A dull or damaged lawn mower blade can leave your grass torn, uneven, and prone to disease, compromising both the beauty and health of your lawn. For owners of a Craftsman 21-inch mower, selecting the correct replacement blade is crucial to restoring clean, precise cuts and effective mulching. With numerous options available, it’s challenging to determine which blade offers the right fit, strength, and performance for your mowing needs.
Our top recommendations are based on thorough evaluations of material quality, compatibility, and real-world cutting performance. We prioritized blades with durable steel construction, proper center hole design, and reliable fit for Craftsman 21-inch mowers. To ensure long-term value, consider checking our guides on best mulching blades and lawn mower blade maintenance tips for insights on maximizing efficiency and blade life.
Each recommended blade enhances cutting precision while reducing strain on your mower’s engine. Whether you mulch, bag, or side discharge, our top picks include models suited for every mowing style. For more detailed analysis, explore our comparisons of best high-lift mower blades, standard replacement blades, and premium steel mower blades to find the ideal match for your lawn care routine.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product | Details | Price |
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Best Overall
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CRAFTSMAN 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade
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Lawn Mower Replacement Blade 21-Inch CRAFTSMAN |
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Best OEM Compatibility
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MTD Genuine 21-Inch Mulching Blade
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21-Inch MTD, CRAFTSMAN, Troy-Bilt, Yard Man, Huskee, Bolens, Murray, Snapper 11A-B0BL765, 11A-B0S5700, 11A-B0BL700 |
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Best Budget Friendly
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wyevee 331737B Mulching Lawn Mower Blade
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AYP/Craftsman/Hus qvarna/Pou lan 21″ Cut Mowers 21-1/4″ Length, 2-1/5″ Width, 0.157″ Thickness 5/8″ |
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Best Value 2-Pack
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budrash 942-0741A Mulching Blade 2 Pack
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3-in-1 blades for bagging, discharging, mulching Troy-Bilt TB130, TB230, TB200, Craftsman 247 series, MTD 410, Cub Cadet SC700E, Yard Machines 116-410A000, Yard Man 12AV829C755 942-0741, 942-0741A, 742-0741, 742-0741A, 742-04100, 942-04276, 942-04276S, 742-04276, 742-04276S, CMXGZAM100067, CC-742-3022, CC-742-0741, 490-100-C089, 490-100-M084 |
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Best Universal Fit
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Stens 300-121RT Universal 3-in-1 Blade
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Universal for Bolens, Craftsman, Huskee, Lawn-Boy, MTD, Murray, Poulan, Snapper and others 21″ 3-in-1 blade |
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Best Aftermarket Alternative
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KEDAKEJI 21″ Mulching Blade for Craftsman
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21″ Troy-Bilt TB110 TB130 TB200 TB230 TB240 Mulching Blade |
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Best Multi-Brand Compatibility
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GYZJ 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blades 2 Pack
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21 1\/16″ 2 1\/4″ 0.138″ |
Craftsman 21 Lawn Mower Blade Replacement Review
CRAFTSMAN 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade – Best Overall

Delivering an uncompromising factory-spec fit, the CRAFTSMAN CMZMW21 blade is the definitive choice for brand loyalists seeking pristine performance. This isn’t just a replacement part; it’s a restoration of your mower’s original cutting capability, engineered to the exact specifications of your machine. For anyone frustrated with ill-fitting aftermarket parts, this blade eliminates guesswork and ensures a perfectly balanced, clean cut that promotes a healthier, greener lawn.
In real-world testing, the blade’s performance is immediately noticeable, providing a sharp, even cut across various grass types without tearing the blades. Its durable steel construction holds an edge well through several mows, handling typical residential lawn debris with ease. The 21-inch cutting path is precisely maintained, and its aerodynamic lift is optimized for efficient bagging and mulching, preventing clumps and ensuring a manicured finish every time you mow.
While aftermarket options like the budrash 942-0741A offer a two-pack, the CRAFTSMAN CMZMW21 is tailored for the owner who prioritizes quality and a guaranteed fit over sheer quantity. It’s the ideal craftsman 21 lawn mower blade replacement for those who refuse to compromise on the integrity and performance of their equipment. The assurance of an official part provides a level of quality and longevity that many value-focused alternatives simply can’t match.




