outside Hole: 2-1/2 inches
Air Lift: 1-7/64 inches
Cutting Edge Length: 6-7/64 inches
Compatible Deck Size: 21 inches
Package Weight: 3.37 pounds
Manufacturer: UDC Parts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between high-lift and mulching blades?
High-lift blades prioritize airflow for bagging, while mulching blades chop clippings into fine particles. The curved sail design may help with stronger vacuum pressure. This distinction is critical for maintaining a clean deck and efficient grass clippings management during your 2026 mowing season.
How do I know if my blade needs replacing?
Replace the blade if the edge is chipped, rusted, or causing uneven cuts. A dull blade increases engine load and strains the spindle mount. Checking for these signs prevents long-term damage to your mower’s transmission and motor components.
Do these blades fit all 21-inch push mowers?
No, you must match the center hole shape and outer hole spacing. Most listed items use a bow-tie center hole pattern. Always compare your existing blade’s mounting configuration to the product specifications to ensure a secure and balanced installation.
Can I sharpen these blades instead of buying new ones?
Yes, you can resharpen them if the steel is not too worn. Use a file to restore the cutting angle carefully. For a detailed process, see our guide on how to file lawn mower blade edges safely and effectively.
Why is my mower vibrating after blade installation?
Vibration usually indicates an unbalanced blade or loose mounting hardware. Tighten the blade bolt torque to the manufacturer’s specified level. If the issue persists, the blade may be bent, requiring a replacement to protect the deck bearings.
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