The Best Chicken Plucker in 2022

If you’re raising just a few chickens for your own family needs, then plucking their feathers with bare hands will not be a big deal. But, what if you’re breeding a large flock for a huge chicken business? Well, in this case, plucking the chickens by hand will not be a fun job for most. Not only will it be messy, but it will also be tiring and time-consuming. For this reason, you’ll need to get the best chicken plucker.

Now, chicken pluckers are machines that have surfaced in the 21^st century to make plucking jobs easier, faster, and less messy. These machines are compact and very easy to transport. They come with amazing features depending on the manufacturer and the price range.

So, whether you’re a small-scale or a large-scale poultry farmer, this guide will discuss at least four chicken pluckers that will suit your demands. We will also discuss a few factors to consider when buying these machines as well as a whole lot of information regarding these machines such as how to use them and how to make a DIY chicken plucker.

Chicken Plucker Top Brands

• VEVOR

VEVOR is one of the fastest growing brands in the manufacture of high-quality power tools and equipment. With thousands of motivated employees across different sectors, this brand has managed to provide quality services to over 10 million customers across the globe. VEVOR has been in operation for over 10 years and has managed to set up over 40 modernized warehouses across Europe.

This brand offers 24/7 customer support, a quick delivery process, and a money-back program that allows you to get your funds back in case of a dispute.

• Buffalo Tools

Buffalo Tools is another well-recognized brand that has managed to offer amazing power tools to customers across the globe. Among the products manufactured by this brand include auto tools, garden tools, kitchen tools, and OEM auto parts among others.

With over 30 years of experience in the business, Buffalo Tools has built a strong customer base and a long-term relationship. One of the factors that have solidified their strong relationship with global customers is offering timely and efficient services.

• SuperHandy

Another brand that’s quite popular in the manufacture of power tools is SuperHandy. If you’re searching for the best chicken plucker machine, then this is one of the brands you should look out for. But, other than chicken pluckers, the SuperHandy brand manufactures other exclusive products such as air compressors, electric pole saws, electric log splitters, and wood shredders among other products.

• Roots & Harvest

Finally, we have the Roots & Harvest brand. Just like the rest, this brand deals with manufacturing high-quality kitchen tools such as cheese presses, stoneware crocks, poultry shackles, ultrasonic cleaners, and chicken pluckers.

How Does a Chicken Plucker Work?

Now, a chicken plucker works by gently rotating to create mechanical friction. This mechanical friction allows the rubber fingers to rub against the chicken’s body to remove all the feathers.

The entire process starts when you insert a chicken inside the tub. The tub is a stainless steel or aluminum cylindrical container that contains rubber fingers attached to the sides.

Next, there’s a feather plate at the bottom, which rotates when the electrical motor is switched on. As the rotating continues, an irrigation ring at the top of the tub allows you to wash the chicken to clear the feathers.

These feathers are emptied from the tub via the feather chute into the awaiting feather pan beneath the machine. This entire process takes only a minute or two depending on the size and the number of birds being de-feathered at the same time.

Chicken Plucker Pricing

Before we speak of the price, allow me to mention that there are many places you can buy chicken pluckers from. If you want to buy something you can see and test yourself, then you can consider visiting your nearest hardware store or you can simply visit the manufacturer’s store if it’s near.

Otherwise, if you’re too busy to visit a store, or if your nearest store doesn’t have a variety of options to choose from, then you can buy the machine from an online store. You can also visit your manufacturer’s online store to buy the plucker and then have it delivered to your local store.

About the pricing, chicken pluckers are available in a wide range of prices depending on the type and features. These prices range from $65 for the best drill chicken plucker to upwards of $800 for a top-of-the-line machine.

Yardbird 41975 Chicken Plucker

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• Motor Capacity: 1.5 HP
• Drum Size: 20”
• Rubber Fingers: 110

As I mentioned earlier, there’s nothing as annoying and messy as plucking chicken feathers using bare hands. Thankfully, with major improvements in modern technology, sophisticated machines have been introduced to ease this cumbersome job. One of these machines is a chicken plucker, more so, the 41975 Chicken Plucker manufactured by Yardbird.

Made from heavy-duty materials, the Yardbird 41975 is equipped with specialized features that allow it to de-feather a chicken in less than 30 seconds. One of them is a 1.5 HP motor that promises a spinning speed of 300 RPM.

Another feature is the large 20” diameter drum that accommodates all types of poultry from chickens, ducks, and geese, to waterfowls. To top it up, the specious drum is equipped with 110 individual soft rubber fingers that de-feather your chicken without damaging the skin. Lastly, the Yardbird 41975 has a large 5-gallon pail to collect the feathers, rubber wheels for ease of moment, and a dedicated lung remover tool to take your butchering experience to a higher level.

