6 Hunter pop-up sprinklers for optimum lawn irrigation in the test

 

Why I rely on pop-up sprinklers from Hunter

Well-planned and reliable garden irrigation is essential for me – especially in the dry summer months. In this article, I will show you which Hunter pop-up sprinklers have proven themselves in practice. I have installed, tested and experienced various Hunter sprinklers myself – from classic geared sprinklers and MP rotators to special solutions for small or large lawns.

First of all, Hunter products have impressed me with their robust construction, even watering and versatility. Compared to other well-known manufacturers such as Gardena, Rain Bird or Toro, there are noticeable differences, particularly in terms of adjustability, throw range and water pressure behavior.

While Gardena is clearly aimed at private users and scores particularly highly for its ease of use, Rain Bird targets both private and commercial users with its extensive range. I have also had good experiences with Rain Bird sprinklers – they are reliable and comparable to Hunter products in many areas. Toro, on the other hand, is less common in private horticulture in Germany; I have not yet had any personal experience with their products. Hunter’s portfolio is aimed at professional users and demanding private users – a target group to which I definitely belong with my more complex irrigation system.

Before the Hunter pop-up sprinklers are used, however, careful planning and installation of a lawn irrigation system is always required. I have tried out different systems in my garden over the last few years and optimized them step by step. Unfortunately, I don’t have a well or a cistern myself and therefore have to work exclusively with the water from my house connection. This works well, but requires a precise calculation of the available water pressure and the possible throw distances of the individual sprinklers. Alternatively, if available, a cistern or a well with a pump are very good sources of water, especially if you want to operate larger irrigation zones automatically.

In my article “Planning and installing a lawn irrigation system – my first project”, I describe in detail how I started laying PE pipes, positioning the sprinklers and zoning.

In the article “Is my water connection sufficient for watering the lawn?” I show you how to determine the available liters per minute via the house connection with a simple test. These values are crucial in order to avoid pressure losses and uneven irrigation.

It gets even more practical in the “Step-by-step guide to efficient automatic garden irrigation”, in which I have replaced my manual solution with an intelligent irrigation system with Wi-Fi control, Hunter solenoid valves and app control.

These experiences form the basis for this pop-up sprinkler test. In the following, I present the models that have proven successful in my garden – with an honest assessment, installation tips and a direct comparison of the Hunter sprinklers.

 

Market overview: Hunter, Rain Bird, Gardena and Toro in comparison

To summarize:

• Hunter offers a wide range of products for private and professional users – from small gardens to municipal green spaces. The focus is on versatility, durability and efficient irrigation. The selection of pop-up sprinklers, geared sprinklers, nozzles and control solutions is large and technically sophisticated. Ideal for anyone who wants to customize their irrigation system.
• Rain Bird operates at a similarly high technical level and is widely used, especially in the professional sector and in landscaping. The products are robust, reliable and well documented – many models can be combined well with Hunter sprinklers, as long as the precipitation rates match.
• Gardena is primarily aimed at DIY enthusiasts and hobby gardeners. The solutions are easy to install and intuitive to use – using the familiar plug-in system, for example. However, my tests show that the products cannot keep up with Hunter or Rain Bird in terms of pressure stability, range, adjustability and durability.
• Toro plays only a minor role in Germany. However, the manufacturer is well established internationally – particularly in the USA – and offers high-performance solutions for large green spaces, sports fields and golf courses. For private gardens in this country, the products are hardly widespread and are usually only available from specialized dealers.

By comparing Hunter, RainBird and Gardena, as well as my own practical tests, I have gained a good overview of which sprinklers are best suited to which garden size and type of application. In the following sections, I will introduce you to the Hunter models that have proven particularly successful in my irrigation practice – including their technical features, throw ranges, nozzle options and areas of application.

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Efficient lawn irrigation with Hunter pop-up sprinklers – how it works for me

When planning my own irrigation system, I deliberately opted for underground pop-up sprinklers. These disappear automatically into the ground after watering and are practically invisible in everyday life – no risk of tripping, no visual disturbance and no obstacle when mowing the lawn. For me, this is the ideal solution for keeping my lawns well maintained and usable.