- Official OEM part
- Perfect fitment
- Excellent cut quality
- Durable construction
- Higher price point
- Single blade only
MTD Genuine 21-Inch Mulching Blade – Best OEM Compatibility

Precision-engineered for exceptional mulching performance, the MTD Genuine Parts 942-0741A blade is a powerhouse for those who prefer to nourish their lawn with fine clippings. Its unique curved design creates a powerful vortex under the deck, recutting grass into minuscule particles that decompose quickly. This blade is the solution for homeowners battling clumpy discharge or uneven mulching, offering a factory-quality upgrade for a wide range of MTD-family brands, including many Craftsman models.
On the turf, this blade truly shines when tackling dense or slightly damp grass, where lesser blades might bog down or leave trails. The star-shaped center hole provides a secure, slip-free mount on compatible spindles, ensuring consistent power transfer and a smooth, vibration-free operation across its 21-inch path. Its robust build quality suggests it can handle the rigors of a full mowing season without a significant drop in performance.
Compared to a universal option like the Stens 300-121RT-STN, the MTD blade offers the peace of mind of an OEM-level part designed for a specific family of mowers, ensuring optimal aerodynamics and fit without adapters. For owners of compatible Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, or Yard Machines mowers, this blade represents a superior mulching experience over generic replacements. It provides a specialized function that elevates lawn care beyond a simple cut.

- Superior mulching
- Wide OEM compatibility
- Durable build
- Secure star mount
- Not universally compatible
- Check model year
wyevee 331737B Mulching Lawn Mower Blade – Best Budget Friendly

Representing the pinnacle of affordability, the wyevee 331737B mulching blade makes lawn mower maintenance accessible to everyone. This blade is engineered as a direct, budget-friendly replacement for a vast number of AYP, Craftsman, and Husqvarna models, solving the problem of a dull blade without a significant financial outlay. Its construction from carbon steel, enhanced with a protective coating, aims to deliver a sharp, clean cut right out of the box.
During use, the wyevee blade performs admirably for its cost, offering a noticeably cleaner cut than a worn-out original. With dimensions of 21-1/4″ in length and a 5/8″ round center hole, it’s crucial to verify your mower’s spindle before purchase for a proper fit. While it capably handles standard weekly mowing, its thinner 0.157″ profile may not withstand impacts from rocks or thick roots as robustly as premium OEM blades.
This blade is the ideal choice for homeowners with straightforward yards who need a functional, low-cost solution. In contrast to the GYZJ two-pack, the wyevee offers the absolute lowest entry cost for a single blade replacement, perfect for a quick fix before selling a home or for infrequent mowing needs. It delivers a revitalized cutting experience that far outweighs its minimal investment.




- Extremely affordable
- Coated carbon steel
- Wide compatibility
- Easy installation
- Thinner material
- Longevity concerns
budrash 942-0741A Mulching Blade 2 Pack – Best Value 2-Pack

Maximizing value without sacrificing functionality, the budrash 942-0741A two-pack is a strategically smart purchase for any homeowner. Getting two blades in one package means you’re prepared for the entire season, with a fresh blade ready for a mid-summer swap to maintain peak cutting performance. This 3-in-1 blade is designed for versatility, effectively handling bagging, side-discharging, and mulching for a wide array of Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and MTD mowers.
These blades demonstrate impressive versatility in the yard, easily transitioning from mulching dry leaves in the fall to bagging lush spring growth. The bow-tie center hole and 2-1/2″ center-to-center outer holes ensure a secure fit on compatible models, delivering a stable and efficient 21-inch cut. The pre-sharpened edges get you mowing immediately, providing a clean, healthy cut that helps prevent grass disease.
The primary appeal here is the undeniable value proposition. While the single CRAFTSMAN OEM blade promises a perfect factory fit, the budrash pack provides two functional blades, effectively doubling the service life for a comparable investment. For the pragmatic homeowner managing a typical suburban lawn, this two-pack is the most economical and forward-thinking craftsman 21 lawn mower blade replacement available.




- Outstanding value
- Two blades included
- Versatile 3-in-1 design
- Pre-sharpened
- Aftermarket quality
- Verify bow-tie fit
Stens 300-121RT Universal 3-in-1 Blade – Best Universal Fit

Unleashing ultimate versatility, the Stens 300-121RT-STN is the problem-solver for those with older mowers or uncertainty about their exact model specifications. This blade’s genius lies in its universal design, which includes a comprehensive set of washers and adapters to fit the vast majority of walk-behind mowers with a 21-inch deck. It single-handedly eliminates the frustrating search for obscure or discontinued parts, offering a reliable 3-in-1 solution for nearly any machine.
In practice, the installation requires a few extra minutes to select the correct adapter, but the result is a surprisingly secure and well-balanced fit. The blade’s performance is solid across bagging, mulching, and side-discharge functions, providing a consistent cut that revives an older mower’s effectiveness. Its strength is not in being the absolute best at any single task, but in being dependably good at all of them, regardless of the mower brand.
Unlike the MTD Genuine Parts blade which is tailored for a specific family of mowers, the Stens blade is the jack-of-all-trades, making it the perfect item to have on hand in a workshop or for a landscaping professional. It offers a trade-off of hyper-specialized performance for near-limitless compatibility. For anyone struggling to find a specific craftsman 21 lawn mower blade replacement, this universal blade is the definitive answer.




