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Best Leaf Rakes
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
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It goes without saying that raking is not a very enjoyable task. Still, it can actually be made a little better with a proper tool. One of the ways to ensure that the experience is as convenient as possible is to assess the handling of the rake that you are looking into. For starters, depending on your size and physical strength, you may not want to deal with one that is somewhat heavy. Handles come in many different shapes and materials, such as wood, fiberglass, and aluminum, and ensuring that it is light enough for you is important.
Durability
No matter what you invest in as a consumer, you always want to ensure that you are getting your money’s worth. One of the best ways to do so is to assess the build quality of a particular item and in this case, it is as important a factor as any. There are two primary components that make up a leaf rake. The first of which is the head which is comprised of tines (which are essentially the teeth). You will typically either see them designed of metal or plastic. Surprisingly, plastic tines are actually the strongest. But, with metal tines, they tend to be more flexible. Then again, when working with heavier leaves, plastic is a little better.
As for the handle, as mentioned, some common materials are wood and fiberglass. The former can be subject to weathering but if maintained, will last a long time and are very strong. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is generally more durable as it does not have the issue of weathering.
Use
This section almost ties everything into one. At the end of the day, the performance of anything you buy is crucial and this is no different here. Going back to the tines, some will be a little too flexible for their own good. Again, this is typically not an issue for plastic but metal tines. If you have ever used each of them, you know how much sturdier plastic models are (which can be preferred). But, the manner in which the tines are designed can also play a role. For instance, optimally, they will be curved and this will help prevent leaves from clogging up inside of them. Although, this can still happen.
Also, going back to the weight, if it is too heavy it is going to require a bit more effort on your part. Perhaps, you would rather perform with lesser effort, which is fair.
Size
Leaf rakes will be designed in a plethora of different sizes and determining which size is right for you is beyond vital. There are two points of emphasis in regard to the size. Firstly, there is the length of the handle. Deciding on an optimal length is really based on how tall you are. If you are well over six feet, you will want a handle that is long enough to prevent you from hunching over constantly. But, if you are a shorter fellow, an extra-long handle may actually be a detriment. The second main size you need to assess is the head. If you have a larger lawn, you will want a wider head to account for more space. Then again, to get into tighter areas, you will need a shallower head.
What if there was a way to account for all types of users and situations? Well, there is and it all comes down to if the length and width are adjustable. Some models will allow you to adjust them both which will allow you to shrink the head for tighter locations and also adjust the handle to account for your height.
Top Ten Leaf Rakes
1. Bully Tools 92309
Even though this next model can be used to dig into soil, it can also be used for leaves. It really comes in handy when you have to clean near fences and have to deal with pesky roots.
Read moreOverall Handling
The fiberglass handle will not only resist breakage but is also considered a lightweight material. That said, this model is far from light and is over three pounds.
Build Quality
As with the other Bully Tools model on this list, this is made of commercial-grade steel and a fiberglass handle. It is going to last, let’s just say that.
Performance
Let’s get this out of the way; this will not perform well for larger projects. Instead, it is optimal for tighter areas where leaves can be tricky to reach (such as under decks or near fences).
Size and Adjustability
The head itself measures 16 inches wide but you can choose the size of the handle (either 58 inches or 66 inches). But, no part of this model is adjustable.
Storage
Okay, so this tool is not going to adjust in any way. But, it should not be a pain to store and can even be hung from the head itself.
Overall
For raking in the lawn, this is not really what you are looking for. Instead, this is nice to have when you need to reach the tougher areas in your yard as it provides the strength you will need.
2. Bully Tools
Instead of polyresin, Bully Tools decided to design their tines with commercial-grade steel. But, this results in a little more weight, which can be problematic for lighter and smaller people.
Read moreOverall Handling
Thanks to the fiberglass construction of the handle, it is strong while also being somewhat lightweight. We say “somewhat” as this is still heavier than the average model.
Build Quality
In addition to the commercial-grade steel of the head, the handle is made of the aforementioned fiberglass, which is both lightweight and strong. But, be wary with the tines as they will bend easily.
Performance
Due to the extra weight, this performs best in short bursts or for harder tasks. Then again, if you have the strength to handle it, you should be alright either way.
Size and Adjustability
Again, this is not an adjustable model. But, the 24-inch head is sufficient to cover wider areas of your lawn and the handle should be ideal for most.
