Ames 10-Tine Manure Fork vs John Deere 10 Tine Ensilage Fork

The Ames is the better pick for most people cleaning stalls, because its 48-inch handle lets you work standing upright and its cushioned end grip is easier on the hands over a long session. The John Deere is the tougher, more compact tool: a wider 15-inch welded head and a steel D-grip that takes hard, close-in work and survives being left out. Owners of both describe them as solid, long-lasting forks; the Ames wins on comfort and reach, the John Deere on strength and control.

• Choose the Ames 10-Tine Manure Fork if you want to stand upright while mucking out and prefer a cushioned grip on a long hardwood handle.
• Choose the John Deere 10 Tine Ensilage Fork if you want a wider, heavy-duty head and a steel D-grip for hard, close-in pitching of manure, mulch or silage.