Highlighted Features

• Has a tight waterproof housing that protects the motor against damage during cleaning
• This chicken plucker has sleek dimensions that make storage easier
• Has an attachment to fit a garden hose to splash plucked feathers
• GFCI safety switch guarantees maximum protection to the user during operation
• The debris collection bin is large and user friendly

VEVOR Stainless Steel Chicken Plucker

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• Motor Power: 1500W/275 RPM
• Drum Size: 20”
• Rubber Fingers: 106

Claiming the second position in our discussion is the VEVOR Stainless Steel Chicken Plucker. Now, there’s a lot to smile about when you think of this chicken plucker. First, this machine weighs around 80 pounds with dimensions of 22” x 22” x 34.5”. This makes it a real bargain as it’s easy to pull and easy to fit in most compact spaces in any residential or commercial backyard.

In fact, VEVOR has welded portable handles on the sides and mobile swivel wheels at the bottom to make mobility easy. Still, on the construction, this chicken plucker machine is constructed from a high-grade 304 stainless steel body that’s highly resistant to rust and corrosion caused by moisture and chlorine deposits.

Regarding the performance, the VEVOR Stainless Steel Chicken Plucker has an excellent power draw of 1500W and a motor speed of 275 RPM making it one of the most powerful chicken pluckers in the business. The drum has a generous capacity of 20” and is equipped with 106 flexible yellow-colored fingers to aid in the de-feathering process. This machine has a large discharge exit that provides an easier and quicker de-feathering process without causing any clogging problems.

Highlighted Features

• This machine can pluck 2-4 chickens at a time
• The switches and the motor are all waterproofed to prevent electrical issues
• The discharge exit is larger to prevent clogging
• Portable handles and swivel wheels make transportation a breeze
• The stainless steel body is resistant to rust and damage

SuperHandy Chicken Plucker De-Feather

• Motor Power: 1 HP
• Speed: 280 RPM
• Rubber Fingers: 92

The SuperHandy Chicken Plucker is another machine we can’t just fail to mention. Just like the rest of the chicken pluckers we’ve discussed, the SuperHandy has an amazingly sleek design that allows it to fit in most compact spaces. Just to be specific, this chicken plucker has dimensions of 22-inches long by 23-inches high and a weight of just 63 pounds.

About the performance, the SuperHandy Chicken Plucker is a machine that promises professional capability. This is demonstrated by its powerful 1HP motor that has a current draw of 800W and a maximum speed of 280 RPM. It’s further equipped with a spacious 20” drum that swallows 2-3 medium-sized chickens at a time.

The SuperHandy Chicken Plucker also boasts a superior construction that consists of a brushed 403 stainless steel body. Since water must be used to splash the feathers through the chute, the stainless body prevents the formation of any rust and corrosion. Furthermore, the motor and the GFCI connector switch are IP54 weather resistant guaranteeing optimal safety throughout the de-feathering endeavor.

Highlighted Features

• Has 92 soft rubber fingers that pluck chicken feathers without damaging the skin
• The GFCI overcurrent protector guarantees safety to you and the machine
• Three feet maintain stability when de-feathering chickens
• Has two wheels that offer optimal maneuverability
• This machine is corrosion free and water-resistant

Kitchener Chicken Plucker De-Feather Remover

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• Motor Power: 1 HP
• Speed: 280 RPM
• Fingers: 92 Rubber Fingers

Claiming the remaining position in our discussion is the Kitchener Chicken Plucker. Now, if you give it a closer look, you’ll notice that this machine is quite similar to the SuperHandy Chicken Plucker in terms of features and design. So, in case the SuperHandy Plucker is not available in your location, then the other alternative you can consider is this.

About the size, the Kitchener Chicken Plucker has dimensions of 22” x 23” x 22” making it one of the most compact chicken pluckers on this list. It boasts of a 403 stainless steel body that’s amazingly strong and completely rust and corrosion resistant.

The performance is also at the top level as it manages to de-feather 2-4 medium-sized chickens in less than 2 minutes. The motor, on its side, has 1 HP worth of power with a current draw of 800W and a speed of 280 RPM. The Kitchener Chicken Plucker has 92 rubber fingers for efficient feather plucking and a superb IP54 water resistant rating making it one of the best chicken plucker machine we’ve got.

