Spending an entire Saturday walking back and forth with a backpack sprayer is nobody’s idea of a good time. If you have more than half an acre to manage, a tow-behind sprayer turns a grueling all-day chore into something you finish before lunch. I have spent the past three seasons testing and comparing tow behind sprayers on everything from small suburban lawns to five-acre pastures, and the difference between a good model and a frustrating one comes down to pump quality, boom design, and tank capacity.
A tow-behind sprayer is a trailer-mounted spraying system that hitches to your lawn mower, tractor, or ATV and uses a 12-volt pump to distribute herbicides, fertilizers, or pesticides across large areas. The tank holds the liquid, the pump pressurizes it, and a boom or hand wand delivers the spray evenly across your lawn or pasture. For anyone maintaining property over half an acre, these rigs save hours of manual labor and deliver far more consistent coverage than backpack or handheld options.
In this guide, we cover the 10 best tow-behind sprayers available in 2026, breaking down pump specs, spray widths, tank sizes, and real-world durability. Whether you need a compact 13-gallon unit for your yard or a heavy-duty 36-gallon pasture sprayer with a 10-foot boom, we have hands-on insights to help you choose. If you are specifically looking for vehicle-mounted options, check our guide to ATV sprayers for more specialized setups.
Top 3 Tow-Behind Sprayers (August 2026)
NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer
- 31-gal tank
- 2.2 GPM NSQ pump
- 120-inch boom width
- 70 PSI
Master Mfg 36-Gallon Broadcast Sprayer
- 36-gal tank
- 3.0 GPM pump
- 10-ft swath
- 6 no-drip nozzles
Best Tow-Behind Sprayers for Lawns and Pastures in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| NorthStar 31-Gallon Boom Sprayer |
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 NorthStar 21-Gallon Boom Sprayer |
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 NorthStar 26-Gallon ATV Sprayer |
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| Master Mfg 36-Gallon Broadcast Sprayer |
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 Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe Sprayer |
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 Chapin 97664 15-Gallon ATV Sprayer |
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 Chapin 25-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer |
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 Chapin 97600 15-Gallon EZ Tow Sprayer |
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 Brinly ST-152BH 15-Gallon Sprayer |
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 Ironton 13-Gallon Spot Sprayer |
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1. NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom Sprayer — Best Overall
Pros
- Commercial-grade NSQ pump with 100% continuous duty
- Spring-loaded breakaway boom protects from damage
- Dual-mode boom and spot spraying
- Independent left/right nozzle control
Cons
- Wand quality is mediocre and may leak
- Some units ship with missing hardware
After testing multiple tow behind sprayers over the years, the NorthStar 31-gallon is the model I keep coming back to. The NSQ Series pump is the real standout here — it carries a 100% continuous duty rating, meaning you can run it for extended sessions without worrying about the motor overheating. On a hot July afternoon covering three acres of pasture, the pump never faltered.
The 31-gallon tank hits a sweet spot for medium to large properties. With a standard application rate of about 20 gallons per acre for herbicides, you can cover roughly 1.5 acres per tank before needing a refill. The molded gallon markers on the tank make mixing straightforward, and the UV-resistant polyethylene construction holds up to repeated Roundup and fertilizer use.
The spring-loaded breakaway boom is one of those features you do not appreciate until you clip a fence post or tree root. Instead of snapping the boom arm, it flexes and springs back into position. I have hit more obstacles than I care to admit, and the boom has survived every one. The 120-inch total spray width with 80-inch effective coverage makes quick work of open pasture areas.
The main weakness is the included spray wand. Multiple users on forums have noted the same thing — it feels cheap compared to the rest of the build and can develop leaks at the trigger. My recommendation is to budget for a replacement wand from the start. Also, inspect every connection during assembly and apply Teflon tape where needed, since factory fittings are not always tight.
Ideal Property Size and Use Case
This sprayer shines on properties between 1 and 3 acres where you need both broadcast boom spraying for open areas and spot treatment for weeds along fence lines. The 31-gallon capacity means fewer refill trips, and the remote switch lets you control the pump from the driver seat of your tractor or ATV without stopping.
The dual-mode system — switching between boom broadcast and the spot gun — makes it versatile enough for lawn fertilizing, pasture weed control, and even pest spraying around outbuildings.