I have been using a combination of the Hunter I-20-04-SS Ultra and various MP rotators in my system for years. All sprinklers are equipped with Hunter’s pressure-regulating PRS40 housing, which keeps the throw constant and ensures uniform watering even when water pressure fluctuates. This combination of pressure-regulated riser and high-quality nozzle has proven to be particularly efficient in my garden.

The Hunter geared sprinklers – above all the I-20-04-SS Ultra – can be set precisely to the desired sector between 40° and 360°. I have used it to cover larger areas of lawn without any overlaps or dry zones. I am particularly impressed by the option of adapting the nozzle to the conditions on site – depending on the required throw distance and available water volume.

At the same time, I use a wide range of MP rotators, including the MP1000, MP2000, MP3000 and the MP800 short radius nozzle. These ensure a low precipitation rate in my beds and smaller zones, are wind-stable and save a lot of water compared to conventional spray nozzles. Their even water distribution makes them perfect for structured zones with dense planting or loamy soils.

A particularly clever detail in my system are the MP Corner nozzles, which I use specifically on hard-to-reach corners and transitions. These special corner nozzles have been developed to provide complete coverage in confined spaces – at 45° to 105° – without overspraying. They are ideal for the precise watering of garden corners or bed borders.

I also use the MP Strip nozzles – specifically the MP Side Strip, Left Corner Strip and Right Corner Strip – in long but narrow areas such as along paths or my property boundary. These provide an even distribution even on very narrow surfaces without wetting adjacent areas. In conjunction with the PRS40 riser, they work particularly efficiently at 2.8 bar and with a low spray mist – ideal for areas affected by wind or evaporation.

I also used other sprinklers such as the PGP Ultra or the compact PGJ pop-up sprinkler – but mainly as part of my tests. I installed them in different positions on my property to compare the differences in throw distance, pressure behavior and handling.

I have installed and tested all of the Hunter pop-up sprinklers presented in this article on my own property and used some of them in daily operation for several years, so my assessments are based on my own practical experience in my garden.

 

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Hunter I-20-04-SS Ultra: Robust geared sprinkler for large lawns

The Hunter I-20-04-SS Ultra is a particularly durable and powerful geared sprinkler that I have been using for several years. It is ideal for larger lawns in private gardens, but also for prestigious areas around the house. The stainless steel pop-up housing makes the sprinkler particularly robust and resistant to wear and vandalism – ideal for highly frequented or mechanically stressed areas such as driveways or play areas.

In my garden, the I-20 is mainly used in places where I need a large throw range and precise sectoral watering is required – e.g. along hedges, in open spaces or at transitions to the patio. With its 22 nozzles supplied and a throw range of approx. 5.2 to 14.3 meters, it can be flexibly adapted and impresses with its high operational reliability, even with fluctuating water pressure.

 

Target group and area of application

The Hunter I-20 is clearly aimed at private garden owners who want to water medium to large lawns efficiently. It offers enormous flexibility, especially for more complex areas or different irrigation zones, thanks to the precise sector setting (40° to 360°). This model is also an ideal choice for users who already have experience with automatic garden irrigation or want to switch from simple spray nozzles to geared sprinklers.

Technical data

Type: Geared sprinkler / pop-up sprinkler
Riser height: 10 cm (4″)
Case material: Stainless steel (SS)
Connection: ½” internal thread
Adjustment range sector: 40°-360
Throw range: 5.2-14.3 m (depending on nozzle)
Nozzles: 22 interchangeable standard & low-angle
Pressure range: 1.7-4.5 bar (recommended: 2.8 bar)
Optimum operating pressure: 2.8 bar with PRS40 housing
Recommended precipitation rate: 10-15 mm/h

 

Advantages

• Very robust stainless steel housing – ideal for intensive use
• Precise adjustment of the irrigation sector (40-360°) directly on the sprinkler
• 22 different nozzles for flexible adjustment of the throw range
• Automatic return in the event of forced rotation
• Even water distribution, even at low water pressure
• Compatible with PRS40 housings for pressure-regulated irrigation

