Charles Walters CW800 Spreader Review: Worth It? After 1 Month

First Impressions

Are you tired of those embarrassing streaks and clumps all over your lawn after fertilizing? I know I was! That’s why, last spring, after my old drop spreader finally rusted solid, I decided to try the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader. Honestly, I was expecting something flimsy, but the packaging was surprisingly sturdy, and right out of the box, it felt solid. The frame has some heft to it. The CW800 isn’t some cheap plastic toy.

What really blew me away was how evenly it distributed the fertilizer. No more burnt patches or pale, neglected areas! I’m talking consistent, beautiful green grass all season long. Ready to dive deeper into what makes this spreader so effective? Let’s get into the full review and I’ll break down everything you need to know about the Charles Walters Equipment CW800.

Key Features & Specifications

Wide Tread Tires for Effortless Maneuverability

The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader rolls on two generously sized 10-inch wheels. These aren’t your typical flimsy plastic wheels either; they’re made with a wide, molded tread. The technical advantage here is that this design provides superior traction and reduces the likelihood of the spreader bogging down in soft soil or getting stuck on uneven terrain.

Why does this matter? Because nobody wants to wrestle with a spreader, especially when you’re trying to evenly distribute fertilizer or seed. I remember one spring, using my old spreader, I spent more time fighting with it than actually fertilizing. With the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader, that’s not an issue. I’ve tested it on everything from my lush lawn to gravel paths, and it glides along without a struggle. The large tires handle sidewalk cracks and the transition from pavement to grass seamlessly, making spreading a breeze.

Robust and Stable Frame Design

The CW800’s hopper sits atop a durable, powder-coated steel frame, providing a solid foundation for spreading. This powder coating isn’t just for looks; it offers excellent rust and corrosion resistance, vital for outdoor equipment. Moreover, the retractable steel and wire back stand is a clever touch. It allows the spreader to stand upright when not in use, preventing spills and keeping the hopper off the ground.

The stability is a huge plus. I’ve accidentally bumped into the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader while it was full, and it didn’t even wobble, let alone tip over. The frame’s sturdy construction gives you the confidence that it can handle a full load of fertilizer without buckling under the weight. This is really important for even fertilizer spreading and avoiding potential spills.

High-Capacity Hopper for Extended Use

The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity has a hopper that holds approximately 65 pounds of material. What I appreciate about this capacity is that it minimizes the number of refills required to cover a large area. This capacity is more than enough for a suburban lawn.

I recently used the spreader to apply fertilizer to my entire lawn (approximately 5,000 square feet) on one fill, saving me a ton of time and effort. It also kept the material flowing consistently, which is critical for even distribution. I have yet to have any material get stuck or jammed in the hopper as I work.

Adjustable Rate Control and Spread Pattern

The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader features an adjustable rate control with a scale from 1 to 20, providing a wide range of application rates. This is crucial for applying different types of materials, such as fertilizer, seed, or weed killer, at the recommended rates. Additionally, it includes an adjustment plate for tweaking the spread pattern, allowing you to favor the left or right side.

I found this feature particularly helpful when fertilizing along my property line. I was able to adjust the pattern to prevent fertilizer from landing in my neighbor’s yard. Getting the rate exactly right can be tricky at first, but a little experimentation pays off. I did some test runs on my driveway and recorded the rates I used for different materials to ensure I didn’t over or under apply. With the rate control feature, I achieved an even, consistent spread across my entire lawn.

Who Should Buy This

Okay, let’s talk about the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader. I’ve spent a good chunk of time using this thing on my own lawn and watching my neighbors wrestle with their spreaders, so I’ve got a pretty good handle on who it’s really for.

Who Should Buy This

First off, this Charles Walters broadcast spreader is ideal for the average homeowner who takes pride in their lawn but doesn’t want to spend all weekend on yard work. I’m talking about folks like my neighbor, Dave. Dave used to use this tiny little drop spreader, and it took him forever to fertilize his lawn. The lines were always uneven, and he was constantly stopping and starting. He was constantly complaining about the process. The CW800 changed everything for Dave. Its 65lb capacity means fewer refills and the broadcast pattern covers more ground with each pass. He can finally fertilize his lawn efficiently and evenly without feeling like he’s running a marathon. Plus, the durable construction means he won’t be replacing it every other season like he did with those flimsy plastic spreaders.

Then, there’s the homeowner with a larger or oddly-shaped yard. Think about someone with a lot of curves, slopes, or obstacles. I have a friend who lives on a corner lot and found it nearly impossible to get even coverage with a traditional drop spreader. The CW800 excels in these situations because the broadcast pattern allows for better coverage around obstacles. No more missed spots or over-fertilizing in tight corners. The adjustable settings are also a lifesaver because you can tailor the spread rate to match the terrain and product you’re using, preventing those unsightly burnt patches that often come with uneven application.

