A strong replacement mower blade matches your mower’s exact model or OEM number, then suits the way you cut—mulching, bagging, or discharging—for homeowners replacing a worn or damaged blade. The options here range from 20- and 21-inch walk-behind mower blades to blades for 22-inch cuts and 50-inch decks, so the right choice depends on compatibility, not just the mower’s advertised deck size. EGO’s AB2100 offers three cutting functions for listed EGO 21-inch mowers, while MaxPower and Greenworks provide more specific fits for selected machines.
Riding-mower owners can compare the Oregon 3-pack for certain MTD and Cub Cadet 50-inch decks. Check your manual and existing blade before ordering: dimensions, center-hole shape, and OEM references can determine whether a blade fits safely.
MaxPower 331528B is the Best Overall choice for owners of compatible 21-inch MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman mowers. It is a 21-inch mulching blade with a bow-tie center hole and lists several replacement OEM numbers, making it a well-specified option across multiple mower families. It leads for this broad roundup, but it is not universal: confirm the current blade’s OEM number and center-hole design before buying.
For EGO owners seeking mulching, bagging, and side discharge, EGO Power+ AB2100 is the more targeted alternative.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallThe 21-inch mulching blade fits many listed MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman mowers and names multiple replacement OEM numbers.
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Best 3-in-1 BladeThis factory-sharpened steel blade supports mulching, bagging, and side discharge on listed EGO 21-inch mower models.
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Best 21-Inch FitThis genuine heat-treated steel blade is made for Greenworks 21-inch mowers, with compatibility listed across selected 80V, 60V, and 40V models.
View on Amazon- Best 20-Inch Fit MTD 490-100-M088
- Best 22-Inch Mulcher MaxPower 331749XB
Compare blade options by mower fit and cutting style
| # | Product | Dimensions | Weight | Material | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. MaxPower 331528BBest Overall | 23 x 4 x 2 in | 1.6 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. EGO Power+ AB2100Best 3-in-1 Blade | 30"D x 8"W x 6"H | 1.1 lb | Factory Sharpened Steel Blade | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Greenworks 2905203Best 21-Inch Fit | 20.08"D x 0.67"W x 1.97"H | 16 oz | Alloy Steel | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. MTD 490-100-M088Best 20-Inch Fit | — | 1.5 lb | Metal | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. MaxPower 331749XBBest 22-Inch Mulcher | 22.5 x 2.5 x 0.13 in | 15.8 oz | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. Greenworks 2992002VTGreenworks 20-inch mower replacement | 19.49"D x 1.97"W x 0.47"H | — | Stainless Steel | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Stens 335-356Snapper commercial hi-lift fit | 20.45"L x 2.6"W | — | Stens | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Oregon 65352050-inch MTD deck blade set | 18 x 2.62 x 1.83 in | 5.91 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Stens 345-070Three-blade 50-inch deck replacement | — | 2 lb | Metal | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Oregon Gator G3 96-401Gator mulching and discharge | 26.9 x 3.7 x 3.45 in | 2.7 lb | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best New Blade For Lawn Mower

#1 · Best Overall
1. MaxPower 331528B
- Dimensions: 23 x 4 x 2 in
- Weight: 1.6 lb
Best for: 21-inch mulching replacement.
Why it ranks #1: The 21-inch mulching blade fits many listed MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman mowers and names multiple replacement OEM numbers.
A 21-inch mulching blade with a bow-tie center hole gives owners of many MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman mowers a replacement matched to a broad set of listed OEM numbers. Its specific mower-family coverage makes checking the existing blade number the key step before choosing it.
The 21-inch length and 21⁄4-inch width identify the blade size, while the bow-tie center hole is a useful detail to compare with the mower’s existing blade. Replacement coverage includes several MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman OEM numbers, including Craftsman CMXGZAM100067, so owners can use the listed number cross-reference to narrow compatibility. The package contains one mulching blade, making it a single-blade replacement rather than a multi-blade deck set.
- 21-inch mulching blade for many listed mower families
- Replaces numerous listed MTD and Cub Cadet OEM numbers
- Also covers listed Troy-Bilt and Craftsman applications
- Bow-tie center hole is specified
- Fit is limited to listed applications and requires matching the current OEM number.
