Kelsey, if you talk to greenkeepers at bowls clubs, I'm told the response will be that it mustn't actually touch, because if it touches the blades wear and become blunt. The newspaper test in the SB is correct - serious enthusiasts use tissue paper though - and this can be done without contact between reel and bedknife. The SB manual seems to be trying to offer a crude but easier adjustment standard for amateurs.
If you read the past threads here about adjusting reel-type mowers, it appears that provided the mower is in as-new condition, and the owner is careful, the proper standard can be achieved by Outdoorking members. The main problem that occurs is when the mower cutter clearance adjuster has been over-tightened in the past, the thread on the adjuster will have been stretched out of pitch, which makes it extremely difficult or impossible to adjust. The cure is to replace the adjuster if it shows signs of wear.
