The Bottom Line
The Behrens 210 delivers solid performance for everyday gardeners who value durability over fancy features. While it lacks measurement markings and can get hot in direct sun, its galvanized steel construction and thoughtful dual-handle design make it a reliable choice that'll outlast plastic alternatives.
Product Overview
When you're tired of flimsy plastic watering cans that crack after one season in the sun, the Behrens 210 offers a refreshing return to old-school durability. This 2-gallon galvanized steel watering can brings the kind of construction your grandparents would recognize – built to last decades rather than seasons.
At roughly $35-45 depending on retailer, it sits in the mid-range price category but delivers premium durability. The can features hot-dip galvanized steel construction, dual handles for better control, and a removable spout that switches between gentle shower and direct stream watering. It measures approximately 18 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 13 inches tall when assembled, making it compact enough for storage yet substantial enough for serious garden work.
What We Love
- Rock-solid galvanized steel construction that shrugs off weather, UV rays, and the inevitable drops that destroy plastic cans
- Perfect 2-gallon sweet spot – holds enough water for meaningful garden sessions without becoming too heavy to carry comfortably
- Thoughtful dual-handle design with a sturdy top handle for carrying and side handle for controlled pouring
- Versatile removable spout lets you switch between gentle shower watering for seedlings or remove entirely for direct stream watering
- Eco-friendly choice since the all-steel construction is 100% recyclable when it finally reaches end of life
Room for Improvement
- No measurement markings make it challenging to gauge exact water amounts for fertilizer mixing or precise plant care
- Metal body heats up significantly in direct sunlight, requiring gloves or waiting for shade during summer use
- Fixed handle positioning can cause wrist strain during extended watering sessions compared to rotating handle designs
Real-World Performance
After months of testing in various garden conditions, the Behrens 210 proves its worth through consistent daily performance. The galvanized coating shows zero signs of rust despite exposure to morning dew, afternoon thunderstorms, and accidental overnight outdoor storage. The 2-gallon capacity hits the sweet spot – filled with water, it weighs about 17 pounds, which most gardeners can handle comfortably for typical watering rounds.
Standout Feature
The dual-handle system truly shines during actual use. The top handle distributes weight evenly for carrying, while the side handle provides precise pouring control. This thoughtful design reduces wrist strain and gives you confidence when watering delicate seedlings or navigating tight spaces between plants.
The removable spout system works better than expected. With the rose attachment, it delivers an even, gentle shower perfect for newly seeded areas. Remove it entirely, and you get a controlled stream that's ideal for deep watering around established plants or filling narrow containers. The pour control is excellent – no unexpected gushes or dribbles that plague cheaper alternatives.
User Experience & Setup
Setup takes about two minutes – simply attach the spout and optional rose head. The threading is smooth and secure, with no cross-threading issues common in cheaper models. Daily use reveals thoughtful design touches: the wide opening makes filling easy even from low outdoor spigots, and the balanced weight distribution prevents the awkward tipping that plagues top-heavy designs.
"I've had mine for three years now, and it still looks almost new. The weight feels substantial without being unwieldy, and I love that I don't have to baby it like my old plastic ones. It just works, day after day."
- Margaret from Ohio
The learning curve is minimal, though you'll quickly discover the hot metal issue on sunny days. Smart gardeners learn to store it in shade or use gardening gloves during peak sun hours. The lack of measurement markings becomes apparent when mixing fertilizers, requiring a separate measuring cup for precision mixing.
Value Analysis
At $35-45, the Behrens 210 costs roughly triple a basic plastic watering can but delivers value through longevity. Consider this: most plastic cans last 1-2 seasons before cracking, fading, or becoming brittle. This steel can should provide decades of service, making the cost-per-year extremely competitive. The galvanized coating means no ongoing maintenance costs – no rust treatments or protective sprays needed.
💡 Compared to Similar Products: The Union Tools steel watering can costs similar money but lacks the dual-handle design. Plastic alternatives like the Bloem Aqua Rite cost $15 but typically need replacement every 2-3 years, making the Behrens more economical long-term.
The environmental angle adds value too. Instead of contributing multiple plastic cans to landfills over the years, you're investing in one durable tool that's fully recyclable at end of life. For gardeners who water daily during growing season, the comfort and durability improvements easily justify the higher upfront cost.
Who Should Buy This?
This watering can excels for dedicated gardeners who want reliable performance without ongoing replacement costs. It's particularly suited for those managing small to medium gardens (up to about 500 square feet) where the 2-gallon capacity provides good coverage without excessive carrying weight. The durable construction appeals to gardeners who prefer buying quality tools once rather than cheap tools repeatedly.
Perfect For:
- Daily gardeners who need reliable performance and don't want to baby their tools
- Eco-conscious gardeners seeking durable, recyclable alternatives to disposable plastic options
- Small to medium garden owners where 2-gallon capacity provides good coverage per trip
- Tool collectors who appreciate classic, well-built garden implements
Skip If:
- You need precise measurements for regular fertilizer mixing or hydroponic applications
- You have mobility limitations that make 17 pounds when full too challenging to handle
- You garden primarily in full sun and don't want to deal with hot metal surfaces
- You need larger capacity for extensive garden areas or commercial applications
"As someone who's been gardening for 30 years, I wish I'd bought this quality from the start instead of replacing cheap plastic cans every few seasons. The dual handles make such a difference when you're doing serious watering work."
- Robert from Texas
Final Verdict
The Behrens 210 represents excellent value for gardeners who prioritize durability and performance over flashy features. Yes, it gets hot in direct sun and lacks measurement markings, but these minor inconveniences pale compared to the frustration of repeatedly replacing inferior alternatives. The galvanized steel construction, thoughtful dual-handle design, and versatile spout system create a tool that'll serve faithfully for decades.
If you're tired of the plastic watering can replacement cycle and want a tool that works as hard as you do, the Behrens 210 delivers old-school reliability at a fair price. Just remember those gardening gloves on sunny days.