Storage
In regard to the storage, there really is nothing special here. It is not too cumbersome to store in most areas, so there really should not be too much concern here.
Overall
The extra-thick, commercial-grade steel that this is made of is reassuring when it comes to durability. But, this extra weight may make handling it more difficult for some users.
3. Corona RK
We go from a model that can be tailored to work in tighter spaces to one that is specifically optimized for it. Indeed, if you need to clean up a larger yard, stay away from this model.
Read moreOverall Handling
Corona designed this with an anti-slip vinyl sleeve and it was intended to add comfort. As some buyers have noted, though, it does not provide much cushion.
Build Quality
Thanks to the combination of the tempered steel and the lightweight aluminum, this really is designed to last. But, it should also be stored indoors.
Performance
For maximum efficiency, this has been designed with bi-curved tines. On top of this, the narrower head allows you to use this tool in tighter and more confined spaces.
Size and Adjustability
Note that this is a fixed model. So, you can’t adjust any component of it. That said, the 54-inch handle should not be problematic. But, the eight-inch width will only be suitable for smaller tasks.
Storage
Though this is fixed, the design is as compact as it gets thanks to the head. Truth be told, this can fit adequately into most nook and crannies.
Overall
For what it is, this is actually a very competent design. But, with a head that only measures eight inches in width, it is not going to be efficient for larger tasks.
4. Gardenite
Ingenious would be the best way to describe this next model. Gardenite designed it with an adjustable head and this means that you can account for tighter spaces and also large, open areas.
Read moreOverall Handling
On one hand, the lightweight nature of this has been raved and is not cumbersome to handle. But, there is that other hand and the issue there is with the grip as it is not very comfortable for longer stretches.
Build Quality
Though the tines will flex quite a bit, the ¾-inch zinc-plated steel handle is protected against rust and is built to last.
Performance
One of the few real problems with this design is the tines. You see, they flex quite a bit and can feel unsupported. As such, you may need to exert more effort.
Size and Adjustability
The head can be shortened to seven inches or elongated to 22 inches. Also, the length measures 63 inches which is optimal for taller folks.
Storage
The fact that the head can retract also comes in handy when you are storing this away. As it will shrink to seven inches in width, you need less room to properly store it.
Overall
It sure is convenient when you do not need to swap out rakes to handle different situations. Due to the adjustable head width, this can tackle that potential dilemma.
5. Fiskars
From the photos, you can immediately tell that this model is a little bit different. What is nice, though, is the patented design ensures that the leaves will not clog while you are raking.
Read moreOverall Handling
On top of being a lightweight design, this also sports a teardrop-shape which enhances the ergonomics. Also, the long handle will reduce back fatigue over time.
Build Quality
When dealing with larger and heavier piles, this can come off as a bit flimsy. Yet, the virgin resin construction still ensures durability in the long haul.
Performance
As mentioned earlier, this is a patented design that will prevent leaves from clogging up. This is accomplished via the curved tines and it makes the overall performance much more efficient.
Size and Adjustability
The ideal combination of the 67-inch handle and the 24-inch head makes this a highly suitable model for larger lawns and areas. But, it can struggle in tight spaces.
Storage
Even though storing this will be as basic as it gets, there is a lack of integrated features that assist in making the storage easier, all things considered.
Overall
In spite of the fact that this is not the best model for larger piles and wetter leaves, its ideal handle and head lengths make it perfect for efficient all-day raking.
6. Telescopic EZ Travel
Without a doubt, this is the most versatile model on this entire list. The reason for this is not only can the head be adjusted, but the handle itself can also telescope to account for differing user heights.
Read moreOverall Handling
Given the fact that this is made from an aluminum alloy, it is both strong and lightweight. In fact, even when you are dealing with heavier leaves it is easy to pick up. Then again, the plastic grip at the end of the handle does fall off consistently.
Build Quality
As you know, this is made from an aluminum alloy. In addition to being light, this also makes the tool durable and ideal for dealing with heavier leave piles.
Performance
Due to the fact that this can adjust, width-wise, it can be used in tighter locations. Overall, it performs as you would expect it to.
Size and Adjustability
This will adjust in two ways. Firstly, the head itself will widen from 7.5 inches all the way to 21.75 inches. Secondly, the telescoping handle will adjust from 37 inches to 68 inches.
