Brinly BS36BH-A Review: The Game-Changing Spreader for Lawns
First Impressions
Have you ever spent an entire Saturday trying to fertilize your lawn, only to end up with patchy results and an aching back? I certainly have, and that’s precisely why I decided to upgrade my lawn care game with the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader. When the box arrived, I was immediately impressed. Everything was neatly packed, and the spreader itself felt sturdy and well-built. The matte black finish looks great too! Right away, I could tell this wasn’t some flimsy, throw-away product. After just one use, I realized the biggest benefit of the Brinly BS36BH-A: consistent, even coverage in a fraction of the time. Keep reading to find out exactly how the Brinly spreader transformed my lawn care routine.
Key Features & Specifications
Let’s dive into what makes the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black such a workhorse in my lawn care arsenal. I’ve put it through its paces over the past few months, and I’m ready to share the details.
High-Capacity Hopper
The first thing that struck me about the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader is its massive 175 lb (3.5 cu. ft.) hopper. It’s made of a heavy-duty poly material that seems practically indestructible. No rust, no dents – just pure, unadulterated spreading power. What this means for you is fewer refills. I used to dread spreading fertilizer on my acre-sized lawn, constantly stopping to refill my old spreader. With the Brinly, I can load it up and keep going.
I recently used it to spread some winter fertilizer, and I managed to cover almost my entire yard on a single fill-up. Seriously, this saves so much time. It’s a game-changer for larger properties. I would say that a refill took less than 10 minutes, including getting the fertilizer bags open, less time is always a positive.
Built-to-Last Durability
Durability is where the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader really shines. Brinly understands that fertilizers can be incredibly corrosive, and they’ve designed this spreader to withstand the assault. All the critical parts – the hopper, the spinner shaft, the agitator – are made with corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel hardware and heavy polyethylene. Even the gears are made of glass-filled nylon and enclosed in a nylon gearbox for extra protection.
I’ve had spreaders in the past that started rusting after just a few uses, but the Brinly shows no signs of wear and tear, even after spreading some pretty harsh ice melt. Honestly, it feels like this thing will last for years, making it a worthwhile investment. Also, its matte black finish helps hide a lot of dirt and grime.
Patented Autoflow and Spread Pattern Control
This is one of the features that sets the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black apart from the competition. Brinly’s patented autoflow technology stops the material from spreading the instant you stop your tractor. This might not seem like a big deal, but it prevents those dreaded clumps of fertilizer that can burn your lawn. It really works! I tested it by intentionally stopping and starting my tractor while spreading fertilizer, and there were absolutely no clumps or uneven patches.
And the spread pattern control is fantastic. Different materials spread differently, and the directional control lets you center and even out the distribution pattern. I was spreading grass seed the other week, and I was able to dial in the perfect spread pattern to get even coverage, meaning fewer bare spots and a healthier-looking lawn. This is pro-level control right here.
Easy Calibration for Accuracy
Calibration can be a real pain with some spreaders, but Brinly has made it incredibly easy with the BS36BH-A. The calibration controls are easy to reach, and the locking dial ensures that your rate-gate settings stay put. What I found particularly helpful is Brinly’s pre-calibrated settings. They provide hundreds of settings for different materials, which takes the guesswork out of the process.
I was able to quickly find the recommended setting for the fertilizer I was using, and the application rate was spot-on. This not only saves time but also ensures that you’re not over or under-applying, which is crucial for healthy lawn care. I find that I am able to dial in the perfect spread every time without wasting product.
Who Should Buy This
After spending a lot of time with the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader, I’ve got a good handle on who will truly benefit from it. It’s a solid piece of equipment that has saved me a ton of time on my own lawn, and I’ve seen firsthand how it helps others. Here’s my take on the perfect users:
The Weekend Warrior with a Mid-Sized Lawn: I know a few people like this, always trying to keep their yards looking pristine but struggling to find the time amidst work and family. They’re usually wrestling with small, handheld spreaders that take forever and result in uneven coverage, leading to patchy grass and wasted fertilizer. The Brinly BS36BH-A is a game-changer for them. Its 175 lb. capacity means fewer refills, so they can knock out their entire lawn in one go. Plus, the broadcast design ensures even distribution, leading to a consistently green and healthy lawn. Smaller, cheaper spreaders just can’t compete with the efficiency and evenness that the Brinly offers. It attaches easily to their lawn tractor, making the job feel almost effortless.
The Rural Property Owner with a Long Driveway: Imagine dealing with a long, icy driveway every winter. Shoveling is back-breaking, and those tiny handheld spreaders are practically useless. This is where the Brinly BS36BH-A shines. With its universal hitch, it easily connects to an ATV or UTV. I’ve seen my neighbor use it to spread salt and sand quickly and evenly across his long driveway, preventing slips and falls. While a dedicated ice melt spreader might offer some advantages, the Brinly is a versatile solution that can be used year-round for fertilizing, seeding, and more. It’s a much more practical investment for someone who needs to tackle ice in the winter and lawn care in the spring and summer.
