Best Snow Plow for 2024: The Definitive Guide to Snow Plowing with ATV, UTV and Truck

It’s difficult to picture a blinding snow storm when the sun is shining and you’re sipping an ice cold drink, but it’s coming.

Clearing the snow from a large driveway can be back breaking work. If you’re lucky there might be a better solution sitting in your garage.

Pickup trucks, ATV’s, and UTV’s can make short work of a snow-filled driveway.

I have a neighbour that’s had an ATV for a couple of years now, but until he saw me with a plow attached to mine, he never really considered the obvious.

He’d been shovelling that large driveway by hand with a snow shovel when he didn’t have to.

We struck up a conversation, I explained to him how affordable snow plows for ATV’s and UTV’s really are and we’re going to look at them in our snow plow reviews.

best snow plow buying guide

Plows for pickup trucks are a little more expensive, but they’re a worthy investment as well.

If you’re thinking about buying a plow for your vehicle there are a few important things you need to understand before you start shopping.

You can save yourself a headache if you educate yourself ahead of time. That’s why we put this guide together.

This is the definitive guide to snow plowing for any type of vehicle.

Contents

Definitive Guide to the Best Snow Plow

In this article, we’ll identify the key features you should be looking for when purchasing a snow plow for an ATV, a UTV, or a pickup truck. We’re also going to review some of the best products on the market so you can make an informed decision.

There are many plows out there and the choices are very different depending on the vehicle you’re attaching it to.

Blade Size

One of the first things to consider when you’re looking to buy a snow plow is the size of the blade. Blades for ATV’s and UTV’s are typically between 48 inches and 72 inches.

As a rule, it’s best to choose the largest blade your machine can handle. ATV’s are lighter so your maximum blade size will be about 60 inches. A UTV can normally accommodate a 72-inch blade.

Manual or Automatic Lift

There are two different ways that a truck lifts a plow on a vehicle. They can be lifted using a manual mechanism or they can be lifted using an automatic configuration.

The automatic designs are certainly more convenient, but they’re also more expensive.

Manual plows have a lift bar assembly that the owner physically pulls on to lift the blade. It works, but it does require some physical exertion. That means it can be a potential safety hazard.

The automatic designs use a winch system and do not require any physical effort by the user making them much easier to use and much safer.

Hydraulic Turn

When you attach a plow to any vehicle – an ATV, a UTV, or a truck – it’s going to make clearing a driveway a much easier prospect.

There are devices you can buy for your plow that will actually pivot the blade to the left or the right.

These hydraulic turn mechanisms allow you to direct the snow in any direction you like without turning your vehicle, but again, they will add significantly to the cost.

The Right Tires

If you’re adding a plow to an ATV or a UTV the type of tires you place on that vehicle will make a big difference in how effective it is in removing snow.

The stock tires that typically come with these vehicles are okay, but there are plenty of aftermarket choices with better tread that are a bit larger and more effective.

These give you better purchase on the snow.

Chain Up?

In extreme weather situations, even the best snow plows will have trouble no matter what type of tires you’re using.

An alternative solution is to add a set of tire chains on your tires. These chains will give you traction in just about any weather conditions.

It’s important to check your local laws though, as many jurisdictions ban the use of tire chains on their roads.

Plow Wear Bars

At the bottom of a snow plow is an extra guard that protects the blade from wear.

If you’re considering a plow that does not have an adequate plow wear bar it’s one you should avoid.

Fortunately, they’re a standard item on most plow blades on the market.

Plow Markers

Have you ever watched a truck with a snow plow at work and wondered what those strange antennas where on the ends of the blade? They actually do serve an important purpose.

These antennas are actually plow markers that allow the operator to see where the edges of their blade are. This can be critical in whiteout conditions.

Weight in the Back

There is one problem that all manufactures of snow removal vehicles have – they’re usually a little too light in the backend.

Attaching a heavy plow blade to the front end of an ATV, a UTV, or a truck can really throw the balance off.

If you do purchase a snow plow blade for your vehicle, it’s a good idea to add some weight to the back.

Sand bags or something similar are ideal for this purpose.

Easy Attachment

Most people that purchase snow plow blades want to be able to take them off when winters over.

Some of them can be difficult to remove though, so it’s certainly something to keep in mind at the time of purchase. It really shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.

The best way to know for sure is to take a good look at the reviews for the plow you’re planning on purchasing.

Blade Materials

There are varieties of materials that are used by manufacturers of snow plows. The most common are poly blades, stainless steel blades, and mild steel blades.

The poly blades are popular these days because snow will not stick to the blade in most conditions – they are more expensive though.

Stainless steel is also common because of its rust resistant properties, but keep in mind this type of steel can be damaged more easily by rocks and debris.

The mild steel option is still a good choice because these types of blades are very durable and long lasting.

Plow Shape (V vs Straight)

The traditional straight plow blade is still the most popular choice these days and they do a great job.

It’s just that V plow blades are a little bit more efficient.

These innovative blades allow you to direct the snow where you want it and they’re better at slicing through ice and hard snow.

