hi Jeremy, In terms of the numbers of blades on a reel the difference isn't too noticeable between an 8 and a 10 blader but you should be able to tell the difference between a 6 or 8 blade and a 12 blade, assuming they both have had a good sharpen and set. One benefit of more blades is the cut will be better for longer. They are especially better with fine leaf turf like couch.