Husqvarna 7021p Review

If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable gas-powered mower, you’ve probably come across the Husqvarna 7021P. This review will give you a comprehensive and unbiased analysis of this popular model to see if it’s the right fit for your lawn.

We’ll look at everything from its engine power and cutting performance to its ease of use and long-term durability. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what this mower does well and where it might fall short for your specific needs.

The Husqvarna 7021P is a 21-inch, 3-in-1 push mower with a 160cc Honda GCV160 engine. It’s designed for medium-sized lawns and offers mulching, bagging, and side-discharge capabilities. It sits in a competitive price range, aiming to deliver premium features without a premium price tag.

Key Features and Specifications

Let’s break down the core components that make up this machine.

Engine: 160cc Honda GCV160 OHC engine. Honda engines are renowned for their reliability and easy starting.
Cutting Width: 21 inches, which is standard for most residential push mowers.
Cutting Options: 3-in-1 design (mulch, bag, side-discharge). The 2.1 bushel rear bag is a decent size.
Deck: Steel deck with a 7-position single-lever height adjustment.
Wheels: 7-inch front and 8-inch rear wheels for better maneuverability over bumps.
Weight: Approximately 65 lbs, which is fairly average for a mower in this class.

Assembly and First Impressions

Out of the box, the mower requires some assembly. It’s not overly complicated, but you’ll need to set aside about 30-45 minutes.

Attach the handlebar to the deck using the provided bolts and hardware. A wrench and screwdriver are needed.
Secure the control cable to the handlebar. This is crucial for the engine stop function.
Install the rear bagger assembly and the side-discharge chute if you’re not mulching right away.
Add the recommended oil and gasoline (neither are included).

The build quality feels solid. The steel deck is robust, and the components fit together well. The instructions are generally clear, though some steps could have better diagrams.

Performance on the Lawn

This is where the mower really proves its worth—or doesn’t. Here’s how the 7021P handles real mowing conditions.

Starting and Power

The Honda engine is a star performer. It typically starts on the first or second pull, even after sitting for a while. The 160cc engine provides ample power for thick grass and mild weeds. It rarely bogs down unless you’re trying to cut very wet, overgrown turf.

Cutting Quality and Evenness

The cutting performance is very good. The single blade provides a clean, even cut when sharp. The seven height adjustments are easy to change with one lever, letting you quickly adapt to different areas of your yard.

Mulching: Effectively chops clippings into fine pieces for a healthy lawn feed. Works best when you mow regularly.
Bagging: The bag fills evenly and is simple to detach and empty. It’s capacity is sufficient for most passes.
Side-Discharge: Useful for cutting very tall grass before you bag or mulch.

Maneuverability and Ease of Use

The mower is relatively easy to push on flat ground. The larger rear wheels help a lot with transitions over sidewalks and garden edges. It can feel a bit heavy on slopes or when the bag is full. The handle is comfortable and folds down for compact storage, which is a nice touch.

Maintenance and Durability

Regular maintenance is straightforward, which extends the mowers life significantly.

Air Filter: Check and clean the foam filter every few uses. Replace it annually.
Oil Changes: Change the oil after the first 5 hours of use, and then every season or 50 hours.
Spark Plug: Inspect and gap it each season, replace as needed.
Blade Sharpening: Sharpen the blade at least twice a mowing season for a clean cut.

The steel deck resists rust well, and the overall construction suggests it will last for many years with proper care. Some users have noted that the plastic components, like the bagger, can become brittle over many seasons in the sun.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here are the clear advantages and drawbacks.

Pros:

Reliable and powerful Honda engine with easy starting.
Excellent, even cutting results across all three functions.
Simple single-lever height adjustment.
Good value for the feature set offered.
Folding handle saves storage space.

Cons:

Assembly instructions could be more intuitive for beginners.
On the heavier side, which can be tiring on hilly lawns.
The wheels are not ball-bearing, so they may not roll as smoothly as premium models over time.
Some vibration is noticeable through the handle, though it’s not excessive.

Who Is This Mower Best For?

The Husqvarna 7021P is an ideal choice for someone with a small to medium-sized, relatively flat lawn who wants a no-fuss gas mower. It’s perfect if you value a dependable engine and a clean cut over ultra-lightweight maneuverability. It’s also a great fit for gardeners who like to switch between mulching and bagging based on the season.

It might not be the best choice if your yard has steep hills or many obstacles, where a lighter self-propelled model would be easier. Also, if you have a very small lawn, an electric mower could be less hassle.

Final Verdict

The Husqvarna 7021P delivers exactly what it promises: a dependable, powerful cut with versatile options. Its main strength is the proven Honda engine, which takes the worry out of starting and provides consistent power. While it has some minor drawbacks in weight and assembly, its overall performance and durability make it a standout in its price range. For many homeowners, it represents a smart investment for a healthy, well-maintained lawn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does the Husqvarna 7021P compare to a similar Toro or Craftsman mower?

The 7021P often competes directly with models like the Toro Recycler or Craftsman M105. The main difference usually comes down to the engine brand and deck design. The Husqvarna’s Honda engine is a major selling point for many, as it’s often considered slightly more reliable than some Briggs & Stratton variants used in competitors.

Is the Husqvarna 7021P easy to push?

On flat terrain, it pushes easily for a gas mower. Its weight becomes more apparent on hills. If you have a sloped yard, you might want to consider a self-propelled model instead for greater comfort.

Can I leave the mulching plug in all the time?

Technically, yes. The mulching plug is designed to be inserted when you want to mulch. If you leave it in while trying to bag, the clippings won’t reach the bag. For side-discharge, you must remove it. It’s best to use the plug only for mulching.

What type of oil does the Husqvarna 7021P use?

It uses standard SAE 30 motor oil for temperatures above 40°F. For colder weather, check your manual for a multi-viscosity recommendation. Always use fresh, clean gasoline, preferably with a stabilizer if you store it for more than a month.

Where is the Husqvarna 7021P manufactured?

Husqvarna manufactures its lawn equipment in various global facilities. The 7021P is typically assembled in the United States from globally sourced parts, including the Japanese Honda engine.