Skip it if you need a blade for a mower outside the listed applications; Greenworks 2905203 covers specified Greenworks 21-inch mowers.
Choose this single blade if your 21-inch MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, or Craftsman mower matches a listed application. Its mulching purpose and bow-tie center hole make the current blade number and hole shape important fit checks.
Full product details
| Brand | Maxpower |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.6 pounds |
| Item model number | 331528B |
| Manufacturer | MaxPower |
| Dimensions | 23 x 4 x 2 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Maxpower 331528B USA MADE 21" Cut Mulching Blade
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#2 · Best 3-in-1 Blade
2. EGO Power+ AB2100
- Dimensions: 30"D x 8"W x 6"H
- Weight: 1.1 lb
- Material: Factory Sharpened Steel Blade
Best for: EGO 3-in-1 mowing flexibility.
Why it ranks #2: This factory-sharpened steel blade supports mulching, bagging, and side discharge on listed EGO 21-inch mower models.
Mulching, bagging, and side discharge in one 3-in-1 blade give compatible EGO mower owners options for handling clippings without switching blade types. The factory-sharpened steel blade is listed for specific EGO 21-inch mower models, making model compatibility central to the choice.
The 3-in-1 configuration supports mulching, bagging, or side discharge, so the same replacement blade can serve different listed clipping-management approaches. Factory-sharpened steel and the stated clean-cut purpose connect its ready-sharp specification with the intended lawn finish. EGO identifies the blade for LM2100, LM2100SP, LM2101, LM2102SP, and LM2142SP in the title; check the mower model rather than relying on the 21-inch size alone.
- 3-in-1 use for mulching, bagging, and side discharge
- Factory-sharpened steel blade
- Listed for several EGO LM mower models
- Genuine EGO replacement part
- Compatibility is specified for EGO models, not other mower brands.
Skip it if you need a blade for a non-EGO mower; Greenworks 2905203 lists compatible Greenworks 21-inch models.
A good match for EGO owners who want one blade for mulching, bagging, or side discharge on a listed mower. Confirm the exact LM model before selecting it, since the listed fit is specific to EGO equipment.
Full product details
| Brand | EGO Power+ |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Blade |
| Dimensions | 30"D x 8"W x 6"H |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Manufacturer | EGO Power+ |
| Part Number | AB2100 |
| Material | Factory Sharpened Steel Blade |
| Model Number | AB2100 |
| Operation Mode | Manual |
| Style | Lawn Mower Blade |
| Style Name | Lawn Mower Blade |
| Wheel Size | 20 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: EGO POWER+ 21" Blade for Electric Lawn Mowers LM2101/LM2100/LM2102SP/LM2100SP/LM2142SP – AB2100
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#3 · Best 21-Inch Fit
3. Greenworks 2905203
- Dimensions: 20.08"D x 0.67"W x 1.97"H
- Weight: 16 oz
- Material: Alloy Steel
Best for: Greenworks 21-inch mower owners.
Why it ranks #3: This genuine heat-treated steel blade is made for Greenworks 21-inch mowers, with compatibility listed across selected 80V, 60V, and 40V models.
Compatibility across specified Greenworks 80V, 60V, and 40V mower models is the defining feature of this 21-inch replacement blade. That voltage-platform coverage lets owners check a model number against the long supplied list rather than treating every Greenworks 21-inch mower as interchangeable.
The alloy-steel blade is described as heat-treated, combining its stated material and treatment with a genuine Greenworks replacement identity. Its 21-inch mower compatibility spans numerous listed 80V, 60V, and 40V models, which helps owners narrow the match by mower model and voltage platform. The supplied dimensions are 20.08 by 0.67 by 1.97 inches; those measurements and the compatibility list are practical references when comparing it with the existing blade and mower documentation.
- Specified for numerous Greenworks 80V mower models
- Also lists compatible 60V and 40V models
- Heat-treated steel construction
- Genuine Greenworks replacement part
- Compatibility is limited to the listed Greenworks models, not every 21-inch mower.
Skip it if you own a Greenworks 20-inch mower; Greenworks 2992002VT is specified for selected 20-inch models.