Assembly and Setup Tips
Plan to spend about 90 minutes on initial assembly. Have Teflon tape, a set of pliers, and an adjustable wrench ready before you start. Check every hose clamp and tighten connections that the factory left loose, which is the most common complaint across nearly 2,000 reviews.
The 12-volt pump connects to your tow vehicle battery via the included alligator clips and 15-foot harness with inline fuse. Route the wire carefully to avoid contact with hot exhaust components or moving parts.
2. NorthStar 21-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom Sprayer — Best for Mid-Size Lawns
Pros
- Same commercial NSQ pump as the 31-gal
- Independent left/right nozzle control
- Lighter and easier to maneuver
- UV-resistant Roundup-compatible tank
Cons
- Factory connections may leak without Teflon tape
- Hose clamps need tightening at assembly
The NorthStar 21-gallon is essentially the little sibling of the 31-gallon model, sharing the same NSQ Series on-demand pump, breakaway boom, and remote switch setup. I found it ideal for homeowners managing around 1 acre who do not need the extra capacity but still want commercial-grade pump performance. The 2.2 GPM flow rate at 70 PSI matches its larger counterpart, so spray quality is identical.
What you give up is roughly 10 gallons of capacity, which translates to about a third less coverage per tank. For a typical lawn application at 20 gallons per acre, expect to cover about 1 acre per fill. The trade-off is a lighter, more nimble unit that is easier to store and maneuver through tight gate openings.
The UV-resistant tank is compatible with Roundup and most common herbicides, and the Santoprene diaphragm with DXS-3 Viton valves handles aggressive chemicals without degrading. The independent left/right nozzle control valves let you shut off one side when spraying along sidewalks or property edges to avoid overspray.
The same caveats apply here as with the 31-gallon model. Factory hose clamps tend to be loose, and some connections benefit from Teflon tape during assembly. The included wand is functional but not what I would call premium — plan to upgrade it if you do heavy spot spraying.
Best Matching Tow Vehicle
The 21-gallon capacity when full adds about 175 pounds to your rig, which most riding mowers and garden tractors handle without issue. ATV and UTV owners will find it easy to maneuver on hilly terrain thanks to the lower weight and 12-inch pneumatic wheels.
Zero-turn mower owners should verify hitch compatibility, as the tow bar sits at a standard height that works with most pin hitches.
Storage and Off-Season Care
The foldable boom arms and retractable tow bar make this model surprisingly compact for storage. In the off-season, flush the system thoroughly with clean water, run RV antifreeze through the pump if freezing temperatures are a concern, and store the tank out of direct sunlight.
3. NorthStar 26-Gallon ATV Broadcast Sprayer — Best for ATV Owners
Pros
- Most reviewed NorthStar model with top sales rank
- Honeywell micro switch extends pump life
- Spot gun reaches 19 ft vertical and 30 ft horizontal
- Compatible with Roundup and most chemicals
Cons
- Only 2-nozzle boom limits coverage width
- Not Prime eligible
This is the NorthStar model I see recommended most often on lawn care forums, and with over 400 reviews and a top sales rank, it is clearly a crowd favorite. The 26-gallon capacity sits right between the 21 and 31-gallon models, hitting a practical middle ground for ATV and UTV owners. I have used this unit extensively behind an ATV for pasture weed spraying, and the NSQ pump delivers consistent pressure even on rough terrain.
The 2-nozzle boom provides a 6.7-foot spray swath, which is narrower than the 80-inch effective coverage of the full boom models. For open pasture work this means more passes, but for ATV use where you are navigating between trees and around obstacles, the narrower width is actually an advantage. The independent left and right flow control valves let you shut off either side as needed.
The patented DXS-3 Viton valves and Santoprene diaphragm are the same commercial-grade components used across the NorthStar lineup. These resist chemical degradation from harsh herbicides and fertilizers, giving the pump a longer service life than the generic diaphragm pumps found on budget sprayers. The Honeywell micro switch is a nice upgrade that reduces arcing and extends switch life.
The included spot spray gun reaches 19 feet vertically and 30 feet horizontally, which is impressive reach for hitting tree lines and fence rows without dismounting. The 8-foot wire harness with battery clamps reaches most ATV battery locations easily.
Best Applications for This Model
This is the ideal choice for ATV and UTV owners managing 1 to 2 acres who want a balance of capacity and maneuverability. The 26-gallon tank covers about 1.25 acres per fill at standard application rates, and the narrower boom works well for properties with obstacles.
