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Best Bow Rakes for Yard Work of 2023

Updated
Say hello to these awesome all-in-one garden tools.

If your garden is looking a little scruffy, a bow rake might be just the tool you need to clean it up. A bow rake can spread mulch, rake up leaves, remove woods, tamp soil, remove roots and rocks, and break up soil clods.

But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose a durable, easy-to-use rake. That’s why we’ve spent hours researching real customer reviews and expert advice to put together a list of the seven best bow rakes.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Bully Tools 92309 12-Gauge 16-Inch Bow Rake with Fiberglass Handle and 16 Steel Tines, 58-Inch
Best Durable Bow Rake
Bully Tools Bow Rake
  • Commercial grade steel
  • Fiberglass handle
  • Limited lifetime warranty
Product Image of the Hooyman Metal Bow Rake with Heavy Duty Steel Construction, Ergonomic No-Slip H-Grip Handle, and Durable Fiberglass Core for Gardening, Spreading Mulch, Land Management, Yard Work, Farming, and Outdoor
Best Heavy Duty Bow Rake
Hooyman Landscape Metal Bow Rake
  • Carbon steel construction
  • Reliable handle
  • Double-sided head
Product Image of the Ashman Bow Rake (1 Pack) – Heavy Duty Rake to Gather Fallen Leaves, Equipped with Rubber Grip Handle for a Strong Hold When Working – Rust Resistant.
Best Tines
Ashman Heavy Duty Bow Rake
  • Great for cultivation
  • Sharpened tines
  • Slightly flexible
Product Image of the Garden Rake, 5 FT Metal Rake for Lawns - Level Head Rake with Stainless Steel Handle for Loosening Soil
Best Budget Bow Rake
Coconut Level Head Bow Rake
  • Built for heavy use
  • Stainless steel handle
  • Easy assembly
Product Image of the True Temper 2811600 Steel 16-Tine Bow Rake with 57 in. Hardwood Handle with Cushion Grip, 16 inch
Best Lightweight Bow Rake
True Temper 16-Tine Bow Rake
  • Cushioned handle for comfort
  • Loosens & levels soil
  • 16 steel tines
Product Image of the Garden Rake, 72' Bow Rake Heavy Duty, Metal Rake for Lawns with Stainless Steel Long Handle, 14 Tines Rake Tool for Loosening Soil, Gathering Leaf, Leveling Mulch
Best Long Bow Rake
Miya Bow Rake
  • Razor sharp blades
  • Heavy-duty design
  • 60 to 72 inch handle
Product Image of the ERGIESHOVEL ERG-BWRK16 Strain Reducing Steel Impact Resistant Bow Rake, 16-Tine, 54-Inch Shaft, w/Patented Ergonomic Second Handle, Gray/Orange
Best Ergonomic Handle
Ergieshovel Strain Reducing Bow Rake
  • Large grip handle
  • Smart lock assembly
  • Good for rough debris


Product Reviews

Here are seven of the best bow rakes for your yard work.

1. Bully Tools Bow Rake

Best Durable Bow Rake

This bow rake is priced a little higher, but it’s worth every penny, thanks to its durability and limited lifetime warranty.

When you choose this Bully Tools rake, you’re choosing something that’s going to last.

It’s an extra-thick, commercial-grade, bow rake that can handle repeated use in heavy-duty conditions without breaking or crumbling under the pressure.

What We Like

Commercial Grade Steel

We love that this rake is made from extra thick commercial-grade steel. This adds to its durability. You can be assured that no matter what job you use it for, it remains reliable and sturdy.

Fiberglass Handle

As mentioned earlier, fiberglass is one of the most durable materials for a bow rake handle. It resists breakage while still being nice and lightweight. This rake only weighs 3.45 pounds which is super manageable.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

If the product wears or breaks during normal use during its lifetime, it will be replaced or repaired for free. This gives you total peace of mind so you can enjoy the rake without worries.

What We Don't Like

Tines Could Be Sharper

Some customers found that the tines were a little dull which meant it took longer for certain jobs. In some cases, the rake couldn’t turn stubborn or compacted soil. Also, due to the increased pressure applied in these situations, a few customers reported the tines broke off.