This suits Greenworks owners seeking a replacement for a compatible 21-inch mower across the listed voltage platforms. Check the exact mower model against the supplied compatibility list; the 21-inch description alone does not establish fit.
Full product details
| Brand | Greenworks |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 20.08"D x 0.67"W x 1.97"H |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Greenworks |
| Part Number | 2905203 |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 2905203 |
| Operation Mode | Manual |
| Style | Push |
| Style Name | Push |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Greenworks 2905203, Blade for 21” Mower, Black
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#4 · Best 20-Inch Fit
4. MTD 490-100-M088
- Weight: 1.5 lb
- Material: Metal
Best for: MTD 20-inch walk-behind mulching.
Why it ranks #4: The 3-in-1 mulching blade fits MTD 20-inch walk-behind mowers from 1997 onward and lists several MTD-family brands and OEM numbers.
A 3-in-1 mulching blade for MTD 20-inch walk-behind mowers from 1997 onward is the defining fit and function here. Its coverage also names MTD Gold, Yard Man, Yard Machines, Troy-Bilt, Bolens, White Outdoor, and Huskee products, with OEM numbers to check against the existing blade.
The 3-in-1 blade is specified for mulching and uses a 1-inch star center, details that connect its clipping function with a practical mounting check. The listed mower coverage spans several MTD-related brands, and the replacement references are OEM 742-0740 and 942-0740. Those application and part-number details help owners verify whether this single metal blade matches a 20-inch walk-behind mower; the product information does not describe it as a universal 20-inch replacement.
- 3-in-1 mulching blade
- Fits listed MTD 20-inch walk-behind mowers from 1997 onward
- Names several compatible MTD-related brands
- 1-inch star center and replacement OEM numbers specified
- The listed application is for 20-inch walk-behind mowers, not every 20-inch mower.
Skip it if you need a blade for a Greenworks 20-inch mower; Greenworks 2992002VT lists selected Greenworks 20-inch models.
Consider this for a listed MTD-family 20-inch walk-behind mower when the 3-in-1 function and 1-inch star center match your existing setup. Check the mower’s brand, application, and OEM reference; the 20-inch label alone is not enough.
Full product details
| Brand | MTD Genuine Parts |
|---|---|
| Color | Brown/A |
| Included Components | blade |
| Item Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | MTD |
| Part Number | 490-100-M088 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | Please Contact Seller for Product Warranty Information. |
| Material | Metal |
| Model Number | (490-100-M088) |
| Style | Rotary |
| Style Name | Rotary |
Listed on Amazon as: MTD Genuine Parts Mulching Blade – For 20-Inch Lawn Mowers (1997 and After) – Fits Various MTD Gold, Troy-Bilt, and Other Top Models, (490-100-M088)
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#5 · Best 22-Inch Mulcher
5. MaxPower 331749XB
- Dimensions: 22.5 x 2.5 x 0.13 in
- Weight: 15.8 oz
Best for: 22-inch commercial mulching use.
Why it ranks #5: This commercial mulching blade is sized for some 22-inch-cut Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan mowers, with a five-point star center hole.
A commercial mulching blade with a greater cutting surface is the defining feature of MaxPower’s replacement for some 22-inch-cut Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan mowers. Its 5-point star center hole and listed OEM numbers provide concrete checks for buyers matching an existing blade.
The blade measures 21 15/16 by 21⁄2 inches and uses a 5-point star center hole, details that can help verify size and mounting style against the mower’s original part. MaxPower describes its commercial mulching blades as having greater cutting surface for increased mulching, tying the blade style to its intended clipping use. One blade is included, and the supplied OEM references cover selected Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan applications rather than all 22-inch decks.
- Commercial mulching blade for selected 22-inch-cut mowers
- Greater cutting surface specified for increased mulching
- 5-point star center hole
- Made in the USA
- Compatibility covers only some 22-inch-cut Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan mowers.
Skip it if you need a blade for an MTD or Cub Cadet 50-inch deck; Oregon 653520 lists those applications and deck size.
This suits owners of a compatible Craftsman, Husqvarna, or Poulan mower seeking a commercial mulching replacement. Check the 5-point star center and listed OEM numbers, because the 22-inch-cut description does not cover every mower with that deck size.