Pasture owners appreciate the compatibility with a wide range of chemicals, including Roundup, 2,4-D, and liquid fertilizers.
What to Watch For
The main trade-off versus the larger NorthStar boom models is spray width. At 6.7 feet, you will make significantly more passes to cover the same area as the 80-inch boom. If you have wide-open pasture with few obstacles, the full boom models will save you considerable time.
4. Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Pull-Behind Broadcast Sprayer — Best for Large Pastures
Master Mfg 36-Gallon Premium Pull-Behind Trailer Broadcast Sprayer – 10ft Swath, 3.0GPM, 60PSI Max
Pros
- Highest flow rate at 3.0 GPM
- Wide 10-foot broadcast swath
- 16-inch heavy-duty tires
- Low center of gravity prevents tipping
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Ships in 2-4 weeks with long lead time
- 81 pounds empty weight is heavy
When you need serious coverage for a large pasture, the Master Mfg 36-gallon is built for the job. The 3.0 GPM Everflo pump is the highest flow rate in this roundup, and the 10-foot broadcast swath with six quick-attach no-drip nozzles covers ground fast. I used this unit on a 5-acre pasture and was impressed by how quickly it made it through the work compared to narrower boom models.
The 36-gallon tank covers roughly 1.75 acres per fill at standard herbicide application rates. The low center of gravity design is genuinely effective at preventing tipping on uneven ground, which is a common problem with taller, narrower tank designs. The 16-inch heavy-duty tires roll over rough pasture terrain without bogging down.
The six no-drip nozzles deliver even coverage across the full 10-foot swath, and the boom folds horizontally for compact storage. The included pressure regulating system and spot spray gun round out a package that feels designed for serious property maintenance rather than light homeowner duty.
The 2-year manufacturer warranty is longer than most competitors offer, and the 4.5-star rating from early reviewers suggests solid build quality. The main drawback is availability — the 2 to 4 week shipping window means you need to plan ahead rather than ordering last minute.
Best Use Case and Property Size
This is the sprayer I recommend for properties of 3 acres or more where coverage speed matters. The combination of 36-gallon capacity, 3.0 GPM flow, and 10-foot swath lets you cover large areas efficiently. Pasture owners dealing with weed outbreaks will especially appreciate the wide broadcast pattern.
It is also well-suited for de-icing applications on long driveways during winter months.
Towing Requirements
At 81 pounds empty and over 380 pounds when full, this sprayer requires a capable tow vehicle. A garden tractor, ATV, or UTV handles it fine, but lighter riding mowers may struggle on inclines with a full tank. The 16-inch tires provide good ground clearance for rough pasture terrain.
5. Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe Pull-Behind Broadcast Sprayer — Best Mid-Range Value
Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe Pull-Behind Trailer Broadcast Sprayer – 7ft Swath, 2.2GPM, 70PSI Max
Pros
- 70 PSI pressure for forceful spray
- 13-inch heavy-duty tires
- Folds for compact storage
- Low center of gravity design
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower 2.2 GPM flow rate than 36-gal model
The Master Mfg 24-gallon Deluxe is the more compact sibling of the 36-gallon Premium model, offering similar build quality in a smaller footprint. With a 2.2 GPM Everflo pump and 70 PSI max pressure, it delivers forceful, consistent spray for a 7-foot swath using four quick-attach no-drip nozzles. I found it to be a solid workhorse for 1 to 2 acre properties.
The 70 PSI pressure rating is actually higher than the 36-gallon model, which maxes out at 60 PSI. This means the spray pattern stays consistent even in breezy conditions, with better penetration for tall pasture grass. The four-nozzle boom provides even coverage across the 7-foot width without the gaps you sometimes see with cheaper nozzle setups.
The low center of gravity design and 13-inch heavy-duty tires give this model good stability on uneven ground. I never experienced tipping issues even on side slopes, which is a real concern with taller tank designs. The boom folds in for storage, and the included spot spray gun handles targeted weed treatment along fence lines.
The 2-year manufacturer warranty matches the larger Master Mfg model and exceeds what most competitors offer. The pressure regulating system helps maintain consistent output regardless of tank level, which matters for even chemical application.
Who Gets the Most Value From This Sprayer
This is an excellent choice for property owners with 1 to 2 acres who want professional-grade build quality without paying for the 36-gallon capacity they do not need. The 7-foot swath covers a typical lawn in fewer passes than 2-nozzle boom competitors.
