10 Surprisingly Essential Farm Tools and Equipment

By the end of 2019, US agriculture is set to bring in $425 billion.

The success of any profitable farm is not only those who run it but also having the right equipment. But with so many options out there it can be difficult to know what you need.

Don’t worry! Read on for our 10 essential farm tools and equipment.

1. Pick-Up Truck 

A pick-up truck might be the best, most versatile investment you’ll make. They are indispensable for hauling things like feed, livestock, firewood, and building supplies. Though it is expensive, if kept in good condition it’ll last you decades.

If you combine with a basic topper, you can keep your hauled items dry or move small animals. You can move poultry, pigs, goats, and sheep with ease under a topper.

2. Livestock Trailer

If your farm has large livestock (cows, horses, etc.) you’ll need a livestock trailer. You might not use it that often, but having one when you need it will be a godsend. They’ll also last you a couple of decades with ease, so it’s a worthwhile long-term investment.

Having your own means that you don’t need to rush at the last minute to rent or borrow one in an emergency. You don’t want to get caught short. And in the meantime, you can use it for hauling things like hay, feed, and lumber. It might even make a handy removal van!

3. A Compact Tractor, ATV or UTV

A tractor or utility vehicle is a great, useful and practical investment. Compact tractors are very versatile. With the right attachments, you can use them to set fence posts, plow snow, bale hay and more.

Many models now come with LED lighting too. You can find out more about the benefits of LED lighting here.

On farms with under 60 acres, you’ll be able to make do with only getting a UTV. The large tires and it’s light frame make it gentle on the ground. For those with over 160 acres, having both a tractor and a UTV will be beneficial.

4. Manure Spreader

If you’re working with livestock, you’re going to need a manure spreader. In the pasture, piles of manure will build up. By spreading this in a thin layer, you will improve soil fertility. It also reduces the contamination of runoff water and will help keep flies to a smaller amount.

You can get a variety of small manure spreaders for the smaller farm. If you have a large amount of animals though, a tractor driven unit will be more efficient.

5. Handcart

This should be a priority, as the difference it makes is immeasurable. They are worth the investment, as they’re lightweight but will handle a big load with ease.

They’re sturdy and will remain steady on uneven ground or in bad weather like snow. Handcarts have a design that means they are easy on your back. You can even get some that will convert into a trailer for a small tractor or UTV.

6. Composter

Composting is great for the environment. It reduces the amount of waste going to incinerators and landfills. You get to feed what is good back into the plants and soil.

You can always make your own compost box, but you can get a variety of units for larger jobs. A tumbling unit is good for those will small farms or yards due to how easy and quick they are to use. They are also resistant to animals, like rodents or other pests.

7. Hand Tools

A must-have for any farm is a variety of hand tools like locking pliers. Use companies like Sears’ craftsman range or Snap-On (a range at most auto-parts stores) as they’ll last you generations. They’ll also come with a lifetime guarantee.
A starting list for hand tools should include:

• 25ft and 100ft tape measure
• Locking pliers
• Claw hammer
• Electricians pliers
• A ratchet
• Socket Set
• Adjustable wrenches in a variety of sizes
• A screwdriver set with both Phillips and regular heads.

8. Electric Tools

When it comes to farm construction, you will need two essential pieces of electrical kit – a circular saw and an electric drill/driver. Whether you want to build your own compost bin or attach that new barn door, these will be your best friend.

You’ll be using these tools on a myriad of projects, so it’s best that you invest for the long-term. It’s recommended you get the best, heavy-duty models that you can afford to buy. If you want to do a lot of construction and remodeling, you should also consider getting a heavy-duty reciprocating saw.

9. Fencing Tools

It’s safe to say that if you own a farm, you’ll be doing a lot of fencing work. As such, you want to make sure you have a fence-post driver in your arsenal. This is a heavy iron tube that goes over a T-post with handles on each side. You then use bring this up and hit it back down to drive the post into the ground.

You’ll want to make sure you have fence pliers. They are a specialty tool, but they aren’t that expensive to buy. If you’re using an electric fence, you also want to make sure you have a fence tester.

10. Gardening Tools

They might seem like the obvious, but a good quality flat spade and digging fork are essential. The spade will come in handy for any digging work and a fork is a versatile tool. It can be used to break up and turn the soil, harvest manure and generally clean up around the yard.

A broadfork might also be useful, as well as a hoe. If you want to take the backache out of weed control, try out a collinear hoe. This hoe lets you stand up while you are working out those pesky weeds.

Farm Tools and Equipment You Can’t Live Without

So there you have it! By equipping yourself with these 10 essential farm tools and equipment you’ll be setting yourself up for success.

Whether you are hauling produce, fixing up your fields or just doing up your farm, you can’t go wrong with these tools. You’ll have something to suit any job that might come up around the farm. And you won’t be caught short in an emergency!

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