In modern agriculture, the rain gun sprinkler system is a boon.
Rain gun sprinkler irrigation systems consist of different pieces of equipment that help deliver water at high pressure.
It is similar to a drip irrigation system. It is capable of covering large areas and different points in the field.
In this article, I will discuss the top 10 gain guns that help maximize irrigation in large areas.
Choosing the Best Rain Gun for Your Field Size and Crop Needs
When trying to determine the optimal rain gun setup for large fields, consider several key factors. Some are discussed below.
Field Size
It’s essential to know the precise measurements of your field before choosing a sprinkler system, since different types work best for various shapes and sizes. Linear sprinklers, sometimes called rain guns, can cover long rectangular plots well. CeÂntre pivot systems are great for round or oval fields up to 160 acres. Be sure to measure length and width so you can pick a sprinkler that can completely wet the entire area.
Soil Type
The type of soil determines the type of raincoat needed. Areas with heavy clay soils need guns that push out more water with more pressure so it soaks into the ground instead of running off.
Lighter sandy soils need a gentler touch from the rain guns so the water isn’t blasting away all the soil. The perfect gun for each field depends on how well the unique soil absorbs water based on what it’s made of.
Crop Type
Crops that need lots of water, like alfalfa, do better when it rains compared to delicate berries or grapes. If the sprinklers match how much H2O different plants need, it saves water and time. Fine-tuning the rain gun flows to suit each crop’s thirst uses irrigation in the best way.
Water Pressure
It’s important to check the water pressure needs of different sprinkler heads before choosing one for your lawn. Different modes work best within certain pressure ranges.
Talking to an irrigation professional can help you figure out if the pressure in your area matches up well with the sprinklers you’re considering. They’ll know how much water various heads need to operate, so your grass gets an even drink.
Working together ensures you select heads suited to the water flow you’ve got
Budget
The size of your fields can definitely put a limit on things, since bigger areas might mean you need to buy more sprinklers or install bigger pipes.
It’s smart to look at what each system can do and what it’ll cost per acre before choosing, so you know what you’re working with and can pick something that fits your budget.
Types of Rain Gun Sprinkler Irrigation System
There are several common rain gun types suitable for irrigating large fields. Understanding their basic designs and best use cases helps determine the best match.
Center Pivot Rain Gun
As the name suggests, center pivot irrigation systems utilize stationary rain guns mounted at intervals along articulating horizontal booms that rotate in a circle. These gun types provide excellent coverage for circular fields up to 160 acres in size.
Center pivot rain guns work by spraying water droplets through oscillating nozzle plates powered by the irrigation pipe as it moves. Common variations include impact or sprinkler spray patterns.
Properly spaced every 10-20 feet along the arm, they deliver an even application throughout the full circular path.
Linear Move Rain Gun
Linear movement, or towed line irrigation, instead pulls a horizontal pipe outfitted with rain guns from one corner of a rectangular field to the other corner on wheeled anchors. This allows irrigating elongated linear parcels.
The linear configuration suits long, thin parcels needing irrigation along their entire lengthwise dimension. Common uses include tree crops, row crops, and vegetable or cut flower operations with linear planting patterns.
Side Roll Rain Gun
Less common for large fields but still an option, side roll systems place stationary rain guns at the edge of a circular field that rotates separately when powered on. Generally, it is only used for circular plots under 40 acres.
Top 10 Rain Guns for Maximizing Irrigation in Large Fields
Nelson R3000
The Nelson R3000 sure can get the job done when it comes to watering large areas of land. It was built to handle huge fields and pastures with no problem at all. This irrigation system means business.
| Model No: | 3030 |
| Size: | Approx. 48″ x 48″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 95 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | 17.7-22.6 meters (50-70 ft) |
| Nozzle type: | 3TN |
NELSON R5000
The Nelson R5000 is sure to be a massive irrigation system. It can handle huge farms and commercial operations with no problem. This thing is built to cover huge areas without breaking a sweat. Whether you need to water broad fields or large-scale
| Model No: | 5050 |
| Size: | Approx. 60″ x 60″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 150 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | 21.3-26.2 meters (70-85 ft) |
| Nozzle type: | 3TN |
NELSON R7000
The Nelson R7000 knows how to get the job done. It was built for tough tasks. It can water huge farms and industrial sites with incredible strength and effectiveness.
This irrigation champ can handle anything thrown its way without wasting energy. Whether you need to irrigate expansive areas of crops or large industrial grounds.
| Model No: | Â 7070 |
| Size: | Approx. Â 72″ x 72″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 200 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | 24.4-29.3 meters (80-95 ft) |
| Nozzle type: | 3TN |
VALMONT R3000 Rain Gun
The Valmont R3000 is a versatile and dependable workhorse in the irrigation world, renowned for its durability and adaptability to various applications.
| Model No: | 3030 |
| Size: | Approx. 48″ x 48″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 95 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | 17.7-22.6 meters (50-70 ft) |
| Nozzle type: | 3TN |
T-L Irrigation TW-Series gun
The T-L Irrigation TW-Series Gun is a unique breed in the sprinkler world. It employs a gear-driven mechanism for exceptional precision and control.