Full product details
| Brand | Maxpower |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 15.8 ounces |
| Item model number | 331749XB |
| Manufacturer | Maxpower |
| Dimensions | 22.5 x 2.5 x 0.13 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: MaxPower 331749XB Commercial Mulching Blade for 22 in. Cut Craftsman, Husqvarna and Poulan Mowers Replaces OEM #'s 580244001, 580244002, 587199603
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#6
6. Greenworks 2992002VT
- Dimensions: 19.49"D x 1.97"W x 0.47"H
- Material: Stainless Steel
Best for: Greenworks 20-inch mower replacement.
Why it ranks #6: The genuine heat-treated replacement is for selected Greenworks 20-inch mowers and specifies compatible mower ASINs plus a three-year manufacturer warranty.
Compatibility with selected Greenworks 20-inch mowers, including MO48L4210 and MO48L4212, is the defining point of this heat-treated replacement blade. Greenworks notes that its actual blade length is about an inch shorter than the deck size, clarifying why a 20-inch mower does not take a full 20-inch blade.
The heat-treated steel blade is specified for Greenworks 20-inch mowers, with several compatible mower identifiers listed, including MO48L4210-D. Its approximately one-inch-shorter-than-deck measurement explains the clearance relationship between blade tip and deck edge, helping owners interpret the size description correctly. Greenworks identifies this as a genuine replacement part and supplies the 2992002VT model number, useful details when checking a mower against the intended application.
- Compatible with selected Greenworks 20-inch mowers
- Heat-treated steel blade
- Genuine Greenworks replacement part
- Explains blade length is about one inch shorter than deck size
- Fit is limited to specified Greenworks 20-inch mower applications.
Skip it if you need a replacement for a Greenworks 21-inch mower; Greenworks 2905203 lists compatible 21-inch models.
Choose this for a listed Greenworks 20-inch mower when replacing its blade and checking the model identifiers. The actual blade is about an inch shorter than deck size, so use the stated mower compatibility rather than expecting a full 20-inch blade.
Full product details
| Brand | Greenworks |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 19.49"D x 1.97"W x 0.47"H |
| Manufacturer | Greenworks |
| Part Number | 2992002VT |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 3 year |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Model Number | 2992002VT |
| Operation Mode | Manual |
| Style | Mower Blade |
| Style Name | Mower Blade |
Listed on Amazon as: Greenworks Replacement Lawn Mower Blade (Fits : 20' Mower / MO48L4210 / MO48L4212 / MO48L4210-D)
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#7
7. Stens 335-356
- Dimensions: 20.45"L x 2.6"W
- Material: Stens
Best for: Snapper commercial hi-lift fit.
Why it ranks #7: This 20 11/16-inch commercial hi-lift blade fits listed Snapper 21-inch mowers, with a 3/8-inch center hole and OEM references.
A commercial hi-lift profile for 20 11/16-inch Snapper applications distinguishes this Stens replacement from standard-sized walk-behind blades. The listed OEM cross-references help identify the intended mower, while the product information also specifies use on LT11000 and a 41-inch deck requiring two blades.
The 23⁄4-inch width and 0.164-inch thickness accompany a 20 11/16-inch length, giving buyers several dimensions to compare with the replacement specification. A rounded center hole and 3/8-inch center and outer holes further describe the mounting geometry. Its hi-lift type and Snapper OEM references support a targeted commercial replacement search; for a 41-inch deck, the supplied information says two blades are required, so one unit does not complete that setup.
- Commercial hi-lift blade type
- 20 11/16-inch length and 23⁄4-inch width specified
- Multiple Snapper OEM references listed
- Made in the USA
- A 41-inch deck requires two blades, while this listing includes one.
Skip it if you need a complete 41-inch-deck set in one purchase; this listing includes one blade, though two are required.
Consider this single hi-lift blade for a compatible Snapper mower or listed LT11000 application. Owners of a 41-inch deck should account for the stated two-blade requirement, and the specified hole dimensions matter for mounting compatibility.
