Choosing among the best stock tank pools comes down to a basic tradeoff: space and depth versus easier upkeep and a smaller footprint. The Behlen Country 8 ft × 2 ft FarmFlex is my pick for buyers who want the most room to stretch out, while the Rubbermaid BRUTE 50-gallon tank is the more manageable option for shallow soaking, animal care, and frequent draining. The 6-foot Behlen FarmFlex sits between them, offering a more compact round footprint without giving up the full two-foot depth.
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These products are sold as stock tanks, not complete swimming pool kits. None of the listed specifications confirm a filtration system, pump, liner, ladder, or pool-ready fittings, so I would treat each as a tank that may need separate planning for water care and safe entry. My ranking favors useful pool dimensions and versatility, but I also weigh how much space each requires and whether the available details support straightforward cleaning. The right choice depends on whether your priority is a roomy seasonal pool, a flexible multipurpose tank, or a smaller, shallower basin.
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Key Takeaways
- Choose the Behlen 8-foot round tank when water space and a full 24-inch depth matter more than fitting the tank into a compact yard.
- The Rubbermaid BRUTE is the shallowest pick at 12 inches, with an oversized drain plug that makes emptying and cleaning more convenient.
- The Behlen 6-foot tank is the middle ground: it keeps the 24-inch depth of the larger Behlen but takes up less room.
- None of these listings describes a complete pool setup; plan separately for water treatment, circulation, placement, and safe access.
- Check dimensions before buying: the Rubbermaid is listed in inches and gallons, while both Behlen tanks are round and measured by diameter and height.
| Behlen Country FarmFlex Round Stock Tank, 8 ft × 2 ft |  | Best Overall for a Roomy Stock Tank Pool | Brand: Behlen Country | Dimensions: 8 ft × 2 ft | Shape: Round | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE 50-Gallon Stock Tank |  | Best for Shallow Soaking and Easy Draining | Capacity: 50 gallons | Dimensions: 52 × 31 × 12 inches | Material: Structural foam plastic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Behlen Country FarmFlex Round Stock Tank, 6 ft × 2 ft, Poly |  | Best Compact Deep Option | Brand: Behlen Country | Dimensions: 72 × 72 × 24 inches | Shape: Round | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| stock tank pool | Dimensions | Material | Brand | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behlen Country FarmFlex Round | 8 ft × 2 ft | Poly | Behlen Country | Round |
| Rubbermaid Commercial Products | 52 × 31 × 12 inches | Structural foam plastic | — | — |
| Behlen Country FarmFlex Round | 72 × 72 × 24 inches | Poly | Behlen Country | Round |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Behlen Country FarmFlex Round Stock Tank, 8 ft × 2 ft
The 8-foot round Behlen FarmFlex earns my top spot because its size gives a stock-tank pool the broadest footprint in this lineup while keeping a full two-foot wall height. That extra diameter matters more to pool use than the smaller Rubbermaid’s utility-focused shallow basin: there is more room to sit, stretch, or share the water, assuming the yard and intended setup can accommodate it. Compared with the 6-foot Behlen, this model is the more generous choice for recreation, but it also takes up more ground and calls for more water.
Its poly construction and multipurpose design make it a plausible fit for owners who want one tank to serve changing needs. The same broad, round basin can be considered for livestock watering, dog bathing, or a wildlife pond when it is not being used for cooling off. That flexibility is a meaningful advantage over buying a small, shallow tank for a single job. The tradeoff is that the listing does not provide capacity, weight, a drain specification, or pool equipment details. I would not assume that emptying, circulation, or water treatment is handled for you.
Compared with the 6-foot Behlen, the 8-foot model is best when space is the priority, not when a compact footprint is essential. Compared with the Rubbermaid BRUTE, it offers a more pool-like diameter and twice the stated wall height, but gives less explicit guidance about drainage and structural details. Buyers should measure the placement area, think through how a filled tank will be supported, and check manufacturer instructions before using it recreationally. I would also plan a safe way to get in and out: a two-foot sidewall is not a built-in entry system.