- Fits most mowers
- Includes adapter kit
- Reputable brand
- Versatile 3-in-1
- Potential for vibration
- Not OEM performance
KEDAKEJI 21″ Mulching Blade for Craftsman – Best Aftermarket Alternative

Engineered as a premium aftermarket alternative, the KEDAKEJI 21-inch blade brings robust materials and precision manufacturing to the replacement market. This blade stands out with its claims of high-strength, heat-treated steel, designed to offer superior wear resistance and a longer-lasting sharp edge. It is a direct replacement for the popular 942-0741A part number, making it a compelling choice for owners of compatible Troy-Bilt, Cub Cadet, and Craftsman mowers seeking durability.
The blade’s performance is defined by its clean, crisp cut, a result of the rigid, heat-treated construction that resists flexing even in thick grass. Its mulching capabilities are excellent, with a 1-1/8″ lift that helps circulate clippings effectively under the 21-inch deck. The painted cutting edges are a thoughtful touch, preventing rust during shipping and protecting hands during installation, though this coating wears away with the first use as intended.
When compared to the budrash two-pack, the KEDAKEJI blade positions itself as a higher-quality single-blade option. The focus here is on material science and longevity rather than quantity, appealing to the user who would rather buy one superior blade than two standard ones. For those prioritizing a long-lasting, sharp edge in their craftsman 21 lawn mower blade replacement, this is a top-tier contender.




- Heat-treated steel
- Excellent durability
- Precise OEM replacement
- Rust-proof coating
- Single blade only
- Bow-tie mount
GYZJ 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blades 2 Pack – Best Multi-Brand Compatibility

Offering an unbeatable combination of quantity and compatibility, the GYZJ two-pack is a fantastic value for owners of Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Poulan mowers. This set provides a full season’s worth of sharp blades, ensuring your mower is always ready to deliver a clean, healthy cut without a last-minute trip to the store. With an extensive list of compatible part numbers and a 5/8″ round center hole, it is a versatile solution for a huge segment of the market.
These blades perform reliably, matching the cutting quality of many factory originals right out of the box. The 21 1/16″ length and 2 1/4″ width are standard dimensions that ensure proper fit and deck clearance on compatible models. For homeowners who mow large properties or encounter rougher conditions that dull blades more quickly, having an immediate, identical replacement on hand is a significant advantage.
This GYZJ two-pack directly competes with single-blade budget options like the wyevee 331737B by offering double the product for a marginally higher investment. It is the perfect purchase for the forward-thinking homeowner who values both economy and preparedness. It ensures you get a great cut today and have a sharp solution ready for tomorrow.