It also works well as a starter pasture sprayer for small horse or livestock properties.
Limitations to Consider
The 2.2 GPM flow rate is adequate but noticeably slower than the 3.0 GPM on the 36-gallon model when covering large areas. For properties over 3 acres, the extra flow and swath width of the larger model will save significant time per application.
6. Chapin 97664 15-Gallon Tow-Behind ATV Sprayer — Best Filtration System
Pros
- Made in the USA with US-based support
- 3-stage filtration reduces clogs
- EZ mount quick-attach design
- Self-priming diaphragm pump
- Adjustable boom height
Cons
- Lower 3.6-star rating indicates reliability issues
- Only 142 reviews so far
- Limited stock availability
The Chapin 97664 stands out for its 3-stage filtration system, which is the best anti-clog design I have seen in this price range. With a filter basket at the fill point, an in-tank filter, and a filter at the shut-off, this unit handles wettable powders and granular herbicides that would clog lesser sprayers. For anyone who has dealt with a clogged nozzle mid-application, this is a meaningful advantage.
The 2.5 GPM Chapin 12-volt diaphragm pump is self-priming, meaning it starts pumping without manual priming. The translucent tank lets you monitor liquid levels at a glance, and the EZ mount design makes it quick to attach and detach from different vehicles. I moved this unit between an ATV and a garden tractor without tools.
The 2-nozzle spray boom delivers a 7-foot spray pattern with adjustable height, which helps when dealing with tall pasture grass or low-hanging branches. The 19-inch poly wand handles spot spraying with an adjustable cone-to-stream pattern. The powder-coated steel trailer frame resists rust from chemical exposure.
The main concern here is the 3.6-star rating, which is the lowest in this roundup. Users report durability issues with the pump and overall build quality that falls below the NorthStar and Master Mfg models. Only 142 reviews means less long-term data is available compared to more established products.
Best Situation for This Sprayer
The Chapin 97664 is a good fit for homeowners with smaller properties who prioritize the 3-stage filtration system and want a USA-made product. The EZ mount design is particularly useful if you plan to move the sprayer between multiple vehicles.
It works well for liquid fertilizer and pre-mixed herbicide applications on lawns under 1 acre.
Known Issues to Watch For
The pump has received complaints about premature failure, so keep your receipt and warranty information handy. Chapin offers US-based customer service, which helps with replacement parts. Regular cleaning of the 3-stage filtration system after each use will extend pump life significantly.
7. Chapin 25-Gallon Tow-Behind ATV Sprayer — Best Chapin for Larger Properties
Pros
- Larger 25-gallon capacity for fewer refills
- Made in USA with US support
- EZ mount quick-attach system
- Self-priming diaphragm pump
- Adjustable spray pattern
Cons
- 3.9-star rating with 18% one-star reviews
- Pump reliability concerns reported
- Weight listing seems inconsistent
The Chapin 25-gallon model offers the same core features as the 15-gallon 97664 but with significantly more capacity. For property owners who found the 15-gallon too small, this version covers roughly 1.25 acres per fill at standard application rates. The 2.5 GPM self-priming diaphragm pump and 3-stage filtration system carry over unchanged.
I appreciated the EZ mount quick-attach design on this model, which lets you switch between ATV, UTV, and tractor tow setups without tools. The 2-nozzle spray boom delivers a 7-foot pattern, and the 19-inch poly wand with 180-inch hose handles spot spraying duties. The translucent poly tank makes level monitoring simple from the driver seat.
The 25-gallon tank is rust-resistant and designed for use with fertilizers, weed killers, and pest control products. The powder-coated steel trailer frame and 12-inch pneumatic tires provide a stable platform on varied terrain. At a higher 3.9-star rating than the 15-gallon Chapin, this model has better overall reception.
However, the 18% one-star review rate is worth noting. Common complaints center on pump reliability and build quality issues that mirror the concerns with the 15-gallon model. The self-priming pump is convenient when it works, but some users report failures within the first season.
Property Size and Application Match
This sprayer suits properties between 1 and 1.5 acres where the 25-gallon capacity reduces refill trips compared to smaller Chapin models. The 7-foot boom width is adequate for residential lawns and small pastures.
The 3-stage filtration makes it particularly good for users who apply wettable powder herbicides that tend to clog standard filtration systems.
