Exploring
For most properties, the NorthStar 21-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer is the best pick — a strong pump and boom for even coverage. The NorthStar 31-Gallon is the best large-capacity option, and the Ironton 13-Gallon is the best compact value.
How We Picked
We compared tow-behind sprayers on tank size, pump output (GPM/PSI), boom coverage, and build for ATV and tractor use. Pair one with a broadcast spreader for a complete land-care kit — see our tow-behind spreaders and electric riding mowers guides.
1. Best Overall: NorthStar 21-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer
NorthStar Tow-Behind Boom & Spot Sprayer, 21-Gallon
NorthStar
- 21-gallon tank for real coverage
- Boom plus handheld spot spray wand
- On-demand 12V pump, solid PSI
- Durable, trusted NorthStar build
- Well-rated sprayer, 4.3★
Why we picked it: The NorthStar 21-gallon is the tow-behind sprayer that balances capacity and maneuverability — enough tank for meaningful coverage, a boom for broad passes plus a spot wand for targeted work, and a reliable on-demand 12V pump. Trusted build makes it the best overall tow-behind sprayer.
2. Best Large-Capacity: NorthStar 31-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer
NorthStar Tow-Behind Boom & Spot Sprayer, 31-Gallon
NorthStar
- Big 31-gallon tank, fewer refills
- Boom and spot-spray wand included
- On-demand 12V pump for steady PSI
- Ideal for large pasture and fields
- Well-rated large model, 4.3★
Why we picked it: For big pasture and field work, the NorthStar 31-gallon means fewer trips back to refill — a larger tank with the same dependable boom, spot wand, and on-demand pump as the 21-gallon. Best large-capacity tow-behind sprayer.
3. Best Value: Ironton 13-Gallon Tow-Behind Sprayer
Ironton Tow-Behind Broadcast & Spot Sprayer, 13-Gallon
Ironton
- Compact 13-gallon tank
- Broadcast and spot spray in one
- Lower price, easy to tow and store
- Great for smaller plots and yards
- Solid value rating, 4.2★
Why we picked it: The Ironton 13-gallon is the value choice for smaller properties — a compact tank that is easy to tow and store, with both broadcast and spot spraying built in. For yard-sized jobs and tighter budgets, it is the best value tow-behind sprayer.
Comparison Table
| Pick | Sprayer | Tank | Pump | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | NorthStar 21-Gal | 21 gal | 12V on-demand | All-around use |
| Best Large-Capacity | NorthStar 31-Gal | 31 gal | 12V on-demand | Large fields |
| Best Value | Ironton 13-Gal | 13 gal | 12V | Smaller plots |
What to Look For
Tank size. Bigger tanks (21–31 gal) cover more before refilling but weigh more when full — match capacity to your acreage and your tow vehicle’s capacity.
Pump output. Look at GPM and PSI: higher flow and pressure drive a wider boom and better spot-spray reach. On-demand 12V pumps hold steady pressure.
Boom vs spot. A boom covers wide swaths for pasture and fields; a handheld spot wand targets fence lines and individual weeds. The best units include both.
Build & hookup. Check the hitch fits your ATV, UTV, or tractor, and choose chemical-resistant tanks and fittings for long life with herbicides and fertilizers.
Bottom Line: Which Should You Buy?
For most people: the NorthStar 21-Gal. Balanced capacity, boom plus spot wand.
Biggest jobs: the NorthStar 31-Gal. 31-gallon tank, fewer refills.
On a budget: the Ironton 13-Gal. Compact, affordable, boom + spot.
Ready to buy?
Jump straight to our top picks on Amazon — prices shown at click-through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tow-behind sprayer in 2026?
The NorthStar 21-Gal is our best overall pick for 2026. The NorthStar 31-Gal and the Ironton 13-Gal cover the other cases this guide compares. See the comparison table below for specifications and owner ratings, then choose the one that matches your setup.
What can you use a tow-behind sprayer for?
Applying herbicides, pesticides, and liquid fertilizer across lawns, pasture, food plots, fence lines, and crops. The boom covers wide areas while the spot wand targets specific spots.
What can pull a tow-behind sprayer?
Most connect to ATVs, UTVs, and tractors via a hitch, running the pump off a 12V connection. Confirm your vehicle can tow the loaded weight and supply 12V power.
How does the pump get power?
Most tow-behind sprayers use a 12V on-demand pump that connects to your ATV or tractor battery, providing steady pressure to the boom and spot wand.
How big a tank do I need?
For yards and small plots, 13 gallons is plenty; for pasture and fields, 21–31 gallons reduces refills. Remember water weighs about 8 lb per gallon, so match it to your tow vehicle.
How do I maintain a tow-behind sprayer?
Flush the tank, pump, and lines with clean water after every use — especially after herbicides — and store it drained and out of freezing temperatures to protect the pump.
Related Guides
How We Research
Picks are based on manufacturer specifications, current Amazon availability, and patterns across verified owner reviews. Specs and included accessories vary by listing — confirm the current details at the retailer before buying.
Note: Flush the tank and pump with clean water after every use (especially after herbicides), match the loaded weight to your tow vehicle, and store it drained and above freezing to protect the pump.