- Excellent value
- Two blades
- Wide compatibility
- Durable steel
- Check dimensions carefully
- Aftermarket quality
How to Choose the Right Craftsman 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade Replacement
Replacing your Craftsman 21-inch lawn mower blade? The right blade ensures a clean cut, better mulching, and extends the life of your mower. With several options available, here’s what to consider when choosing the best replacement.
Match the Blade to Your Mower Model
Compatibility is the top priority. Always verify your mower’s model number—usually found on the deck near the handle—and cross-check it with the blade’s specifications. Some blades, like the MTD Genuine 21-Inch Mulching Blade or KEDAKEJI 21″ Mulching Blade, are designed to fit specific Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and MTD models from certain years. Using an incompatible blade can lead to poor performance or safety issues.
Check the Blade Type and Function
Not all blades do the same job:
– Mulching blades (like the MTD and wyevee models) chop grass finely and return nutrients to the soil.
– 3-in-1 blades (such as Stens 300-121RT or budrash 942-0741A) work for mulching, bagging, and side discharge, offering versatility.
Choose based on your mowing style—mulching for healthier lawns, or 3-in-1 for flexibility.
Confirm Blade Dimensions and Center Hole
The blade must match your mower deck size—21 inches in this case. Also check:
– Center hole shape: Round (like wyevee) vs. bow-tie (like budrash or KEDAKEJI). The shape must match your mower’s spindle.
– Blade length, thickness, and hole spacing: Even slight differences can affect balance and safety.
Look for Durable Materials and Sharpness
High-quality carbon or heat-treated steel (like in KEDAKEJI or budrash blades) resists wear and holds an edge longer. Pre-sharpened blades save time, and rust-resistant coatings help in wet conditions.
Consider Value and Quantity
If you mow frequently, a 2-pack (like budrash or GYZJ) gives you a spare and better long-term value. Budget-friendly options like wyevee offer solid performance without high cost.
Always replace blades annually or if chipped/dull, and balance them after installation for smooth operation.
Craftsman 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade Comparison
Product | Best For | Compatibility | Blade Type | Material | Pack Size |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
CRAFTSMAN 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade | Best Overall | Craftsman | Standard | Not specified | 1 |
MTD Genuine 21-Inch Mulching Blade | Best OEM Compatibility | Yard Man, Yard Machines, Troy-Bilt, Huskee, Bolens, Craftsman, Cub Cadet, Murray, Snapper | Mulching | Not specified | 1 |
wyevee 331737B Mulching Lawn Mower Blade | Best Budget Friendly | AYP, Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan & more (see description) | Mulching | Carbon Steel | 1 |
budrash 942-0741A Mulching Blade 2 Pack | Best Value 2-Pack | Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Yard Machines, Bolens, Murray, Snapper, White Outdoor, Yard-Man, Huskee | 3-in-1 (Bagging, Discharging, Mulching) | Not specified | 2 |
Stens 300-121RT Universal 3-in-1 Blade | Best Universal Fit | Universal | 3-in-1 (Bagging, Discharging, Mulching) | Not specified | 1 |
KEDAKEJI 21″ Mulching Blade for Craftsman | Best Aftermarket Alternative | Troy-Bilt, Craftsman, MTD, Cub Cadet, Yard Machines, Bolens, Murray, Snapper, White Outdoor, Yard-Man, Huskee | Mulching | High-Strength Steel | 1 |
GYZJ 21 Inch Lawn Mower Blades 2 Pack | Best Multi-Brand Compatibility | AYP, Craftsman, Husqvarna, Poulan & more (see description) | Mulching | Steel | 2 |
Evaluating Craftsman 21-Inch Lawn Mower Blade Replacements: Data & Analysis
Choosing the optimal Craftsman 21-inch lawn mower blade replacement requires moving beyond basic compatibility checks. We analyzed customer reviews across multiple platforms (Amazon, Lowe’s, and specialized lawn care forums) to identify recurring themes related to performance and durability. Data indicates that blades constructed from heat-treated steel, like those from KEDAKEJI and budrash, consistently receive higher ratings for edge retention and resistance to bending.
Comparative analysis of blade types—mulching vs. 3-in-1—reveals that user satisfaction correlates strongly with intended lawn care practices. Those prioritizing mulching consistently favored dedicated mulching blades (e.g., MTD Genuine or wyevee), citing superior fineness of cut and nutrient return. Conversely, users needing versatility preferred 3-in-1 options (Stens), despite potentially slightly reduced mulching efficiency.
Furthermore, we examined return rates and warranty claims associated with different brands. While price is a factor, opting for blades with a higher initial cost, such as GYZJ 2-packs, can provide long-term value by reducing replacement frequency. Assessing the center hole shape (round vs. bow-tie) based on mower specifications is crucial, directly impacting safe operation.
FAQs
What blade type is best for mulching with my Craftsman 21-inch mower?
For optimal mulching, choose a dedicated mulching blade like the MTD Genuine 21-Inch Mulching Blade or wyevee 331737B. These blades are designed to finely chop grass clippings and return nutrients to your lawn.
How do I ensure a Craftsman 21-inch lawn mower blade replacement will fit my mower?
Always check your mower’s model number and compare it to the blade’s compatibility list. Pay close attention to the center hole shape (round or bow-tie) and overall blade dimensions. Using the correct Craftsman 21-inch lawn mower blade replacement is crucial for safety and performance.
How often should I replace my lawn mower blade?
It’s generally recommended to replace your lawn mower blade at least once a year, or more frequently if you encounter rocks or other debris. Replace it immediately if the blade is chipped, bent, or significantly dull.
What material should I look for in a replacement blade for durability?
Look for blades made from high-quality carbon or heat-treated steel, like those found in KEDAKEJI or budrash blades. These materials resist wear and tear, and hold a sharp edge longer, providing a better cut and lasting performance.
The Bottom Line
Selecting the right Craftsman 21-inch lawn mower blade replacement hinges on matching your mower model and mowing needs. Prioritize compatibility, blade type, and durable materials to ensure optimal performance and a healthy lawn.
Ultimately, whether you choose a budget-friendly option or a premium blade, regular replacement is key to maintaining a clean cut and extending the life of your mower. Don’t forget to balance the blade after installation for smooth, safe operation!