How To Choose A Poultry Plucker
by Michelle
Published October 27, 2025
Raising poultry for meat and a self-sufficient lifestyle has grown in popularity. Having control of how birds are raised and the feed they consume is liberating. Not all areas have processing facilities for meat birds, but there are options for equipment that can be used at home to process them yourself.
If you choose to purchase your equipment, there are a few key factors to consider before making a selection.
- How many birds do you plan to process at one time?
- What type of poultry will it be used for?
- Budget
- Ease of cleaning
- Durability
Types Of Pluckers
Large Capacity – Barrel type for a large number of chickens. Some styles can pluck 4 birds at a time. Also good for one turkey, depending on live weight.
- Most expensive option, but when you are processing a large number of birds, it will pay for itself
Medium Capacity – Drum style that can do up to 2 birds at a time. Maximum combined weight of 16 lbs:
Stainless Steel Poultry Plucker
Small Capacity – Chicken Plucker Drill Attachment
- Great for a small backyard operation, but it can get messy with feathers going everywhere and inconsistent feather removal.
DIY Or Homemade Options
- Turkey Fryer as a scalder
- A Traffic Cone or a modified bucket as a restraining cone
- Building plans for a Whizbang Chicken Scalder: Whizbang Chicken Scalder
If this is your first time and you’re not sure where to start, reach out to your local community for a mentor. Processing equipment is an investment and can get expensive. Luckily, with the growing Homestead community, you may find someone local who rents equipment. Be sure to check out our blog page on all things for Meat Birds, Gamebirds & Turkeys
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