 

Disadvantages

• Slightly more complex to install for the first time than simple spray nozzles
• Higher unit price than plastic models without stainless steel housing
• Diameter of the spray area may be too large in small gardens
• Adjustment key for nozzle change required separately if not included in the scope of delivery

 

Reviews and experiences of other users

“The Hunter sprinklers are very robust, durable and perfect for watering the garden at home. Highly recommended – much better than Gardena’s.”
– Stefan

“I was with Gardena for a long time, but the range and stability of the Hunter convinced me. Even with fluctuating water pressure, the watering remains constant.”
– Mia M.

 

Conclusion

The Hunter I-20-04-SS Ultra is a powerful, flexible geared sprinkler that is ideal for the automated irrigation of large lawns in private gardens. Its durability, the large selection of nozzles and the precise adjustability make it a reliable component in my irrigation system. For those who value efficiency, stability and adaptability, the I-20 is a real professional device for home use.

 

Hunter PGP-04 Ultra: Proven geared sprinkler for precise garden irrigation

The Hunter PGP-04 Ultra is a popular and versatile pop-up sprinkler that I have tested and compared in several places in my garden. It is one of the classic geared sprinklers and has been used in private and professional irrigation systems worldwide for many years.

In my tests, the PGP Ultra has proven to be a reliable all-rounder. Setting the sprinkling angle from 50° to 360° is easy to implement, and changing the nozzle is also quick and easy. With the extensive nozzle package (standard and low-angle), the throw distance can be adjusted up to approx. 13.7 meters depending on the nozzle. Ideal for medium-sized lawns, bed edges or open spaces.

 

Target group and area of application

The Hunter PGP-04 Ultra is ideal for private garden owners who are looking for a cost-effective, durable and powerful solution for automatic lawn irrigation. Thanks to the flexible sector range and the large selection of nozzles, the sprinkler is suitable for both simple and more complex garden layouts. The PGP Ultra can also be retrofitted as an alternative to older sprinklers.

 

Technical data

Type: Geared sprinkler / pop-up sprinkler
Riser height: 10 cm
Housing material: plastic with optional stainless steel top (no brass)
Connection: ¾” internal thread
Adjustment range sector: 50°-360
Throw range: approx. 4.9-13.7 m (depending on nozzle)
Nozzles: 12 standard nozzles + 8 low-angle nozzles
Pressure range: 1.7-4.5 bar
Recommended operating pressure: 2.8 bar
Automatic return in the event of twisting: Yes
Vandalism protection: Yes

 

Advantages

• Proven Hunter quality at an affordable price
• Simple adjustment of throwing distance and sector
• Large nozzle set for individual customization
• Quiet operation and even water jet
• Self-closing access steps with vandalism protection
• Compatible with Hunter PRS40 housings for pressure regulation

 

Disadvantages

• No stainless steel housing (as with the I-20) – somewhat less robust under mechanical stress
• Rather impractical in very small gardens with many edges due to the larger spraying area
• The factory default setting may require fine adjustment on site
• No integrated non-return valve in the standard model

 

Reviews and experiences of other users

“The Hunter PGP-04 Ultra pop-up sprinkler has proven to be an outstanding product in the world of irrigation technology. The workmanship is precise and the gearbox ensures reliable and even watering over a defined area.”
– G.

“The sprinklers are as banal as they are ingenious. The reach and water volume is achieved by simple plastic inserts and a screw – the technology is simple but effective. Installation was a breeze and the adjustments are easy to understand.”
– Andy

 

Conclusion

The Hunter PGP-04 Ultra is a versatile and attractively priced geared sprinkler for private use. It is particularly suitable for users who are looking for a reliable solution for lawn irrigation, but who can do without a stainless steel housing. Thanks to its extensive nozzle set, simple operation and robust technology, it is an excellent choice for many garden owners.