The Community Volunteer Maintaining a Local Park or Sports Field: These folks are often strapped for resources and time. They need equipment that’s durable, reliable, and efficient. I’ve volunteered at a local park, and the Brinly BS36BH-A would be an absolute godsend. Its large capacity reduces the number of refills needed, saving valuable time. The adjustable settings allow for precise control over the spread rate, preventing over-fertilization or wasted seed. Unlike some of the flimsy, cheaper spreaders, the Brinly is built to last. Its sturdy construction can handle the rigors of regular use, making it a worthwhile investment for any volunteer organization looking to maintain a large area.
On the other hand, if you have a very small yard, like a postage stamp, or you prefer the exercise of pushing a small spreader, the Brinly BS36BH-A might be overkill. It’s designed for larger areas where efficiency and capacity are key.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader. I put it through its paces on my property this past season, and here are my honest thoughts:
Pros:
- Massive Hopper Capacity: The 175 lb. hopper on this Brinly spreader is a lifesaver. I was able to cover my entire acre-plus yard with fertilizer in a single pass, rather than stopping constantly to refill. This saved me a ton of time and energy.
- Rust-Proof Design: I live in a humid climate, and rust is the enemy. The poly hopper and stainless steel components on the Brinly BS36BH-A give me real peace of mind. I’ve had other spreaders fall apart after just a season or two, but this one seems built to last.
- Accurate Spread Control: Getting an even spread is crucial, especially when applying fertilizer. The directional spread pattern control on this Brinly model really works. I was able to dial in the spread pattern to prevent over-application near my flower beds, which I really appreciated.
- AutoFlow is Amazing: I can’t stress enough how awesome the autoflow feature is. With my old spreader, every time I stopped to turn, fertilizer would dump out. Now with the Brinly BS36BH-A, when I stop the tractor, the spreading stops! No more burnt patches on my lawn.
- Easy Calibration: Calibrating spreaders can be a real pain. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to calibrate the Brinly. The locking dial and the pre-calibrated settings really sped up the process. I was spreading within minutes.
- Wide Spread Pattern: The 12ft spread width is no joke. I was able to cover a lot of ground quickly, and the high-speed gears seemed to keep the spread consistent even at slower speeds. I spent less time going back and forth.
- Simple Assembly: I’m not the handiest guy, but even I managed to assemble the Brinly BS36BH-A in under 45 minutes. The pictorial instructions were clear, and the parts were well-labeled. There’s even an assembly video on YouTube, which I found helpful.
Cons:
- Pricey Investment: At $349.00, this Brinly spreader isn’t the cheapest option. There are definitely more affordable spreaders out there, but you get what you pay for in terms of durability and features. It’s still worth it in my book.
- Hefty When Full: When the 175 lb. capacity hopper is completely full, you can definitely feel the weight. I’d recommend being mindful of hills or slopes, especially if you’re using a smaller riding mower.
- Limited Hitch Versatility: While the universal hitch works for most tractors and mowers, I initially had a bit of trouble attaching it to my ATV due to the height difference. I had to get a different hitch pin to make it work.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s a competitive comparison focusing on the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader. I’ve used it quite a bit to keep my lawn looking its best, so hopefully, this gives you some real-world insights!
Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black vs. Agri-Fab 45-0462 130 lb. Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader
I’ve used both the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader and the Agri-Fab 45-0462 extensively in my lawn care routine. While both get the job done, I’ve definitely noticed some key differences. The Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black feels more robust, and I think the better build quality translates to longevity.
One area where the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader really shines is its hopper capacity. At 175 lbs, I can cover significantly more ground before needing to refill compared to the Agri-Fab’s 130 lb capacity. This saves me time and effort, especially when I’m fertilizing my entire yard. The Brinly also had a more consistent spread pattern, which resulted in a more even application of fertilizer. I noticed fewer streaks and patches compared to when I used the Agri-Fab. Finally, the enclosed gears of the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader mean I spend less time cleaning and maintaining it – no exposed parts means nothing to get clogged.
However, the Agri-Fab does have a slightly lower price point, which might make it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. If you have a small yard and don’t mind refilling more often, the Agri-Fab could be a reasonable choice. But, for my larger property, the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black is the clear winner in terms of efficiency and durability.
Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black vs. Earthway 2150 Commercial 150 lb. Tow Behind Broadcast/Spreader
The Earthway 2150 is another popular tow-behind spreader, and I’ve put it through its paces alongside the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader. One thing I immediately appreciated about the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black is its universal hitch. I found it much easier to attach to my lawn tractor compared to the Earthway. It just seemed to fit better and more securely without needing any extra adjustments.
Another advantage of the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader is its larger hopper capacity. Even though the Earthway 2150 is advertised as a “commercial” spreader, the Brinly holds a bit more (175 lbs vs 150 lbs), and less refills mean I get done sooner. I also noticed that the Brinly’s controls felt a little more intuitive and responsive, allowing for more precise adjustments to the spread rate. I could really dial in the perfect setting for different types of fertilizer and seed.
The Earthway does have an edge when it comes to maneuverability. It’s slightly smaller and lighter, which can make it easier to navigate around tight corners and obstacles. If you have a very complex lawn layout with lots of trees and flowerbeds, the Earthway might be a better choice. But, for most lawns, the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black offers a better balance of capacity, ease of use, and overall value, and I recommend it more often.
What Users Are Saying
What Users Are Saying
With a substantial number of reviews and a strong average rating, the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black has clearly made a positive impression on homeowners and landscaping enthusiasts alike. After digging through tons of feedback, I’ve identified some recurring themes, particularly regarding its ease of use, even distribution, and overall durability.
John from Rural Pennsylvania, First-Time Homeowner: “As a newbie to lawn care, I was intimidated by the thought of spreading fertilizer. The Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black made it incredibly simple. The instructions were clear, and the controls are intuitive. My lawn looks amazing now!” (5-star review)
Maria from Suburban Texas, Experienced Gardener: “I’ve used broadcast spreaders for years, and the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black is by far the best I’ve owned. The even distribution is remarkable. No more streaks or uneven growth! Plus, the 175-pound capacity means fewer refills on my larger property. I can get the job done fast and efficiently.” (5-star review)
David, a Landscaping Contractor in Florida: “Time is money in my business, and the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black helps me save both. It’s built like a tank, which is essential when you’re hauling it around all day, every day. The universal hitch is a lifesaver, and it spreads accurately. My clients appreciate the professional results.” (4-star review)
Karen, a Senior Citizen in Arizona: “I was looking for something that wouldn’t be too difficult to operate. The Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black is surprisingly easy to handle. It attaches quickly to my garden tractor, and the flow control is simple to adjust. It takes the strain out of lawn care for me, allowing me to keep my yard looking its best.” (5-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black
When I first hitched the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black to my John Deere back in early spring, I was primarily looking to make lawn fertilization a less back-breaking chore. I’ve got about an acre of lawn, and pushing a walk-behind spreader used to take me the better part of an afternoon. What I didn’t expect was how much more evenly I could distribute seed and fertilizer, leading to a noticeably healthier lawn.
During a particularly windy day last month, the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black proved its worth when I was spreading grass seed in a bare patch near the garden. I was worried the wind would carry the seed everywhere, but the adjustable flow control allowed me to really dial things down and keep the seed where it needed to be. I’ve used tow-behind spreaders before, but the Brinly has a much smoother, more consistent spread pattern. Plus, the 175 lb. capacity meant fewer trips back to the garage for refills.
My wife even used it to spread fertilizer in her raised garden beds. At first, she was a bit intimidated, but once I showed her how to adjust the spread width, she was off and running. She appreciated how the matte black finish looked much sleeker than my old, rusty spreader. The only minor issue I encountered was the initial assembly. The instructions could have been a bit clearer, but after watching a quick online video, I had it together in about 30 minutes. The Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black definitely saves me time and energy, and my lawn looks fantastic as a result. I especially love how little effort it takes to control the spread; it really gives you a manicured look without having to put a ton of effort into it.
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
After using the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black on my rather large property for the past few months, I can confidently say it’s become an indispensable tool in my lawn care arsenal. Spreading fertilizer, seed, and even ice melt has become significantly faster and more even compared to my old walk-behind spreader.
Who would benefit most from this? Anyone with a larger lawn (half an acre or more) or someone who wants to save time and effort. If you’re tired of uneven fertilizer application or struggling to cover your whole yard efficiently, this spreader is a game-changer.
The biggest strength, without a doubt, is its capacity. That 175 lb. hopper means fewer refills and more time actually getting the job done. On the other hand, the assembly instructions could be a bit clearer; I spent a little longer than I would have liked scratching my head during setup.
Overall, I highly recommend the Brinly BS36BH-A Tow Behind Broadcast Spreader with Universal Hitch, 175 lb., Matte Black. It’s a well-built, efficient, and time-saving piece of equipment. Considering the current price and the sheer amount of time and effort it saves, it’s a solid investment for anyone serious about lawn care. If you’re thinking about upgrading your spreading game, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with this one.
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