Product Specs

Material Fiberglass and steel
Number of Tines / Head Width 16 (16 inches)
Weight 3.45 pounds
Handle Length 58 inches
Handle Features None

2. Hooyman Landscape Metal Bow Rake

Best Heavy Duty Bow Rake

If you’re going to be putting your bow rake to the test with lots of different types of work, then this is the one for you.

It’s a well-built, durable, and heavy-duty option.

It’s backed by a limited lifetime warranty so you can trust that you’re getting your money’s worth.

What We Like

Carbon Steel Construction

Carbon steel is a long-lasting material. This means that with this carbon-steel rake, you can enjoy many years of heavy-duty use without any adverse effects.

Reliable Handle

We think you’ll love the handle on this rake. Not only is it 65 inches long — perfect for taller people — but it has a non-slip grip. When it’s raining out, the material becomes tacky to provide a secure grip even in bad weather.

Double-Sided Head

Thanks to the double-sided head, you can do so many different jobs with this rake. Of course, it has a teeth side which you can use for breaking up ground or spreading materials. The flat side is perfect for leveling jobs.

What We Don't Like

Too Heavy for Some Customers

Weighing nearly five pounds, this is on the heavier side for some people. While five pounds doesn’t sound like a lot, it can make maneuverability a bit difficult.

Product Specs

Material Forged 1050 high carbon steel
Number of Tines / Head Width 16 (16 inches)
Weight 4.8 pounds
Handle Length 65 inches
Handle Features Ergonomic, non-slip

3. Ashman Heavy Duty Bow Rake

Bow Rake With Best Tines

This Ashman bow rake has really awesome tines. So if you have a variety of yard work you need to do, we think you’ll enjoy these.

This rake is equipped with curved tines which are designed to pick up more in every stroke.

The tines are razor-sharp l-shaped carbon steel blades that can get through stubborn and compacted grounds but also last for ages due to the durable materials used.

What We Like

Great for Cultivation

This is the perfect tool for cultivation. The blade and shaft work well together to dig and uproot super deep soil. If you want to plant some new crops, this is the perfect rake to prep your soil.

Sharpened Tines

The razor-sharp tines have been designed to dig into any kind of soil. Besides that, these tines are rust-proof and chip resistant so they will serve you well for a long time.

Slightly Flexible

When you hit an object, don’t anticipate any breaking. This bow rake has a bit of flexibility to it, so it reacts slightly to hard objects instead of breaking, bending, or snapping.

What We Don't Like

Super Lightweight and Thin

The rake is only 2.84 pounds which is very lightweight for some customers. It doesn’t have that classic heavy-duty feeling, though it is still very durable. It’s also a very thin handle which is annoying for some users with larger hands.

Product Specs

Material Fiberglass and carbon steel
Number of Tines / Head Width 16 (14 inches)
Weight 2.84 pounds
Handle Length 54 inches
Handle Features Rubber grip for comfort

4. Coconut Level Head Bow Rake

Best Budget Bow Rake

Stick to your budget with this bow rake from COCONUT. It’s very affordable, less than the cost of many other options, but still a well-loved bow rake amongst happy customers.

You’ll love that it has an adjustable handle that spans from 45 inches all the way to 60 inches. This gives you an extra 15 inches depending on your height.

It’s also a great way to get the kids involved since it won’t be too long for them.

What We Like

Built for Heavy Use

This rake won’t shy away from heavy-duty tasks. The blade and shaft are sturdy and screwed tightly together so they won’t come apart. We recommend using this for digging and uprooting soil, as well as other such yard work.

Stainless Steel Handle

Whenever we see stainless steel, we get a little excited. Stainless steel is durable, weather-resistant, and rust-resistant. It will take a lot to break a wooden handle, meaning this is a very durable option.

Easy Assembly

It’s easy to get this up and running once it arrives. It’s broken down into four pieces and the rake head. You can easily screw everything together, which keeps everything secure, as well as disassemble it if you need to transport it.

What We Don't Like

No Handle Cushioning

The lack of cushioning on the handle means that after a while, this may grow uncomfortable to use. You can always add your own, but it’s an extra step and cost.

