Craftsman M110 Review

M110 review

Our take on the Craftsman M110

The Craftsman M110 is a 21-inch gas push mower for small lawns. It has a 140 cc Briggs & Stratton engine, a steel 3-in-1 deck and a rear bag. A mulch kit is also in the box. It is the lowest-priced Craftsman gas mower in this group. That makes it a common first mower for new homeowners.

This review covers what the M110 does well, where it falls short and who should skip it. We also explain how it differs from the self-propelled M220 and M230, so you can pick the right one.

Engine and starting

The M110 uses a Briggs & Stratton 550EX engine. It displaces 140 cc and makes about 5.5 ft-lb of torque. Craftsman lists one-step starting with no priming. You pull the cord and go. The engine uses a recoil start, so there is no battery to charge.

A 140 cc engine is plenty for a small lawn. It can slow down in tall, wet grass. If your grass grows fast, raise the deck one notch and mow more often. Then the engine does not have to work as hard.

Deck and cutting

The deck is 21 inches wide and made from steel. It is a 3-in-1 design. You can mulch, bag or discharge to the side. Craftsman includes both the rear bag and the mulch kit. Many budget mowers charge extra for one of them.

Height adjustment uses a dual-lever system with six positions. Cutting height runs from 1.25 to 3.75 inches. The handle is an adjustable loop design. It folds for storage, which helps in a small garage or shed.

Weight and handling

The M110 weighs about 65 lb. That is light for a gas mower. Owners say it is easy to lift into a truck and easy to turn. Wheels are small on some versions and larger on others, so check the wheel size on the unit you buy. Craftsman’s own page lists 11-inch rear wheels, while Lowe’s lists 8-inch rear wheels.

Because it is a push mower, you provide the forward motion. On flat ground that is easy. On slopes it gets tiring.

Where the M110 falls short

The M110 has no blade stop system. The engine and blade run until you stop the engine. Some owners report assembly problems. One reviewer said a handle bolt snapped in shipping. Others describe the handle setup as fiddly. A few buyers also report oil leaks or engine failure after a short time. Those reports are a reminder to keep the oil level correct and register your warranty.

How it compares

The Craftsman M220 adds single-speed self-propelled drive. The M230 adds variable-speed drive, bigger rear wheels and a dust-blocking bag. Both cost more. If your yard is flat and under a quarter acre, you may not need them. If you have a slope or dislike pushing, step up.

Who should buy it

Buy the M110 if you have a small, flat yard of up to about a quarter acre. It suits renters, first-time owners and anyone who wants to spend as little as possible. Skip it if you have hills or a large lawn.

Price and warranty

Retailers list the M110 around $229 to $360, depending on the seller and sale timing. Craftsman backs it with a 2-year limited warranty. Keep your receipt and register the mower.

Quick specs at a glance

Here are the numbers that matter. The deck is 21 inches. The engine is 140 cc. The mower weighs about 65 lb. Cutting height runs from 1.25 to 3.75 inches in six steps. The bag and mulch kit are included. It starts with a pull cord. The warranty is two years.

Tips to get the most from it

Set the handle carefully during assembly. Some owners say the handle sits deep under the deck at first and must be pushed out and secured with two knobs. Take your time here. Add oil before the first start, because the mower ships without it. Use fresh fuel and avoid ethanol-heavy blends that sit for months. Sharpen the blade once a season. Rinse the deck after each mow to keep grass from caking.

For a neat lawn, cut no more than one third of the grass height at a time. Mow when the grass is dry. If you plan to mulch, leave the bag off and fit the mulch kit.

Verdict

The M110 is a simple, light and inexpensive push mower. It includes a bag and mulch kit, which adds value. Choose it for small lawns and tight budgets. Pay more for self-propelled drive if your yard is large or sloped.