Who makes the best Rainbird type sprinkler head?

[ballvalve]

That is, back and forth with adjustable detents.

I think NAAN, made in Israel. Any others out there?

I have some 1" USA rainbirds, which are georgeous, but not too practical costwise.

[jimbo]

If you mean impulse type, Champion will give you the best long term performance. The NAAN looks ok, but is a homeowner product just like the orbit or rainbird. Impulse heads are much less in vogue now, either commercially or residentially, because the are not the best in even distribution or water conservation.

For Rotor heads, go Toro. The Rainbird rain-curtain rotors are pretty good also.

[mike1059]

Hunter is another good quality head but the same cost considerations may come into play.

[Gary Swart]

Gosh, I have some Rain Bird impulse sprinklers that have been working since 1984. I would consider that fairly reliable. Toro and Hunter have very good reputations as well, but I've never used them myself. I think it is pretty much up to individual preference.

[jimbo]

I agree that the average user would never know the difference between an orbit and a rainbird, or whatever. He asked about BEST, and in that context I give the nod to Champion

[ballvalve]

Looks like all the small champions are chinese made now.

These Israeli heads I have come from a professional supply house, and have a better pattern and adjustability. I have gotten 4 or 5 years from some, and usually the issue is breakage from some sort of impact anyway.

Maybe they are not NAAN - I'll get back with the name.

[ballvalve]

Okay, looks like NAAN but its not at all like the cheap chinese plastic ones that cracks on the third rotate.

They make a range of qualities. My problem with the brass ones of any make is that they get limed up and stop moving.