6 Best Pto Grain Augers For 5 Acres on a Homestead Budget

The last wagon of corn is pulled up next to the grain bin, and now comes the hard part: moving a few thousand pounds of grain by hand is a back-breaking, time-consuming chore. This is the moment a small-scale farmer realizes a PTO-driven grain auger isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. Choosing the right one for a 5-acre homestead means balancing power, size, and budget to make harvest season efficient, not exhausting.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Sizing Your Auger: Westfield vs. Farm King Models

The most common mistake is buying an auger that’s too big or too small. For a homestead-sized harvest of a few hundred bushels, an 8-inch diameter auger is the perfect middle ground. A 6-inch model will feel agonizingly slow, while a 10-inch is overkill that requires more tractor horsepower than you likely need.

Length is just as important. You need enough reach to clear the eave of your grain bin without being so long it’s a nightmare to move around the yard. A 31 to 36-foot auger provides the ideal angle and height for filling a common 1,500 or 2,500-bushel bin. This size is manageable for one person to position and stable enough to operate safely.

Two names dominate this size class: Westfield and Farm King. Think of them as the classic rivalry in the auger world. Both make reliable machines, but they approach design differently. Westfield often leans toward heavier, overbuilt construction, while Farm King frequently focuses on operator convenience and user-friendly features.

Westfield MKX 8-36: The All-Around Homestead Choice

If you want a benchmark for reliability, the Westfield MKX series is it. These augers are built with heavy-gauge steel tubing and robust flighting that stands up to years of use. This isn’t a disposable tool; it’s a piece of equipment you buy with the intention of keeping it for decades.

The MKX 8-36 runs perfectly on a 30-45 HP compact tractor, which is standard for most small farms. Its A-frame undercarriage provides a wide, stable base, which adds a significant layer of safety when you’re working alone on ground that isn’t perfectly level. That stability is something you come to appreciate very quickly.

The primary tradeoff is cost and weight. Westfield’s reputation for durability means they command a higher price, even on the used market. That heavy-duty build also makes it a heavier machine to move by hand. This is the buy-it-once, cry-once option for those who prioritize longevity above all else.

Farm King Backsaver 831: Easiest Auger to Operate

The name "Backsaver" says it all. Farm King designed this auger with the single operator in mind, and it shows. Features like a self-leveling intake hopper and a smooth, easy-to-crank winch system dramatically reduce the wrestling match that can come with setting up an auger.

Maneuverability is another key advantage. The Backsaver models are often lighter than their direct competitors, making them easier to pull into position with a small tractor or even a UTV. When you’re constantly moving equipment between the field, the barn, and the bins, that ease of handling makes a real difference in your day.

So, what’s the catch? While perfectly durable for a 5-acre operation, the overall build might feel less substantial than a comparable Westfield or Brandt. The focus is on smart design and convenience, not sheer overbuilt toughness. Choose the Farm King if you value ease of use and reduced physical strain during a busy harvest.

Hutchinson-Mayrath 8-32: A Durable Used Market Find

When you’re scanning classifieds on a tight budget, the names Hutchinson and Mayrath will appear constantly. These are the classic, time-tested augers that have been working on farms for generations. Their simple, robust designs mean there’s less to go wrong, making them fantastic used market finds.

When inspecting a used one, focus on the fundamentals.

• Check the flighting at the intake. It should be at least a quarter-inch thick, not worn down to a sharp edge.
• Look for oil leaks around the gearbox at the top.
• Inspect the main tube for any major dents that could impede grain flow.

The good news is that parts for these common models are still readily available and affordable. The downside is a complete lack of modern conveniences. You’ll be dealing with basic hoppers and manual lift systems. This is a purely mechanical workhorse that rewards a bit of hands-on ability with an unbeatable price.

Brandt 835 HP: Premium Build for Long-Term Use

Brandt augers are often seen as the premium choice in the field. From the quality of the paint to the precision of the welds, their commitment to build quality is immediately obvious. This is the auger for the homesteader who appreciates top-tier tools and is making a long-term investment in their farm’s infrastructure.

The "HP" (High Performance) designation isn’t just marketing. Brandt uses high-quality gearboxes and efficient flighting that can move grain faster at lower PTO speeds. This translates to less fuel used, less noise, and less wear and tear on your tractor’s engine over the long haul.

Of course, this level of quality comes at a price. A Brandt will be the most expensive option on this list, both new and used. For a small 5-acre operation, it could be considered overkill. However, if you find a well-maintained used model or simply want the best-built machine, a Brandt will not disappoint.

Feterl 8×34: A Simple, No-Frills Workhorse Auger

Feterl has built a reputation on making simple, strong, and effective equipment. Their augers are the definition of a no-frills workhorse. They are designed to do one thing—move grain reliably—without any complex or unnecessary features that could break down.

This straightforward design philosophy often translates to a more accessible price point. Their simplicity also makes them incredibly easy to maintain and repair yourself. Replacing a bearing or a belt is a simple task that doesn’t require specialized tools, which is a huge benefit on a homestead.

The tradeoff for this simplicity is a lack of creature comforts. The hoppers are basic, the undercarriages are functional but not fancy, and the winches are purely manual. The Feterl is the ideal choice for the farmer who prioritizes bombproof reliability and easy maintenance over modern conveniences.

Sudenga 8×36: Best for Gentle Seed Handling

If you’re growing crops not just for feed but also for seed to plant next year, a Sudenga auger should be at the top of your list. The company is well-known for designing equipment that handles grain and seed gently, minimizing cracks and damage that can reduce germination rates.

Sudenga achieves this through careful engineering, often using a slightly lower flighting speed and a specific pitch that carries the seed rather than flinging it. This might seem like a small detail, but preserving the integrity of your seed stock is crucial for a self-sufficient homestead. The difference in seed quality after moving it with a Sudenga can be noticeable.

To be gentle, an auger often has to be a bit slower. While a Sudenga might not win a race against a high-performance model, the difference in capacity is negligible for a 5-acre harvest. Prioritize this auger if the quality and viability of your seed are more important than raw speed.

Hopper Comparison: Brandt, Feterl, and Sudenga

The intake hopper is the part of the auger you’ll interact with most, so its design has a huge impact on your workday. A well-designed hopper makes it easy to position your gravity wagon spout, reduces spillage, and speeds up the entire unloading process. A poorly designed one is a constant source of frustration.

Brandt is a standout here, often featuring low-profile, wide-mouthed hoppers that are very forgiving. You have a large target to aim for, which minimizes spilled grain and cleanup time. At the other end of the spectrum, a basic Feterl hopper is typically a simple, deep steel box. It’s perfectly functional but requires more precise positioning of your wagon to avoid making a mess.

Sudenga often offers a middle ground, with well-made hoppers that are sometimes equipped with wheels for easy maneuvering under a bin’s slide gate. When choosing, think about this tradeoff. A premium hopper from a brand like Brandt saves a little bit of time and grain with every single load, an advantage that adds up significantly over the years.

Ultimately, the best PTO auger for your homestead isn’t about a brand name, but about an honest assessment of your needs. Match the machine’s features—be it durability, convenience, or gentle handling—to your specific crops and budget. A well-cared-for used auger from a reputable brand is almost always a smarter investment than a new, cheaply made alternative, ensuring your harvest days are productive and stress-free for years to come.