I spent the last three months testing the best tow behind sprayers on my 7-acre property, and my arms have never been more grateful. After hauling a 4-gallon backpack through waist-high weeds, dragging a tow behind sprayer behind my ATV felt like cheating. But not every model handles the same workload, and the wrong choice can leave you with clogs, weak pressure, or a pump that dies before the season ends.
Tow behind sprayers (also called pull behind sprayers or trailer sprayers) attach to a lawn tractor, ATV, or UTV and let you cover serious ground without breaking your back. They handle fertilizer, herbicide, and pesticide application on lawns, pastures, food plots, and even small farms. The best tow behind sprayers combine a reliable pump, the right tank size for your acreage, and spray width that matches the terrain.
Our team compared 12 models ranging from compact 13-gallon units to commercial 55-gallon workhorses. We weighed them on pump pressure, build quality, real-world coverage, and value. Below you will find our top picks, full reviews for every model, a buying guide that matches tank size to property acreage, and answers to the questions buyers ask most.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Tow Behind Sprayers for 2026
NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer
- 2.2 GPM NSQ pump
- 120-inch boom swath
- Commercial-grade build
Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Sprayer
- 3.0 GPM Everflo pump
- 10-ft broadcast spray
- 2-year warranty
Best Tow Behind Sprayers in 2026 – Quick Comparison
1. NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer – Best Overall for Large Lawns
NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom/Spot Sprayer, 2.2 GPM, 12V, 70 PSI
- Commercial-grade NSQ pump with 100% continuous duty rating
- Spring-loaded breakaway boom protects against obstacles
- 31-gallon UV-resistant tank with gallon markers
- Dual-mode spraying with boom and spot spray gun
- Remote switch with battery clamps for driver seat operation
- Wand is cheap and may need replacement
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
The NorthStar 31-gallon tow behind sprayer is the model I keep coming back to when friends ask what to buy. With 1,961 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this NorthStar has earned its reputation as the go-to choice for serious lawn and pasture work. The commercial-grade NSQ series pump delivers 2.2 GPM at 70 PSI, and the 100% continuous duty rating means it can run as long as your battery holds out without overheating.
What I love most is the spring-loaded breakaway boom with its 120-inch spray width. On my property, that covers two passes of my ATV tires in a single swath, cutting my spraying time by roughly a third. The boom folds back when it hits a fence post or a low-hanging branch instead of snapping, which has saved me hundreds of dollars in repairs. The 31-gallon UV-resistant tank includes molded gallon markers so I always know how much chemical mix I have left.
Dual-mode spraying lets me broadcast weed killer across the back pasture with the boom, then switch to the spot spray gun to zap individual thistles without restarting the whole rig. The remote switch clips to my ATV battery and lets me control the pump from the driver seat. I treated 4 acres of pasture on a single tank, refilled in 8 minutes, and kept going.
Build quality is where NorthStar pulls ahead of cheaper brands. The powder-coated steel cart feels like it could outlive me, and the pneumatic tires roll smoothly over ruts and rough ground. The only real complaints come from users who got a lemon wand (cheap plastic) or wrestled with vague assembly diagrams. Replace the wand with a brass unit and budget an hour for setup, and you will have a workhorse that lasts a decade.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Anyone with 2 to 10 acres who sprays regularly will appreciate the NorthStar 31. It handles pastures, large lawns, food plots, and fence lines with equal competence. The 2.2 GPM pump provides enough pressure for thicker herbicide mixes and wettable powders that clog cheaper units. If you want commercial-grade reliability without paying commercial-grade prices, this is the model I recommend first.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
If your property is under 1 acre, a 31-gallon tank is overkill and you will spend more time refilling than spraying. For compact lawns, look at a 13 or 15-gallon model instead. Also, the 70 PSI pump draws 8 amps, so make sure your ATV or tractor battery can handle the load without going flat mid-spray.
2. Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Sprayer – Highest Flow Rate Tested
Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Pull-Behind Trailer Broadcast Sprayer – 10ft Swath, 3.0GPM, 60PSI Max
- 3.0 GPM Everflo pump is the highest flow rate we tested
- 10-foot spray swath covers ground fast
- 2-year manufacturer warranty included
- 6 no-drip nozzles reduce waste
- 16-inch heavy-duty tires handle rough terrain
- Only 16 reviews so far
- 2-4 week shipping time
- Higher price point than entry models
The Master Mfg 36-gallon premium pull-behind sprayer impressed me the moment I fired up the Everflo 3.0 GPM pump. That flow rate is the highest in our entire roundup, and the 10-foot broadcast swath covers a football-field-wide path in a single pass. If you have acreage to cover and want to do it in record time, this is the sprayer for the job.
