opinions of backpack sprayers

[MossRoad]

Sounds like that little green one, using a shoulder strap, is still the optimal solution. I have 4-5 similar (inherited from various family) in 1 and 2 gallon size. I think each needs re-pumping only a couple of times per fill. It's easy to bear down on the pump if you put it on the ground. I fill several, carry them out into the orchard, and try to work back to the cache just as I empty one.

I was reading here to see if a backpack version was better but now I'm not convinced. Sure, for a straight fence row. But circling back and picking up another out of the loader bucket works too. I am only applying Roundup to the occasional random Poison Oak (which makes later harvest difficult), not clearing all the grass around each tree which would probably require a small trailer rig.

Yes. I was thinking of mounting my tank type sprayer to a backpack frame. Then I wouldn't have to carry it in one hand. I have three of them. One is like the large one pictured in my last post. And I have two other smaller ones. I use one for spraying water proofing on my deck every year and the other is for weed killer only.

 

[Redbug]

I don't know Moss...I had used one of those like what you are using. After using one of the backpacks, I won't go back to the tank and handle type, except for really small areas to spray. The backpack IS easier and you can carry more solution before refilling. Also, if you are left handed you can switch sides with the pump up handle. I recommend getting a backpack type. Solo may not be the best, (since I only know about that brand), possibly go with one of the others that the fellows recommended.

 

[mus302]

Yes. I was thinking of mounting my tank type sprayer to a backpack frame. Then I wouldn't have to carry it in one hand. I have three of them. One is like the large one pictured in my last post. And I have two other smaller ones. I use one for spraying water proofing on my deck every year and the other is for weed killer only.

Just something to think about. My dad bought a wheeled cart used for carrying a golf bag at a garage sale and modified it to carry his sprayer. Seems to work pretty well for him.

 

[MossRoad]

Just something to think about. My dad bought a wheeled cart used for carrying a golf bag at a garage sale and modified it to carry his sprayer. Seems to work pretty well for him.

Well I am now smacking my self in the forehead! That is just too simple! I will go to my local salvage shop. They always seem to have those carts back in the corner with the wood shaft golf clubs. Thanks!

 

[MossRoad]

I don't know Moss...I had used one of those like what you are using. After using one of the backpacks, I won't go back to the tank and handle type, except for really small areas to spray. The backpack IS easier and you can carry more solution before refilling. Also, if you are left handed you can switch sides with the pump up handle. I recommend getting a backpack type. Solo may not be the best, (since I only know about that brand), possibly go with one of the others that the fellows recommended.

Yeah. I had to switch the handle back and forth from side to side because I'd get arm cramps. I just wonder if my backpack sprayer is the proverbial piece of junk? I know if you give it a few pumps it will spray straight up about 25-30 feet but quickly lose pressure. You have to keep pumping. Maybe I will go to a dealer of the newer sprayers that are mentioned in this thread and test drive them with water this spring.

Thanks for the help!

 

[dmccarty]

...
Dan...this pic is for you...Like you, I have gotten lizard back syndrome and gone home with a blue back, too. I think I may try red...

Oh my. But I have resembled that photo!

Later,
Dan

 

[California]

... or just put a big comfortable golf bag strap on the little tank sprayer. That will be easier to set on the ground to pump back up, compared to a backpack frame.

 

[2manyrocks]

Now you guys bring this up after I gave away a golf bag caddy. I have a different brand of backpack sprayer, and find it uncomfortable and heavy, plus the pumping is not fun.

What I would like to see is a 12v pump and battery to avoid having to pump. Could mount the whole thing to the golf bag caddy.

 

[ultrarunner]

I have a Solo and an Echo...

Both have provided years of service...

The Solo has a plastic spray wand that can become distorted if I'm not careful when I put it in the back of the pick-up and I've learned to never lean forward with a full tank... the shoulder straps are very comfortable.

The Echo has a Brass Wand and it has been a trouper...

I've also riveted the shoulder strap adjustment to keep it where I need it... just less fumbling around.

I spray 60 to 80 gallons of mix a year.

 

[MossRoad]

... or just put a big comfortable golf bag strap on the little tank sprayer. That will be easier to set on the ground to pump back up, compared to a backpack frame.

Thanks. I'll look into that, too.

 

[7snakes]

What is everyone using to kill brush along fencelines? Have used Roundup, but it costs a fortune to use. Anything work as well or better and is easier on the wallet?

 

[MarkV]

We've gone to a generic round-up that runs about 1/2 the price in a concentrate form. Seems to work as well for us. You find it under many different names. You want to look for the active ingredient glyphosate at 41%. That is pretty much what round-ups heavy duty concentrate is. When you say "brush" do you mean saplings and such? There are other treatments for woody types of vegetation. Round-up and its off shoots target grassy/leafy vegetation better.

MarkV

 

[7snakes]

Yes, the brush appears to mostly multifora rose, tree saplings, and some honeysuckle .

 

[CurlyDave]

Last year when I looked at this, the real Roundup had a higher concentration of glyphosate. I got out my calculator in the co-op and decided that there was no real difference in price based on price vs. quantity and % glyphosate. For the same real cost, I went with the name brand.

YMMV, but with a calculator in every phone and the information right there on the label, it is easy to determine the best deal.

 

[GaryS]

That's what I was afraid of. I have about a dozen fruit trees and attempted to use the backpack sprayer on them. Good grief my arms cramped up and about fell off from the pumping.

I switched to my Spray Doc and it was much better. I fill it, pump it up and spray half the tank before pumping it again. If they made something like that in a backpack model, I would probably buy it.

I've had terrible luck with the small tanks. I seem to go through a couple a year and my trees are now taller than they can spray. The other thing is that with the amount of oil spray needed per tree, I would have to fill the little tank much more often. I've not used a Spray Doc perhaps they are better.

It was between a metal hand-held tank or the backpack sprayer. I ordered a Stihl and hope that will last me many years.

 

[Carter Bamboo]

Yes, the brush appears to mostly multifora rose, tree saplings, and some honeysuckle .

Look up Remedy.

 

[AlanB]

Not on the same level as the Stihl or Solo but for the house here I bought a Stanley that my Sam's club has every year for $40. I am very careful when spraying loading etc. as I am uncomfortable about chemicals on my back but so far, knocking on wood, it has not leaked etc. (1 years use, probably 30 gallons) Might be another option to consider.

 

[slharris]

I've got a Solo. I'm going to buy a Stihl pretty soon. The Stihl is much better made as far as I can see just from looking at it. The Solo is OK. Just too much plastic. Since I can use another one I won't be buying another Solo.

 

[slharris]

Have a Stihl 5G20. Only issue I have had is during the hot weather the “O” ring gets dry and the felt bushing in the pump drys out also. Just keep a little oil on the pump shaft after using it. If either one drys out, it will not pressurize.