Cub Mower Blade Picks of 2026

The BDELI 2-Piece 42-Inch Lawn Mower Blade Set is a targeted replacement solution engineered for popular residential riding mowers, lawn tractors, and zero-turn machines. Designed to replace standard factory part numbers like 942-04308 and 942-0616, this pair of blades offers a direct fit for 42-inch cutting decks found on many Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, MTD, and Craftsman units. For suburban homeowners maintaining expansive front yards or rural property owners handling mixed turf, having a fresh set of blades is essential to restoring clean cutting action after seasons of wear and tear.

In terms of grass handling and cutting performance, these blades feature a toothed, curved contour designed for versatile triple-function duty. The extended 1-1/8-inch lift creates significant air velocity beneath the mower deck, which lifts grass blades upright just before the cutting edge strikes. This strong draft helps propel clippings efficiently into a rear grass collection bag or out through the side discharge chute when navigating overgrown grass. When mulching, the rear toothed ridges continuously chop clippings into fine particles that settle back down to nourish the soil without unsightly clumping on the lawn.

Build quality focuses on heavy-duty reliability. Each blade measures 21-1/4 inches long, 2-3/8 inches wide, and 5/32 inches (4mm) thick, providing ample rigidity against bending when encountering minor obstacles like hidden roots, small twigs, or occasional pinecones. The blades are finished with an anti-rust black coating that safeguards the metal during storage and transit. This protective finish wears away along the cutting edge during initial use, revealing the pre-sharpened steel edge ready for weekly yard maintenance.

Installation and seasonal maintenance are straightforward for any DIY-minded homeowner. The 6-point star center hole (5/8 inch) aligns directly with standard star-pattern spindles, enabling a secure lock without slip or excessive vibration. Replacing dull or nicked blades ahead of spring growth ensures a cleaner slice that promotes overall lawn health, helping lawns resist browning after a warm Saturday mow before a weekend barbecue.

Potential buyers should verify their machine specifications prior to purchase. This blade set is specifically crafted for 6-point star spindles and will not fit models utilizing S-shaped or round center shafts, such as certain newer Cub Cadet XT1 configurations. In addition, while the factory bevel is sharp enough for general mowing, enthusiasts who prefer razor-sharp edges on fine turfgrass varieties may choose to give the edges a quick touch-up with a sharpening stone or file.

For homeowners and property caretakers operating 42-inch deck mowers, this blade set provides a dependable, budget-friendly replacement that restores crisp cutting performance. Whether you are prepping the yard for seasonal cleanup, mulching fall leaves, or maintaining a tidy neighborhood lawn, these toothed mulching blades deliver practical airflow, durability, and a clean finish across varying yard conditions.

Achieving a lush, well-groomed lawn depends heavily on the airflow generated beneath the mower deck. These BDELI blades incorporate an aggressive 1-1/8-inch lift wing combined with toothed trailing edges. This configuration creates high-velocity air movement that draws grass blades vertical for a uniform cut, reducing the ragged tearing that often leads to dry, yellow lawn tips.

When operating in bagging mode, the enhanced lift propels grass clippings forcefully into the collection chute, helping prevent wet grass clogs during humid morning mows. For mulching applications, the teeth repeatedly churn clippings within the deck chamber, breaking grass down into miniature mulch that decomposes quickly to feed the turf without leaving clumps across the yard.

Routine blade replacement is one of the simplest ways to maintain mowing efficiency and reduce strain on your lawn tractor engine. This set is engineered to replace OEM part numbers 942-04308, 942-04308-X, 942-0616, 742-0616, and 942-04126 across a wide variety of 42-inch riding mowers, including Cub Cadet LTX1040, RZT42, and Troy-Bilt Bronco or Pony models.

Homeowners must check the spindle design before installing. These blades feature a 6-point star center hole. Mowers that require a distinct S-shape center hole will not accept this blade style. Always disconnect the spark plug wire, wear thick work gloves, and securely block the blades during removal and torquing for a safe, smooth installation.

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).

The Grasscool 942-04308 high lift mower blades are a direct replacement for a wide range of 42-inch deck riding mowers from Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, Craftsman, and other MTD brands. These blades feature a 6-point star center hole and are designed for bagging and side discharge applications. With a length of 21-3/16 inches and a high lift profile, they generate strong airflow to propel clippings into the collection bag or out the discharge chute.

