How to Choose the Right California Trimmer Size (20” vs. 25”)

If you are ready to step up your lawn care, a California Trimmer is one of the best investments you can make. These professional reel mowers deliver a clean, precise cut that rotary mowers cannot match. But once you decide on the brand, there is another big question: should you choose the 20” or the 25” model?

At Shields Reels, we meet customers every week who are unsure which size is right for their yard. The truth is that both options are excellent, but each one is designed with a slightly different homeowner in mind. Let’s take a closer look at how they compare so you can make the best choice for your lawn.

The 20” California Trimmer

The 20” model is the classic California Trimmer that many homeowners start with. It is compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver, which makes it a great fit for smaller lawns or tighter spaces.

Some of the main advantages include:

• Better control in smaller areas: If you have trees, flower beds, or walkways, the 20” is easier to navigate around obstacles.

• Perfect for Bermuda and Zoysia lawns: These popular grasses in Charlotte and Lake Norman often benefit from frequent, precise cuts. The 20” allows you to mow often without it feeling like a chore.

• Lightweight and user-friendly: This size is easier to handle, even if you are new to reel mowers.

Homeowners who enjoy detail work or who have a lawn under 5,000 square feet often find the 20” to be the most practical choice.

The 25” California Trimmer

The 25” model is designed for efficiency. With five extra inches of coverage, it saves time and effort on larger properties.

The main benefits are:

• Fewer passes to cover your yard: A bigger reel means you spend less time mowing.

• Straighter lines and consistent results: The wider cut can give you that golf-course finish across large open spaces.

• Durable for heavy use: The 25” is often the choice for lawn enthusiasts who want professional results every time.

If you mow a lawn larger than 5,000 square feet, or if you want to cut down your mowing time, the 25” is worth considering.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between the two sizes comes down to how you use your mower and what your lawn looks like.

Ask yourself these questions:

• How big is your lawn? Smaller lawns are often better suited for the 20”, while larger lawns benefit from the 25”.

• Do you enjoy detail work, or do you want efficiency? The 20” is more flexible around curves and landscaping. The 25” shines in wide, open yards.

• How much time do you want to spend mowing each week? If you like to mow frequently but want shorter sessions, the 20” is a good fit. If you want to get it done quickly, the 25” is ideal.

Local Considerations in Charlotte and Lake Norman

North Carolina lawns present their own challenges. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia thrive here but require consistent mowing at low heights. Both the 20” and 25” California Trimmers can handle this, but your choice may depend on the layout of your property.

For example, many Lake Norman homes feature larger front yards where the 25” is a time saver. Meanwhile, smaller suburban lots in Charlotte often make the 20” easier to handle.

Why Buy from Shields Reels

No matter which size you choose, buying from Shields Reels gives you more than just a mower. As a veteran-owned business, we bring honesty, local expertise, and hands-on support to every customer.

We offer free demos so you can see both sizes in action before you decide. We also provide parts, accessories, and advice tailored to the unique needs of North Carolina lawns.

Final Thoughts

Both the 20” and 25” California Trimmers deliver the clean, precise cut that reel mower fans love. The decision really comes down to lawn size and personal preference.

If you want control and maneuverability, the 20” will serve you well. If you want efficiency and faster results, the 25” is the way to go.

Visit Shields Reels today to see the Catalyst Series in action. We’ll walk you through the features, show you how it works, and help you build a lawn care system that fits your goals.