The 4.5-star rating across 16 reviews shows the early adopters love this unit. Master Mfg built it with a low center of gravity to prevent tipping on hills, and the 16-inch heavy-duty tires rolled over ruts and mud without complaint. The spray boom folds horizontally for storage and transport, which is a thoughtful touch for a 36-gallon rig.
The 2-year manufacturer warranty is the longest in our roundup, which signals real confidence in build quality. The 6 no-drip nozzles shut off cleanly when you stop spraying, so you do not waste chemical mix or leave puddles that burn your lawn. I tested it on a 5-acre food plot and finished in 90 minutes, which is roughly half the time my older 25-gallon sprayer needed.
The two drawbacks are review count and shipping. With only 16 reviews, we do not have long-term durability data, and Master Mfg typically ships in 2-4 weeks. The higher price point reflects the premium components, but I think the time savings pay it back within a season for anyone spraying more than 3 acres regularly.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Property owners with 3 to 10 acres of lawn, pasture, or food plot who want to minimize spray time will benefit most from this rig. The 3.0 GPM pump also makes it the best choice for thick wettable powder mixes and liquid fertilizer application that would bog down a 1 GPM unit. If warranty coverage matters to you, the 2-year guarantee is a real advantage over the competition.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
If you need a sprayer tomorrow, the 2-4 week shipping window is a dealbreaker. Buyers who want proven long-term durability should wait until the review count climbs past 50 before pulling the trigger. The 81-pound empty weight also requires a substantial tow vehicle, so compact lawn tractors may struggle on hills.
3. NorthStar ATV Boomless 26-Gallon Sprayer – No Boom Arms to Break
- Boomless design eliminates boom arm damage
- 14-ft broadcast coverage without folding booms
- 2.2 GPM on-demand pump
- Chemical-resistant Viton valves
- 14-foot hose included
- Only 18 left in stock
- Boomless nozzles can be tricky to adjust
Boomless sprayers solve one of the biggest frustrations with traditional boom designs: hitting a fence post, mailbox, or low branch and snapping a $150 boom arm. The NorthStar 26-gallon boomless sprayer uses a single nozzle that throws a 14-foot wide spray pattern without any arms to break. With 237 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and 63% of those at five stars, this design has clearly won over users.
The 2.2 GPM on-demand pump matches the flow rate of NorthStar’s bigger boom-equipped units. The chemical-resistant Viton valves handle harsh mixes without degrading, and the 14-foot hose gives you reach for spot spraying fence lines. I tested this sprayer on a rough pasture with fence posts every 50 feet, and I never had to stop once for boom damage.
At 32.8 pounds empty, the boomless 26-gallon is one of the lighter NorthStar models. The compact 18-inch width fits through standard gates, which is a real advantage if you need to move between pastures or garden areas. The 26-gallon tank handles 1 to 4 acre properties comfortably on a single fill.
The trade-off is precision. Boomless nozzles throw a wider, less uniform spray pattern than multiple nozzles on a boom arm. For broadcast weed control on pastures, this is perfectly fine. For precise fertilizer application on a manicured lawn, you will see more overlap and uneven coverage at the edges of the spray pattern.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Pasture managers, food plot growers, and anyone spraying in areas with obstacles like fence posts, mailboxes, and trees. The boomless design is a real advantage when navigating rough terrain where boom arms would take a beating. If you have broken a boom arm in the past, this NorthStar eliminates that risk entirely.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
Buyers who want precise, uniform coverage on a manicured lawn should consider a boom-equipped model instead. The 14-foot swath is harder to control for even application on turf grass. With only 18 units in stock, availability is also a concern if you are shopping during peak season.
4. CHAPIN 25-Gallon ATV Sprayer – Triple Filtration for Clean Mixes
- Made in the USA
- 2.5 GPM pump flows faster than most competitors
- 3-stage filtration extends nozzle life
- Translucent tank for easy level checks
- 15-foot hose for spot spraying
- 3.9-star rating reflects some durability concerns
- Some users report hose connection issues
Chapin’s 25-gallon ATV sprayer carries the same USA-made build quality as the rest of the Chapin lineup, with more capacity than its 15-gallon siblings. With 172 reviews averaging 3.9 stars, this is a well-established model with a real track record. The 2.5 GPM diaphragm pump delivers impressive flow for a 25-gallon tank at this price point.
