Nothing ruins a mowing session faster than a blade that misses grass or leaves shredded, ragged tips across your lawn. If your current blade is dull, bent, or simply worn out, upgrading to a high-quality Universal 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blade is the fastest way to restore performance. You need a blade that matches your deck’s center hole geometry and offers the right lift profile for your specific mowing style, whether you prefer bagging, side discharge, or mulching.
We carefully analyzed the specifications of five top-rated options to help you avoid common fitment errors and performance issues. From the Craftsman-specific designs to versatile multi-brand replacements, each pick here addresses distinct needs like durability in sandy soil or enhanced airflow for cleaner cuts. By focusing on steel gauge, edge sharpness, and spindle compatibility, you can ensure your mower runs smoothly and your yard looks its best without unnecessary guesswork or costly mistakes during installation.
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
- Precise fit for compatible Craftsman models, reducing the guesswork of aftermarket blade installation
- Durable steel construction holds up well in normal residential use and resists dulling
- Clean cutting performance promotes healthier grass compared to worn or damaged blades
- Trusted brand with a long history of outdoor power equipment parts
Cons
- Not a universal blade, so you must verify your mower's manual and measurements before purchasing
- Some users may need to balance the blade after installation to avoid vibration
- Limited to Craftsman 21-inch decks with the specific center hole and width configuration
This Oregon 21-inch lawn mower blade is a direct replacement designed for Craftsman mowers with S-Mount or M220 systems, including models that use the OEM 742-05643 and replace part CMXGZAM100142. It is a simple, practical upgrade for homeowners who want to restore a clean cut without buying a whole new mower.
Who is this blade for? It is best suited for suburban lawn owners and rural property owners who run a Craftsman 21-inch push mower or self-propelled mower. First-time mower buyers and budget-conscious shoppers will appreciate that replacing a blade is far cheaper than replacing the mower. It also suits lawn care enthusiasts who prefer to keep their equipment in top shape with routine maintenance.
In real-world lawn care, a sharp blade makes all the difference. This Oregon blade is built from high-quality, durable steel to hold an edge longer than cheap stamped replacements. The product description highlights a clean, even cut with smooth grass discharge, which helps prevent torn grass tips and keeps the lawn looking neat after Saturday morning mowing. For those who mulch leaves in the fall or bag clippings in spring, a properly fitted blade improves both mulching and bagging efficiency.
Build quality and practicality are solid. The blade measures 20-7/8 inches long, with a diamond center hole, 13/32-inch outer holes, and a 2-1/2 inch center-to-center distance. The 2.25-inch width and 0.134-inch thickness add stiffness. That width and thickness work well for standard residential mowing, and the steel construction resists bending when you accidentally hit a rock or root. Always double-check your mower manual before ordering to confirm the fit, especially because Craftsman uses several blade mount styles.
Installation is straightforward for anyone comfortable flipping the mower and removing the center bolt. No special tools are needed beyond a wrench or socket. After installing the blade, it is a good idea to check the balance before the first cut, since a balanced blade reduces vibration and protects the engine. Storage and maintenance are simple: keep a spare blade on hand so you can swap it out mid-season after hitting a hidden stump or after heavy use.
The main limitation is fit. This blade is not universal, and it only fits 21-inch Craftsman decks with the specific S-Mount configuration. To avoid a return, measure your old blade and compare the center hole, length, and center-to-center distance. For the right owner, this Oregon blade offers strong value and dependable cutting performance, whether you are maintaining a small suburban yard or handling regular lawn care on a larger property.
This blade is engineered for a clean, even cut on residential lawns. The steel composition and sharpened edges help slice grass rather than tear it, which promotes healthier growth. Users may notice a neater finish along sidewalks and flower beds. For thick, fast-growing grass, keep the blade sharp and avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time. Side discharge works smoothly when the blade is properly installed and balanced.
Replacing a mower blade is a straightforward task. First, disconnect the spark plug wire and drain the fuel tank. Tip the mower on its side with the air filter facing up. Use a socket wrench to remove the center bolt. Note the orientation of the old blade before removing it. Install the new Oregon blade with the cutting edges pointing toward the front of the mower. Tighten the bolt securely, then reconnect the spark plug. Check the blade balance by hanging it on a nail, and make sure the mower does not vibrate excessively during the next mowing.
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
- Stronger lift than many stock blades improves bagging and mulching efficiency.
- High-carbon steel construction provides good durability and edge retention.
- Compatible with a wide range of popular walk-behind mower models from major brands.
- Easy to sharpen and maintain over time.
Cons
- Only fits bow tie center hole spindles, limiting compatibility with some mower decks.
- Rust-resistant coating wears off during use, so blade may still show surface rust if left wet.
- No reviews available yet, so long-term performance is unproven.
The Fismiuta 21-inch lawn mower blade is a replacement mulching blade designed for many popular walk-behind push mowers from Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, and MTD. It's built as a 3-in-1 blade, meaning you can use it for mulching, bagging, or side discharge without needing to swap blades for different tasks. This makes it a practical choice for homeowners who want one blade to handle their regular mowing routine.
In real-world use, the standout feature here is the 32mm air lift height. That's a bit taller than the typical 28mm found on many stock blades, and it makes a noticeable difference in how well the blade pulls grass up before cutting it. You get a more consistent cut height, and the stronger suction helps prevent clogs in damp or thicker grass. For bagging, this means you'll spend less time emptying the bag because the clippings flow better. For mulching, the blade shreds clippings finely so they decompose quickly and feed your lawn naturally.
The blade is forged from high-carbon steel, which holds an edge longer than standard steel and handles tough weeds or occasional rocks without chipping. The rust-resistant coating is a nice touch during installation, but it does wear off after a few uses. That's normal, and the blade can be sharpened easily with a file or bench grinder. Build quality feels solid for the price, and the blade measures 21 inches long, 2-1/4 inches wide, and 3.4mm thick, which matches OEM specs for a direct swap.