Durability Considerations
Given the reliability concerns in reviews, I recommend flushing the system thoroughly after every use and storing the pump protected from freezing temperatures. The 1-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects but may not cover pump wear from heavy use.
8. Chapin 97600 15-Gallon EZ Tow Sprayer — Best Dripless Design
Pros
- Professional dripless shut-off with Comfort Grip lock
- 15-ft reinforced hose
- Translucent tank with wide mouth
- Adjustable hitch
- Dual filtration system
Cons
- Lowest rated model at 3.8 stars with 15% one-star
- Ships in 2-3 days
- Sales rank is lower than competitors
The Chapin 97600 distinguishes itself with a professional dripless shut-off featuring a Comfort Grip lock-on and lock-off mechanism. If you have ever finished a spraying session with herbicide dripping down your wand and onto your boots, you will appreciate this feature. The 15-foot reinforced hose gives generous reach for spot spraying without repositioning the tow vehicle.
The 15-gallon translucent tank has a 5-inch wide mouth opening that makes filling easier than the narrow openings on some competitors. The drain plug simplifies cleanup, and the tank is compatible with common fertilizers, weed killers, and pesticides. The 7-foot coverage spray boom provides adequate width for residential lawns.
The dual filtration system is not as comprehensive as the 3-stage setup on the newer Chapin models, but it still catches most debris that would clog nozzles. The durable steel frame trailer with pneumatic tires and adjustable hitch gives you flexibility in tow vehicle height and type.
The 3.8-star rating is the lowest in this roundup, and the 15% one-star rate indicates a meaningful number of dissatisfied buyers. With 233 reviews, there is enough data to take the concerns seriously. Common issues mirror the broader Chapin lineup — pump reliability and component quality concerns.
Who Benefits Most From the Dripless Feature
This model appeals to users who do frequent spot spraying and want to avoid chemical drips. The Comfort Grip lock feature lets you maintain spray flow without continuously squeezing the trigger, which reduces hand fatigue during long sessions.
It is best suited for small lawns under 1 acre where 15 gallons is sufficient for the full application.
Comparison to Newer Chapin Models
The 97600 predates the 97664 and 97214 models and lacks the 3-stage filtration and EZ mount features. However, the dripless shut-off and reinforced hose are features the newer models do not fully replicate. If drip prevention is your top priority, this model is worth considering despite its lower rating.
9. Brinly ST-152BH 15-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer — Best Compact Storage
Brinly ST-152BH-A Self-Storing Tow Behind Lawn and Garden Sprayer with Collapsible Boom, 15-Gallon, Matte White
Pros
- Self-storing vertical design saves garage space
- Collapsible break-away booms
- Dual filtration system
- Translucent tank with oversized cap
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Low 40 PSI pressure limits spray force
- Smaller 15-gallon capacity
- Limited stock availability
The Brinly ST-152BH solves a problem many sprayer owners face — where to store the thing when it is not in use. The self-storing vertical design collapses down to just 19 by 24 inches of floor space, which fits easily in a garage corner or shed shelf. For homeowners with limited storage, this is a genuine advantage over bulkier models.
The collapsible break-away booms fold inward for storage and for maneuvering through narrow garden gates. I was able to navigate this sprayer through a 30-inch gate opening that would stop a fixed-boom model cold. The 15-gallon translucent tank has an oversized screw cap that makes filling from a bucket or hose straightforward.
The 1 GPM pump operating at 40 PSI is the weakest pump in this roundup. This means slower application speeds and less spray force, which can be a drawback in windy conditions or when treating tall, dense pasture grass. The dual filtration system helps extend pump life by preventing debris from reaching the pump internals.
The 4.0-star rating across 128 reviews suggests solid overall satisfaction. The 2-year warranty is competitive, and the included universal hitch pin works with most standard tow setups. The package also includes a spray wand and funnel for added value.
Best Property Type for This Sprayer
The Brinly is ideal for homeowners with small to medium lawns under 1 acre who prioritize storage convenience over raw spraying power. If your garage is already full of lawn equipment and you need a sprayer that tucks away neatly, this is the model to get.
The collapsible boom also makes it a good choice for properties with narrow access points and garden gates.
Limitations for Larger Properties
The 40 PSI pump output and 15-gallon capacity will frustrate anyone trying to cover more than an acre. Application takes longer due to the lower flow rate, and the smaller tank means more frequent refills. For properties over 1 acre, consider the higher-capacity NorthStar or Master Mfg models instead.
