This smaller spreader is actually more expensive than the large one, but I'm completely happy with my purchase. I just got done spreading pelleted lime and it worked beautifully, with a smooth, even spread. I chose the smaller spreader for a few reasons. The main benefit for me was the small cone is better for my hilly pasture. With a large cone, when you start spreading on hills, the bottom of the spreader can go dry momentarily unless you keep the cone fairly full. The small spearer holds less, but the material stays at the bottom because there's less width and height for it to move to. The other advantages include a polly cone so this will last a lifetime with no rusting, much lighter than the metal large one, and easier storage. Disadvantages: 1. Obviously less capacity. 2. About 10% more expensive. 3. The small spreader does not allow you to adjust the pattern to spread to only one side like the large one. It spreads an even pattern behind you. None of these were big issues for me, but one or all may make the large one a better choice for some.

I ordered this online to be picked up from the store. Unfortunately the local TSC didn't have it in stock so I drove across the state towing a trailer to get the last one in the area. Thankfully I looked at it before I left the store as the plastic hopper had a deep gash in it. Additionally, the paint was missing from a section of the structural metal and it already had deep rust on it. I asked for another one to be ordered and then delivered to my house but they wouldn't waive the delivery fee and said it would be dropped at the roadside, not at the house (I have a 1000 foot long driveway). The photos say it all.