Product Specs

Material Stainless steel
Number of Tines / Head Width 14 (14 inches)
Weight 3.43 pounds
Handle Length 45-60 inches
Handle Features Adjustable

5. True Temper 16-Tine Bow Rake

Best Lightweight Bow Rake

You may be looking for something that’s lighter and easier to transport and maneuver.

This True Temper bow rake only weighs 3.1 pounds so it’s on the lighter side without being flimsy.

It’s made up of a hardwood handle — which is what makes it lightweight — but with steel tines for durability and reliability.

What We Like

Cushioned Handle for Comfort

The 57-inch handle has a cushioned handle at the tip. As you go about your work, this provides comfort so your hand doesn’t tire out when raking for long periods of time.

Great for Loosening and Levelling Soil

This bow rake was specifically made for these two jobs: loosening and leveling soil. Put it to the test for other jobs, but this is what it’s best for. If that’s what you’re looking to do, then you can’t go wrong with this rake.

16 Steel Tines

The 16 welded steel tines are heavy-duty. They can do a fantastic job at breaking up stubborn compacted materials and spreading them around evenly.

What We Don't Like

Handle Breaks More Easily

Wooden handles break more easily than fiberglass or metal handles. This isn’t a problem for many customers but the odd few did experience the handle breaking after a few months. Don’t leave it outside where it can succumb to the elements. Always store it in a cool dry spot.

Product Specs

Material Hardwood handle and steel tines
Number of Tines / Head Width 16 (16 inches)
Weight 3.1 pounds
Handle Length 57 inches
Handle Features Cushioned grip

6. Miya Bow Rake

Best Long Bow Rake

This handle goes a bit longer than some of the average bow rakes on the market. It spans to a generous 72 inches long!

You can even adjust the length for other members of the family who don’t want to take advantage of the full six feet.

This length is great for taller people and getting into hard-to-reach spots.

What We Like

Razor Sharp Blades

The blades on this rake are razor sharp. This makes it super easy to dig into any kind of soil with no problems. You’ll love this for digging, weeding, and loosening soil.

Warning

Keep this away from pets and children as the sharpness can cause injury.

Heavy-Duty Design

The exact materials of this rake’s blade aren’t specified but customers find that it’s well built. Perhaps, it may be because of its stainless steel handle. You can do heavy-duty work in the yard without worrying about breakage.

60 to 72 Inches

The handle spans from 60 to 72 inches long. This is great when various family members need to use the rake. Since it goes down to 60 inches, you can even get the kids involved. Just be careful with the blades though.

What We Don't Like

Handle Too Long for Some

While it shortens to 60 inches, that’s still too long for some people. If you have young children or are particularly short, this may be too long for you.

Product Specs

Material Stainless steel handle
Number of Tines / Head Width 14 (14 inches)
Weight 3.74 pounds
Handle Length 60-72 inches
Handle Features Adjustable length

7. Ergieshovel Strain Reducing Bow Rake

Best Ergonomic Handle

This bow rake goes the extra mile by providing you a super great ergonomic handle.

Not only that, but it has an extra handle for added control and comfort. This is meant to reduce the strain while you work, so you can go longer between breaks.

It also adds leverage, to make it easier to do heavy-duty work throughout larger yards.

What We Like

Large Grip Handle

Besides the second handle, it’s worth noting that the main handle has a soft grip to provide you the best comfort while you work.

Smart Lock Assembly

The rake easily breaks apart into four smaller pieces so you can store it without any problems. Even if you have minimal storage space, this shouldn’t be hard to find a space for.

Good for Rough Debris

Thanks to the 16 steel shaft tines, this rake is great for moving around rough debris and mulch. It’s a sturdy and reliable rake head that will impress you every time.

What We Don't Like

6.3 Pounds

This is heavier than average. Many customers found that this rake was far too heavy for comfortable use. If you’re not very strong, you may want to opt for a lighter option.