 

Hunter PGJ-04: Compact geared sprinkler for small to medium-sized lawns

The Hunter PGJ-04 is a compact geared sprinkler that I use on my property specifically where large models such as the I-20 or PGP Ultra would cover too much area. With its smaller spraying radius, it is ideal for narrow lawn strips, border areas, beds or zones with limited space – wherever precise partial-circle irrigation is required.

From a technical point of view, the PGJ combines many of the features of the larger geared sprinklers – such as the infinitely adjustable sector limitation from 40° to 360°, replaceable nozzles and the robust Hunter housing. I particularly like the fact that the throw distance can be fine-tuned using different nozzles, which allows me to optimally adjust the water consumption to the respective area.

 

Target group and area of application

The Hunter PGJ-04 is particularly suitable for private garden owners with smaller irrigation zones, angled areas or as an addition to existing systems with larger geared sprinklers. If you want to switch from spray nozzles to a more efficient solution, the PGJ offers significantly better efficiency with low water consumption.

 

Technical data

Type: Compact geared sprinkler / pop-up sprinkler
Riser height: 10 cm
Housing material: Plastic housing (no metal)
Connection: ½” internal thread
Adjustment range sector: 40°-360
Throw range: 4.3-11.6 m (depending on nozzle)
Nozzles: 8 interchangeable standard nozzles
Pressure range: 1.7-3.8 bar
Recommended operating pressure: 2.8 bar
Recommended precipitation rate: approx. 10-15 mm/h
Low-noise operation: Yes

 

Advantages

• Ideal for smaller areas or narrow garden spaces
• Compact, quiet and efficient in operation
• Infinitely adjustable irrigation sector
• Interchangeable nozzles for adjusting the throw range
• High compatibility with existing Hunter systems
• Can be easily combined with MP rotators

 

Disadvantages

• No stainless steel housing – less robust than I-20
• Not suitable for large lawns
• No non-return valve in the standard model
• Slightly shorter range than larger Hunter models

 

Reviews and experiences of other users

“Previously had Gardena pop-up sprinklers. I had to replace them twice. This year I got fed up and bought this American brand quality. These sprinklers really can’t be compared. Very robust and easy to adjust. ‘Idiot-proof’!”
– Martin Sadowski

“The Hunter PGJ was ordered. Very good quality and products. Unfortunately I had a Monday product – and a new one was sent out with no ifs or buts. I would order here again without hesitation!”
– Artur

 

Conclusion

The Hunter PGJ-04 is a well-designed, compact geared sprinkler that is ideal for smaller lawns and flower beds. It perfectly complements larger sprinklers such as the PGP Ultra or I-20 and offers clean, quiet and reliable irrigation – especially when water needs to be distributed evenly and in a targeted manner. A clear recommendation for private gardens with differentiated zones or as a retrofit.

Hunter SRM-04: Compact geared sprinkler for small to medium-sized garden areas

The Hunter SRM-04 Turbine is a compact geared sprinkler designed for smaller lawns, edges of flower beds or angled areas in the garden. With an adjustable sector of 40° to 360° and a throw range of 4 to 9 meters, the model can be flexibly integrated into automated irrigation systems.

The sprinkler is particularly suitable for applications where larger models such as the PGP Ultra or I-20 would generate too much coverage. The SRM series works in a pressure range between 2.1 and 3.4 bar and can be adapted to different surface sizes using different nozzles.

 

Target group and area of application

The Hunter SRM-04 is recommended for private garden owners who want to supply small to medium-sized irrigation zones in a targeted and efficient manner. It is an economical alternative to classic spray nozzles, especially if a more even distribution of water is required. The model is also well suited as an addition to existing Hunter systems – e.g. in mixing zones with rotators or larger geared sprinklers.