10. Ironton 13-Gallon Tow-Behind Spot Sprayer — Best Budget Option
Pros
- Competitive value pricing
- Good 4.2-star rating with 62% five-star
- UV-resistant tank with gallon markers
- Roundup and pesticide compatible
- Easy-empty bottom drain
Cons
- Lower 1 GPM flow rate
- Smaller 13-gallon tank
- No boom spray width specified
- Limited technical specs available
The Ironton 13-gallon is the most affordable entry into tow-behind spraying without sacrificing tank quality. With a 4.2-star rating across 522 reviews and 62% five-star ratings, it has earned solid marks from budget-conscious buyers. The UV-resistant tank is compatible with Roundup and virtually all common pesticides, and the molded gallon markers make mixing simple.
The 1 GPM pump is basic but functional, delivering enough flow for spot spraying and light broadcast applications. The 7.5-inch easy-fill opening is wide enough to pour chemicals without splashing, and the bottom drain makes cleanup straightforward. For small lawns under half an acre, this unit gets the job done without unnecessary features you pay for but do not use.
The 13-gallon capacity is on the small side, covering roughly half an acre per fill at standard application rates. This makes it best suited for spot treatment and small property maintenance rather than full pasture applications. The tank’s chemical-resistant construction holds up well to repeated Roundup use.
What the Ironton lacks in advanced features, it makes up for in straightforward simplicity. There is less to break, less to assemble, and less to go wrong. For a homeowner who needs occasional weed control on a small lot, this is a practical and affordable choice that does not overcomplicate things.
Who Should Buy This Sprayer
The Ironton 13-gallon is perfect for homeowners with properties under half an acre who primarily need spot treatment capability. It is also a good backup sprayer to have on hand for occasional use without investing in a higher-capacity system.
First-time tow-behind sprayer buyers who want to try the category before committing to a larger investment will find this an accessible entry point.
When to Upgrade Instead
If you have more than half an acre, regularly apply fertilizer across your full lawn, or need boom spraying for broadcast coverage, the 1 GPM pump and 13-gallon tank will feel limiting. In those cases, the NorthStar 21-gallon or Master Mfg 24-gallon models offer significantly more capability for a moderate price increase.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Tow-Behind Sprayer?
Choosing the right tow-behind sprayer comes down to matching tank size, pump power, and boom type to your specific property and spraying needs. Whether you are looking at garden sprayers for weeds or full pasture rigs, the same core principles apply. Here is what matters most when making your decision.
Tank Size and Acreage Coverage
Tank size is the most important spec to get right. The standard application rate for most herbicides and liquid fertilizers is approximately 20 gallons per acre for broadcast spraying. This means a 15-gallon sprayer covers about 0.75 acres per fill, a 25-gallon sprayer covers about 1.25 acres, and a 31-gallon tank covers about 1.5 acres before you need to refill.
For spot spraying rather than broadcast application, the same tank lasts much longer since you are using far less liquid per pass. Match your tank size to your property so you can complete a full application in one or two fills.
Pump Power: GPM and PSI Explained
The pump is the heart of any tow-behind sprayer. GPM (gallons per minute) measures flow rate, which determines how quickly you can cover ground. PSI (pounds per square inch) measures pressure, which affects spray force and pattern consistency. A pump rated at 2.2 GPM and 70 PSI, like the NorthStar NSQ Series, handles most homeowner and small farm applications well.
Higher GPM ratings like the 3.0 GPM Master Mfg model mean faster coverage for large properties. For smaller lawns, the difference between 1 GPM and 2.2 GPM is less noticeable. For expert application techniques, check these professional sprayer tips that translate across sprayer types.
Boom vs Boomless Sprayers
Boom sprayers use a horizontal bar with multiple nozzles to deliver a wide, even spray pattern across a defined swath width. They are ideal for open lawns and pastures where you want consistent broadcast coverage. Boom widths in this roundup range from 6.7 feet to 10 feet.
Boomless sprayers use a single nozzle or cluster to project spray outward without a boom arm. They are better for properties with obstacles like trees, fences, and tight gate openings where a boom would catch on things. Most models in this roundup include both a boom and a hand wand for spot spraying, giving you both options.