This is my lead recommendation for someone deliberately building a seasonal stock tank pool and willing to handle the extra setup. It is not the simple pick for a tiny patio, a buyer who wants an easily moved basin, or anyone expecting a ready-to-run pool package. The large round footprint is its strongest reason to choose it, while the lack of listed pool-specific accessories is its main caveat.
Pros:- Eight-foot round footprint provides the most room for pool use in this lineup.
- Two-foot height gives more depth than the 12-inch Rubbermaid tank.
- Poly construction is described as durable and versatile for outdoor tasks.
- Can also be considered for livestock, dog bathing, or a small wildlife pond.
Cons:- Large dimensions require substantial placement space and more water than the smaller options.
- The supplied details do not state capacity, drain design, or included pool equipment.
- A two-foot sidewall still calls for a separate plan for safe entry and exit.
Best for: Buyers with enough level yard space for a large round tank who want a deeper, more spacious stock-tank pool that can also serve other household or outdoor uses.
Not ideal for: People with a small patio, shoppers who need a lightweight or frequently relocated pool, or buyers who expect drainage, circulation, and entry equipment to be included.
- Brand:Behlen Country
- Dimensions:8 ft × 2 ft
- Shape:Round
- Material:Poly
- Manufacturer part number:5211308809
- UPC:017141001650
- Items included:1 stock tank
Our verdict“I recommend the 8-foot Behlen for buyers prioritizing pool room and depth, provided they are ready to plan the site and water setup themselves.”
Rubbermaid Commercial Products BRUTE 50-Gallon Stock Tank
The Rubbermaid BRUTE 50-gallon tank is the practical pick for a small, shallow cooling basin rather than a conventional stock-tank pool. At 12 inches tall, it is much shallower than either Behlen FarmFlex model, both of which are listed at two feet. That difference makes the Rubbermaid easier to approach for a quick soak or animal care, but it limits how much of the body can be submerged. If your main aim is to lounge in deeper water, I would move up to one of the Behlen tanks.
Where this model distinguishes itself is in its utility-focused construction and drain access. Structural foam plastic is described as resistant to weather, impact, and corrosion, while body stiffeners and a ribbed base support the tank. Its oversized drain plug is a concrete advantage for emptying and cleaning, especially compared with the Behlen listings, which do not provide drain details. The smooth basin and lack of sharp edges are also useful for animal care. Those points make it a strong multipurpose tank, even if its dimensions are less compelling for adult pool use.
The dimensions—52 × 31 × 12 inches—give buyers a clearer sense of its compact, oblong footprint than the round Behlen options do. The stated 50-gallon capacity reinforces its role as a smaller-volume basin. It may suit a narrow area where an 8-foot circle would be impractical, but the 12-inch height is not a substitute for the deeper 6-foot Behlen simply because both are more compact than the top pick. The BRUTE is also the only option here with an explicitly listed oversized drain plug and a 10-year limited warranty, though I would read the warranty terms rather than assume every use or installation is covered.
For pool shopping, this is a purposeful compromise: less room and less depth in exchange for manageable size and more clearly described emptying features. It makes sense for cooling off, rinsing, or occasional shallow soaking, especially if the tank will also have an animal-care role. I would skip it as a primary family pool or for a buyer who values lounging depth. The listing does not mention filtration, circulation, or recreational-use certification, so those needs remain separate decisions.
Pros:- Oversized drain plug is specifically described for easier emptying and cleaning.
- Structural foam plastic is listed as weather-, impact-, and corrosion-resistant.
- Body stiffeners and a ribbed base support a durable utility design.
- Smooth, shallow basin has no sharp edges for animal use.
Cons:- Its 12-inch height is much shallower than either Behlen tank.
- The 50-gallon capacity and compact dimensions limit its usefulness as a lounging pool.
- The listing does not describe pool circulation equipment or recreational-use certification.
Best for: Buyers seeking a compact, shallow basin for quick cooling, animal care, or utility use who value straightforward drainage and clearly stated construction details.
Not ideal for: Anyone wanting a deep pool for lounging, enough room for several people, or a two-foot water-depth option comparable to the Behlen tanks.
