The Gallagher Smart Fence 2 is an all-in-one portable electric fencing system designed to simplify the creation of temporary paddocks, subdivide pastures, or manage remote grazing areas. It comes as a kit that integrates four polywire fence strands, support posts, and reels into a single package. The user supplies the energiser and ground rod separately. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the system covers approximately 100 metres (around 328 feet) with a fence height of about 900 mm (roughly 35.5 inches) once installed.
Key features and design
- The package includes 10 rigid posts and four fence wires (three poly-braid and one turbo braid), which unroll simultaneously as posts are placed in the ground.
- The system is advertised as plug-and-play: users simply connect it to any compatible energiser or existing electric fence to activate.
- It is designed to be functional on both flat and uneven terrain.
- The posts, wires, and reels are integrated into a compact and portable unit with a handle, allowing for quick setup and takedown.
- The full height is approximately 42 inches including the post spike, and around 35.5 inches above ground level when installed.
- The unit weighs around 16 pounds (approximately 7.3 kilograms).
- It comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Practical applications
The Smart Fence 2 is intended for temporary containment rather than permanent fencing. Typical uses include rotational grazing, temporary paddocks, repairing broken sections of permanent fences, roadside grazing, and orchard protection. One farmer who used it for goats and sheep shared that it was easy to use, set up, take down, store, and transport. They noted that it worked well for subdividing pastures into smaller paddocks to support rotational grazing strategies.
Strengths
- Quick deployment: Integrated components allow the system to be deployed in just a few minutes.
- Portability: The lightweight design and compact storage format make it ideal for moving between paddocks or remote sites.
- Flexibility: The system can be used in a variety of environments and connected with other units for expanded coverage.
- Adaptability: Compatible with different energisers, making it versatile for users with existing electric fence setups.
Limitations to consider
- This is a temporary fencing solution. For long-term use, especially in high-pressure animal containment areas, permanent fencing may be more appropriate.
- The energiser and ground rod are not included and must be purchased separately. Proper grounding is essential for reliable operation.
- Some users have noted that if a wire is damaged, the integrated nature of the unit may make repairs more cumbersome.
- The cost per metre may be higher than conventional fencing solutions, especially for large permanent installations.
Suitability and user guidance
The Gallagher Smart Fence 2 is best suited for operations that require flexibility and frequent movement, such as rotational grazing or seasonal enclosures. It is also useful for emergency fence repairs or temporary livestock control. To ensure effectiveness, animals should be trained to respect electric fences, and installation should follow recommended practices for energiser output and grounding, especially in areas with dry or sandy soil.
In contrast, farms looking for a long-term or permanent fencing solution across large areas may find fixed systems more cost-effective over time.
Pricing information
In the U.S. market, the Smart Fence 2 is typically priced around $369.99, with some vendors offering discounts as low as $309.99. Pricing may vary depending on availability and shipping location.
Product Page: Gallagher
