The 8 Best Cattle Prods
Special Honors
Hot-Shot 54" Sorting Pole An alternative to electric prods, this long, flexible, vinyl-covered stick can sort livestock without hurting them. Because it doesn't inflict pain on contact, the pole allows handlers to apply sustained pressure to an animal to gently and specifically control its movements. A comfortable golf-style grip makes it easy to hold, and it's available in multiple lengths. miller-mfg.com
Editor's Notes
October 06, 2020:
We take no particular stance on the issue of whether or not it is cruel for people to use electric cattle prods. Some people who work with livestock find it necessary to use them in order to effectively do their jobs, so we've compiled this list with that audience in mind.
While many people purchase cattle prods with the intention of using them to defend against human assailants or aggressive dogs, these tools aren't designed for that purpose and shouldn't be used to that end. These implements are meant for large animals with thick hides precisely because livestock can safely withstand shocks that could legitimately endanger smaller creatures. If you're looking for a non-lethal way to protect yourself, check out our recommended defense keychains or the best self-defense sprays.
An important trade-off to consider when you're looking to buy a cattle prod is that of length versus durability. The longer the shaft of the prod, the more safely you can herd or subdue your stock with it, but as length increases, so does the risk that the shaft will break when subjected to stress. Longer prods like the Hot-Shot HS2000 or the Miller DX36 tend to be more desirable for people who keep lots of animals or a few very large ones, and therefore can't get very close to them. Shorter prods, like the Hot-Shot Power Mite, are better for those who have small and docile animals that they can easily approach.