Full product details
| Brand | Stens |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Compatible Devices | Snapper 21" mowers, LT11000, 41" deck (requires 2 blades) |
| Compatible Material | Grass |
| Included Components | Hi-Lift Blade |
| Item Dimensions L x W | 20.45"L x 2.6"W |
| Manufacturer | Stens |
| Material | Stens |
| Model | 335-356 |
| Dimensions | 20.45"L x 2.6"W |
| Style | Compact |
| Style Name | Compact |
| Warranty Description | 1-Year Warranty |
Listed on Amazon as: Stens New Lawnmower Blade 335-356 Replacement for: Snapper Most Commercial 21' mowers; LT11000; Requires 2 for 41' Deck 1-7002, 1-9645, 1-9702, 1-9710, 2-6691, 7019795
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#8
8. Oregon 653520
- Dimensions: 18 x 2.62 x 1.83 in
- Weight: 5.91 lb
Best for: 50-inch MTD deck blade set.
Why it ranks #8: The three-blade set targets selected MTD and Cub Cadet 50-inch decks, with 17 1/4-inch blades and a six-point star center hole.
A three-blade pack for 50-inch decks gives compatible MTD and Cub Cadet tractor and RZT owners a coordinated replacement set. Oregon specifies a 171⁄4-inch blade length, 6-point star center hole, and applications from 2015 onward, making deck and mower details essential fit checks.
The pack contains three blades, matching the listed 50-inch deck application and avoiding a one-blade-at-a-time purchase for that setup. Each blade is specified at 171⁄4 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, and 0.164 inch thick, with a 6-point star center hole. Oregon lists MTD and Cub Cadet lawn tractors and RZT mowers from 2015 onward and names the OEM numbers it replaces; check the mower manual and fit before installation.
- Three-blade pack for a 50-inch deck
- Listed for MTD and Cub Cadet tractor and RZT mowers
- 6-point star center hole specified
- Replaces several listed OEM numbers
- Fit is limited to listed 50-inch applications and requires a 6-point star center.
Skip it if you need a single blade for a 21-inch mower; MaxPower 331749XB is a one-blade mulching replacement for some 22-inch-cut models.
Choose this set for a compatible MTD or Cub Cadet 50-inch deck requiring three blades. The 171⁄4-inch length, 6-point star center, and listed model-year range are key boundaries; consult the mower manual to verify the match.
Full product details
| Brand | Oregon |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 5.91 pounds |
| Item model number | 653520 |
| Manufacturer | Oregon Tool |
| Dimensions | 18 x 2.62 x 1.83 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Oregon 50 Inch Lawn Mower Blades, Fits MTD, Cub Cadet & More
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #9: This medium-lift blade is an 18 3/16-inch replacement for listed AYP, Simplicity, and Snapper machines; a 50-inch deck requires three.
The medium-lift profile and explicit three-blade requirement for a 50-inch deck make this Stens blade a targeted choice for listed AYP, Simplicity, and Snapper applications. Its 18 3/16-inch length and OEM cross-references help distinguish it from other deck-blade replacements.
This 18 3/16-inch blade is 2 inches wide and 0.203 inch thick, with a 3⁄4-inch center hole and 3/8-inch outer holes. Those dimensions give owners concrete mounting details to compare with their current blade. Stens describes it as a medium-lift blade and lists AYP, Simplicity, and Snapper replacement numbers. The supplied information says a 50-inch deck requires three, so this one-blade listing is only a partial replacement for that setup.
- Medium-lift blade type
- Listed for AYP, Simplicity, and Snapper applications
- 18 3/16-inch length and 2-inch width specified
- Center and outer hole sizes are provided
- A 50-inch deck requires three blades, but this listing includes one.
Skip it if you need all blades for a 50-inch deck in a single listing; this product is one blade and three are required.
This is a focused replacement for owners whose AYP, Simplicity, or Snapper mower matches the listed numbers and dimensions. For a 50-inch deck, plan around the stated three-blade requirement rather than treating this single blade as a full set.
Full product details
| Brand | Stens |
|---|---|
| Compatible Material | Metal |
| Grit Material | steel |
| Grit Material Type | steel |
| Included Components | Medium-Lift Blade |
| Item Dimensions | 21.19 x 5 x 5 inches |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Dimensions | 21.19 x 5 x 5 inches |
| Manufacturer | Stens |
| Model | 345-070 |
Listed on Amazon as: Stens New Lawnmower Blade 345-070 Replacement for: AYP Requires 3 for 50' Deck, Simplicity 14-16 GT, 1700 Series; Requires 3 for 50' Deck 1708229, 1708229A, 1708229ASM, 1708229BMA, Black
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#10
10. Oregon Gator G3 96-401
- Dimensions: 26.9 x 3.7 x 3.45 in
- Weight: 2.7 lb
Best for: Gator mulching and discharge.