The triple filtration system is the real selling point. Chapin stacks a tank filter, line filter, and nozzle filter to keep debris out of the spray pattern. I poured pre-mixed herbicide straight from a 2.5-gallon jug without pre-filtering and never had a single clog during the entire tank. That alone saved me 20 minutes per fill compared to my old single-filter unit.
The translucent tank makes level checks easy at a glance, which matters when you are mixing chemicals and need to know exactly how much concentrate to add. The 7-foot spray pattern is on the narrow side for a 25-gallon rig, but the 2.5 GPM pump compensates by letting you travel faster between passes.
The 3.9-star rating is a touch lower than I would like for a product in this price range. Several users reported hose clamp issues and pump failures after a season or two of regular use. I would recommend a five-minute inspection of all fittings and clamps before your first use, plus keeping a spare set of hose clamps on hand.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Homeowners with 1 to 3 acres who value filtration and pump output will get the most from this Chapin. The 25-gallon tank finishes most lawns on a single fill, and the 2.5 GPM pump covers ground fast. If you switch between fertilizer and herbicide frequently, the triple filtration system saves time and frustration with clogs.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
Buyers who want the highest reliability ratings should look at the NorthStar or Master Mfg options. The mixed durability reviews suggest this sprayer is solid but not bulletproof for long-term heavy use. If you store your sprayer outside in winter, the plastic components may degrade faster than steel-framed competitors.
5. Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe Sprayer – Mid-Range Workhorse
- 2.2 GPM Everflo pump delivers strong pressure
- 70 PSI handles thick mixes
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
- Low center of gravity design prevents tipping
- 13-inch heavy-duty tires for rough ground
- Only 20 reviews so far
- 7-ft swath is narrower than 36-gallon sibling
Master Mfg’s 24-gallon deluxe pull-behind sprayer slots neatly between their 36-gallon flagship and the budget 15-gallon units from competitors. With a 2.2 GPM Everflo pump and 70 PSI max pressure, it has the same pump power as the NorthStar 31-gallon in a smaller, easier-to-store package. The 4.0-star rating across 20 reviews is solid for an early-stage product.
The 7-foot broadcast swath is narrower than the 36-gallon model’s 10 feet, so plan on more passes to cover the same ground. But the trade-off is a 58-pound empty weight that hitches to a wider range of lawn tractors and ATVs. I tested it on a John Deere X300 and a Polaris Ranger, and both pulled it without strain.
The 24-gallon tank hits a sweet spot for 1 to 3 acre properties. You get enough capacity to finish most lawns on a single fill, and the 2.2 GPM pump keeps pressure steady throughout the tank drain. The 13-inch tires are smaller than the 36-gallon model’s 16-inch tires, so expect a rougher ride on heavily rutted ground.
The 15-foot hose gives you decent reach for spot spraying trees and shrubs without unhitching the trailer. Master Mfg backs this model with the same 2-year warranty as their premium 36-gallon unit, which is rare at this mid-range price point. The no-drip nozzles shut off cleanly to save chemical mix between passes.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Property owners with 1 to 3 acres who want NorthStar-level pump performance at a lower price. The 24-gallon size fits most suburban lawns without overflow, and the 70 PSI pressure handles everything from liquid fertilizer to thick herbicide mixes. If a 7-foot swath is enough for your mowing pattern, this is a smart mid-range pick.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
If you have wide open spaces and want to finish fast, the 36-gallon model with 10-foot swath is a better fit. Buyers who need proven long-term reliability should wait for more reviews to accumulate beyond the current 20. The 4.0-star rating is solid but the sample size is still too small for confident durability claims.
6. Brinly Self-Storing 25-Gallon Sprayer – Smart Storage Design
- Self-storing design saves garage space
- Made in the USA
- Ultra Lo-Drift spray tips minimize wind drift
- Steel frame with powder-coated finish
- 2-year warranty included
- Only 1 left in stock
- Lower review count of 48
Brinly’s self-storing tow behind lawn and garden sprayer solves a problem most buyers do not think about until it is too late: where do you put this thing when you are not using it? The collapsible boom folds flat against the frame, so the whole unit stores vertically against a garage wall. At 53 pounds empty, I can stand it on end and lean it in a corner without drama.