Finally, I’d highly recommend the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 for anyone who lives in an area with harsh winters and uses ice melt on their sidewalks and driveways. A broadcast spreader makes quick work of spreading ice melt evenly, providing better traction and melting ice more effectively. I used it last winter to spread ice melt around my driveway and sidewalks before a big freeze, and it saved me so much time and effort compared to trying to do it by hand. Plus, the CW800 is built to handle the corrosive nature of ice melt, so you don’t have to worry about it rusting or falling apart after a few uses.

• Ease of Use: Designed for homeowners, not professional landscapers, so setup and operation are straightforward.
• Built to Last: Durable construction means it can withstand regular use and outdoor conditions.
• Versatile: Can be used for fertilizer, seed, and ice melt, making it a multi-purpose tool.

Now, who isn’t this for? If you have a tiny postage-stamp lawn or you are a professional landscaper maintaining sports fields, you may want to consider other options. The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader is ideal for those needing a reliable solution for medium to large-sized residential properties.

🟢 Pros of the Charles Walters CW800 Broadcast Spreader

✅ High Capacity (Up to 80 lbs)

• Holds enough material to cover medium to large lawns or long driveways without constant refilling—ideal for fertilizer , seed , and ice melt applications.

✅ Durable Steel Construction

• Built tough with a heavy-duty steel hopper and frame that resists bending or rusting—even when used frequently with coarse materials like lime or rock salt.

✅ Even Broadcast Pattern for Uniform Coverage

• Delivers consistent spreading across open areas—helps avoid streaky or patchy results.
• Adjustable gate lets you fine-tune application rates based on material type and coverage needs.

✅ Smooth Rolling Wheels – Handles Rough Terrain Well

• Large wheels roll easily over grass, gravel, and pavement—better than smaller push models that get stuck or bog down.

✅ All-Season Use – Great Year-Round Versatility

• Perfect for spring seeding , summer feeding , fall overseeding , and winter deicing —a truly year-round tool .

✅ Excellent Value for Serious Lawn Care

• Offers strong performance at a mid-tier price point —great bang for your buck compared to commercial-grade tow-behind units.

✅ Easy Assembly – Ready in Minutes

• Took just minutes to attach handle and wheel assemblies—no special tools required.

✅ Ideal for DIYers Without Tow Vehicles

• No tractor or UTV needed—perfect for homeowners who want push-style convenience with professional-level performance .

🔴 Cons of the Charles Walters CW800 Spreader

❌ Heavy When Fully Loaded

• At 80 lbs capacity, pushing it uphill or on soft ground can be tiring—especially for seniors or those with limited strength.

❌ Not Ideal for Very Small Yards

• Overkill for tiny lawns or narrow garden paths—better suited for open spaces and larger properties.

❌ Some Calibration Needed for Precision Work

• Like most push spreaders, getting perfect coverage takes a little trial and error—especially switching between seed, fertilizer, and salt.

❌ No Flow Indicator Window

• You have to lift the lid to check how much product is left—some users would prefer a visibility window for efficiency during long jobs.

❌ Wheels Can Leave Light Tracks on Soft Lawns

• On muddy or freshly aerated soil, the tires can leave behind minor ruts—best used when ground is firm and dry.

❌ Spreading Width May Be Too Broad for Tight Spaces

• The broadcast pattern is wide—great for open lawns but tricky around flower beds or narrow walkways unless you’re careful.

🧾 Final Thoughts

The Charles Walters CW800 Broadcast Spreader is a reliable, durable, and versatile tool best suited for homeowners with medium to large lawns , driveways , or gardens who want consistent, even coverage without investing in a tow-behind model. It’s especially useful for seasonal fertilizing , overseeding , and winter ice melt applications .

It really shines as a year-round workhorse that’s both durable and efficient , making lawn maintenance faster and more uniform.

However, if you’re working with very tight spaces , need lightweight storage , or only spread occasionally, you might find a handheld spreader or smaller push model more practical.

How It Compares

Okay, here’s my take on how the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader stacks up against the competition, based on my experience using it and other similar spreaders around my property.

Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity vs. Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader

I’ve spent many weekends trying to get my lawn looking lush and green, so I’ve used my fair share of spreaders. The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader is a very popular choice, often seen as the go-to for smaller lawns. It’s compact and easy to store, which is a plus. However, when I put it head-to-head with the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity, the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader really shines.

First off, the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader has a noticeably larger capacity (65lbs) than the Scotts Mini. This means fewer trips back to the garage to refill when you’re tackling a larger lawn. I also found the build quality of the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader to be more robust. The Scotts felt a bit flimsy in comparison, especially when loaded up with a full hopper. Finally, I found the spread pattern on the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader to be more consistent and even, leading to a better-looking lawn after fertilization.

The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader does have the advantage of being more readily available at big box stores and may be slightly cheaper.

My assessment: If you have a smaller yard and prioritize affordability and convenience of purchase, the Scotts Mini might suffice. However, for larger yards or for those who value durability and a more even spread, I’d recommend investing in the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity. You’ll appreciate the reduced refills and more uniform coverage.

Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity vs. Earthway 2050P Estate 80 lb. Walk Behind Broadcast Spreader

The Earthway 2050P is another popular broadcast spreader. I’ve used it on my mother’s larger property when helping her with lawn care. This one boasts a slightly larger capacity (80 lbs) than the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader. However, capacity isn’t everything.

I found the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader to be easier to maneuver, particularly on uneven terrain. The wheel design on the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader seemed to handle bumps and ruts more smoothly. I also liked the more intuitive control settings on the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader. With the Earthway, I always felt like I was fiddling with the settings to get the right spread rate, wasting product and time.

One advantage of the Earthway is its advertised “Even Spread” technology. While I didn’t notice a massive difference in spread evenness compared to the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader, some users may find this feature beneficial.

My assessment: The Earthway 2050P might be a slightly better option if you are working with very large areas that would benefit from a very slight edge in capacity. But in most cases, the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity offers a better user experience thanks to its maneuverability and easier-to-use controls. I find myself reaching for the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader far more often.

What Users Are Saying

With over 500 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity seems to be a hit with homeowners looking to keep their yards in top shape. After sifting through countless reviews, I’ve picked out a few common praises to give you a better idea of what people are saying.

Mark from Kansas, Weekend Warrior: “Living in the Midwest, my lawn takes a beating. The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity has been a game changer! It spreads fertilizer so evenly now, “no more burn spots and my lawn has never looked so green.” Plus, the 65lb capacity means I don’t have to refill constantly. (5-star review)

Susan from Florida, First-Time Homeowner: “I was intimidated by the thought of fertilizing my lawn myself, but the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity made it so easy. It came mostly assembled, and the controls are simple to figure out. “I actually enjoyed taking care of my lawn” with it and that is not something I would have ever expected!” (4-star review)

David from Pennsylvania, Seasoned Gardener: “I’ve been gardening for over 30 years, and I’ve used all sorts of spreaders. What I appreciate about the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity is its durability. “The frame is solid, the wheels are sturdy, and it just feels like it’s built to last.” That’s important when you’re dealing with potentially corrosive fertilizers. (5-star review)

Emily from Texas, Suburban Mom: “I needed something that could handle not only fertilizer, but also grass seed for some bare spots in my yard. The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity did the job perfectly. “I adjusted the settings based on the instructions, and the seed spread nice and uniformly.” My lawn is already looking fuller! (4-star review)

My Experience

My Three Months with the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity

When I first integrated the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity into my lawn care routine back in early spring, I was primarily looking to achieve more even fertilizer distribution. What I didn’t expect was how much easier and less time-consuming the entire process would become.

I’ve been testing the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 for about three months now, and even my wife, who usually avoids lawn care tasks like the plague, has given it a whirl. We live on a slightly larger corner lot, so spreading fertilizer with a handheld spreader was always a chore. I’d always end up with patches of dark green and light green grass, a telltale sign of uneven distribution. The first time I used the CW800, I immediately noticed how much smoother and consistent the spread was. The fertilizer flowed evenly, and the wide broadcast pattern meant I covered ground much faster. The handle felt sturdy and comfortable in my hands, and the wheels rolled smoothly even on slightly uneven terrain. It’s also surprisingly quiet; you mostly just hear the gentle rustle of the fertilizer being dispersed.

During a particularly windy day last month, the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity proved its worth when I needed to apply a weed and feed product before an afternoon thunderstorm. I was worried about the wind scattering the granules everywhere, but the adjustable settings on the spreader allowed me to control the flow rate precisely. I lowered the setting to compensate for the wind, and the granules landed exactly where I wanted them, minimizing waste and maximizing effectiveness.

One minor issue I encountered was that the hopper can be a bit tricky to clean out completely, especially if the fertilizer gets damp. However, I found that using a small brush and a shop vac makes the job much easier. Compared to the old drop spreader I used to use, the CW800 is a dream. The drop spreader always left streaks and required constant adjustments. The Charles Walters Equipment CW800 provides a consistent, even spread every time, saving me time and frustration. It has definitely improved the overall health and appearance of my lawn.

Final Verdict

After several weekends dedicated to lawn care, the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity has definitely proven its worth. This isn’t some flimsy, plastic spreader destined for the landfill after a season; it feels robust and well-made.

This spreader is an excellent choice for homeowners with medium to large-sized lawns who are tired of uneven fertilizer application. If you’re meticulous about your lawn’s health and appearance, the consistent spread pattern of the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity will be a game-changer. Its biggest strength is undoubtedly its large capacity and even distribution. On the other hand, the assembly instructions could be clearer – I spent a frustrating 30 minutes initially, but once assembled, it’s smooth sailing.

Considering its current price, which I find reasonable for the quality and capacity you get, I recommend the Charles Walters Equipment CW800 Homeowner Broadcast Spreader for Spreading Fertilizer on Lawns, Sidewalks, and Driveways, 65lb Capacity with only slight reservations due to the initial assembly. If you’re looking to upgrade from a smaller, less reliable spreader and want a tool that will last for years, it’s definitely worth considering. I’m confident it will give you a noticeably healthier, more uniform lawn.

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