What type of turf are you cutting? If Bermuda, why would you want to catch the clippings? They provide an important source of fertilizer and OM. If you are using a reel on Bermuda, you should be cutting at least twice a week. Then the clippings are so small they are gone after a day or two.

I have used three or four manual reels, but never a Mclane (although I've had a couple of powered ones). By far the best is the Mascot, but I don't think they even offer a catcher.
http://www.cleanairgardening.com/mascot-reel-mower.html

I did a bit of research a few years ago on reel mowers. Never bought one since I wanted make sure it was going to work before I bought it (probably would have had to buy it via the mail, only a few models are available at stores). The Hudson Star Classic reel mower sells for over $1,100.00!

I do a lot of composting, so on some cuts with my gas Sears I bag the grass, other times I mulch it. It is getting harder to find 'clean' grass that neighbors throw out on yard waste collection day.

Might I suggest that if the clippings are more of a factor than the exercise, you might work out a deal with a neighborhood kid who cuts grass to find some natural stuff for you. I know a number of neighbors who pay a company to spray their yards. When I ask them what products are sprayed on their lawns, they have no idea. A recent article in Mother Earth News suggested that some of these products can be a problem for up to four years.

I would second the previous post asking if you have a tough grass like zoysia. If so, do you have a 7-blade mower that is often suggested for tough grasses?

Thanks for the feedback. I have a mixed lawn, mostly bermuda, with a "shade mix", etc. We have some dense shade that the bermuda just will not grow under. I am lucky to get to it even once a week. I am a stay at home dad, and my time is pretty full. If I get to it every week, I'm doing good. Since I am not able to mow as often as I would like (or should), the grass tends to not rot as fast and it creates dead spots. This is why I decided to start composting it. I started another compost pile specifically for the lawn, since I don't want to "infect" my garden with hard-to-get-rid-of bermuda. I screen the lawn compost down to -.25" and spread it to about .5" deep. Seems to be working pretty well. It also helps the soil, which is very poor where I am. And I'm starting to notice I don't need to water as much. Just trying to make sure the Mclane is going to work for what I need. I can't believe the one I have ever even came with a catcher.