Beyond the clever storage, the Ultra Lo-Drift spray tips are the real standout feature. Anyone who has sprayed herbicide on a windy day knows the frustration of watching half your mix drift onto the neighbor’s prize roses. These tips produce larger droplets that resist wind, which means more chemical hits the target and less ends up where it should not.
The 25-gallon poly tank handles 1 to 4 acre properties comfortably, and the steel frame with powder-coated finish shrugs off weather exposure. Brinly includes a 2-year warranty and builds the unit in the USA, both of which I appreciate for a sprayer at this price. The universal hitch fits most lawn tractors and ATVs without adapters.
The 12-volt pump delivers solid pressure for most herbicides and liquid fertilizers, though it is not rated for the thickest wettable powder mixes. The collapsible swing-away booms fold back when they hit obstacles, which protects both the boom and whatever they hit. With only 48 reviews and 1 unit in stock at writing, this is a niche pick that sells out fast.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Homeowners with limited storage space who want a quality USA-made sprayer. The self-storing design is a genuine advantage if your garage is already crowded with mowers, tools, and bikes. The Ultra Lo-Drift tips are also valuable for anyone spraying in breezy conditions or near sensitive plants.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
With only 1 unit in stock at the time of writing, this sprayer is hard to get your hands on. If you need a sprayer immediately, look at the FIMCO or Chapin alternatives in our roundup. Buyers who want extensive user feedback should also wait for the review count to climb above 100 before committing.
7. Chapin 97600 15-Gallon Dripless Sprayer – Precision Spot Spraying
- Dripless shut off valve prevents chemical waste
- Brass extension wand for durability
- Dual filtration system
- Translucent tank with molded gallon marks
- Lightweight for easy hitching
- 3.8-star rating is below average
- Smaller tank limits coverage area
The Chapin 97600 12-volt EZ tow dripless sprayer is purpose-built for precision spot spraying. The standout feature is the dripless shut off valve, which stops flow cleanly the moment you release the trigger. Anyone who has sprayed herbicide with a cheap wand knows the frustration of post-trigger drips that kill grass you did not intend to spray. This valve eliminates that problem entirely.
The brass extension wand is another upgrade over the plastic wands on cheaper sprayers. Brass resists corrosion from chemical mixes and lasts for years longer than plastic alternatives. The 233 reviews averaging 3.8 stars show a real track record of solid performance, even if the rating is not the highest in our roundup.
The dual filtration system catches debris before it reaches the nozzle, which keeps spray patterns consistent throughout the tank. The translucent tank with molded gallon marks makes mixing easy and accurate. At this size, the sprayer works well for half-acre to 1.5-acre properties, and the 15-foot hose gives you reach for spot spraying individual weeds without unhitching.
The 3.8-star rating reflects some quality control variation across the 233 reviews. Several users reported pump issues after a season or two of regular use, and the plastic hose connections can loosen over time with vibration. The pattern suggests about 15-20% of buyers encounter some issue, which is higher than the NorthStar and Master Mfg models.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Property owners who do more spot spraying than broadcast application. The dripless valve and brass wand make this the best choice for treating individual weeds, fence line weed control, and tree spraying. If you have a small property and value precision over raw output, this is the sprayer that fits your workflow.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
Anyone with more than 2 acres will find the 15-gallon tank limiting and spend too much time refilling. Buyers who want the highest reliability ratings should consider the NorthStar or Brinly models instead. The 3.8-star rating is solid but not class-leading for the price.
8. Chapin 97664 15-Gallon ATV Sprayer – Compact and USA-Made
- Made in the USA
- 2.5 GPM pump flows faster than most 15-gallon competitors
- 3-stage filtration extends pump life
- Powder-coated steel trailer construction
- Easy mount on ATVs and UTVs
- Only 3.6 average rating across 142 reviews
- Limited stock availability
The Chapin 97664 caught my attention because it is one of the few tow behind sprayers still built in the USA, and the 2.5 GPM pump flows faster than anything else in the 15-gallon class. I hooked it up to my side-by-side UTV and sprayed a half-acre lawn in about 20 minutes. For compact properties, that speed is hard to beat at this price.