Highlighted Features

• This chicken plucker is FDA approved for maximum safety
• IP54 rating ensures that this machine is well protected against inclement weather
• 92 soft rubber fingers de-feather chickens without damaging the skin
• A large 20” drum accommodates at least 2-4 chickens at a time
• Strong 1HP motor de-feathers chickens in just under 2 minutes

What to Consider for Choosing a Chicken Plucker

Although we’ve discussed four of the top-selling chicken pluckers in the market, this information alone isn’t enough to help you pick the best machine. There are other supportive features you must consider, some of which we’re going to list below. So, here are some factors to consider when buying a chicken plucker.

• The Size:

The first thing you need to consider when choosing a chicken plucker is the size. From our discussion, all the chicken pluckers we’ve listed have a diameter of 20”. However, there are other pluckers with higher diameters that range from 27” to 35”.

The reason why this point is important is that it helps you to determine the right size that will suit your workload. So, if you’re planning to pluck multiple large-sized birds at the same time, then you can consider a plucker with a bigger size. If it’s just miniature birds such as quails, then you can pick a smaller machine with many fingers packed closely together.

• Speed:

The second feature you must consider when choosing the best chicken plucker on the market is speed. You see, plucking chicken feathers is a slow, annoying, and messy job if you’re using bare hands. But, with a machine, you intend to accomplish the job faster, especially if you’re dealing with a commercial business.

For that reason, you need a plucker with 100 or more fingers to accomplish the job in the least time possible. The fingers should be stiff but flexible enough to impact the effectiveness of this process.

• Portability:

When choosing a chicken plucker, you need to pick one that’s easy to transport. At least with a portable plucker, you can easily shift it from one location to another without struggling. However, if you don’t intend to move the machine around, then you can pick a model that’s mounted in one location.

• Durability:

What type of material is used in the construction? That’s another key question you must ask yourself when choosing a chicken plucker. In most cases, heavy-duty stainless steel is the standard material used as it’s durable and highly resistant to rust and corrosion.

• Cost:

Now, how much are you willing to spend for the best drill chicken plucker? Well, this is another factor you must consider. If you’re looking for a reliable plucker for home use, then you can find cheaper options that go for less than $70. However, if you intend to get a heavy-duty machine for commercial use, then you’ll generally have to dig deeper into your pockets to procure such a plucker.

• Multipurpose:

Lastly, there’s the issue of getting a multipurpose machine. Now, when I mention multipurpose, what I actually mean is a chicken plucker that’s able to scald and pluck chicken feathers at the same time.

These machines come with a heat control setting that lets you subject a chicken to a specific heat setting to make plucking easier. Such a machine does the double work and is thus a great deal. However, you’ll obviously have to pay more to get it.

How to Pluck a Chicken

There are two ways to pluck a chicken. One is by using your hands and the other is by using a chicken plucker. In this section, we’re going to discuss how to pluck chicken feathers using your hands and by using an electric plucker.

Things You’ll Need:

• Electric plucker
• Source of power
• Source of water
• Scalder
• Hose with spray nozzle
• Restraint cone

The Process

• Step One: Preparation

So, the first step is to prepare the workstation. If you’re using machines, then you have to find a secure and convenient location where there’s access to water and power. The ground should be level and should have a proper means of draining water and other messes during the butchering process.

• Step Two: Dispatch the Chicken

With everything set, pick your chicken and insert it inside the restraint cone. Squeeze it until the head sticks out of the cone below. Pick a sharp knife and cut the chicken’s throat. Allow it to bleed for about a minute until it dies. Remove the chicken from the restraint cone and place it inside the scalder.

• Step Three: Scald the Chicken

Now, scalding is a very important step that defines a successful or stressful plucking process. Whether you’re using an electric plucker or your bare hands, a successful scald will ensure that you don’t struggle at the end.

So, here, you’ll have to submerge your chicken inside a 5-gallon bucket full of hot water or a scalding pot if you have one. Next, confirm the temperature to ensure its 130-150°F. Allow the chicken to sit inside the scalder for 30 seconds to around one minute to loosen the feathers.

• Step Four: Start Plucking

If you’re using an electric plucker, turn it on and get ready to pluck the feathers. Insert the chicken inside the plucker gently then splash it with water as the plucker plucks the feathers. This process will take about a minute or two depending on the number of chickens inside.

If you’re using bare hands, start plucking the chicken quickly from the wing feathers to the rest of the body. Remember, you intend to pluck as many feathers as possible before the chicken cools off. In most cases, this process will take you around 2-3 minutes to accomplish.

• Step Five: Remove the Chicken From the Plucker

Once your chicken is de-feathered successfully, it’s time to stop the machine and remove the chicken. This step is very important as it ensures that you don’t tear the chicken’s skin in the process. So, turn the power switch off and continue splashing the chicken with water to wash away the feathers.

