Hog Feeders

Hog Feeders for Sale: Choosing the Right Feeding System

Feed represents a major operating expense in a swine operation. A well-chosen hog feeder can make daily feeding more consistent, help keep feed inside the trough, and reduce unnecessary handling. However, even the best feeder requires an appropriate setup, regular adjustment, and inspection. The goal is to keep fresh feed available to pigs while limiting what is pushed out, mixed with manure, or spoiled by moisture.

Barn World offers outdoor and bulk hog feeders from Osborne and Sioux Steel, including gravity-flow, animal-activated, and dedicated sow-feeding options. These systems differ in capacity, trough construction, and how feed reaches the animal. The useful choice depends on whether you are feeding newly weaned pigs, growing and finishing hogs, or individual sows; the number and size of animals; the ration being delivered; and whether the feeder will be installed indoors or outdoors.

For specialized equipment, these related categories can help narrow your search:

• Osborne Hog Feeders — mechanical-flow Big Wheel models and related configurations
• Sioux Steel Hog Feeders — Supreme and Big O feeding systems
• Nursery and Smaller Pig Feeders — options for younger and smaller animals
• Hog Feeder Parts — replacement components for compatible equipment

The individual product listings show the current model options, capacities, dimensions, and freight arrangements. The guide below explains how to evaluate those specifications and manage a feeder after installation.

Compare Gravity-Flow and On-Demand Hog Feeders

Two broad feeding approaches appear in this collection. In a gravity-flow design, dry feed moves from a hopper toward the feeding space as the trough level permits. Adjustable gates, openings, and trough geometry influence how much feed is exposed. In an animal-activated design, pigs interact with a mechanism that releases or moves feed during feeding. Both approaches can work well when matched to the animals and managed correctly.

Do not assume that a feeder prevents waste simply because it is labeled on-demand or has a deep trough. Excessive feed release, unsuitable feed texture, poor adjustment, overcrowding, damaged components, or moisture can still result in lost feed. Conversely, restricting the opening too much can reduce feed access and interfere with intake. The correct management target is enough accessible feed for the group with minimal unnecessary accumulation.

These rows summarize the product families, not every model's complete specification or a guarantee of performance. Consult the exact product listing for included lids, base components, assembly requirements, and any stated number of pigs served.

Osborne Big Wheel Feeders: Animal-Activated Feed Delivery

Osborne Big Wheel systems use a mechanical-flow arrangement in which pigs move a rotating wheel or sweep paddles as they feed. The action is intended to release feed when animals interact with the trough and to help move feed around the circular feeding area. These products are offered in several capacities for different grow-finish feeding situations.

Barn World lists 45-, 65-, 85-, and 105-bushel Osborne models. The individual pages provide model-specific dimensions, approximate empty weights, pig-size recommendations, and included equipment. Some larger models are described as suitable for groups of up to 90 growing or finishing pigs, but the appropriate number for an installation also depends on pig size, feeding behavior, ration, access, and management. Do not use a manufacturer-stated maximum head count without considering actual feeding space and farm conditions.

The fiberglass or polyethylene portions of certain models do not rust, while metal supports, fasteners, and moving parts still require routine attention. On many Osborne bulk models the lid is an optional separate item; verify the chosen model's included components before planning an outdoor installation. An uncovered feeder or one with an incorrectly fitted lid may allow rain or snow to affect the stored ration.

As pigs grow, periodically inspect the moving mechanism and feed flow. If sweep paddles cannot move freely or feed cakes near the outlet, the system may not dispense properly. A self-activating mechanism reduces the need for manually opening a trough but does not eliminate the need for daily checks or cleaning.

Sioux Steel Supreme and Big O Hog Feeders

60-Bushel Supreme Hog Feeder

The Sioux Steel Supreme is a 60-bushel feeder with 12 feeding stations and individually replaceable poly doors. Those doors are intended to limit exposure of the trough to weather and pests when animals are not feeding. Its galvanized-steel construction and scalloped trough provide a different feeding arrangement from an open circular Big Wheel model.

Evaluate the overall diameter and height, feed-flow adjustment, accessibility, and whether all 12 feeding positions can be used in the planned location. Doors and adjustable openings should be checked for damage and smooth movement. A protective door may reduce direct wetting but cannot guarantee that a feeder stays dry when lids, seals, or surrounding conditions are poor.

Big O Outdoor Hog Feeders

Sioux Steel Big O models are listed in 40-, 65-, and 90-bushel capacities. Their round feeding system uses an open trough and animal-operated bump bars rather than individually hinged feed doors. The product listings describe 12 feed openings and include polyethylene components combined with galvanized-steel parts.

The open design should be evaluated for the pigs' access and the climate where it will be used. Check the lid, hopper, trough, support parts, and any skid arrangement specified for the model. Although polyethylene components resist rust in those parts, wear and weather exposure still affect the complete feeder, and feed can deteriorate if water reaches it.

