5 Best Boomless Utv Sprayers For Spraying Around Fences on Small Acreage
Tackle fence line spraying on small acreage with a boomless UTV sprayer. We review the top 5 models, comparing key features for precise weed control.
There’s nothing more frustrating than watching thistle and brush creep in along a perfectly good fence line. You can’t get the mower close enough without risking posts and wire, and a handheld sprayer on a few acres is a recipe for an aching back. This is exactly where a UTV-mounted boomless sprayer proves its worth, turning a dreaded chore into a quick and efficient task.
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Why Boomless Sprayers Excel for Fence Lines
The biggest headache with traditional sprayers is the boom itself. Those long, rigid arms are fantastic for open, level fields, but they are a liability along the rugged, uneven terrain of a fence line. They snag on posts, catch on low-hanging branches, and break when you inevitably misjudge a turn near a tree.
Boomless sprayers solve this problem elegantly. Instead of a wide physical boom, they use one or more specially designed nozzles that project a wide, fan-shaped spray pattern, often covering a swath of 30 feet or more. This design means there is nothing to snag or break. You can drive right alongside your fence, getting excellent coverage right up to the posts and under the wire without ever leaving your seat.
The primary tradeoff is wind drift. Because the droplets are projected further, they are more susceptible to being carried by the wind. This isn’t a deal-breaker; it just means you have to be smart about when you spray. Early, calm mornings are your best friend when using a boomless system.
Key Features for Your UTV Boomless Sprayer
When you start comparing models, the specs can feel overwhelming. The key is to focus on the features that actually matter for fence line and small-acreage work. Don’t get sold on features you’ll never use.
Think about these core components:
- Tank Size: For small acreage, a 25 to 40-gallon tank is the sweet spot. A 25-gallon unit is lighter on your UTV’s suspension and easier to handle, while a 40-gallon tank drastically cuts down on refill trips if you’re covering several acres of fence.
- Pump & Pressure: Look for a quality 12-volt diaphragm pump. They handle a variety of chemicals well and are durable. Pay attention to the GPM (gallons per minute) and PSI (pounds per square inch) ratings, as higher ratings generally mean a wider and more forceful spray pattern. A pressure regulator is a fantastic feature for dialing in your application rate.
- Handgun Wand: Do not overlook this. A good spray gun with at least 15 feet of hose is non-negotiable. It’s what you’ll use for spot-treating that stubborn patch of poison ivy on a tree or getting into tight corners around gate posts where the main nozzle can’t reach.
Fimco 25-Gallon Sprayer: A Reliable Workhorse
If you want a straightforward, no-nonsense tool that gets the job done, the Fimco 25-gallon sprayer is a classic for a reason. It’s built on a simple premise: a durable tank, a reliable 12-volt pump, and a basic boomless nozzle assembly. There are no complex electronics or unnecessary frills to break in the field.
This sprayer is ideal for the hobby farmer with one to five acres to manage. The 25-gallon capacity is enough to cover a significant length of fence line without constantly running back for refills, yet it’s light enough that it won’t overly tax the suspension of most mid-size UTVs. It’s the definition of a workhorse.
The included handgun is perfectly adequate for spot treatments, and the entire system is easy to set up and operate. Think of this as the trusty hammer in your toolbox—it does one job, and it does it well, year after year.
NorthStar 26-Gallon for Precision Spraying
For those who want more control and are willing to invest in longevity, the NorthStar sprayers are a significant step up. While only one gallon larger in capacity than the Fimco, the difference is in the components. NorthStar often uses their proprietary NSQ Series pumps, which are engineered for higher performance and better resistance to harsh chemicals.
The real advantage of a NorthStar unit is the focus on precision. Many models come standard with a pressure gauge and a regulator valve. This allows you to fine-tune your spray pressure, which is critical for managing drift and ensuring you’re applying chemicals at the rate specified on the label. This isn’t just about being efficient; it’s about being responsible and effective.
This sprayer is for the operator who understands that consistent pressure equals a consistent droplet size and a more predictable spray pattern. If you’re using more specialized or expensive herbicides, that level of control pays for itself by ensuring the product goes exactly where you want it, at the right rate.
Workhorse 40-Gallon for Larger Acreage Needs
When you move into the 5- to 15-acre range, refill time becomes a major factor. Making multiple trips back to the barn to mix another 25-gallon batch can turn a morning job into an all-day affair. The Workhorse 40-gallon sprayer directly addresses this pain point with its larger capacity.
The benefit is obvious: more time spraying, less time mixing. You can cover substantially more ground in a single run, which is a massive win for time-crunched hobby farmers. These units typically come with robust pumps capable of handling the larger volume and maintaining a wide spray swath.
However, you must consider the weight. Water weighs about 8.34 pounds per gallon, so a full 40-gallon tank plus the sprayer itself is pushing 350 pounds. Make sure your UTV’s payload capacity and suspension are up to the task. This is a fantastic tool for efficiency, but only if your machine can handle the load safely.
Master Manufacturing Sprayer: Versatile Choice
Not every spraying task is a simple, straight fence line. Sometimes you need to spray a narrow trail, a wider food plot, and then a fence line, all in the same afternoon. This is where the versatility of a brand like Master Manufacturing shines.
Many of their boomless kits feature multiple nozzles that can be controlled independently. For example, a three-nozzle setup might allow you to run just the center nozzle for a narrow path, the two outer nozzles for spraying ditches, or all three for maximum coverage up to 30 feet or more. This adaptability is incredibly useful on a diverse property.
This sprayer is for the farmer who needs a multi-tool, not just a single-purpose implement. If your spraying needs change from week to week, having the ability to easily adjust your spray width without tools is a significant advantage that saves time and reduces chemical waste.
Chapin Mixes On Exit: Innovative Technology
The Chapin Mixes On Exit system is a completely different approach to spraying, and it solves one of the biggest hassles: dealing with leftover chemicals. Instead of mixing a full tank of herbicide and water, you fill the main tank with plain water and put concentrated chemical into a separate, smaller tank.
The system automatically mixes the chemical with the water as it leaves the pump. A simple dial lets you set the mixing ratio. When you’re done, there’s no hazardous chemical mix to dispose of—just plain water in the main tank and unused concentrate that can go right back on the shelf. This makes cleanup faster, safer, and drastically simplifies switching between different types of chemicals.
This technology is a game-changer for safety and convenience. The upfront cost is often higher, and the system is more complex than a standard sprayer. But for those who frequently switch products or hate dealing with leftover mix, the innovation is well worth the investment.
Proper Sprayer Maintenance and Safe Operation
Buying the right sprayer is only half the battle; keeping it running and using it safely is what really matters. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing clogs, leaks, and pump failure, saving you time and money.
After every single use, flush the entire system—tank, pump, hoses, and nozzles—with clean water. For a more thorough cleaning, use a tank cleaner solution. Clogged nozzles are a common frustration, so remove them and clean them with a soft brush. Before winter, run RV antifreeze through the pump and lines to prevent cracking from frozen water.
Safe operation is non-negotiable. Always read and follow the chemical label. It will tell you the correct mixing ratio and the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which usually includes gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves. Pay close attention to the wind. Never spray when it’s windy, as drift can damage your own desirable plants, harm wildlife, or upset your neighbors. A little patience and planning ensure the chemical only goes where it’s supposed to.
Choosing the right UTV sprayer is about matching the tool to your property’s unique demands. Whether it’s a simple workhorse for basic maintenance or a precision tool for more complex needs, the right machine empowers you to reclaim your fence lines from weeds and brush efficiently. A clean fence line not only looks better but also makes for a healthier, more manageable property.