These blades are best suited for homeowners and DIYers who own compatible mowers and want reliable cutting performance without paying OEM prices. The high lift design excels at handling tall, wet grass and leaves, making them a great choice for fall cleanup and routine mowing. Many users report perfect fit and improved bagging compared to worn-out original blades.

Build quality is solid for the price point. The blades are made from durable steel and come with a rust-resistant paint coating on the cutting edges. The paint also helps protect your hands during installation. The blades can be sharpened easily to extend their lifespan. Installation is straightforward if you follow the included compatibility notes, but be sure to check your current blade's center hole shape before ordering.

One limitation is that these are not designed for mulching. They are strictly for bagging and side discharge. Also, the 6-point star hole is specific to certain models; if your mower uses a 5-point star or S-shaped hole, you will need a different blade. Despite these constraints, the Grasscool blades offer excellent value for their intended use.

Overall, if you need a reliable set of high lift blades for a 42-inch deck mower from Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, or Craftsman, the Grasscool 942-04308 is a smart purchase. They deliver strong performance, easy installation, and a price that leaves room in your budget for other workshop needs.

Blade Type: High Lift
Deck Size: 42 inches
Blade Length: 21-3/16 inches (538mm)
Blade Width: 2-3/8 inches (60mm)
Thickness: 5/32 inch (4mm)
Center Hole: 6 Point Star (5/8 inch)
Outer Hole Center to Center: 3 inches (76mm)
Outer Hole Diameter: 13/32 inch (10.3mm)
Air Lift: 1-1/8 inches (28mm)
Cutting Edge Length: 6-7/8 inches (175mm)
Weight: 3.4 pounds (set of 3 blades)

The Cub Cadet 742P05177A-X Xtreme blade set is a purpose-built OEM replacement for several popular Cub Cadet lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers with 42 inch cutting decks. This isn't a universal blade; it's designed specifically for the Enduro XT1 and XT2 series as well as the Ultima ZT1 models. If you own one of those mowers, you are getting a part engineered to match the original blade's geometry and balance, which matters more for cut quality and spindle life than many DIYers realize.

In real-world use, the S-shaped curve of these blades does a noticeably better job of lifting grass before cutting it. That leads to a more uniform trim and superior mulching, especially in thicker grass that tends to lay flat. The hardened steel edge holds up well against rocks and sticks, though no blade is indestructible. For homeowners mowing a typical yard or a contractor maintaining several properties, this set offers dependable performance without the trial-and-error of generic blades.

Installation is straightforward: remove the old blades, clean the spindle area, and bolt the new ones on with the correct torque. Because these are OEM, there is no need to file down holes or add spacers. The 2-pack is convenient for a full deck replacement or as a backup. Keep in mind that these blades are relatively lightweight at 3.9 pounds for the pair, which reduces strain on your mower's drive system.

One limitation is compatibility. You must verify your mower model matches the list in the description. Cub Cadet uses different blade lengths for different decks, so ordering the wrong set wastes time and money. Also, the price is higher than many no-name blades, but the peace of mind and exact fit often justify the extra cost for anyone who values reliability over saving a few dollars.

Overall, if you own a compatible Cub Cadet mower and want to maintain OEM-level cut quality, this blade pack is a smart investment. It's especially beneficial for those who mulch frequently or mow in less-than-ideal conditions. For the DIY mechanic who keeps their equipment running tight, this is a direct, no-compromise replacement that gets the job done season after season.

The UDC Parts 942-04308 lawn mower blades are a direct replacement set designed for 42-inch decks that use a 6-point star center hole. Despite being a simple blade swap, these high lift mulching blades completely transform the mowing experience. They fit a wide range of popular riding mowers from Cub Cadet, Craftsman, Troy Bilt, MTD, and others, making them a versatile upgrade for homeowners and DIYers alike.

In real-world use, the standout feature is the mulching capability. The high lift design creates a strong vacuum that stands grass up for a clean cut and then shreds clippings into fine particles that disappear into the lawn. Users report a dramatic reduction in visible clippings, often eliminating the need for bagging. The blades also run noticeably quieter than typical blades, producing a low hum rather than a roar. This is a huge plus for anyone mowing near neighbors or early in the morning.