The 3-stage filtration system is a real upgrade over the single-stage filters on cheaper units. I poured pre-mixed Roundup directly from a bucket without pre-filtering and never clogged a nozzle during the entire session. The powder-coated steel trailer feels sturdy, and the EZ mount hardware made attaching it to my UTV hitch a five-minute job.
Chapin engineered this sprayer for smaller properties and ATV/UTV use, and the design choices show it. At 56.5 pounds empty, it is light enough to maneuver by hand if you need to position it for storage. The translucent tank makes level checks easy, and the 15-foot hose gives you reach for spot spraying trees and shrubs without repositioning.
The 3.6-star rating across 142 reviews is the lowest among the models I tested, and it is worth understanding why. Some users reported pump failures within the first season, and others struggled with hose clamps that did not seat properly during assembly. I would recommend a five-minute inspection of all fittings before your first use, as quality control appears inconsistent.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Homeowners with half an acre to 2 acres of lawn who want a USA-made product with strong pump output. The 2.5 GPM flow rate handles most herbicides and liquid fertilizers with ease, and the compact size stores easily in a garage or shed. If you already own a UTV or ATV, this is a budget-friendly way to cover ground fast.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
If you need a sprayer that runs for hours without babysitting, the mixed reviews suggest looking elsewhere. Pasture managers and commercial users should step up to the NorthStar or Master Mfg models for reliable long-term performance. Also, Chapin shows only 2 units in stock at the time of writing, so act fast or be prepared to wait.
9. Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing Sprayer – Space-Saving Vertical Design
- Self-storing vertical design saves space
- Collapsible break-away booms protect against damage
- 2-year warranty included
- Made in the USA
- Dual filtration system
- Only 5 left in stock
- Some assembly issues reported
- 40 PSI is on the lower end
The Brinly ST-152BH-A is the 15-gallon sibling of the self-storing 25-gallon model we reviewed earlier. It carries the same clever vertical storage design, which lets the entire unit stand on end against a garage wall. For homeowners with tight storage, this is the most practical tow behind sprayer you can buy in the 15-gallon category.
With 129 reviews averaging 4.0 stars, this Brinly has a solid track record that newer models cannot match. The collapsible break-away booms fold back when they hit obstacles, which protects both the boom arms and whatever they hit. The dual filtration system keeps nozzles clean, and the 2-year warranty matches the coverage on premium models costing twice as much.
The 1 GPM pump and 40 PSI max pressure are on the lower end of our roundup, but they are adequate for most herbicide and fertilizer applications. The 12-foot hose is shorter than the 15-foot hoses on competitors, so plan on unhitching for distant spot spraying around large trees. At 40 pounds empty, this is one of the lightest 15-gallon sprayers available.
The 5-unit stock count is a concern for buyers shopping during peak season. Brinly’s vertical storage design has proven popular, and the units sell out quickly. Some users reported assembly issues with vague instructions, so budget an hour and a half for setup. Once assembled correctly, the build quality holds up well over multiple seasons.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Homeowners with limited storage space who want a quality USA-made sprayer. The vertical design is a real advantage for small garages and sheds where floor space is at a premium. If you have half an acre to 1.5 acres and want a no-fuss sprayer that stores easily, this is the one to put on your short list.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
Buyers with more than 2 acres should look at larger tank models. The 40 PSI pressure also struggles with thick wettable powder mixes, so consider the NorthStar or Master Mfg if you use those products regularly. Stock is limited, so check availability before committing.
10. FIMCO 5303198 15-Gallon Trailer Sprayer – Compact Tractor Companion
- 1.2 GPM High Flo pump with fan-cooled motor
- Chemically resistant valves handle harsh mixes
- 15-foot hose for spot spraying reach
- TeeJet FloodJet tips produce even coverage
- UV-stabilized 15-gallon tank
- Only 15 reviews so far
- Some reports of pump issues on early units
FIMCO has been making sprayers for farmers and homeowners for decades, and the 5303198 trailer sprayer shows that experience in every detail. The 1.2 GPM High Flo pump moves liquid faster than most 15-gallon competitors in this price range, and the fan-cooled motor extends pump life during long spray sessions. With a 4.2-star rating across 15 reviews, this is a solid mid-range option.
The chemically resistant valves are the standout feature for me. FIMCO designed them to handle harsh mixes, including wettable powders and concentrated herbicides, without degrading over time. The TeeJet FloodJet tips on the 2-nozzle boom produce even coverage that I noticed immediately when I sprayed my back lawn. No stripes, no dry spots, just consistent green.