Why it ranks #10: This 46-inch-deck blade is described as an upgrade rather than a replacement and will not fit 2014-and-newer 46-inch stamped decks.
Oregon’s Gator Mulcher blade combines a mulching design with an aggressive blade angle that increases airflow for bagging or side discharge. That mix gives owners of compatible 46-inch Cub Cadet applications a choice between processing clippings and directing them out, subject to a specific deck-year exclusion.
The aggressive blade angle is specified to move more air and push debris up and out, supporting bagging or side discharge. The Gator Mulcher feature is also described as enabling cleaner, more efficient cutting and potentially eliminating bagging. Oregon lists a 6-point star center and 5/8-inch center opening, plus a clear boundary: it will not work on 2014-and-newer 46-inch stamped decks. Check the deck type and year before choosing it.
- Gator Mulcher cutting design
- Aggressive angle increases airflow for bagging or side discharge
- 6-point star center with 5/8-inch opening
- Listed as a replacement for Cub Cadet
- Will not fit 2014-and-newer 46-inch stamped decks.
Skip it if you have a 2014-or-newer 46-inch stamped deck; this blade is expressly listed as incompatible with that setup.
This is for owners of compatible 46-inch Cub Cadet applications who want mulching capability alongside airflow for bagging or side discharge. The stamped-deck year exclusion is decisive, so check deck type and model year before purchase.
Full product details
| Brand | Oregon |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 2.7 pounds |
| Item model number | 96-401 |
| Manufacturer | Oregon Tool |
| Dimensions | 26.9 x 3.7 x 3.45 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Oregon 46 Inch Lawn Mower Blade, for Most Standard Mowers
View on AmazonWhy advertised deck size can mislead
A mower’s stated deck size does not tell you the blade’s actual length or whether its mounting hole will fit. For example, the Oregon 653520 is listed for a 50-inch deck but each blade is 17 1/4 inches long; the Stens 335-356 is for listed 21-inch Snapper mowers yet measures 20 11/16 inches. These differences are expected in multi-blade decks and mower housings, but they make sizing by deck label alone unreliable.
Center-hole geometry is another potential failure point: the MaxPower 331528B has a bow-tie hole, the MaxPower 331749XB uses a five-point star, and the Oregon 653520 uses a six-point star. A blade may have the right length and still be incompatible if its mounting pattern differs.
Use the mower manual or current blade’s OEM number to confirm fit; do not infer compatibility from a similar-looking blade or a matching deck size.
Match blade style to the cutting job
Blade style matters because mulching, lifting clippings for bagging, and general replacement are not interchangeable claims. The EGO Power+ AB2100 is explicitly a 3-in-1 blade for mulching, bagging, and side discharge, while the MaxPower 331528B and 331749XB are identified as mulching blades. Stens 335-356 is a hi-lift blade, and Stens 345-070 is medium-lift.
The Oregon Gator G3 96-401 is presented as a mulching upgrade with an aggressive blade angle for airflow, but the listing also warns it is not a replacement blade and excludes newer 46-inch stamped decks. A mismatched blade style can frustrate the intended clipping handling, even if mounting dimensions appear close.
Decide how you manage clippings first, then select a blade whose listing specifies that function and whose OEM fit matches your mower.
How to Choose a Replacement Mower Blade
Mower and OEM compatibility
Look for an exact mower-model or OEM-number match before comparing blade features. MaxPower 331528B lists replacement numbers including 742-0741 and 942-0741, while MTD 490-100-M088 replaces 742-0740 and 942-Greenworks 2905203 lists selected 80V, 60V, and 40V models; its fit should not be assumed for other Greenworks machines.
The Oregon 653520 specifies MTD and Cub Cadet 50-inch decks, 2015 and after, but still directs buyers to verify the manual. Owners with a clearly matching OEM reference should prioritize that direct evidence.