- Capacity:50 gallons
- Dimensions:52 × 31 × 12 inches
- Material:Structural foam plastic
- Color:Black
- Finish:Smooth
- Drain:Oversized drain plug
- Warranty:10-year limited warranty
- Country of manufacture:USA
- Model number:FG424300BLA
Our verdict“I would choose the Rubbermaid for a durable shallow basin with convenient drainage, not as a replacement for a deeper stock tank pool.”
Behlen Country FarmFlex Round Stock Tank, 6 ft × 2 ft, Poly
The 6-foot Behlen FarmFlex is the middle-ground choice for buyers who want a deeper round tank but cannot give over as much yard space as the 8-foot model requires. Its listed dimensions are 72 × 72 × 24 inches, so it keeps the same two-foot height as the larger Behlen while reducing the diameter by two feet. In practical terms, that is a more compact footprint with a meaningful depth advantage over the 12-inch Rubbermaid. It will not feel as roomy as the 8-foot tank, but it is the clearest choice here for balancing space and depth.
The product is described as a flexible poly stock tank for farm and ranch use, with possible roles in livestock watering, dog bathing, or a small wildlife pond. That broad utility can be valuable if the tank will not be a dedicated pool all season. Its round shape avoids corners and may fit more naturally into a garden or yard layout than the Rubbermaid’s 52-by-31-inch rectangle, although buyers still need to measure the full circular footprint and leave access around it.
Compared with the 8-foot Behlen, the 6-foot model is easier to place but gives up room for multiple bathers or more relaxed movement. Compared with the Rubbermaid BRUTE, it offers twice the listed height and a more pool-oriented shape, but the Rubbermaid provides clearer details about drainage, base reinforcement, and its limited warranty. The Behlen listing also says the tank comes in a variety of colors, though the supplied information does not identify which color is included with this specific offer. I would verify the selected variant before ordering.
There are a few listing details I would not use to make a purchase decision without confirmation. The supplied weight of 0.01 ounces appears implausibly low for a six-foot tank, so I would check the manufacturer or seller documentation for a reliable shipping or product weight. Capacity and drain design are also not given. That makes this less straightforward to plan for than the Rubbermaid, but it does not cancel the size advantage for a buyer whose yard is too small for the 8-foot model. Plan the base, water management, and entry method separately.
I rank it second because it delivers the strongest compromise between two-foot depth and a smaller footprint. It suits one or a small number of users better than a group looking for ample room, and it is not a compact plunge basin in the same sense as the shallow Rubbermaid. Choose it when the larger Behlen is too demanding on space but you still want a round tank with more depth than the BRUTE.
Pros:- Two-foot height offers substantially more depth than the Rubbermaid BRUTE.
- Six-foot round footprint is more manageable than the 8-foot Behlen.
- Flexible poly tank is described for livestock, dog bathing, and wildlife pond use.
- Available in a variety of colors, subject to checking the selected variant.
Cons:- Smaller diameter provides less room than the 8-foot Behlen for lounging or sharing.
- The supplied listing does not specify capacity or drain design.
- The stated 0.01-ounce weight should be verified before using it for shipping or installation planning.
Best for: Buyers who want a two-foot-deep round stock tank pool but have less room than the 8-foot Behlen requires.
Not ideal for: People who need maximum pool room, want clear capacity and drain specifications before purchase, or need a very shallow basin that is easy to step into.
- Brand:Behlen Country
- Dimensions:72 × 72 × 24 inches
- Shape:Round
- Material:Poly
- Model:52113068
- Weight listed:0.01 ounces; verify with manufacturer or seller
- Color availability:Various colors; specific selection may vary
Our verdict“I recommend the 6-foot Behlen when a buyer wants the depth of a full-size stock tank pool but needs a smaller round footprint.”
How We Picked
I ranked these options for people considering a stock tank as a pool, rather than for every farm or ranch use. The most useful comparison points are usable water depth, overall footprint, material, draining, and flexibility for other jobs. A tank can be durable and well suited to livestock while still being less convenient as a place to sit or cool off, so I separate general toughness from pool-specific usefulness.
The Behlen Country FarmFlex tanks offer the clearest pool-friendly geometry in this group: both are round and two feet tall, with the 8-foot model providing more room and the 6-foot model demanding less space. Their product details highlight versatility and poly construction but do not specify a drain, capacity, or pool accessories. That leaves buyers with more setup questions than the Rubbermaid listing, even though the Behlen dimensions are more appealing for a soaking pool.
