a sprinkler includes an oscillating tube that receives water from a supply , and the tube oscillates about a longitudinal axis through a range of radial angles . a plurality of nozzles spaced along the oscillating tube distribute water generally upward and outward from the oscillating tube to create a water distribution pattern on the ground . the longitudinal angles of at least some of the nozzles are automatically selectively regulated as a function of the radial angle of the oscillating tube , controlling the impact locations on the ground of the water emanating from the respective nozzles . the longitudinal angles may be automatically regulated such that the water emanating from the respective nozzles reaches parallel , rectilinear , evenly - spaced impact locations on the ground . the ranges of radial angles traversed by at least some of the nozzles may be automatically regulated such that the ends of the water distribution pattern are rectilinear . a rectangular or square water distribution pattern may be thereby automatically produced .