 

Technical data

Type: Compact geared sprinkler / pop-up sprinkler
Model: Hunter SRM-04
Riser height: 10 cm
Housing material: plastic
Connection: ½” internal thread
Sector adjustable: 40°-360
Throw range: 4.0-9.1 m (depending on nozzle and pressure)
Pressure range: 2.1-3.4 bar
Nozzles: 6 interchangeable standard nozzles
Flow rate: approx. 0.08-0.82 m³/h (depending on nozzle)
Recommended combination: Hunter PRS40 housing for constant pressure

 

Advantages

• Compact geared sprinkler with variable throw range for smaller areas
• Flexibly adjustable sector – 40° to 360
• Low water consumption – ideal for limited water availability
• Simple nozzle replacement without special tools
• Quiet operation and even water distribution
• Compatible with other Hunter sprinkler models

 

Disadvantages

• No stainless steel housing – less robust under mechanical stress
• Not suitable for large areas or sports facilities
• Lower operating pressure than larger Hunter sprinklers – note when combining
• No automatic return as with the I-20

 

Reviews and experiences of other users

“Turbine meets my requirements perfectly. Robust construction and reliable mechanism. I have been using other models for 8 years – so far without any problems.”
– Amazon rating

“I wasn’t sure if they were compatible with the SRM-04 – but they are the same. Works great.”
– Assoyam

 

Conclusion

The Hunter SRM-04 turbine is a solid geared sprinkler for small to medium-sized areas. It impresses with its simple adjustment, quiet operation and good throw range combined with low water consumption. For private irrigation systems that are flexibly tailored to smaller areas, it is an ideal and inexpensive addition – especially as an upgrade to spray nozzles or as a supplement to larger sprinkler models in the same system.

Hunter PRS40-CV: Pressure-regulated pop-up sprinkler for MP Rotator nozzles

The Hunter PRS40-CV is a specially developed pop-up sprinkler that can be optimally combined with MP Rotator nozzles. Thanks to the integrated pressure regulation to 2.8 bar and the built-in non-return valve, it is ideal for ensuring uniform irrigation – even with changing pressure conditions in the pipe system.

It is particularly useful in private gardens where precise water distribution, reduced water consumption and quiet operation are required. In combination with MP rotators, water consumption can be significantly reduced while achieving a high level of distribution accuracy – ideal for structured zones, flower beds, lawns and complex garden geometries.

 

Target group and area of application

The Hunter PRS40-CV is aimed at private garden owners who want to work with MP rotators or set up their irrigation system accordingly. The PRS40 is an important component for efficient and pressure-stable irrigation, particularly in areas that are difficult to irrigate, on slopes or where water availability is low. The model is suitable both for new buildings and for retrofitting existing systems with spray nozzles.

 

Technical data

Type: pop-up sprinkler housing with pressure regulation
Riser height: 10 cm (4″)
Pressure regulation: fixed at 2.8 bar (ideal for MP rotators)
Connection: ½” internal thread
Compatible nozzles: MP Rotator series (MP800, MP1000, MP2000, MP3000 etc.)
Non-return valve (CV): prevents water drainage in the event of height differences
Housing material: plastic
Pressure range: 2.1-6.2 bar (regulation active at 2.8 bar)
Recommended combination: with Hunter MP Rotator and Hydrawise control unit

Advantages

• Fixed operating pressure of 2.8 bar – optimized for MP Rotator nozzles
• Non-return valve prevents water loss from low-lying sprinklers
• Durable housing, suitable for underground installation
• Even water flow for high efficiency with low water consumption
• Reduces spray formation if line pressure is too high
• Low maintenance and easy to retrofit into existing systems

 

Disadvantages

• Not a sprinkler as such – requires a suitable nozzle (e.g. MP Rotator)
• Higher price compared to standard housings without pressure regulation
• Only suitable to a limited extent for spray nozzles or large areas

Reviews and experiences of other users

“Fitted to Gardena hose system, impressed with the result. Can be adjusted perfectly, but you should check the Hunter website for more information.”
– Box3

“Fast delivery, the Hunter devices are simply good.”
– Lilijuli

 

Conclusion

The Hunter PRS40-CV is the ideal addition for all those who work with MP rotators and want to rely on pressure-stable, efficient and water-saving irrigation. The combination of integrated pressure regulation and non-return valve makes it particularly recommended for demanding garden areas and structured surfaces. If you value a well thought-out and reliable solution, the PRS40-CV is a sensible long-term decision.