Choose Feeders for Nursery Pigs, Growers, Finishers, and Sows

Feeder selection changes as pigs progress through production. Newly weaned pigs may need accessible feeding surfaces, appropriate feed presentation, and closer monitoring while they learn the feeding routine. Growing pigs require continued access without excessive competition. Finishing hogs have larger bodies and need trough clearance and equipment suited to their size and strength. Sows may be fed individually under an entirely different management plan.

A larger bulk finishing feeder is not automatically a good nursery feeder. Compare the product's minimum intended animal size, opening geometry, and the pigs' ability to operate any feed-delivery mechanism. Small pig feeders in the separate nursery category are intended for different applications; avoid buying a large finishing unit solely to reduce refill frequency if newly weaned pigs cannot use it properly.

For sows, verify whether the selected device is for an individual gestating or lactating animal and which feeding method the operation uses. Barn World's Osborne sow feeder is a smaller, specialized product with a listed capacity in pounds rather than the large bulk models' bushel figures. A sow feeder should not be compared with a 60-bushel group feeder using nominal capacity alone.

How to Reduce Feed Waste in a Hog Feeder

Feed waste is a combination of feeder design and daily management. Pigs may push feed out while eating, carry meal away on their snouts, or leave excess feed in corners where it becomes stale. Feed also may fall through slatted flooring, where losses are harder to see. A properly designed trough can help, but an incorrectly adjusted feeder can still waste substantial amounts of feed.

Start by checking how much feed is visible in the pan or trough. A large, deep buildup is not necessarily a sign that animals are getting more nutrition; it may indicate an opening that is too wide. A trough that is nearly empty while pigs are trying to eat can indicate restricted flow, a blockage, or inadequate feeding access. The correct adjustment depends on the feeder type, pig size, feed form, and manufacturer's recommendations.

University of Missouri Extension describes feeder-pan coverage as an important management indicator for conventional dry feeders. For many grow-finish situations, guidance commonly targets roughly 35%–50% coverage, with adjustments by production stage and equipment. This is not a universal setting for every Big Wheel, bump-bar, wet-dry, or specialty feeder; use the model's operating instructions and actual animal behavior to guide adjustments.

Inspect troughs for spilled material and watch whether pigs can access feed without excessive shoving or waiting. Make small adjustments and monitor the results rather than opening the gate widely all at once. When changing feed formulation or receiving a new batch, recheck the setting because pellet size, meal texture, fines, and moisture may affect flow.

Provide Enough Feeding Space for the Number and Size of Hogs

Hopper capacity and the number of pigs a feeder can serve are different measures. A large bin may hold several days of feed while still providing inadequate access for a particular group. Pigs feed in patterns, and some animals may crowd others away from the trough. Consider the number and effective width of usable feeding openings, the body size of the heaviest pigs, the ration, and the feeding system.

For round feeders, evaluate whether animals can approach around the intended perimeter rather than placing the unit so close to walls or other equipment that some openings become unusable. For a twelve-station feeder, access to only half its circumference could change the practical feeding capacity substantially. The manufacturer's stated head count should be checked against the conditions in the pen.

Observe pigs at several feeding periods. Repeated pushing, long waiting, injured animals, or inconsistent body condition within a group may signal access problems. Adding a second feeder or changing the pen layout may be more effective than increasing the hopper volume of an existing unit.

Understanding Bushels, Pounds, and Feed-Hopper Capacity

Large hog feeders are often described by bushels because bushels provide a standardized volume measure. But a bushel rating does not mean that every ration will contribute the same weight of feed. Pellets, ground grain, and mixed rations differ in bulk density and flow characteristics. Manufacturers may state a weight estimate based on an assumed feed density; verify that basis before calculating how long a full hopper will last.

To plan refill intervals, estimate the pounds of feed actually consumed per day by the group and compare that with the hopper's allowable stored weight for the intended material. Include delivery size and the time feed will remain in storage. A larger hopper may reduce filling labor but can also allow feed to sit too long in humid conditions or if pig inventory drops.

Do not overload a feeder using a weight conversion that exceeds its published loading limits. The overall weight of stored feed, the feeder body, and any optional accessories also matters for positioning, moving, and supporting the equipment.

Outdoor Hog Feeders: Site Placement and Weather Protection

Outdoor feeding areas expose equipment to rain, snow, wind, mud, and temperature swings. Select a firm, drained location where the feeder can sit securely and pigs can approach from the intended sides. Avoid placing it in a runoff path or where manure and wet bedding routinely collect against the trough. Provide enough room for routine inspections and for safely filling the hopper without disturbing the group unnecessarily.

Check the feeder's roof, lid, door arrangement, and seals. Some models include protective covers while others offer them separately. Any lid should be secured and used according to the manufacturer. A large opening left exposed to precipitation can cause caking or spoilage even when the hopper and trough are made from corrosion-resistant materials.

For feeders in hoop structures, barns, or covered pens, placement should still consider animal traffic and access to water. Protect feed from leaks, condensation, and splash. Do not assume indoor installation means that a feeder never gets wet or needs cleaning.

