Spreading seed and fertilizer on a large plot of land can be challenging if you don’t use the proper equipment. Instead of doing the job by hand, you may want to invest in an ATV spreader, which will save you a lot of time. A spreader is efficient and easy to use. Typically, it’s mounted on the back of an ATV, although some units can be placed in the front as well. Since there are so many options available, it can be tough choosing the right one. We look at the best ATV spreaders in the buying guide below.
The Best ATV Spreader
What we really like about the Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader is how versatile and easy it is to use. You just need to mount the spreader onto your ATV’s rear utility rack, and then you’re good to go. The poly hopper can hold up to 100 pounds of free-flowing material, such as fertilizer, feed, seed, and salt. This is the perfect ATV spreader for landscaping. The spreader has an enclosed 12-volt motor that is mounted inside the hopper as well as a manual feed gate regulator, so you can fully control the quantity of material used. The hopper is tough and durable, so you can feel confident that it can handle any weather condition. It’s rust-proof too, which extends its life even further. A rain cover is included that protects the spreader from the elements.
- Rust-Proof Hopper
- Hopper Can Take 100 lb Free-Flowing Material
- Manual Feed Gate Regulator
- Rain Cover Included
- Brand Buyers Products
- Model ATVS100
- Weight 17.35 lbs
The Moultrie ATV Food Plot Spreader is specifically designed for planting food plots. We included it on this list because it’s simple to use and can be connected to an ATV or truck battery using the alligator clips that are included in the package. There is a shut-off gate feature that allows you to regulate the amount of feed that is dispensed as well as a fast disconnect feature that allows you to detach the spreader quickly once you finish your work. The hopper has a 50-pound capacity and has been manufactured from durable plastic that is completely rust-proof. It has a special tapered design that allows you to fully unload the seed or fertilizer. The universal mounting brackets make it compatible with most ATV models.
- Compatible With Most ATVs
- Quick Release System For Fast Detaching
- 50 lb Capacity
- Heavy Duty Motor 12V
- Brand Moultrie
- Model MFHP53880
- Weight 20.1 lbs
If you’re looking for an an ATV spreader that has multiple uses, then the Buyers Products ATVS15A ATV All Purpose Broadcast Spreader will not let you down. This strong spreader can handle a large capacity. In fact, it holds 15 gallons of dry free-flowing material, and it even has a lid to protect your salt or feed from the elements. This ATV salt spreader can also be used for fertilizer, ice melt, feed and seed. Like many other options, this ATV spreader has a rust-proof design, so you don’t have to worry about the weather affecting the lifespan of the product.
An important feature of an ATV spreader is the ability to fully control the flow of the feed. With this particular product that is not a problem as it features an adjustable shut-off gate that will allow you to do just that. The spreader will cover up to 30 feet. This is made possible because it has a powerful 7-7/8-inch poly spinner and a 12-volt motor.
- 15 Gallon Capacity
- Quick Detach Mounting Bracket
- Adjustable Shut-Off Gate To Control Flow
- Heavy Duty Motor 12V
- Brand Buyers Products
- Model ATVS15A
- Weight 35.9 lbs
We like this ATV broadcast spreader for a number of reasons. It’s easy to use and features a broadcast adjustment lever that has a gauge that mounts to both sides of the spreader. Suitable for most ATVs, this spreader mounts onto either the front or the rear rack and there is an on/off switch that can be mounted onto the handlebars, which makes it convenient and easy to use. This ATV spreader has an impressive 80-pound load capacity with a width of 12 feet. You can tell this product has been made to last as the materials are tough and durable. This product comes with a rain cover for added protection, and the company provides a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
- Easy To Use Broadcast Spreader
- Mounts Onto Front Or Rear Of ATV
- Suitable For Most ATVs
- One Year Warranty
- Brand Field Tuff
- Model TRI Global Enterprises
- Weight 7.33 lbs
Whether it’s an ATV salt spreader or ATV seed spreader that you’re looking for, this Fimco model will be suitable for your needs. It’s a versatile product that can be used to spread a number of different materials, such as sand, salt, feed, dry granular materials, and ice melt. The spreader has a variable speed 12-volt motor, which enables you to fully adjust the spread from five to 45 feet. You can also adjust the amount of material that you wish to spread, giving you full control over your material. Another tough product, the hopper is made from strong poly that can often withstand most adverse weather conditions.
- Durable 12V Motor
- Fully Adjustable Spread
- Versatile
- Brand Fimco
- Model ATV-DMS-12V
- Weight 54.4 lbs
This mammoth ATV fertilizer spreader can take a full capacity of 150-pound making it one of the larger tank hoppers on the list. This is perfect for big jobs where you will need extra capacity to take more feed, seed, or fertilizer. This product promises to spread your product (sand, salt, grass, seed, or whatever else you need to spread) consistently and easily. It has a universal fit so will fit most ATVs with no problems at all. Controlling the flow rate will also not be a problem as there is an adjustable feed gate which is also simple to use. You can adjust the feed range and there is a frame mounted on/off switch which enables you to control the spreader without having to dismount your ATV. This is a durable spreader with a heavy duty motor and sealed lid to keep out moisture and therefore mold and mildew.