The Rubbermaid BRUTE 50-gallon tank ranks third as a pool option because its 12-inch height and limited capacity make it better suited to shallow cooling or utility use than adult soaking. I still include it because weather resistance, a reinforced body, and an oversized drain plug address practical ownership concerns. I do not treat the stated warranty or material claims as proof of suitability for every installation; buyers should follow the manufacturer’s guidance and check the specific product documentation before filling it for recreational use.
I also account for missing information. Product listings do not establish that a tank is certified as a swimming pool, and they do not spell out whether water can be safely circulated or treated with a particular chemical system. I reward clear, relevant dimensions and practical construction details, but I avoid inventing capacity, weight, or included equipment where the supplied specifications do not provide it. The ranking is meant to clarify fit, not to suggest that any one tank arrives ready for swimming.
| stock tank pool | Material |
|---|---|
| Behlen Country FarmFlex Round | Poly |
| Rubbermaid Commercial Products | Structural foam plastic |
| Behlen Country FarmFlex Round | Poly |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Stock Tank Pools
Stock tanks are made for practical outdoor work, so choosing one as a pool means checking more than the shape and listed size. I would compare water depth, footprint, drainage, placement, and maintenance before settling on a model. The tanks in this roundup differ enough that the right answer is less about a single winner and more about the amount of room you have and the kind of use you expect.
Choose depth and footprint together
Start with the dimensions in the space where the tank will sit. The Behlen options are round, with the 8-foot model taking the largest footprint and the 6-foot model offering a smaller circle; both are listed at two feet tall. The Rubbermaid measures 52 × 31 inches across and is 12 inches tall, making it the most compact and shallow option. Diameter determines room to move, while wall height sets a limit on the water depth you can expect. Neither dimension alone tells the whole story: the roomy 8-foot tank may be too large for a small yard, while the shallow Rubbermaid may not provide the soak you want.
Measure the intended spot, include room to approach the tank, and avoid choosing based only on the empty tank’s footprint. A filled tank carries a substantial water load, so the supporting surface must be appropriate for that load and the manufacturer’s instructions. I would not place a large tank on a deck or other structure unless its load capacity has been confirmed by a qualified source.
Think about the intended pool use
A quick cool-off basin has different needs from a place to sit and lounge. The Rubbermaid’s 12-inch wall height can suit shallow soaking or animal care, but it is not comparable to the Behlen tanks’ two-foot sides. The 6-foot Behlen is a better fit when the yard is limited but a deeper basin matters; the 8-foot model gives more room to share or stretch out. Larger tanks also take more water and require more planning for filling, draining, and keeping water clean.
Decide whether the tank will be dedicated to swimming or will also serve livestock, dog bathing, or another outdoor purpose. General-purpose use can make the Behlen models attractive, but switching between uses may call for careful cleaning and a plan for water quality. A tank’s farm use description does not, by itself, establish that it is a complete or certified recreational pool.
Check drainage and water care before filling
Drainage is one of the clearest differences in the product details. The Rubbermaid BRUTE lists an oversized drain plug, while the supplied Behlen specifications do not describe a drain. That does not prove the Behlen tanks cannot be drained; it means buyers should check the exact model instructions and decide how water will be emptied before filling it. Think about where the water will go, how often it may need changing, and whether that discharge is suitable for the yard.
None of these listings specifies a pump, filter, sanitation kit, or circulation system. I would not assume that ordinary pool chemicals, plumbing fittings, or accessories are compatible with a particular stock tank without checking manufacturer guidance. If the pool will be used regularly, plan water maintenance before purchase rather than treating it as an afterthought.
Assess material and construction claims
The Behlen tanks are described as poly, while the Rubbermaid uses structural foam plastic. The BRUTE listing specifically mentions weather, impact, and corrosion resistance, plus body stiffeners and a ribbed base. Those details help explain its utility-oriented appeal, but they do not make its shallow dimensions more suitable for deep soaking. The Behlen descriptions emphasize versatile farm and ranch use, with the 6-foot model described as flexible. Material labels are not a substitute for installation guidance; confirm how the tank should be supported and used.