Before moving a feeder, confirm whether the model is designed for relocation and whether skids or other parts are included. Follow instructions regarding emptying and lifting; moving a loaded bulk feeder improperly can damage the base or create a tipping hazard.

Daily Inspection, Cleaning, and Feed Quality

Routine checks are more valuable than occasional major repairs. Look at the visible feed in each trough section, make sure delivery mechanisms function, and inspect for material that is wet, moldy, clumped, or contaminated. Examine the hopper, doors, paddles, valves, and brackets for wear or loose components. A feeder that still holds plenty of feed may nevertheless have blocked flow at one or more feeding positions.

Do not simply add fresh feed on top of a large accumulation of spoiled material. Remove affected feed using suitable procedures and follow the feed supplier's guidance before returning the feeder to service. Keep spilled feed from accumulating around the equipment, where it can attract pests and become mixed with manure. Protect employees and animals during cleaning and servicing.

Check the hopper after changes in humidity or ration formulation. Meal or finely ground ingredients may bridge or compact differently from pellets. If the delivery mechanism is blocked, shut down or isolate the equipment as necessary and follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. Never climb into a feed hopper or place your body beneath bridged feed to clear it.

Keep replacement components matched to the correct feeder model. A damaged door, sweep paddle, bearing, lid, or spring can affect both feed access and waste. Use the manufacturer's specifications for replacement parts rather than assuming that similar-looking components are interchangeable.

Plan Feed Deliveries and Compare Long-Term Operating Costs

Compare the purchase price with the full cost of feeding. A feeder that needs less frequent filling may save labor, but only when it matches the group's consumption and the ration can remain in good condition between refills. Feed lost through overdelivery, spillages, or spoilage is a continuing cost that should be monitored with records rather than estimated from marketing claims alone.

For the equipment itself, include any optional lid, skids, assembly supplies, replacement parts, and delivery charges. Large hoppers can ship in sections and may require special unloading or assembly arrangements. Site accessibility, pallet dimensions, distance from the shipping point, and number of units ordered can materially change freight costs.

When requesting a quote from Barn World, provide the intended feeder model, herd production stage, approximate group size, preferred capacity, quantity, and delivery ZIP code. Mention any limited delivery access or unloading constraints. Confirm exactly which accessories are included so that the final system is ready for the feeding arrangement you plan to operate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hog Feeders

What is the difference between an on-demand hog feeder and a gravity feeder?

A gravity-flow feeder allows feed to move toward the trough through a controlled opening. An animal-activated feeder uses the pigs' interaction with a mechanism to release or move feed. Both require appropriate settings, cleaning, and monitoring; the mechanism alone does not guarantee elimination of waste.

Which hog feeder is best for finishing pigs?

Choose a model rated for the pigs' size, ration, group size, and location. Review feeding-space access, bulk capacity, feed mechanism, outdoor protection, and included options. A large hopper with insufficient usable feeding positions may not be the best choice for a crowded pen.

How do I stop pigs from wasting feed?

Check trough coverage and feeder adjustment, remove stale feed, keep mechanisms operating, ensure adequate feeding space, and watch for spillage. Proper adjustment and daily inspection often make a substantial difference. Follow the selected feeder's instructions rather than applying one pan-coverage target to all designs.

How many pigs can one hog feeder serve?

The appropriate number depends on feeder openings, pig body size, feed form, production stage, and pen layout. Some individual bulk models are listed for up to 90 grow-finish pigs under specified conditions, but verify the actual model rating and observe whether every animal has reasonable access.

Is a 60-bushel hog feeder the same as a 60-bushel grain bin?

No. A hog feeder provides animal access and a feeding trough, while a grain or bulk feed bin is primarily for storage and controlled dispensing. A similar volume rating does not mean the two products perform the same job or have equivalent foundations and attachments.

Can an outdoor hog feeder keep feed completely dry?

No feeder guarantees that. A well-fitting roof, lid, and protective doors can help reduce direct exposure, but wind-driven rain, condensation, damaged seals, or leaks can still affect feed. Inspect the contents frequently and replace spoiled material.

Are lids included with Osborne Big Wheel feeders?

On several listed Osborne bulk models, lids are optional and sold separately. Check the selected product and quote for exactly which parts are included; do not assume accessories shown in photographs come with every feeder.

Can the same feeder be used for weaned pigs and mature hogs?

Not necessarily. A feeder designed for finishing pigs may have openings and a delivery mechanism that younger animals cannot use reliably. Match animal size and production stage to the specific manufacturer's recommended use.

How often should a hog feeder be checked?

Inspect feed availability, trough condition, waste, and equipment operation daily as part of routine animal care, and check more frequently when changing rations, introducing new pigs, or responding to weather or mechanical problems.

How do I compare hog feeder costs when freight is required?

Compare the complete delivered configuration, including feeder size, lid and skid options, assembly requirements, accessories, shipping, and unloading. Give Barn World your preferred model, quantity, destination ZIP code, and delivery conditions for a useful estimate.