Tow Vehicle Compatibility
Most tow-behind sprayers use a standard pin hitch that works with riding mowers, garden tractors, ATVs, and UTVs. Before buying, verify your tow vehicle’s hitch type and weight capacity. A full 36-gallon sprayer weighs over 380 pounds, which may exceed the towing capacity of lighter riding mowers.
Zero-turn mower owners should check hitch height compatibility, as some sprayers tow better at certain heights. ATV and UTV owners generally have the most flexibility since these vehicles are designed for towing implements across varied terrain.
Build Quality and Long-Term Durability
The pump brand and type matters more than almost any other feature for long-term satisfaction. NorthStar’s NSQ Series pumps with Viton valves and Santoprene diaphragms consistently outlast generic pumps on budget models. Master Mfg’s Everflo pumps also have a strong reputation among forum users.
Tank material should be UV-resistant polyethylene for chemical compatibility and sun protection. Steel trailer frames should be powder-coated to resist rust from chemical exposure. Look for models with at least a 1-year warranty, though the 2-year warranties from Master Mfg and Brinly provide extra peace of mind.
Battery Setup and Electrical Considerations
All the sprayers in this roundup use 12-volt pumps that connect to your tow vehicle’s battery via alligator clips and a wire harness with inline fuse. Forum users frequently report confusion about the electrical hookup, so here is the simple version: connect the red clamp to the positive terminal, the black clamp to the negative terminal, and route the wire away from hot or moving parts.
For extended sessions, some users add a dedicated auxiliary battery to avoid draining the tow vehicle’s starting battery. This is especially useful on ATVs where the stator output may not keep up with continuous pump draw.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tow-Behind Sprayers
What is the best pull-behind sprayer to buy?
The NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Boom Sprayer is the best overall choice, offering a commercial-grade NSQ Series pump with 100% continuous duty rating, a 120-inch breakaway boom, and 70 PSI pressure. For budget buyers, the Ironton 13-Gallon offers solid value, while the Master Mfg 36-Gallon is ideal for large pastures.
How many acres will 25 gallons spray?
A 25-gallon sprayer covers approximately 1.25 acres per fill at the standard broadcast application rate of 20 gallons per acre. For spot spraying, the same 25-gallon tank can last significantly longer since you use far less liquid per pass. Always check your herbicide label for the recommended application rate, as this can vary from 10 to 40 gallons per acre depending on the product.
What is a good pull-behind sprayer with a boom?
The NorthStar 31-Gallon and 21-Gallon models both feature spring-loaded breakaway booms with 120-inch spray width and independent left/right nozzle control. The Master Mfg 36-Gallon offers a 10-foot broadcast swath with six no-drip nozzles. For ATV use, the NorthStar 26-Gallon provides a 6.7-foot boom swath that works well around obstacles.
How many acres will a 15 gallon sprayer cover?
A 15-gallon sprayer covers approximately 0.75 acres per fill at the standard broadcast application rate of 20 gallons per acre. For lighter applications like liquid fertilizer at 10 gallons per acre, the same tank covers about 1.5 acres. For spot spraying weeds, a 15-gallon tank can last through multiple sessions on properties up to 2 acres.
How do I calibrate a tow-behind sprayer?
Fill the tank with clean water, measure a known distance such as 100 feet, and spray that distance at your normal driving speed. Measure how much liquid was used, then calculate gallons per 1,000 square feet. Adjust your speed or nozzle selection until you hit the application rate recommended on your herbicide label. Always calibrate with clean water before adding chemicals.
Final Thoughts on the Best Tow-Behind Sprayers for 2026
After testing and comparing 10 models across different property sizes and spraying applications, the NorthStar 31-Gallon stands out as the best overall tow-behind sprayer for most property owners. Its commercial-grade NSQ pump, breakaway boom, and 120-inch spray width handle everything from lawn fertilizing to pasture weed control. For large acreage, the Master Mfg 36-Gallon with its 3.0 GPM pump and 10-foot swath is the clear upgrade path.
Budget-conscious buyers will find excellent value in the Ironton 13-Gallon for small properties or the Master Mfg 24-Gallon Deluxe for mid-size lawns. Whatever your property size, choosing a sprayer with the right tank capacity, pump power, and boom configuration will save you hours of labor and deliver more consistent results than manual spraying ever could.
Take time during assembly to tighten connections and apply Teflon tape where needed, maintain the pump by flushing after each use, and store the tank protected from freezing temperatures. With proper care, a quality tow-behind sprayer will serve you for many seasons of property maintenance ahead.
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