Nothing ruins a mowing session faster than a dull or mismatched blade. You know the feeling: the engine strains, the grass tips turn brown, and clumps of wet turf stick to the underside of the deck. For owners of MTD, Troy-Bilt, and Cub Cadet machines with a 21-inch cut, finding the right Mtd 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade is about more than just length. It is about matching the specific bow-tie center hole geometry and ensuring the steel gauge can handle your local soil conditions without bending or vibrating.
After carefully analyzing the specifications of the top contenders, we focused on blade balance, lift profile, and compatibility with common OEM part numbers like 942-0741A. These factors directly impact how finely the grass is chopped for mulching or how efficiently it is lifted for bagging. Whether you are dealing with thick summer growth or sandy soil that dulls edges quickly, the right blade choice can save you time and protect your spindle bearings. Below, we break down the best options available for your specific deck size.
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
- 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
- Wide compatibility with popular mower brands like Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman.
- Sturdy 40MnB steel construction holds up well to regular mowing.
- Effective mulching performance that returns nutrients to the soil.
- Affordable price point for a quality replacement blade.
Cons
- Only one blade per pack - some mowers require two blades for a full set.
- Zero customer reviews yet, so long-term durability is unverified.
- Rust-resistant coating is temporary and will wear off after a few uses.
The GICOOL 942-0741A is a mulching mower blade designed as a direct replacement for 21-inch MTD, Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman mowers. It is a 3-in-1 blade that supports mulching, bagging, and side discharge, making it a versatile option for homeowners who want to keep their lawn looking its best without switching blades.
This blade is best suited for DIYers and homeowners who mow their own lawns and need a reliable replacement part. It fits a wide range of popular mower models, so checking compatibility is straightforward. The bow tie center hole matches the standard spindle design, so installation is simple with basic tools.
In real-world use, the multi-curve design effectively chops grass clippings into fine pieces that decompose quickly as mulch. The high-lift wing improves airflow, which helps bagging performance and leaves a cleaner cut behind. The blade is made from 40MnB steel, a hardened material that holds its edge reasonably well through a season of mowing.
Build quality is solid for the price. The rust-resistant coating is a nice touch for protecting your hands during installation, but it does wear off after a few mows. One limitation is that this pack contains only one blade, so if your mower uses two blades, you will need to buy two packs. There are no customer reviews yet, so long-term wear is unproven, but the material and design suggest decent durability.
Overall, the GICOOL 942-0741A is a practical choice if you need a replacement mulching blade for a compatible 21-inch mower. It delivers good performance for mulching and bagging, and the price is reasonable. Just confirm your mower model and blade count before buying.
Brand: GICOOL
Model: 942-0741A
Length: 20-30/32 inches (531.5 mm)
Width: 2-3/16 inches (55 mm)
Thickness: 9/64 inches (3.5 mm)
Air Lift: 26/32 inches (20 mm)
Center Hole Shape: Bow Tie
Blade Type: Mulching Blade
Material: 40MnB Steel
Color: Black
Package Quantity: 1
Replaces OEM numbers: MTD 742-04100, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 942-0741, 942-0741A, 742-04276, 742-04276S, 942-04276, 942-04276S, CC-742-0741, 490-100-C089, Craftsman CMXGZAM100067
Fits 21-inch deck Troy-Bilt models: 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 XP, TB 380 ES, TB 400 XP, TB 430 XP, TB 450 XP, TB 490 XP
Fits 21-inch deck Cub Cadet and Craftsman models: M250, M215, M110, M230, M320, M210, 145B, M235, CC469, CC989, CC997ES, PR521, S621, S621SS, SC621, SC621E, SR621, SRC621, SRE621, CC439, CC949, CC94M, CC98M, PR521, CC46M, CC46MZ, CC94M, CC999ES, SC 100 H, SC 100, SC 100 HW, SC 700 H, SC 700, SC 300, SC 300 HW, SC 300, SC 500 Z, SC 500 HW, SC 500 Z, SC 300 E, SC 300e, SC 500 EZ, SC 500 EQ, CC46ES, CC99M, CC98, CC98H, CC98K, 5521, 214 IP, 214 KW
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
Pros
- Affordable price point for a durable steel blade
- Works well for mulching and bagging without clogging
- Fits a wide range of popular mower models
- Rust-resistant coating adds extra longevity
Cons
- Coating may wear off after a few uses, exposing bare steel
- Not suitable for commercial or heavy-duty mowing applications
- Some users may need to re-sharpen after extended use on thick grass
The GICOOL 942-0741A 21-inch mulching blade is a direct replacement for a wide range of Troy Bilt, MTD, and Cub Cadet walk-behind mowers. It is designed for homeowners and DIYers who want a reliable, cost-effective blade that handles mulching, bagging, and side discharge tasks without breaking the bank. This blade is built from 40MnB steel, a material known for its strength and edge retention, making it a solid choice for regular residential lawn maintenance.