Also check the selected listing carefully for the exact size, color, and model. The 6-foot Behlen listing includes a weight figure that appears unreliable for a tank of this size, so I would verify it rather than use it for transport or setup planning. Missing dimensions or accessories should be confirmed with the seller or manufacturer.
Plan entry, placement, and supervision
None of the three products lists a built-in ladder or step system. A two-foot sidewall can be awkward to climb over, particularly for children, older adults, and people with limited mobility. Plan a safe way in and out, and do not assume a separate ladder will fit securely against the tank. A shallow tank can also create risks; shallow water is not a substitute for supervision.
Place the tank on a stable, level surface and follow the manufacturer’s placement and support instructions. Keep the area around it clear enough for access, drainage, and maintenance. If children may be near the pool, use active adult supervision and appropriate barriers or other safeguards for your setting. The tank itself does not replace a safety plan.
Match the option to the amount of upkeep you accept
The easiest tank to drain may not be the best pool for your needs, and the biggest pool may not be the easiest to maintain. The Rubbermaid has the most explicit drainage detail, but its small capacity and shallow profile limit its pool role. The Behlen tanks provide more depth and round room but have fewer supplied details about water handling. Pick the tradeoff you can live with: lower water volume and easier emptying, a balanced footprint and depth, or the largest bathing area.
Before buying, write down the setup tasks you will need to handle: delivery, surface preparation, filling, water treatment, circulation if needed, safe entry, and draining. Comparing those tasks alongside dimensions can prevent a multipurpose farm tank from becoming an inconvenient backyard project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which stock tank in this lineup is best for a pool?
I rank the Behlen Country 8 ft × 2 ft FarmFlex first for buyers seeking a roomy stock-tank pool. Its round, eight-foot footprint offers more space than the 6-foot Behlen, and its two-foot height is greater than the Rubbermaid’s 12-inch basin. It also needs the most room and water, and the listing does not describe pool accessories or drainage details.
Is the Rubbermaid BRUTE 50-gallon tank deep enough for swimming?
The Rubbermaid is listed at 12 inches high, so I would think of it as a shallow cooling or soaking basin rather than a pool for lounging. It has a useful oversized drain plug and durable construction details, but both Behlen tanks are listed at two feet tall. Choose the BRUTE for a compact shallow use, not when depth is the main requirement.
What is the difference between the two Behlen FarmFlex tanks?
The main stated difference is size: the 8-foot model is larger across, while the 6-foot model is listed as 72 × 72 × 24 inches. Both are round poly tanks with a two-foot height, so the 6-foot version is the space-saving choice and the 8-foot version provides more room. The supplied details do not give a capacity or drain specification for either one.
Do these stock tanks include a pump or filtration system?
The product details supplied for these three options do not list a pump, filter, or complete pool system. The Rubbermaid listing mentions an oversized drain plug, but that is for draining and cleaning rather than water circulation. I would check the exact product documentation and plan any water-care equipment separately before filling a tank for recurring recreational use.
Can I place a stock tank pool on a deck or patio?
A filled tank can place a substantial load on its supporting surface, and the product details here do not establish that any model is suitable for a deck. I would use a stable, level location and follow the manufacturer’s support instructions. For a deck or elevated structure, confirm the structure’s load capacity with a qualified professional before installation rather than relying on the tank’s empty weight.
Conclusion
For a buyer who wants the most room for a backyard stock tank pool, I would start with the Behlen Country 8 ft × 2 ft FarmFlex, provided there is adequate space and a clear plan for placement, water care, and entry. If the yard is smaller but a two-foot-deep basin still matters, the 6-foot Behlen is the better compromise. For someone who wants a durable, shallow tank that is easier to drain and may also serve animal-care needs, the Rubbermaid BRUTE is the sensible choice—but I would not buy it expecting a deep lounging pool.
Across all three, I would verify the model details, prepare a suitable base, and plan how to fill, maintain, and drain the tank before ordering. These are versatile stock tanks, not complete pool packages, and their differences matter most once they are filled and in use. Match the tank to the space, depth, and upkeep you are prepared to handle.
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