The Black & Decker CMM1200 is a well-built cordless mulching mower that goes anywhere, but has limited cutting power. It is ideal for smaller lawns that are not near an electrical outlet.

At the high end of electric mower prices, the Black & Decker CMM1200 offers construction and features not found in lower-priced electric mowers, such as efficient mulching and longer operation between charges. However, it still is a cordless electric mower with all the limitations of today's batteries. If your lawn is smaller, the CMM1200 is a good choice -- especially if you use the mulching feature.

The cutting path is 19 inches, about the same as smaller gas-engine mowers, but the noise level is much lower. That's an especially good feature if you prefer to cut your lawn early in the day when others are sleeping in. You can have your lawn mowed and be on the golf course before others get their first cup of coffee.

Though the manufacturer states that the CMM1200 can cut up to one-third of an acre (nearly 15,000 square feet), we found that the practical limit is about 10,000 square feet (100 x 100) of medium-length lawn. Expect about half as much cutting power for heavy grass. As with all electric mowers, don't cut wet grass.

Because of its light weight and portability, it can cut on shallow inclines with relative ease. As with all cordless electric mowers, the major limitation is the battery. If this limitation doesn't bother you, the CMM1200 can last you for many years of easy mowing.

Starting this mower is easy with a single pushbutton. Controls are at the top of the handle for easy access and use. The handle easily folds down for storage when not in use.

What's really nice is that the cutting height can be reset from 1-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches with the touch of a lever. You don't have to go around to each wheel and make the adjustment.

When the bag is removed from the rear, a spring-loaded door closes off the cutting chamber and keeps cut grass under the deck so that it can be chopped up and deposited on the lawn as mulch. Less expensive electric mowers with this feature don't mulch as well. The rear clippings bag is included with this mower. A side chute is available as an option.

The 24-volt battery can recharge to 60 percent in about four hours. If fully discharged, plan on keeping the battery on the charger for up to 16 hours. Of course, if you're only mowing once a week, this isn't a limitation. Plan on buying a replacement battery every 3 to 5 years depending on use; larger lawn equipment retailers carry them. Current replacement battery cost is about $110.00.

Cordless electric lawn mowers have some limitations that gas mowers don't; however, they are quieter, more ecologically efficient, and easier to use. The Black & Decker CMM1200 is a solid, well-built battery-powered mower that can handle smaller lawns for many years with ease.


Pros: No gasoline nor electric cord needed, relatively quiet, well built
Cons: For smaller lawns only, more expensive than other electric mowers, limited battery power