The Stromberg's 14.5 Gal Scalder is the better poultry plucker overall, rated 3.0 to 2.8. The Stromberg's 14.5 Gal Scalder leads on batch capacity, value and features. The Rite Farm Pro Texas Quail Scalder costs $250 less ($349.99 vs $599.99).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
A stainless 14.5-gallon scalder with a basket, drain and lid included, for one or two chickens at a time. Buy it from Stromberg’s or Mann Lake, not the pricier Amazon listing.
Amazon $599.99A small welded-aluminum scalder for quail, doves and pigeons, with a skimmer included.
Amazon $349.99Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every scalders poultry plucker; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Stromberg's 14.5 Gal Scalder | Rite Farm Pro Texas Quail Scalder |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.0/5 | 2.8/5 |
| Value 25% | 27 $41.38 per gallon ($599.99, 14.5 gal) | 0 $87.50 per gallon ($349.99, 4 gal) |
| Batch capacity 25% | 29 14.5 gal of water | 0 4 gal of water |
| Power 20% | 50 heater power not published (neutral score used) | 100 250 W per gallon (1,000 W element) |
| Features 20% | 100 temperature control, reaches 180 F for shrink bags, dunker or basket, drain valve, lid | 85 temperature control, reaches 180 F for shrink bags, dunker or basket, lid |
| Warranty 10% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
| Stromberg's 14.5 Gal Scalder | Rite Farm Pro Texas Quail Scalder | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ||
| Type | Scalder | Scalder |
| Batch | 14.5 gal | 4 gal |
| Maker says | 1-2 chickens | 6 or more quail |
| Price per bird or gallon | $41.38 | $87.50 |
| Power | ||
| Fuel | Electric | Electric |
| Heater | - | 1,000 W |
| Heater power per gallon | - | 250 W |
| Voltage | 120 V | 120 V |
| Scalding | ||
| Temperature range | 32 to 230 °F | up to 180 °F |
| Temperature control | Yes | Yes |
| Dunker or basket | Yes | Yes |
| Drain valve | Yes | - |
| Lid | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Tank material | Stainless steel | Welded aluminum |
| Weight | - | 9 lb |
