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.
- Commercial grade steel
- Fiberglass handle
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Carbon steel construction
- Reliable handle
- Double-sided head
- Great for cultivation
- Sharpened tines
- Slightly flexible
- Built for heavy use
- Stainless steel handle
- Easy assembly
- Cushioned handle for comfort
- Loosens & levels soil
- 16 steel tines
- Razor sharp blades
- Heavy-duty design
- 60 to 72 inch handle
- 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 | 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.
