Different Types of Rakes

If you are an avid gardener, you know that gardening is pretty much not happening without the right equipment, at least not if you want great results. If you are serious about gardening, then you'll need several tools and equipment; one of which is a rakes. Gardening needs commitments and is definitely serious business. It would help if you were willing to get your hands dirty, literally. However, having the right tools will make all the hard work worthwhile. Perhaps more importantly, it will help you achieve the garden of your dreams, the one that when you look at it, you can't help but smile. There are different types of rakes, and it may be a little confusing knowing which one to get. But don't panic, choosing a garden hoe doesn't have to be a complicated matter. To help you in your quest, continue reading about the different types of rakes and choose based on your specific raking needs.

Types of Rakes FAQ's

What is a rake?

Rakes are tools consisting of a long or short handle attached to the head. The head is especially characterized for having several tines set in it, sometimes called teeth or prongs.

What is the use of a rake?

Rakes are versatile tools that can be used at home for various clearing and gardening tasks. They can also be used in industries such as agriculture and landscaping.

What are rakes made of?

Rakes can be made either of plastic, wood, metal, steel, and fiberglass.

  • Rakes with plastic heads are great when you need them to be lightweight so that they can safely be used overhead, making plastic an ideal material to use.
  • Some rakes have wooden tines, usually made from bamboo. These tend not to be as durable or long-lasting as plastic rakes, but they are kinder to the environment.
  • As you may imagine, rakes with long and narrow metal tines are slightly more expensive. These tend to be more long-lasting, metalheads on rakes will not snap or crack like plastic can, and they offer more flexibility.
  • If you want to move materials like rocks, then a steel rake is what you need. These tend to be rigid and sturdy.
  • You can also find fiberglass handles that are both lightweight and strong. They offer longevity and ease of use, though they will typically come at a higher cost.

Types of Rakes

You may be surprised to learn of the existence of different types of rakes. While we all know the big plastic or bamboo thing used to make leaf piles, rakes go beyond that basic description.

Lawn Rake/Leaf Rake

This is the most common type of rake. The tines are long and fan out from the handle, with a cross piece of material. These rakes are fabricated to pick up leaves and lawn debris without causing any damage to the grass and/or soil.

Bow Rake/Garden Rake

Garden rake has their place for heavy-duty; these are typically used to move, spread, and level soil. Its tines are wide-set and short; they bend down from the head at a 90-degree angle. These rakes are generally made of metal.

Shrub Rake

This one is pretty similar to the leaf rake. However, it’s much narrower. It's great to work within small places, to rake up leaves and other litter.

Hand Rake

These rakes tend to be made out of metal and though small in size, are meant for heavy-duty work. With only a few long, pointed tines, these rakes are perfect for digging and moving soil in a small area.

Thatch Rake

This means looking rake. It’s mainly utilized for breaking up and removing thick thatch in lawns.

How to choose a rake?

There are elements to consider when choosing a rake; keep the following in mind.

Handle length

You want to handle your rake easily, so think about whether you will use it standing up, for instance. A rake you will use standing up should be a suitable length and weight. When you hold a rake, you want some distance between your hands, but consider the balance between the tool and your hands and what feels right.

Head width

It all depends on where you need to use it. A wide head could mean that you will take less time removing leaves covering big garden areas; however, larger heads tend to be heavier.

Weight

The rake should be heavy enough to help you perform your tasks but light enough for you to maneuver comfortably. Keep in mind that rakes designed for more heavy-duty work will often be heavier.

Materials

The materials of which your rake is made will determine its durability. Steel will be the strongest material rake parts can be made from. They should be durable but can rust if exposed to moisture.

Size

This is another important element to consider when choosing the right rake. Think about the area it will be used in. Small gardens, gardens with many shrubs, or gardens with lots of sharp corners or small gaps will require a rake with a fairly small head. And relatively short handles will be easier to control effectively.

Different Types of Rakes

AMES Poly Shrub Rake with Steel Handle, 65-Inch

If you're looking for something to rake around plants and foliage easily, try this AMES Shrub Rake. The optimized design makes it easy to collect leaves and debris in even the tightest places without disturbing growing plants and landscaping. The 8-inch poly head makes this rake ideal for removing debris from under shrubs, fences, and trees. The 60-inch vinyl-coated steel handle is strong and durable while providing superior reach, while the 6-inch cushion grip offers comfort and control.

types of rakes: AMES Poly Shrub Rake with Steel Handle, 65-Inch

Features:

  • 8-Inch poly head
  • 60-Inch handle for superior reach
  • The vinyl-coated steel handle is strong and durable
  • Cushioned end grip for comfort and control

Fiskars 315520-1001 Xact Hand Garden Rake

The 9-teeth broom weighs 0.5 lb. The powder-coated carbon steel head is light and durable. The generous length of the teeth helps gathering dry leaves and flowers on the ground, less bending on your back. The tool can also be used to dislodge small weeds around perennials and annuals, and it is great for smoothing soil in planters and beds.

types of rakes: Homes Garden Small Grip Hand Fan Rake

Features:

  • The high-quality powder-coated carbon steel head is light and durable
  • Ergonomic shape and comfort of the handle
  • Ideal for cleaning up ground cover, hanging vines, remove pine needles or beds of blooming bulbs.

Thatching Rake with Adjustable Head, 60 Inch Handle

The original self-cleaning thatching or lawn grooming rake. Easy push and pull action. 15 5/8"W, 60" wood handle.

types of rakes: Thatching Rake with Adjustable Head, 60 Inch Handle

Features:

  • Adjustable head
  • handle length 60in
  • head size 15 5/8in
  • weight 4lbs

Emsco Group 9024 Cavex 25-Tine Poly Modern Leaf Rake, Red/Brown

Made from high-quality materials, this premium gardening tool boasts a sturdy structure that's guaranteed to withstand damage from prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, and other environmental elements.

types of rakes: Emsco Group 9024 Cavex 25-Tine Poly Modern Leaf Rake, Red/Brown

Features:

  • Clean out gardens, flower beds, shrubs & more
  • Metal & plastic versions
  • Smooth, reinforced wooden handles
  • Flared grabbing fingers
  • Lightweight for longer use

Tine Steel Leaf Rake with Hardwood Handle, 61-Inch

The Ames 22-tine steel leaf rake is used for clearing leaves and debris from lawns. The flexible steel tines will pull out thatch for a healthier lawn. The steelhead is bolted to the handle for a secure connection while raking.

types of rakes: Tine Steel Leaf Rake with Hardwood Handle, 61-Inch

Features:

  • 22-Tines will not pull loose
  • One-piece designed steelhead
  • Flexible coil spring provides smooth raking action
  • Hardwood handle for strength and durability
  • 6-Inch cushioned grip