Buyers with only a deck size should check the manual and existing blade before ordering, because deck width alone does not establish fit.
Blade length and mounting pattern
Check the blade’s actual length, width, thickness, and center-hole shape against the manual or existing blade. Listed examples span 18 3/16 inches for the Stens 345-070, 20 11/16 inches for the Stens 335-356, and 21 inches for the MaxPower 331528B. Mounting patterns vary too: the MaxPower 331528B has a bow-tie center hole, the 331749XB a five-point star, and Oregon 653520 a six-point star.
Owners replacing a blade on a walk-behind mower should focus on the blade’s exact dimensions and hole design. Riding-mower owners should also confirm how many blades the deck requires; the Oregon listing is a three-blade set, while the Stens 345-070 says a 50-inch deck requires three.
Cutting function and blade lift
Choose a blade type that matches how you want to handle clippings. EGO Power+ AB2100 is explicitly a 3-in-1 blade for mulching, bagging, and side discharge; MaxPower 331528B and 331749XB are mulching options. The Stens 335-356 is hi-lift, while Stens 345-070 is medium-lift.
Oregon Gator G3 96-401 is described as a mulching upgrade with an aggressive blade angle intended to increase airflow for bagging or side discharge, but its fit exclusions matter. Buyers wanting one listed blade for several cutting modes should consider the EGO option if they own a compatible EGO mower.
Those matching a commercial or specific deck setup should prioritize the specified lift style and OEM fit rather than choosing by function alone.
Which Replacement Mower Blade Should You Buy?
Choose MaxPower 331528B if you own a compatible 21-inch MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, or Craftsman mower and want a mulching blade with multiple listed OEM matches. For a compatible EGO 21-inch mower and a need for mulching, bagging, and side discharge, pick EGO Power+ AB2100. Greenworks owners should match their exact model to Greenworks 2905203 for a 21-inch mower or Greenworks 2992002VT for a listed 20-inch model.
If you have an MTD-family 20-inch walk-behind mower, consider MTD 490-100-M088. For a compatible 50-inch MTD or Cub Cadet deck, the three-blade Oregon 653520 set is the relevant riding-mower choice.
In every case, verify the OEM number, blade dimensions, and center-hole pattern before purchasing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I identify the correct replacement blade for my lawn mower?
Match the mower’s make and model, the current blade’s OEM number, its dimensions, and its center-hole pattern. Check the mower manual or the current blade for those details, then compare them with the replacement listing. A matching deck size alone does not establish compatibility; verify the listed fit before purchasing.
Can I use a blade with a different lift or cutting style than my current blade?
Only if the mower manufacturer or replacement listing confirms that the blade is compatible with your mower. Lift and cutting style can affect how the mower handles grass and discharges clippings. For a mulching, bagging, or side-discharge need, choose a blade listed for both your mower and the intended use.
How often should I inspect or replace a lawn mower blade?
Inspect the blade regularly and whenever you notice poor or uneven cutting, visible damage, or unusual vibration. Replace it if it is damaged or too worn to perform properly, and follow the mower manual’s maintenance guidance. Before inspecting or handling a blade, shut the mower off and follow its safety instructions.
What should I check when choosing blades for a riding mower deck?
Confirm the deck size, mower compatibility, blade dimensions, and center-hole pattern, and check how many blades the deck requires. For example, the Oregon 653520 set is identified as a three-blade option for compatible 50-inch MTD or Cub Cadet decks. Verify the exact mower and OEM match before ordering.
Can a replacement blade fit several mower brands?
It can, when the listing names those mower families and the blade matches the required OEM number, dimensions, and center-hole design. The MaxPower 331528B is listed for compatible 21-inch MTD, Cub Cadet, Troy-Bilt, and Craftsman mowers, but it is not universal. Confirm your mower’s details before buying.
Final Words
Start with your mower’s exact model and current blade: verify the OEM number, dimensions, and center-hole pattern before choosing. For compatible 21-inch MTD-family mowers, MaxPower 331528B is the broad-roundup pick; EGO owners needing mulching, bagging, and side discharge should consider AB2100. Match Greenworks blades to the listed mower size and model, and choose the Oregon set only for compatible 50-inch decks.
Do not rely on deck size alone.