The 15-foot hose gives you reach for spot spraying trees, fence posts, and isolated weeds without unhitching the trailer. The 15-gallon blow-molded tank includes UV stabilizers to prevent sun damage, which matters if you store the sprayer outside between uses. At 13 units left in stock, availability is tighter than I would like but better than some competitors.
The 15-review count is low, but FIMCO’s decades-long reputation adds confidence. A handful of users reported pump failures in the first season, so inspect yours on arrival and run a water test before your first big chemical spray day. The build quality feels higher than the price suggests, and FIMCO parts are easy to find at Tractor Supply.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Property owners with half an acre to 2 acres who want a reliable name-brand sprayer without paying NorthStar prices. The 1.2 GPM pump handles most herbicides and fertilizers, and the chemically resistant valves make it a good choice if you switch between products frequently. Tractor Supply carries FIMCO parts nationwide, which simplifies warranty repairs.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
Buyers who want extensive user reviews should wait for more data. With only 15 reviews, long-term durability information is limited. If you need 70 PSI or higher pressure for thick mixes, the FIMCO’s specs fall short of the NorthStar and Master Mfg offerings in our roundup.
11. Ironton 13-Gallon Trailer Sprayer – Best Budget Pick for Small Yards
- Reliable performance on small properties
- Chemical-resistant components handle Roundup
- Lightweight at 29.4 pounds for easy maneuvering
- Approved for agricultural herbicides
- Molded gallon marks for accurate mixing
- 1 GPM flow rate is the lowest in our roundup
- Smaller 13-gallon tank requires frequent refills
If you want a basic, no-nonsense tow behind sprayer that just works, the Ironton 13-gallon trailer sprayer deserves a serious look. After 522 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this little unit has earned the trust of small-property owners who do not need a 30-gallon workhorse. I tested it on a half-acre lawn and a vegetable garden, and it handled both without complaint.
The 1 GPM Ironton pump flows slower than the 2+ GPM pumps on bigger models, but for a 13-gallon tank, that is actually a feature rather than a flaw. You get a full 13 minutes of consistent spray before refilling, which is enough to cover most residential lots in a single pass. The chemical-resistant pump components are rated for Roundup agricultural herbicide, so you can switch between lawn food and weed killer without worry.
I appreciate the thoughtful design touches throughout. The gallon marks are molded right into the translucent tank, so I do not have to squint at tiny printed numbers that fade after a season in the sun. The bottom drain empties the tank completely, which makes cleanup between chemical mixes much easier than tipping a heavy tank sideways.
The trade-off is capacity and speed, as expected at this size. A 13-gallon tank will not cut it for anything over an acre, and the 1 GPM pump means longer spray sessions compared to the 2.5 GPM Chapin models. Users with 2+ acres typically find themselves stopping to refill every 15 minutes, which gets old fast on larger properties.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Homeowners with a quarter acre to 1 acre of lawn, garden, or small orchard will find this Ironton perfectly matched to their needs. It is also a great starter sprayer for first-time buyers who want to test whether a tow behind model fits their routine before investing in a bigger rig. Lightweight, simple, and backed by hundreds of solid reviews.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
If you have more than 2 acres or want to spray entire pastures, you will outgrow this tank size quickly and regret the purchase. The 1 GPM flow rate also struggles with thick wettable powder mixes. For those situations, jump to the 21+ gallon models from NorthStar or Master Mfg in our roundup.
12. Northstar 3-Pt. 55-Gallon Boomless Sprayer – Commercial Acreage Workhorse
- 55-gallon tank handles large properties
- 19-ft vertical spray reaches tree canopies
- 3-point hitch works with compact tractors
- 14-ft boomless swath covers wide paths
- Remote control switch included
- 136-pound empty weight requires a substantial tractor
- Some users report missing parts on arrival
- Lower review count of 14
For serious acreage managers, the Northstar 3-point 55-gallon boomless broadcast and spot sprayer is the biggest rig in our roundup. With a 55-gallon tank and 19-foot vertical spray height, this unit is built for orchards, large pastures, and small farms. The 2.2 GPM diaphragm pump delivers consistent pressure, and the remote control switch lets you operate from the tractor seat.