Product Specs

Material Steel
Number of Tines / Head Width 16 (16 inches)
Weight 6.3 pounds
Handle Length 54 inches
Handle Features Extra handle

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Material No. of Tines ( Head Width) Weight Handle Length Handle Features
Bully Tools Bow Rake Best Durable Bow Rake Fiberglass & steel 16 (16″) 3.45 lbs 58″ None
Hooyman Landscape Bow Rake Best Heavy Duty Bow Rake High carbon steel 16 (16″) 4.8 lbs 65″ Ergonomic, non-slip
Ashman Heavy Duty Bow Rake Best Tines Fiberglass & carbon steel 16 (14″) 2.84 lbs 54″ Rubber grip for comfort
Coconut Level Head Bow Rake Best Budget Bow Rake Stainless steel 14 (14″) 3.43 lbs 45-60″ Adjustable
True Temper 16-Tine Bow Rake Best Lightweight Bow Rake Hardwood handle & steel tines 16 (16″) 3.1 lbs 57″ Cushioned grip
Miya Bow Rake Best Long Bow Rake Stainless steel handle 14 (14″) 3.74 lbs 60-72″ Adjustable length
Ergieshovel Bow Rake Best Ergonomic Handle Steel 16 (16″) 6.3 lbs 54″ Extra handle

Things to Consider (Buying Guide)

Each bow rake is unique in some way or another, so there’s no one size that fits all. To choose the best bow rake, consider all of these important details.

Material

Take the material of the handle and the blades into consideration. The stronger the material, the more sturdy the rake will be. Plus, it will last longer.

Different handle materials include wood, steel, fiberglass, and plastic. Steel (or other metals) and fiberglass are the most durable.

As for the blade heads, these are best when they are metal. Look out for other features such as rust and corrosion resistance which will make the rake more durable.

Number of Tines / Head Width

Check out the head measurement, which tends to be around 16 inches. If it’s smaller, it will take longer to rake leaves and if it’s longer, it’ll make the job quicker.

Also, look at the number of tines (or blades). On average, bow rakes will have 14 or 16 tines. The more tines, the more area it can cover and more debris it can pick up per stroke.

Weight

Check out the weight of the bow rake. The heavier it is, the more sturdy, but possibly more difficult to manage if you aren’t very strong. On average, you’ll find bow rakes between about two and five pounds.

Length

Handle lengths vary by bow rake, too. The majority are between 50 and 70 inches. The longer it is, the higher it will be which is easier for taller people. If you’re tall, definitely look for something at least 60 inches.

Top Tip

You can also find adjustable handles. This is ideal if you’re splitting the yard work up within the family. If everyone is of different heights, just adjust the handle length as needed.

Handle

Take a look at the different features of a handle. You can maximize your comfort by looking for an ergonomic handle, one with a non-slip coating, or one with an extra handle, for instance.

Warranty

Check out the warranty offered by the company. Some have short warranties whereas others have limited lifetime warranties to give you peace of mind.

Budget

Last but not least, what’s your budget? Bow rakes fall between $20 and $50 usually, with the majority being around $30. Not a huge price tag, but you can go cheaper and still get fantastic quality.


Bow Rakes FAQs

What Can I Use Instead of a Rake?

The best alternative to a bow rake is a shovel for moving debris and digging or turning soil.

Is It Ok to Mow Leaves Instead of Raking?

If you have a very thin layer of leaves, and your mower manufacturer allows it, you can use a mower instead of a rake.

What’s Better Plastic or Metal Rake?

Plastic is cheaper but metal is more durable, sturdier and possibly even rust- and corrosion-resistant. We definitely recommend metal over plastic.

Why is It Called a Bow Rake?

A bow rake gets its name from the shape. It has wide tines (blades) set parallel to each other giving it maximum strength to rake heavy items in the garden.

Can You Dethatch With a Bow Rake?

You can dethatch with a bow rake but you would be better using a dedicated thatching rake. A bow rake could damage your lawn and only pull out a small percentage of the thatch.

Why Does My Back Hurt After Raking?

Your back hurts after raking because you are using the wrong raking stance. Applying excess pressure to the lower back causes it to curve, creating strain.

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Headshot of Beth McCallum

About the Author

Beth McCallum

Beth McCallum is a freelance writer & book blogger with a degree in creative writing, journalism, and English literature. Beth firmly believes that a tidy house is a tidy mind. She is always looking for new ways to sustainably clean and tidy her house, that's kind on the environment but effective in the house, too!