The V blades are more expensive, but if you’re planning to use your plow a lot, they are the better option.

What’s Your Budget?

Snow plow blades can range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

The best snow plows will cost you a little more, but they’ll also last you ten years or more.

A cheap blade may only give you a couple of years of use. They’re a great option if you’re on a tight budget, but if you can afford the investment in a quality plow, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Snow Plow Reviews

We wanted to make this article useful no matter what type of vehicle you’re planning to attach a plow to.

With that in mind, we decided to review a couple of the best plows for each type of vehicle.

We’ll start with a couple of snow plow reviews for ATV’s, followed with a couple for UTV’s, and we’ll end by reviewing snow plows for pick-up trucks.

Extreme Max 5500.5010 ATV Plow

The Extreme Max 5500.5010 is one of the best snow plows for ATV’s you’ll find under $500.

It’s a 50 inch wide blade that’s about 16 inches high making it ideal for most ATV’s.

Extreme Max 5500.5010 UniPlow One-Box ATV Plow

It’s attached on the frame behind the wheels that allows you to use the full power of your ATV to move snow more effectively.

If you’re on a tight budget, but you still want a quality product this is a good choice.

This snow plow is made from grade 50 steel that will resist wear and stand up to heavy use.

It is a standard straight blade plow so if you have your heart set on one of the more advanced V shaped blades this one isn’t what you’re looking for.

For those that just want affordable steel plow blade for the winter, the Max 5500.5010 is one of the best ATV snow plows around.

Additional features for this plow include a wear bar, a universal mounting system that works on any ATV, and a push tube assembly.

The blade is also covered with a black powder coating that helps prevent rust and it comes with a 1 year warranty.

Extreme Max 5500.5010 the best ATV snow plow under $500

It would be nice to see the manufacturer extend the warranty a little bit, but it’s still a good deal for a blade priced under $500.

The only other issue that some consumers have had with this plow is that it can be a little difficult to assemble.

  • Made from durable grade 50 steel
  • Universal mounting attachment
  • Attaches behind the wheel for better plowing power
  • Black powder coating prevents rust
  • Limited 1 year warranty
  • Difficult to assemble

There aren’t many better options if you’re in the market for an affordable snow plow blade than the Max 5500.5010.

This is one of the best-rated ATV snow plows for a reason. It’s a quality product that will provide its user with years of use.

Swisher 2645R 50-Inch Universal ATV Plow Blade

You can do a lot worse than the Swisher 2645R if you’re on the hunt for a snow plow blade for your ATV.

This is a 50 inch wide blade that will fit on almost any ATV with its universal mounting system. At just over 100 pounds, it’s also quite manageable.

This one typically retails at around the $500 range, which means it fits in most budgets.

Swisher 2645R 50-Inch Universal ATV Plow Blade

This Swisher blade uses 1/8 inch steel in its construction so it is quite durable. It features a straight blade ATV plow blade that’s designed for use in heavy snow falls.

One of the most attractive features of the 2645R is that you can attach it to your ATV without any tools.

On the negative side, the universal mounting kit you’ll need to attach it is not supplied.

Other features of this blade include an angle selection system and a double lock system that keeps it in place.

Swisher 2645R a very good snow plow for ATV

While it was one of the best ATV snow plows, it does have its critics. The most common complaint is that it’s a little too heavy for smaller ATVs.

  • Can be mounted on any ATV
  • Solid steel construction
  • Attaches without tools
  • Angle selection system with double locking mechanism
  • Universal mounting system not included
  • A nit on the heavy side for smaller ATVs

The Swisher 2645R is a soloid choice if you’re in the market for an ATV snow plow. It’s relatively affordable and quite durable.

It would be better if the universal mounting system was included at the time of purchase, but overall this is a good quality option.

72 Inch Denali Complete Snow Plow System

The 72 inch Denali complete snow plow system is one of the best snow plows for a Polaris Ranger on the market today.

Due to their larger size when compared with an ATV, a UTV, such as the Polaris Ranger, can handle a much bigger blade allowing you to plow snow more quickly.

This blade is relatively reasonably priced at well under $1000. It does require a couple of people to mount it though as it weighs close to 200 lbs.

72 Inch Denali Complete Snow Plow System

This blade is made from 11 gauge steel making it capable of some heavy duty snow plowing. It’s designed with a standard straight plow blade that works well in most situations.

It also has adjustable skid feet and it comes with all the installation hardware you need to get started.

This plow is designed specifically for a Polaris Ranger though so it will not work on all UTV’s.

The 72 inch Denali plow also features horizontal stabilizers for a smooth experience and it includes a replaceable wear bar.

It is a center mounted plow, which can make it difficult to handle in extreme conditions.

  • Sturdy 11 gauge steel construction
  • Installation hardware is included
  • Horizontal stabilizers
  • Replaceable wear bar
  • Weighs more than 200lbs
  • Only works on Polaris Rangers

If you own a Polaris Ranger, the 72 inch Denali complete snow plow system is a great choice.

It’s made from durable steel and all of the hardware you need to install it is included in the kit. It’s also quite affordable at under $1000.