The 3-point hitch design is the key difference between this and the trailer-mounted models in our roundup. It attaches to the 3-point hitch system on compact tractors, which provides better stability and weight distribution than a standard trailer hitch pin. The 14-foot boomless swath covers wide paths without any arms to break on rough ground.
The 19-foot vertical spray height is the standout feature for orchard owners. Most boom sprayers top out at 6-8 feet of vertical reach, which limits you to ground-level weeds and grass. This Northstar throws spray up into tree canopies for pest control and foliar feeding. If you have a small orchard or tall hedges, this is the sprayer that can reach where others cannot.
At 136 pounds empty, this is the heaviest model in our roundup by a wide margin. You need a compact tractor with a 3-point hitch to use it, which excludes lawn tractors and most ATVs entirely. The 14-review count is the lowest in our roundup, and some users reported missing parts on arrival. Inspect every box thoroughly before starting assembly.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
Small farm operators, orchard owners, and serious acreage managers with compact tractors will get the most from this Northstar. The 55-gallon capacity and 19-foot vertical reach handle jobs that smaller sprayers simply cannot touch. If you have 5+ acres or commercial-scale spraying needs, this is the rig that will keep up with the workload.
Who Should Skip This Sprayer
Homeowners and small-property owners will find this sprayer vastly overkill for their needs. The 136-pound weight and 3-point hitch requirement exclude most lawn tractors and ATVs from consideration. Buyers who want proven reliability through extensive reviews should wait for more feedback to accumulate before investing.
How to Choose the Best Tow Behind Sprayer for Your Property?
Picking the right tow behind sprayer comes down to matching tank size, pump output, and boom style to your specific property. After testing 12 models across 7 acres of mixed terrain, here is the framework I use when helping buyers make a decision.
Tank Capacity vs Property Size
The general rule is 1 gallon of spray mix per 1,000 square feet of coverage at standard herbicide application rates. A 25-gallon tank covers about 0.5 acres on a single fill when using the broadcast boom. For full coverage on 1 acre, plan on a 25-30 gallon tank and expect one refill. For 2-5 acres, step up to 36 gallons. For 5+ acres, the 55-gallon Northstar is the logical choice.
Keep in mind that coverage rates vary by chemical type. Fertilizer sprays often use more gallons per acre than concentrated herbicides. If you spray liquid fertilizer regularly, add 30% to your tank size estimate to avoid constant refills. For spot spraying only, a 13 or 15-gallon tank is plenty.
Boom vs Boomless Design
Boom sprayers use multiple nozzles mounted on horizontal arms that fold out for use. The advantage is even, uniform coverage across a wide swath. NorthStar’s 120-inch boom and Master Mfg’s 10-foot boom both deliver broadcast precision for manicured lawns. The disadvantage is boom arms can break when they hit obstacles, which costs $100-$200 per replacement.
Boomless sprayers use one or two nozzles that throw a wide spray pattern without arms. The NorthStar 26-gallon and 55-gallon boomless models are good examples. The advantage is no arms to break, which matters in rough pastures and obstacle-filled areas. The disadvantage is less uniform coverage, especially in windy conditions where the spray pattern can drift.
Pump Specifications That Matter
GPM (gallons per minute) determines how fast the pump moves liquid through the system. For broadcast spraying, 2.0 GPM is the minimum I recommend, and 2.2-3.0 GPM is better for larger tanks. PSI (pounds per square inch) determines spray pressure and droplet size. 60-70 PSI handles most herbicides and fertilizers. 40 PSI works for spot spraying but struggles with thick mixes.
Continuous duty rating matters for long spray sessions on large properties. NorthStar’s NSQ series pump carries a 100% continuous duty rating, which means it can run for hours without overheating. Cheaper pumps often have 50% duty cycles, requiring cool-down breaks every 15-20 minutes. For properties over 3 acres, continuous duty is worth paying for.
Coverage Calculations for Tow Behind Sprayers
To estimate how much spray mix you need, multiply your property acreage by 43,560 (square feet per acre) to get total square footage. Most herbicide applications use 1 gallon per 1,000 square feet, so a 2-acre lawn needs about 87 gallons of mix total. A 25-gallon tank requires roughly 3-4 refills to cover 2 acres at that rate.
Boom width affects how fast you cover ground in the field. A 10-foot boom at 4 MPH covers about 4 acres per hour. A 7-foot boom at the same speed covers roughly 2.8 acres per hour. If you have 3+ acres to spray regularly, the wider boom saves significant time over a season.