Hunter PRS40-CV with MP Corner nozzle: Precise corner irrigation with integrated pressure regulator

The Hunter PRS40-CV with an MP Corner nozzle is a sophisticated solution for the precise watering of lawn corners, narrow border areas and transitions. In my garden irrigation system, I use this system specifically where standard rotators would throw too much water onto adjacent paths or beds. The combination of a pressure-regulated housing and a nozzle specially designed for corner areas makes all the difference.

The integrated pressure regulation to 2.8 bar ensures that the MP Rotator nozzle can work optimally – with high throwing accuracy, minimal spray mist and efficient water distribution. The built-in non-return valve also prevents the pipe from draining on slopes or with height differences – a real plus for long-lasting and water-saving systems.

 

Target group and area of application

The model is aimed at private garden owners who want to plan their automatic lawn irrigation efficiently right down to the last corner. The MP Corner nozzle covers angles between 45° and 105° and is ideal for corner areas that are often over- or undersupplied with conventional nozzles. In combination with MP1000, MP800 or MP Strip nozzles, the result is a finely tuned system for complex surfaces.

 

Technical data

Type: pop-up sprinkler housing with pressure regulation
Riser height: 10 cm (4″)
Pressure regulation: fixed at 2.8 bar
Connection: ½” internal thread
Nozzle: MP Corner (angle range 45°-105°, throw range approx. 2.5 m)
Non-return valve (CV): integrated
Suitable for: Edges, corners, beds, winding garden areas
Precipitation rate (MP Corner): approx. 20 mm/h
Recommended combination: with MP Rotator nozzles and Hydrawise control unit

Advantages

• Precise watering of corners and tight angles
• Pressure regulation to 2.8 bar ensures optimum MP nozzle performance
• Non-return valve prevents water loss in the event of level differences
• Even water distribution with low consumption
• Ideal for combining with other MP rotators
• Compact design – barely visible in the lawn

 

Disadvantages

• Covers only very specific angle ranges – supplement required
• Not suitable for large areas or central zones
• Requires precise planning of nozzle alignment during installation
• Can easily be set too low on very soft ground – ensure correct installation

 

Reviews and experiences of other users

“Fitted to Gardena hose system, impressed with the result. Can be adjusted perfectly, but you should check the Hunter website for more information.”
– Box3

“Fast delivery, the Hunter devices are simply good.”
– Lilijuli

 

Conclusion

The Hunter PRS40-CV with MP Corner nozzle is an ideal addition for anyone who wants to optimize their automatic irrigation in hard-to-reach areas. Targeted corner watering saves water, reduces wastage and can be perfectly combined with other MP Rotator nozzles. A clear recommendation for sophisticated garden designs.

Summary: My test report on Hunter pop-up sprinklers in the garden

In this comprehensive watering guide, I have documented my experiences with various Hunter pop-up sprinklers that I have installed and tested in the garden myself. The aim was to find the right pop-up sprinkler for every lawn – whether small, medium or large – and at the same time to realize efficient garden irrigation with the lowest possible water consumption.

The focus is on the tried and tested Hunter geared sprinklers such as the I-20-04-SS Ultra, the PGP Ultra, the compact PGJ and the SRM-04, which can be ideally combined depending on the throw range, sector setting and garden size. The pressure-regulated PRS40 housing with the MP Rotator nozzles stands out particularly positively – for uniform, wind-stable irrigation with reduced consumption.

Even difficult areas such as corners or narrow edge zones can be covered with MP Corner and Strip nozzles. The result is a professional irrigation system with a modular design that can be adapted precisely to the needs of your own garden – underground, invisible, low-maintenance.

A direct comparison with Gardena, Rain Bird and Toro shows that Hunter sprinklers are particularly robust, versatile and designed for high performance in both the private and semi-professional sectors. The precise adjustability of the sectors, the wide range of available nozzles and the reliable function at different water pressures clearly speak for Hunter.