66 Inch Denali Pro Series UTV Plow Kit

Denali plows are some of the best snow plows for UTV’s today based on both quality and affordability.

While they’re known for making product specific plows, the 66 Inch Denali Pro Series is a universal plow system that will work on any UTV with a 2 inch receiver hitch.

66 Inch Denali Pro Series UTV Plow Kit

The 66 inch blade may be a little on the small side for a UTV, but it gets the job done.

It’s also less than 180 pounds, which makes it lighter and more versatile than many of its competitors.

This plow has a 12 gauge steel blade that will stand up to a lot of wear and tear. It’s also powder coated with an epoxy primer for extra durability.

On the top of the blade they’ve also included a polyester top coat for extra corrosion resistance and it comes with a 3 year warranty.

While it is a straight blade, it angles for efficient snow removal.

Other key features of this plow are plow markers and rubber flaps for stability.

The only real weakness of this plow is the fact that you have to have a 2-inch mounting system to use it.

Other than that, it’s one of the best UTV snow plow systems around.

  • Works on any UTV with a 2-inch receiver hitch
  • Durable 12 gauge steel
  • Stabilizer flaps included
  • Powder coated and corrosion resistant
  • 3 year warranty
  • Will only work on UTV’s with a 2 inch receiver hitch

If you prefer a snow plow with a universal mounting system the Denali 66-inch Pro Series is a great option.

This is a quality product designed to last and that’s why the manufacturer backs it with a 3-year warranty.

K2 Plows Stor8422 Storm Snow Plow

If you own a pick-up truck, you’re lucky enough to have the perfect snow clearing machine. All you have to do is add a plow.

The K2 Plow Stor8422 is a great option if you don’t want to break the bank in the process.

Truck plows can cost thousands of dollars, but this one retails for a little over $1500.

It has an 84 inch wide blade and it weighs in at just over 250 pounds.

The blade on the Stor8422 is made from construction grade steel that’s meant to last a long time.

It’s also powder coated for extra protection and it has a special UV protective paint to protect it from the harmful rays of the sun.

K2 Stor8422 Storm - the best snow plow for trucks

With all of these durability features, it’s somewhat surprising and disappointing that the manufacturer only provides a 1 year warranty.

Apart from that, it’s easily one of the best snow plows for trucks under $2000.

This K2 plow comes with some pretty cool extra features as well. It has an electric winch for adjusting the height of the blade and there are 3 different angles to choose from.

It’s also equipped with a wiring harness, a deflector, a steel scraper blade, and steel shoes. It’s the complete snow plow system.

Critics argue that it will tend to bend easily if it’s jarred though which is a bit of a concern.

  • Affordable
  • Powder coating and UV protection
  • Electric winch system included
  • Includes harness, deflector, steel scraper blade, and steel shoes
  • Limited 1 year warranty
  • Tends to bend with heavy use

The K2 Plows Stor8422 is a good option if you want to keep your budget under $2000.

The warranty is a little disappointing though and the fact that it can bend under certain conditions is a concern.

Overall, it is one of the best snow plows for a pick-up truck in its price category.

Meyer Model 26500 Snow Plow

If you’re not afraid to spend a little bit of money on a snow plow for your pick-up truck the Hydraulic Snow Plow Model 26500 is the real deal.

This plow features a blade that’s 7 feet 6 inches in length and it weighs in at about 440 pounds so it’s a heavy-duty plow.

Home Plow by Meyer Hydraulic Snow Plow Model 26500

The 26500 has a durable steel blade and it’s easy to attach as long as you have a Class-3 front receiver hitch on your vehicle.

The process is made easier with the integrated mounting wheels and Quick Link system that lets you attach or remove the plow without using tools in just a few seconds.

Without a doubt, it’s one of the best snow plows for a ½ ton pick-up.

This is a premium plow. It even has a remote control you can use to adjust the blade using the hydraulic system either up or down or side to side.

Meyer 26500 - the best snow plow for a truck

It only comes with a 1 year warranty though, which is a major let down for a snow plow blade that costs more than $3000. You’d expect at least a 3 year warranty at that price.

  • Durable 14 gauge steel blade
  • Integrated mounting wheels and Quick Link system
  • Attach or remove without tools
  • Remote control with hydraulic lift
  • Weighs more than 400 pounds
  • Limited 1 year warranty

The Meyer Model 26500 Hydraulic plow is a state of the art snow plow blade. With its Quick Link attachment system and remote control hydraulic lift, it’s certainly user friendly.

The only major concern is the limited 1 year warranty, but this is a big concern for a plow that will set you back more than $3000.

If it weren’t for this, we wouldn’t hesitate to name this as our best snow plow for a truck in any category.

Final Thoughts

Using a snow plow as your main snow removal tool is a lot more convenient than shovelling by hand and it’s well worth the investment. It’s important to get the right plow for your vehicle though.

An ATV plow for example should never be more than 50 inches wide as it would be difficult to navigate with anything larger.

There are plenty of different models on the market for any type of vehicle so it certainly pays to shop around. Any of the plows in this guide are great choices.