Now take the chicken out of the chicken plucker machine and place it on the evisceration table. There, you’ll remove the head and all the other unwanted parts before transferring the chicken to the kitchen or the next stage for packaging.

How to Make a Chicken Plucker DIY

Main Parts Include:

• Large plastic barrel
• Rubber fingers
• An electric motor
• Posts for the framework
• 2 standard bearings
• A large pulley wheel

The Process

• Step One: Start Building the Framework

Start by building a basic frame using the available wooden pieces. Once the square frame is erected, add a shelf at the bottom to support the drum. The shelf should be made from marine plywood or any other wood that has a layer of waterproof material.

• Step Two: Assemble the Feather Plate

Now, the feather plate will sit at the bottom of the drum and its purpose is to rotate to pluck the chicken’s feathers. So, here you can use a circular disk with a smaller inside diameter than that of the drum. This disk will be used to hold the rubber fingers. So, drill the holes for the fingers and insert them. This disk will also have a center hole to accommodate the driveshaft.

• Step Three: Assemble the Pulley and Bearing Assembly

So, here, you’ll start by screwing the bearings at the top and bottom of the shelf. The top bearing will be used to attach the feather plate while the bottom bearing will be attached to the pulley.

• Step Four: Install the Drum

With the bearings and the pulleys out of the way, the next step is to insert the drum inside the wooden framework. First, start by inserting the rubber fingers into the wall of the drum. When you’re done, screw the drum against the wooden framework to keep it secure.

Since you’ve already cut the base of the drum, this part (the base) will be used to build the feather pan where feathers and other messes will be dislodged. The feather pot should sit at the bottom and should have a chute for easy removal of the feathers.

• Step Five: Fix the Electric Motor

Now it’s time to fix the motor. In most cases, a ¾ to 1 HP motor is sufficient to complete the job. So, drill holes at the bottom of the framework where you’ll mount the motor. At least in this location, the motor is safe and well-protected from water. When you’re done, connect the wiring and waterproof them as they go from the motor to the switch. Lastly, pair the motor with the pulley using a V belt.

• Step Six: Insert the Wheels

The final step of this DIY project is to insert a set of wheels at the bottom of the plucker to make it mobile. Here, you can use wheels from your old wheelbarrow or you can buy a set from your nearby hardware store. At least with the wheels, you’ll manage to tip the plucker up and move it like a wheelbarrow from one location to another.

Electric vs. DIY Chicken Plucker

Chicken Plucker Safety Tips and Tricks

• Always start by ensuring the machine is tight without any loose bolts or damaged parts.
• Keep kids away from the plucker when it’s operating. Remember this machine uses electricity so any mess can cause an electric shock.
• Do not keep hands, strings, long hair, or loose objects near the chicken plucker when it’s operating.
• Always wear gloves and protective goggles when operating a chicken plucker.
• A chicken plucker uses water and electricity at the same time. Always suspend electrical cords off the ground to avoid being submerged in water.
• Do not damp live poultry into the plucker. Always follow the right procedure of cutting, scalding then putting it inside the plucker for de-feathering.
• Do not tamper with the GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter) unit. This unit is designed to keep you safe from hazards caused by electrical shocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What Size Plucker Do I Need?

Now, when it comes to the size of the plucker, you need to start by considering the number of chickens you’ll be processing at a time. If it’s just for basic home use, then you can pick some of the entry-level pluckers that are available.  But, if you’re planning to use it for commercial purposes, then you’ll need a large machine that can pluck 10-50 chickens at a time.

Q2. Do I Need too Hot Water to Pluck a Chicken?

No, you don’t. If you use water that’s too hot, you might risk damaging the skin of your chicken, which can make it look messy, especially if you’re a professional chef. On the flip side, if you use water that’s not hot enough, then you’ll have a hard time plucking the feathers. For that reason, the best temperature for water when scalding a chicken is 130-160°F.

Final Thoughts

Now, some people argue that plucking chicken feathers the manual way is easy, especially when you master the process. However, this only happens if you’re plucking chickens for home use. In the case of commercial purposes, then using your hands will be time-consuming and a tad overwhelming.

So, to reduce the bulk, you need to invest in the best chicken plucker. That’s exactly what this guide has done. we’ve listed at least four chicken pluckers that will take care of your worries from your pocket to the job at hand.

We’ve also discussed everything you need to know about chicken pluckers, including how to build your own DIY plucker from materials available in your backyard or home garage.

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John Reid

Hello, I am John Reid. I have been raising chickens for the last 15 years. I have got my experience from my father. My father is the owner of a large chicken farm. This is our family business that has been continuing for over 35 years. I am very interested in backyard chickens and I know how to take care of them. You can learn more About Us here. Happy Reading!!

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