I just want to inform all of you pondmiesters that there is a new pond rake on the market. It is called the "Ultimate" pond rake. It has a wing on the head top which acts as a hydrofoil causing the rake to go further when it hits the water-causing an increase in your coverage area.
Also, as the rake is pulled faster the wing causes the tines to dig into the sediment so more weeds or algae are retrieved.
I have the tradional beachcomber rake and also own the ultimate pond rake. Honestly, I like the ultimate pond rake better because it does dig into the sediments whereas the beachcomber skips across the bottom the faster you pull it in. It really is a good design. My husband was skeptical but when he used it, he was amazed.

Can you provide more information? Cost? Where to purchase, etc.

Tuzz,
If you desire, I can have info. sent to you which has descriptions, photos and pricing. You can email at argoresponse@toast.net and give me your address.

The Ultimate Pond Rake does have some advantages over the Beachcomber rake. I have met with and discussed the product with the designer several times (NW OH) who produces these in his Tool and Die/Machine Shop . He has a great concept designed into the "hydrofoil". It does allow for extended reach when throwing the rake out and does hold tight to the bottom when retrieving. It also has a sturdy, 1 piece handle that holds up to some abuse. I think this combination does make the unit easier to use and perhaps more effective than a beachcomber rake. To say this is the best thing since sliced bread may be an overstatement, however. You will notice that the rake head is going to be narrower than a beachcomber rake (will not cover as wide of an area) and it also has a shorter handle that limits some tasks. I've noticed that removing vegetation from the hydrofoil unit can be a little more difficult than just simply turning and shaking a beachcomber rake. I also don't think this rake will hold up to the same abuse that you can give a beachcomber rake because of its moving parts. Finally, you will also find that the price tag will be a little higher on the "Ultimate Rake". All things considered, it does seem to do a good job, especially at removing Chara. Just my 2 cents.

Mr. Roehrig,
The Ultimate pond rake head is smaller than the beachcomber rake because if it were the same size as the b.rake (3ft.) it would be difficult to lift from the water with all the vegetation on it. Also, the handle on the Ultimate pond rake was intentionally designed at a length of 5 ft. not only for shipping costs but to steer clear of a 2 pc. handle like the b. rake. Most people know that the weakest link of the b. rake is the handle (I've told the manufacturer this, too).
Jason, you also mention moving parts. The only moving part the Ultimate rake has is the hydofoil which is operated by a cable. Could you clarify?
As for price, I don't think this rake is priced too far out of line ($130.00) when compared to other rakes that some pond companies carry and mark up way out of line.

watergirl,

I think you further point out my assessment of the Ultimate Rake with your post. I am strictly stating the facts concerning the rake. I certainly did not intend to attack the integrity of the product you are distributing/selling throughout the US. In fact, I mention several times that the rake, with its hydrofoil design, is a great concept, thus giving it many advantages over a beachcomber rake. The hydrofoil allows for extended throwing range, and holds tight to the bottom when retrieved. I too, find the one piece solid handle to be another great improvement over the beachcomber rake, but that still does not take away from the fact that the handle is shorter than the beachcomber's. In general, I think most people would agree that the fewer moving parts on an item, the less prone that item is to break or malfunction. Don't get me wrong, the ultimate rake is built very solidly, but I don't think the hydrofoil could sustain the severe abuse that a beachcomber head could. And finally, price...I state that the price tag on your item was a little higher than the beachcomber....I find that $130.00 is "a little higher" than the $90 to $105 price tag that one would find on a beachcomber rake. I feel it is important for all pond meister's to have the facts so they can make their own educated decisions. The facts are the facts.

Mr. Roehrig,
Email me again so we can talk further.

watergirl,

I think we've provided the pros and cons for the Ultimate Pond Rake and can safely conclude that it does offer several improvements over the standard Beachcomber Rake. Personally, I use both rakes on my pond at home. Can you post a picture so pond meisters can see the design? Thanks for the dialog, I will email you with any further discussion.

Thanks,

Does anyone have information on where one can purchase the "Ultimate" Pond Rake. I had the site that offered it bookmarked and was able to view it till last week but now I am unable to find it and would like to purchase one.


Thanks in advance,

Silverback - Use this phone number to reach the seller of the rake 866-446-7663. Tell them Bill Cody sent you. I have one of the rakes and it works good. The wing causes the rake to slide another 8-10 feet out toward deeper water after the rake hits the water. On the return pull the wing flips over and causes the rake to dig into the sediment with a little more pressure.

Bill,

Huge thanks on this,

Best regards,

Another Bill(Silverback)