Build quality is impressive for the price. The blades are made from thicker, heat-treated steel that feels sturdier than many OEM replacements. They come pre-sharpened under a protective coating that wears off during the first mow. After that, you can resharpen them several times to extend their life. Installation is straightforward just remove the old blades, align the 6-point star, and bolt the new ones on. No adapters or modifications needed.

One realistic drawback is the high lift design itself. Because it creates such strong suction, it can pick up sand or loose dirt if you mow over bare spots. This can dull the blades faster and may kick up debris. Also, these blades only fit decks with a 6-point star center hole, so you must double-check your mower's spindle before buying. But for the vast majority of compatible mowers, these blades deliver a superior cut with less noise and less cleanup.

Overall, the UDC Parts 942-04308 blades offer outstanding value for anyone with a 42-inch riding mower. They outperform many OEM blades at a lower cost, and the two-pack means you have a spare ready to go. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a dedicated lawn enthusiast, these blades will give you a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient mowing experience.

Length: 21-1/4 inches (measured diagonally)

Width: 2-1/2 inches

Thickness: 0.157 inches

Center Hole: 6-point star

Side Hole: 3/8 inch

Center to Center Outside Hole: 3 inches

Air Lift: 1-7/64 inches

Cutting Edge Length: 6-57/64 inches

Compatible Deck Size: 42 inches

Package Includes: 2 blades

Replaces OEM part numbers: 942-04308, 942-04308A, 942-04312, 942-04308-X, 942-04312A, 742-04308, 742-04308A, 742-04312, 742-04312A, 942-0656, 742-0656, 490-110-C108, 490-110-C109, 490-110-M108, CMXGZAM110108, OCC-742-04312, OEM-742-04308.

Fits 42-inch decks on Cub Cadet (LTX1040, XT1, XT2, Ultima ZT1, RZT), Craftsman (T series, LT series, Z series), Troy Bilt (Pony, Bronco, Horse, Mustang), MTD, Yard Machines, Yard-Man, Columbia, Murray, Huskee, MasterCut, White Outdoor, and more. Always verify your mower model number and deck type before ordering.

Replacing your mower blades is one of the most important maintenance tasks for keeping your lawn looking its best. The UDC Parts 942-04290 Mower Blades are designed as a direct replacement for Cub Cadet 46-inch decks that use a 6-point star center hole. This 2-pack offers a practical, budget-friendly solution for homeowners who own compatible Cub Cadet, Craftsman, or Troy Bilt riding mowers.

These blades are built to fit a wide range of popular models, including Cub Cadet XT1 LT46, XT2 LX46, LTX 1045, LTX 1046, and RZT series. They also work with Craftsman 46-inch models like the Z530, T135, T140, T150, T225, and T1600, as well as Troy Bilt models such as the TB46, Mustang XP, Bronco, and Horse series. This broad compatibility makes them a versatile choice for many suburban and rural homeowners who rely on these common lawn tractors.

Each blade measures 23-1/4 inches in length and 2-1/2 inches in width, with a 6-point star center hole and a side hole for secure mounting. The blades feature an air lift design, which helps lift grass clippings for a cleaner cut and more efficient mulching or bagging. For typical weekly mowing, these blades provide good cutting performance, handling grass and light debris without excessive vibration. Many users find that they cut evenly and hold an edge reasonably well through a season of regular use.

Installation is straightforward for most DIY homeowners. You will need to safely lift the mower, remove the old blades, and install the new ones using the same hardware. The blades come as a pair, so you can replace both at once for balanced cutting. It is always a good idea to check your mower's complete model number to ensure a perfect fit, as some configurations may differ. Regular blade replacement every season or after hitting obstacles helps maintain cutting quality and reduces strain on the engine.

While these blades are a solid choice for many, there are a couple of realistic limitations. They are designed specifically for decks with a 6-point star center hole, so they will not fit S-shape or other hole patterns. Also, because mower model numbers can vary, it is important to verify compatibility before purchasing. Some users may need to double-check their mower's exact model number against the list provided to avoid any fitment issues.

Overall, the UDC Parts 942-04290 Mower Blades are a reliable and affordable replacement option for homeowners with compatible Cub Cadet, Craftsman, or Troy Bilt 46-inch mowers. If you are looking for a straightforward blade replacement that keeps your lawn looking tidy without breaking the bank, this 2-pack is worth considering. Whether you are maintaining a suburban lawn, a rural property, or a large garden, these blades can help you achieve a clean, even cut all season long.