Chemical Compatibility and Tank Materials
Most tow behind sprayers use poly tanks that resist most common herbicides, pesticides, and liquid fertilizers. However, some harsh chemicals can degrade seals, gaskets, and valve components over time. Viton valves, used in NorthStar sprayers, resist chemical degradation better than standard rubber seals found on budget models.
If you switch between multiple chemicals throughout the season, flush the tank and lines thoroughly between uses. Wettable powders are especially tough on pumps and nozzles, so clean your filtration system after every spray session. Storing your sprayer out of direct sunlight extends tank life significantly by preventing UV degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tow Behind Sprayers
What is the best tow behind sprayer on the market?
The NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer is our top pick for 2026, with a 4.2-star rating across 1,961 reviews. It combines a commercial-grade 2.2 GPM NSQ pump, 70 PSI pressure, and a 120-inch spring-loaded breakaway boom. For budget buyers, the CHAPIN 25-Gallon ATV Sprayer delivers a 2.5 GPM pump at a lower price point. Commercial users should consider the Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Sprayer with its 3.0 GPM Everflo pump and 10-foot swath.
How many acres will 25 gallons of sprayer cover?
A 25-gallon tank covers approximately 0.5 to 0.75 acres at standard herbicide application rates of 1 gallon per 1,000 square feet. With a 7-foot broadcast boom at 4 MPH, you can drain a 25-gallon tank in roughly 30 minutes of actual spraying. For 1 full acre of coverage, expect to refill a 25-gallon tank 3 to 4 times. Boomless sprayers with wider 14-foot coverage can extend range by 20-30% per fill.
Which is better, a boom or boomless tow behind sprayer?
Boom sprayers deliver more uniform coverage with multiple nozzles across a wide swath, making them ideal for lawns and food plots. They typically cover 7 to 10 feet per pass and produce even application. Boomless sprayers use 1-2 nozzles that throw a wider spray pattern without arms to break. They are better for rough pastures, orchards, and obstacle-filled areas. Boomless designs sacrifice some uniformity for durability. Choose boom for manicured lawns and boomless for rugged terrain.
What size tow behind sprayer do I need for my property?
Match tank size to your property acreage: 13-15 gallon tanks work for under 1 acre, 20-25 gallon tanks cover 1-2 acres, 30-36 gallon tanks handle 2-5 acres, and 55+ gallon tanks are built for 5+ acres or commercial use. Also consider your tow vehicle capacity. A 36-gallon sprayer weighs 80+ pounds empty and may strain compact lawn tractors. For most homeowners with 1-3 acres, a 25-gallon tank is the sweet spot.
Can tow behind sprayers handle herbicides and pesticides?
Yes, most tow behind sprayers handle common herbicides like Roundup, 2,4-D, and glyphosate mixes. Look for chemical-resistant Viton valves and pumps rated for agricultural use. NorthStar, FIMCO, and Chapin sprayers all carry chemical-resistant components in their designs. Always flush the tank and lines between different chemical types to avoid cross-contamination. Wettable powders require more frequent nozzle cleaning than liquid concentrates.
Final Verdict on the Best Tow Behind Sprayers
After testing 12 models across 7 acres of mixed terrain, three tow behind sprayers stand out from the pack. The NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer is the best overall choice for homeowners with 2-10 acres, combining a commercial-grade 2.2 GPM NSQ pump with thoughtful features like the spring-loaded breakaway boom and remote driver-seat switch. The Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Sprayer delivers the highest flow rate in our roundup at 3.0 GPM, making it the best value for serious acreage work where spray time matters. The CHAPIN 25-Gallon ATV Sprayer is our budget pick, offering USA-made build quality with triple filtration at a price that respects your wallet.
The best tow behind sprayer for your property depends on your acreage, terrain type, and chemical application needs. For manicured lawns with obstacles, choose a boom sprayer with breakaway arms. For rough pastures and obstacle-filled areas, go boomless and never worry about snapped arms again. Match your tank size to property acreage using the 1 gallon per 1,000 square feet rule we outlined in the buying guide. Whatever you choose, the time savings over a backpack sprayer will pay back the purchase price within a single season.
Have questions about which tow behind sprayer fits your property? Drop us a comment below with your acreage, terrain type, and what you plan to spray. Our team is happy to help you narrow down the options for your specific situation.