In real-world use, the blade delivers a clean, consistent cut on grass up to medium thickness. The multi-curve design helps chop clippings into fine mulch that breaks down quickly, feeding the lawn naturally. The high-lift wings also improve airflow, which means clippings get sucked up into the bag more efficiently, reducing the need to go over the same spot twice. For typical suburban yards, this blade performs well and keeps up with most mowing conditions.
Build quality is decent for the price. The steel feels sturdy, and the rust-resistant coating adds a layer of protection during storage. The coating does wear off over time, but that is normal for painted blades. Installation is straightforward, with a bow tie center hole that matches OEM specs. The blade measures 20-30/32 inches long, 2-3/16 inches wide, and 9/64 inches thick, so it fits securely on compatible 21-inch decks.
One realistic drawback is that the blade may not hold an edge as long as premium aftermarket options, especially if you mow frequently or hit hidden debris. You might need to sharpen it mid-season. Also, it is not designed for commercial use or heavy-duty mowing on overgrown fields. For the average homeowner mowing a quarter-acre or less, this blade is a practical, budget-friendly choice.
Overall, the GICOOL 942-0741A is a reliable replacement blade that gets the job done without unnecessary frills. If you own a compatible Troy Bilt, MTD, or Cub Cadet mower and want a durable, 3-in-1 blade at a reasonable price, this is a solid pick. Just keep a sharpening tool handy for peak performance.
Length: 20-30/32 inches (531.5mm)
Width: 2-3/16 inches (55mm)
Thickness: 9/64 inches (3.5mm)
Air Lift: 26/32 inches (20mm)
Center Hole Shape: Bow Tie
Blade Type: Mulching Blade (3-in-1)
Material: 40MnB Steel
Color: Black
Product Dimensions: 21 x 2.5 x 1.5 inches
Compatible with 21-inch deck mowers from Troy Bilt, MTD, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a blade fits my mower?
Check your current blade’s OEM number and center hole shape. Most 21-inch MTD and Troy-Bilt decks use a bow-tie pattern. Verify the length is exactly 21 inches and the outer hole spacing matches your spindle mount to ensure a secure, vibration-free fit.
What is the difference between mulching and high-lift blades?
Mulching blades have curved serrations that chop clippings into fine pieces for the soil. High-lift blades have a steeper angle to create strong suction for bagging. You should choose based on your primary use; mulching blades are better for leaving clippings, while high-lift is best for bags.
Can I sharpen these blades myself?
Yes, most of these steel blades can be sharpened with a file or grinder. However, you must maintain the original angle and balance. If the blade is bent or cracked, replace it immediately. For detailed techniques, see our practical sharpening guide.
Why is my mower vibrating after installing a new blade?
Vibration usually indicates an unbalanced blade or a loose mounting bolt. Hang the blade from a nail through the center hole. If one side drops lower, it is unbalanced. Tighten the bolt to the manufacturer’s torque spec to prevent spindle damage and ensure smooth operation during mowing.
Do I need a special tool to remove the old blade?
Often, the blade bolt is rusted or stripped. A penetrating oil and a breaker bar help. If the bolt is stuck, do not force it. Check our guide on loosening stuck bolts for safe removal methods that protect your spindle threads.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!