One thing to watch out for is the center hole shape. This blade uses a bow tie pattern, so it only fits mowers with that specific spindle design. If your mower has a star or round hole, it won't work. Double-check your mower's center hole before ordering. Also, since this is a newer product with no reviews yet, we can't speak to long-term durability from other users, but the materials and specs look promising for a season of regular mowing.
Overall, the Fismiuta 21-inch blade is a solid, affordable replacement for DIYers and homeowners who need a reliable mulching blade for their Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, or MTD mower. If you're comfortable checking your spindle pattern and swapping a blade yourself, this is a good option that should improve cut quality and grass collection over a worn-out stock blade. It's not a pro-grade commercial blade, but for weekly lawn maintenance, it gets the job done.
Blade Length: 21 inches (533 mm)
Blade Width: 2-1/4 inches (57 mm)
Blade Thickness: 9/64 inch (3.4 mm)
Air Lift Height: 1-1/8 inches (32 mm)
Center Hole Shape: Bow tie
Material: High-carbon steel with rust-resistant coating
Design: 3-in-1 (mulching, bagging, side discharge)
Package Quantity: 1 blade
This blade fits many 21-inch walk-behind mowers with a bow tie center hole spindle. Compatible Troy-Bilt models include 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. Compatible Craftsman models include M100, M105, M110, M115, M140, M210, M230, M250, M260, M270, M310, and M320. Also fits many MTD and Cub Cadet models with the same spindle pattern. Always verify your mower's center hole shape before purchasing.
Pros
- Sturdy steel construction holds an edge well for multiple mowing sessions
- Excellent mulching action reduces bagging frequency and returns nutrients to the yard
- Broad compatibility with common mower brands and specific OEM part numbers simplifies replacement
Cons
- Requires careful verification of mower model and blade dimensions before purchase to ensure proper fit
- No customer reviews yet, so long-term wear performance is unconfirmed based on real-world use
The Oregon 21-inch lawn mower blade is a straightforward replacement part designed to upgrade your mower's cutting and mulching ability. It's not a power tool itself, but it's an essential consumable for anyone maintaining a lawn with a 21-inch deck mower. This blade is best suited for DIY homeowners and garden enthusiasts who want to improve their mower's performance without buying a whole new machine.
In real-world use, the blade's high-quality steel construction helps it stay sharper longer than many budget blades. That means cleaner cuts on grass and less tearing, which can lead to a healthier lawn. The mulching design is the standout feature; it recuts clippings multiple times before depositing them as fine mulch. This reduces the need for bagging and helps feed your yard naturally. I've seen similar Oregon blades work well on standard residential lawns, giving a neat finish even in thicker grass.
Build quality feels solid for the price point. The blade thickness (0.134 inches) and width (2.25 inches) provide decent rigidity without being overly heavy. Installation is straightforward if you've swapped a blade before, but be sure to follow the torque specs in your mower manual. One realistic limitation is that fitment depends heavily on exact dimensions and hole spacing; double-checking your mower's manual and the included OEM part number list is a must. There are no customer reviews yet, so long-term durability is based on Oregon's reputation rather than hands-on reports.
Overall, the Oregon 21-inch blade is a reliable, performance-focused upgrade for compatible mowers. It's a practical choice for homeowners who want better mulching without hassle. If your Craftsman, Husqvarna, or AYP mower matches the specs, you can expect cleaner cutting and less time spent emptying the bag.
Color: Black
Dimensions: 21.75 x 2.6 x 1.13 inches
Product Group: Lawn & Patio
Binding: Lawn & Patio
Replaces OEM part numbers: 165833, 175064, 189028, 406712, 176135, 159267, 008020, 175052, 406706, 406712X431, 531300765, 532 15 92-67, 532 17 50-52, 532159267, 532165833, 532175064, 532176135, 532189028, 532406712, 539111878, PP23020, and Craftsman CMXGZAM100129.
Fits most 21-inch deck mowers from Craftsman, AYP, Husqvarna, and others. Verify blade length (21"), center hole (5/8"), outer holes (3/8"), and center-to-center distance (1-7/8").
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a blade fits my mower?
Measure your current blade’s length, width, and center hole shape. Most 21-inch decks use a bow-tie or round hole, but dimensions vary by model. Always cross-reference the OEM part number listed in your manual to guarantee an exact fit for your specific spindle mount and cutting deck size.
Is a mulching blade better than a standard high-lift blade?
It depends on your preference. Mulching blades have serrations that chop clippings into fine pieces, reducing cleanup. High-lift blades create stronger airflow for bagging or side discharge. If you want to skip bagging, a mulching blade may be the more efficient choice for your routine maintenance tasks.
What is the difference between 5-point and 6-point star holes?
These are specific mounting patterns that prevent the blade from spinning freely on the spindle. A 5-point star hole will not fit a 6-point spindle, and vice versa. Check your old blade’s center hole design carefully, as this mismatch is a common reason for returned or incompatible replacement blades.
How often should I sharpen or replace my mower blade?
Sharpen blades when they tear grass instead of cutting cleanly. Replace them if they are bent, cracked, or excessively worn. Many homeowners sharpen their blades once or twice per season to maintain edge sharpness. A dull blade can strain your engine and lead to uneven cutting lines across your lawn.
Can I use a universal blade on any 21-inch mower?
No, “universal” refers to length, not fitment. You must match the center hole shape, outer hole spacing, and blade thickness. Checking the spindle mount is crucial. Ignoring these details can cause vibration, poor cutting performance, and potential damage to your mower’s deck and bearings.


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