- Can Be Used With Most ATVs
- 150 lb Capacity
- Frame Mounted On/Off Switch
- Tough & Durable
- Brand Swisher
- Model 19920
- Weight 41 lbs
If you are looking for a larger UTV spreader then this manual feed gate spreader by Moultrie checks all the right boxes. The hopper is not only strong and durable, but it also has a special tapered design that allows for different sized seeds to be dispensed through a shut-off gate which has an adjustable sized opening. Long lasting too, the hopper has a rust-proof operation. No one wants to be fiddling around with machinery and equipment but luckily you won’t have to with this spreader as it has a quick-release system that enables you to quickly detach the spreader from your ATV. This is compatible with most ATV as it boasts a universal mounting bracket. Other notable features include a heavy-duty 12V motor and an abrasion-resistant deflection shield which is 60-percent larger than previous designs.
- Heavy Duty 12V Motor
- Universal Mounting Bracket
- Quick Release System
- Anti-Rust & Anti-Abrasion
- Brand Moultrie
- Model MSS-12721
- Weight 39.3 lbs
Best ATV Spreader Buying Guide & FAQ
You’ve seen our list of the top ATV spreaders, but maybe you haven’t made up your mind yet because you’re still not sure which model is best for your particular needs. In our buying guide below, we cover the advantages of buying an ATV spreader as well as the features you should consider when choosing one. We also answer some of your questions about the equipment, so you have all the facts before making a purchase.
Things to Consider When Buying an ATV Spreader
A good ATV spreader won’t necessarily need lots of fancy features. Quite the opposite actually, as a decent spreader will have a simple yet strong design, easy to use and not too expensive. Here are some things to consider:
- Size
Before you take the plunge to purchase an ATV spreader you will need to look at your requirements. Are you looking for a spreader to distribute feed or seed? Or perhaps you need it for fertilizer or ice-melt? For fertilizer then look at hoppers which have a capacity of around 80 lbs, for feed and seed (such as lawn mixes) then you might need a larger capacity as the seed density is lower than other materials. Check the capacity before you buy as you don’t want to buy something too small.
- Suitability
Does the ATV spreader have a universal mounting bracket? Most models will have this and be suitable for your particular ATV but this is something you will want to double-check. If you’re unsure then contact the manufacturer beforehand.
- Ease Of Use
Some spreaders feature a fast release system that allows you to dismount the spreader quickly. Another good feature to look out for is frame mounted on/off switches which enable the user to operate the spreader without having to get off the vehicle. It’s also vital to be able to fully adjust the flow of the feed and the width of the spread. Versatility is key here.
Benefits of ATV Spreaders
There are many benefits to owning an ATV spreader. Essentially, they make landscaping a lot easier and allow you to do a variety of different jobs. If you want to spread a consistent amount of seed into the ground, an ATV spreader can help you do it much easier than if you do so by hand.
Each ATV spreader has different advantages. A broadcast spreader, for example, is great for fertilizing large areas of land and is much quicker than a drop spreader, which is designed for lawn use.
Drop spreaders are also better if you need more control when dispersing feed, seed, or fertilizer. It helps if you want to focus on concentrated areas and intend on growing vegetables or grains. You can also use an ATV spreader to leave food for wildlife or disperse salt or ice melt in cold weather.
How To Install an ATV Spreader
If you purchase an ATV spreader that can be mounted onto your vehicle then you will need to double-check if it needs to be mounted onto the front or the back of the ATV. Most ATVs have mounting racks and this is usually where you will attach your spreader. When the spreaders are mounted onto the front of your vehicle they will usually require mounting plates and bolts to fix it into place. Generally speaking, the installation of ATV spreaders is very straightforward and can usually be fixed onto your vehicle quickly. You will need to refer to the model user guide for further details or contact the manufacturer for specific mounting information.
Best ATV Spreader FAQ:
ATV spreaders are versatile devices that are mounted onto your vehicles in order for you to spread seeds, feed, dry fertilizer, or grit/salt for ice melting. They are usually mounted onto the back of your ATV vehicle but can also be mounted onto the front for different types of spreading. The unit will consist of a ‘hopper’ which is essentially the container where you will add your free-flowing materials such as seed or fertilizer. There will also be a strong spinning disc that spreads the seeds and a motor (normally 12V) which operates this disc. You can usually control the flow rate and spread width to suit your particular needs.
To ensure that you are using the ATV spreader efficiently, you will need to calibrate the spreader. This will ensure that you are using the correct amount of fertilizer or whatever materials it is that you want to spread. You will first need to make a quick calculation to determine the amount of material that you will need to cover 200 sq ft. This will then need to be added to your hopper. The second step is to measure the width of the area that needs to be covered and calculate the distance you will need to cover 200 sq ft. When you have finished check the hopper to see if there is any material left inside. If there is then you will need to increase the flow rate or decrease so you can cover the full distance needed.
The size of the ATV spreader that you choose will depend entirely on your requirements. For example, if you are looking to buy a spreader to distribute grass seed on a small area of land then you won’t need to buy a model with the largest capacity. What materials will you be using and how large are the areas that you need to cover? If you have tons of space to cover then it’s definitely worth choosing an ATV spreader with a larger capacity (ie a larger hopper).
Our Top Pick
Our pick for the best ATV spreader is the Buyers Products ATVS100 ATV All-Purpose Broadcast Spreader, which is a great landscaping tool. One of the best things about this piece of equipment is that it’s simple to use. In addition, it holds as much as 100 pounds of seed, fertilizer, etc. This spreader has a 12-volt motor and a manual feed gate regulator, so you can decide how much seed you want to disperse. Overall, it’s a strong and durable option that will withstand a variety of weather conditions. Plus, it comes with a rain cover, so you can make sure it’s protected when it’s not in use.
Source:
- FINDING THE RIGHT ATV SPREADER – Mourningstar