Stihl announced late last week that it would devote over $60 million to the production of battery-powered gear at its Virginia Beach facility. This includes the production of blowers, pruners, trimmers, and multi-attachment tools through 2025. Another line of cordless equipment with which they’re intimately familiar is lawn mowers. Recently, our reviewers got their hands on the Stihl RMA 510 V – a direct descendant of the RMA 510 .
So, does it have anything to offer homeowners? Here’s what our team thought.
Editor’s Note: Looking for an upgrade this mowing season? Get our best lawn mower pick and find out who we think makes the best models in the industry.
Stihl RMA 510 V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Performance
Cutting Power
Driving the RMA 510 V is a brushless motor and Stihl’s AP 300 S battery. That, combined with a 20-inch cutting width and blade speeds of 3,200 RPM (2,800 RPM in ECO mode), should provide plenty of power for residential users with small to medium properties.
What’s more, the cut quality really impressed our reviewers. This mower bags and mulches like a champ, and the side discharge chute works equally well. During our team’s field tests, it easily handled a mixture of St. Augustine and Bahiagrass, delivering clean results. And, while it did stall on a particularly dense patch, we encountered no problems on the second pass.
- Deck width: 21 inches
- Cutting width: 20 inches
- Blade speed: 3200 RPM, 2800 RPM (ECO)
- Mowing speeds: 0.6 MPH and 2.8 MPH
- Mows up to 3,078 square feet per charge with AP 300 S battery
Runtime
It’s often tough to determine a precise runtime given the number of factors at play. For example, the type of grass you have, how tall it is, and even the contour of your property all have an effect.
On a single charge, Stihl tells us you can expect to mow up to 3,078 square feet using a 36V AP 300 S battery — roughly a 1/4 to 1/3 of an acre, depending on the aforementioned variables. This mower is only kitted with one battery, but there is a secondary inactive battery slot if you want to carry an extra battery onboard.
Mulching, Bagging, et. al.
This is a true 3-in-1 mower with mulching, bagging, and side discharge options. For obvious reasons, our reviewers prefer the side discharge over a rear design when not mulching or bagging.
Overall, the mower provided a decent clipping distribution when performing a weekly maintenance cut. But, as we mentioned earlier, it clogged up a few times in thicker spots.
ECO Mode
With Stihl’s ECO mode selected, the RMA 510 V operated at a lower RPM for situations requiring less power, increasing energy efficiency and runtime. To activate this mode, simply lift the battery cover and flip the switch to “ECO”.
Stihl RMA 510 V Self-Propelled Lawn Mower Design
- Model: Stihl RMA 510 V
- Power Source: Stihl AP300 S battery
- Weight: 63.9 lbs.
- Wheel Size: 8 in. (front), 10 in. (rear)
- Grass bag capacity: 19.8 gallons (2.1 bushels)
- Deck Material: Steel
Blade and Drive Controls
This model also features variable drive speeds that range from 0.6 MPH to 2.8 MPH. Our reviewers like the controls’ ergonomics. The speed lever and blade activation button are easy to reach. As such, making adjustments while mowing was a breeze.
However, as much as they liked the RMA 510 V, they say that Stihl has some improvements to make. For example, a foam pad covers the handle, but the metal presence bars are a little stiff, which is somewhat uncomfortable during extended use. It’s not critical, however, it is worth mentioning.
21-Inch Steel Deck
The RMA 510 V has a steel mowing deck for durability but still keeps a lightweight design, at 63.9 pounds bare. And, although it’s heavier, it’s also tougher.
To counter the weight, 10-inch rear wheels and 8-inch front ball-bearing wheels allow you to mow over rough terrain.
Deck Height Adjustment
As for cutting heights, this model provides a range of 1 to 3.9 inches, with seven positions in between. A single-point adjustment lever on the back right wheel makes those changes quick and easy.
| Deck Height Position | Cutting Height |
|---|---|
| 1 | 0.98 in. |
| 2 | 1.3 in. |
| 3 | 1.70 in |
| 4 | 2.05 in. |
| 5 | 2.48 in. |
| 6 | 2.95 in. |
| 7 | 3.43 in. |
| 8 | 3.94 in. |
Folding Handle
Stihl takes a slightly different approach to the RMA 510 V’s folding handles. To make things more compact, they included a second set of knobs in the middle of the handle. These loosen, enabling you to fold the upper handlebars 180-degrees.
You can also choose between three handlebar height positions to increase your comfort while you mow.
Stihl RMA 510 V Price
This mower retails for $499.99 bare and $799.99 as a kit, including an AP 300 S battery and an AL 300 charger. Stihl backs this tool with a 3-year warranty.
The Final Word
According to our reviewers, this mower performed very well in terms of both mulching and bagging. The side discharge could use a little work; but, nonetheless, the team gave the Stihl RMA 510 V a thumbs-up as a gas replacement for yard warriors with small lots.