| Model No: | TW-400, TW-600 |
| Size: | Approx. 48″ x 48″ |
| Weight: | Approx.  85-120 lbs |
| Pressure range: | Â 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | Â 40-140 ft (12-43 m) |
| Nozzle type: | Â customized |
NELSON R5000 Big Stream Gun
The Nelson R5000 Big Stream Gun isn’t another big gun. It’s a precision instrument designed to create a gentle, uniform “rain.” It’s ideal for delicate crops and areas with uneven terrain.
| Model No: | 5054 |
| Size: | Approx. 60″ x 60″ |
| Weight: | Approx.150 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | Â 17.7-22.6 meters (50-70 ft) |
| Nozzle type: | Specialized nozzles designed |
NELSON R4000 Big Gun
The Nelson R4000 occupies a sweet spot in the irrigation world. It offers the impressive power of guns and the efficiency and control that high-flow counterparts often lack.
| Model No: | Â 4040 |
| Size: | Approx. 54″ x 54″ |
| Weight: | Approx.  120 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | Â 19.8-24.4 meters (65-80 ft) |
| Nozzle type: | Â customized |
Rain Bird XFS-1
The Rain Bird XFS-1 is a technological marvel in the irrigation world. It combines powerful performance with exceptional control and precision.
| Model No: | XFS-1 |
| Size: | Approx. 48″ x 48″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 90 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | Â 40-140 ft (12-43 m) |
| Nozzle type: | customized |
NELSON R2000 Mini Gun
Most big guns tackle vast fields. The Nelson R2000 Mini Gun is a compact but mighty player. It’s designed for smaller areas and specialty applications.
| Model No: | Â 2020 |
| Size: | Approx. 36″ x 36″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 70 lbs |
| Pressure range: | Â 0.7-3.4 bar (10-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | Â 30-50 ft (9-15 m) |
| Nozzle type: | customized |
T-L TW-3000 Linear Gun
The T-L TW-3000 Linear Gun is a unique player in the irrigation world. It offers precise and efficient watering along a linear path. This is unlike the traditional circular coverage.
| Model No: | Â TW-3000 |
| Size: | Approx. Â 72″ x 48″ |
| Weight: | Approx. 140 lbs |
| Pressure range: | 1-3.4 bar (15-50 psi) |
| Throw distance: | Â 100-800 ft (30-244 m) |
| Nozzle type: | Â Â customized |
Installation, Maintenance and Setup of Gun System
Proper installation techniques, maintenance schedules, and setup calibration are crucial aspects of maximizing performance from any rain gun irrigation system over many seasons of use.
Installation
The rain gun sprinkler system setup is not as hard as we thought. We can easily set up the following precedence according to the model of the instrument.
Rain guns must be securely mounted to the solid horizontal pipes of pivots or lines at the proper heights, angles, and intervals specified by manufacturers. Often, 8-12 feet above ground is common. Professional installation ensures structural integrity under pressure.
Maintenance
A monthly inspection regimen keeps these guns functioning optimally. Nozzles should be cleaned of mineral buildup or replaced if worn. Moving mechanical parts need greased fittings.
Annual deep cleaning pits remove 2+ seasons of sediment accumulation. Proper lubrication prevents premature wear of oscillating components.
Calibration
Each rain gun requires individual calibration to achieve balanced precipitation throughout the circle or down linear pipe paths. Pressure regulators and nozzle sizes may require adjustment to calibrate a uniform 0.10-0.50 inch per hour output, depending on conditions. Laser leveling also helps attain even distribution.
Adjusting for Wind
Varying nozzle pressures or substituting wind-resistant spray tips counteracts the effects of irregular wetting due to directional breezes. Sensors can automatically shut down irrigation during strong storms. Proper calibration negates wind deviations for consistent moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does it cost to irrigate X number of acres?
A. Total irrigation costs vary depending on the gun model, number of guns needed, land size, crop water needs, and existing system components. Expect anywhere from $400 to $1,000 per acre to install and operate over a season for large fields. Accurate budgeting requires consulting local professionals.
Q. What is the difference between precipitation rates?
A. Precipitation rate refers to the depth of water applied per hour, usually measured in inches. Higher rates of 0.4-0.5 inches/hour saturate soils faster for high-water crops, while 0.25 inches/hour moistens more delicate plants like berries or grapes. Rates are adjusted by nozzle size and pressure.
Q. Can rain guns be used for fertilizer and pesticide applications too?
A. Many fertilizer injector models can be added to rain gun pipelines, allowing liquid or dissolved fertilizers to be distributed over the field along with irrigation water. This saves time and labor compared to separate fertilizing applications.
Q. How long do rain guns typically last?
A. Maintained guns can remain in service for 10-15 years or more before requiring replacement of worn parts. But constant environmental exposure and mineral deposits will degrade output uniformity over time. Most farmers budget for gun replacements every 7-10 years.
Q. What is the best way to clean clogged nozzles?
A. Nozzle cavitation and mineral buildup clog spray jets if not cleaned. Nozzle “socks” help, but if clogged, soaking nozzles in white vinegar, then back-flushing with compressed air or a gentle water spray, restores proper flow. Replacements may be needed for rusted orifices.
Conclusion
Selecting the right rain gun model suited to a given field’s size, soil properties, crop water needs, and budget constraints is key to maximizing irrigation effectiveness.
Proper installation, routine maintenance, and calibration are also vital components of a high-performing gun system.
Farmers can optimize yields and returns on investment with irrigation solutions. The solutions maximize water coverage throughout extensive fields.