Stihl is highly regarded in the OPE (Outdoor Power Equipment) industry for good reason. Their products are known for their excellent design, lightweight construction, and exceptional performance. In this article, we will share our thoughts on the Stihl RMA 460 battery-powered walk-behind lawn mower. We believe it is a promising addition to the Stihl lineup, especially as it is the first mower designed for use with their Lightning battery system.
What Stihl Has to Say About It
According to Brian Manke, Steele Corporation’s product manager, the Stihl RMA 460 is well-suited for homeowners with small to medium residential yards. Its battery-powered operation eliminates the need for gas or fuel mixing and reduces exhaust emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice for lawn care.
STIHL RMA 460 Key Features
The Stihl RMA 460 features a brushless motor and is compatible with Stihl AK 20 and AK 30 batteries. It has a cutting width of 19 inches, which breaks down to an actual cutting width of 18.1 inches. Stihl claims that the AK 20 battery can provide 29 minutes of runtime, covering approximately 2,475 square feet. With the AK 30 battery, the RMA 460 can handle 44 minutes of runtime per charge, equating to approximately 3,440 square feet. However, our own test results varied.
Additionally, the RMA 460 is equipped with a power adjustment feature that automatically adapts to different grass conditions. It reduces power consumption when mowing lighter grass to help preserve battery life. This highly efficient mower is designed to be maneuverable with 10-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front wheels, making it easy to navigate rough terrain. Users can choose from seven cutting height positions, ranging from 1-3/8 inches to 3-3/4 inches. The mower comes with a 15.85-gallon grass bag and offers the option to bag, mulch, or unload grass from the side.
Using the Stihl Walk-behind Lawn Mower
To put the Stihl RMA 460 to the test, we used it on our 3-acre Florida Bahia grass proving grounds. Bahia grass is known for its tolerance to heat and drought, making it an ideal choice for our testing. We initially mowed the grass using our Exmark Radius X-Series Zero Turn mower, which operates at a 5-inch cutting height. This allowed us to set the Stihl RMA 460 to a 3-inch deck height, ensuring a level playing field.
Battery and Runtime
For our testing, we used the Stihl AK30 battery, which has a capacity of 4.8Ah and an output of 187Wh. According to Stihl, this battery provides a runtime of 44 minutes. However, in our tests, the AK30 battery in the Stihl RMA 460 lasted for 16 minutes and 17 seconds. We also installed mulch plugs during the tests to collect all the clippings. It’s worth noting that using a side discharge option could potentially extend the runtime. We were able to mow approximately 1/10 of an acre, equivalent to 3,800 square feet, which is slightly more than Stihl’s claimed figure.
ECO Mode
The Stihl RMA 460 offers an ECO mode for longer runtime and energy savings. By switching on ECO mode, the brushless motor adjusts its power consumption based on the load. When mowing lighter grass, it reduces power to conserve battery life. Although we didn’t notice a significant difference in power consumption during our tests on consistent, thick, and high grass, the ECO mode can be beneficial for energy-conscious users.
Two Battery Slots – Double the Runtime?
The Stihl RMA 460 features two battery slots, allowing users to install two batteries for extended runtime. However, it’s important to note that only one battery will be actively used while the other acts as a placeholder. When the first battery depletes its charge, users must physically swap the batteries to continue operating the mower. While it would be more convenient to have automatic switching between batteries, that feature is not available.
Pushing and Handling
The Stihl RMA 460 is effortless to push, making it easy to maneuver around obstacles. The 10-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front wheels contribute to its smooth handling. Adjusting the cutting deck height is a simple process with just one lever, allowing for quick and easy changes. The handle can be folded down for storage by pulling the two spring pins. However, we did encounter a minor issue where the deck height adjustment handle and the fold handle pin could collide when the deck height is set to one of the middle positions. Additionally, the handle’s position in the #2 slot can cause wire harness fraying and prevent proper engagement into the slot.
STIHL RMA 460 Final Thoughts
As we stated at the beginning of this article, our expectations for the Stihl RMA 460 were optimistic. In the end, our optimism remains intact. This battery-operated walk-behind mower is impressively easy to maneuver and powerful enough for typical residential yards. The runtime may fall short compared to some other battery-powered mowers, but it is important to remember that the RMA 460 is designed for homeowners, and not for commercial use or large properties. This mower is an excellent choice for homeowners with small yards, particularly those living in urban areas where storage space may be limited. Storing the mower upright eliminates the concerns of fluid leaks.
If you are a commercial lawn care professional seeking a mower for professional use, the Stihl RMA 460 may not be the best tool for you. However, if you are a homeowner in a trendy neighborhood with a compact yard, this mower is perfectly suited to your needs. Runtime is unlikely to be an issue, and you can even showcase your commitment to eco-friendly practices by using this battery-powered solution.
STIHL RMA 460 Specifications
- Weight without batteries: 57 lbs.
- Weight with AK 30: 60.2 lbs.
- Mowing area with AK 20: Approx. 2,475 sq. ft.
- Mowing area with AK 30: Approx. 3,440 sq. ft.
- Cutting Height: 1-3/8″ – 3-3/4″
- Grass Catcher Capacity: 15.85 Gallons
- Cutting Width: 18.1″
- Run time with AK 20: 29 minutes
- Run time with AK 30: 44 minutes
- Dimensions: 54.7″ x 20.5″ x 33.5″
- MSRP: $299.95 (With AK 20 battery and charger: $429.95, With AK 30 battery and charger: $449.95)