Storage
When you go to store this bad boy, you can adjust it to its shortest width and length. This will make it more compact and allow it to fit into tighter spaces.
Overall
Some rakes can’t be adjusted at all so the fact that this can be adjusted in terms of width and length is quite remarkable. It also helps that the aluminum alloy composition is both strong and lightweight.
7. Amazing Rake
Arguably one of the worst aspects of raking is bending over to pick up the leaves. Well, this problem is solved with this next model as it is a 3-in-1 grabber and rake fused.
Read moreOverall Handling
Admittedly, this is going to take some time to get used to. But, when you do, the convenience of being able to scoop the leaves and pick them up can’t be overstated.
Build Quality
This is advertised with an unbreakable copolymer polypropylene. Unfortunately, a few users have claimed the contrary and claim it is a bit on the cheaper side of things.
Performance
When you are dealing with wet and thicker leaves, this can struggle due to its flimsiness. Of course, most of the time, it performs adequately.
Size and Adjustability
The ability to physically scoop up the leaves is, without a doubt, the most convenient aspect of this tool. But, it is not adjustable. Yet, its 17-inch width and 64-inch length are suitable.
Storage
This actually comes to you in pieces and requires assembly. Due to this, in theory, you could disassemble it to save space during winter storage.
Overall
In a world filled with fantastic leaf rakes, this could arguably be considered the most convenient of them all. Its clear selling point is its ability to scoop as well as rake, without question.
8. Emsco Group
The top model on this list is probably similar to ones you have used in the past. Being made with durable polyresin and sporting a wide 32-inch head, it can clean up even the largest of yards.
Read moreOverall Handling
Due to the combination of resin and polyester, this is lightweight enough to prevent your hands from tiring out too quickly. Also, the long reach of the handle will save your back.
Build Quality
While the head is made up of durable polyresin that will withstand damage from the elements, the handle is designed of premium hardwood to provide more durability than plastic.
Performance
As many users have alluded to, this does tend to flex when you use it. Now, this does not necessarily indicate that it is flimsy; it is just not as stiff as other models.
Size and Adjustability
Even though this is not an adjustable tool, the head is an extra-wide 32 inches. This comes in handy when you need to cover larger areas as this width will improve efficiency.
Storage
Though this is not adjustable and can’t be retracted, it is still not too troublesome to store
Overall
Sometimes, traditional is the best. In this case, the premium construction, extra-wide head, and ease of handling all combine to make an amazing leaf rake.
9. Rovtop Steel
Due to the adjustability of this entry alone, it deserves recognition. However, it is only able to just crack this list as there are some quality control issues present.
Read moreOverall Handling
One thing to note about the handle is that the plastic that holds it together is cheaply made. But, as for maneuverability, it is fantastic.
Build Quality
Though this is made of stainless steel that has been coated for protection, some users claim that it feels cheap overall.
Performance
Even for shorter people, this really is a joy to use. Well, as much joy as raking can provide anyway. Due to the durability issues, though, some caution will need to be taken when using it.
Size and Adjustability
Let’s just say that the convenience is not the issue here. With the 30-inch to 63-inch adjustable length and seven-inch to 22-inch adjustable width, this is highly versatile.
Storage
As you would expect, because this can collapse to such a small and compact shape, storing it will be much easier than other models.
Overall
While this lasts, it really is remarkable. The problem becomes, though, how long will it last? You take a chance with this model, let’s just say that.
10. Orientools
This is another adjustable model but this time, you can adjust the handle and tailor it to your height. In addition to this, the lightweight nature makes this very easy to handle for longer durations.
Read moreOverall Handling
As mentioned, the lightweight nature of this model makes maneuvering it around less cumbersome. Plus, the 60-inch handle will help save the back of taller folks.
Build Quality
On one hand, the steel handle is powder-coated to prevent rust. Yet, despite this, the poly head (which is plastic) has led to breakage for some previous buyers.
Performance
In the middle of your lawn, this performs superbly. But, it also does well in other areas such as under bushes, between flowers, or in your garden.
Size and Adjustability
All you need to do to adjust the length of the handle, which can be done from 42 inches to 60 inches, is to twist it clockwise. To then secure the length, turn it counterclockwise.
Storage
Due to the fact that the handle can be abridged, you can save a little bit of space when you store it.
Overall
Handling is everything when it comes to these tools and it is safe to say that Orientools knocked it out of the park here. If only they could have improved the build quality.
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