Grapple bucket vs. BMG..

[flushcut]

I am looking for some feedback form you guys/gals who have used both. I have a BMG and love it but I am getting into more landscaping where a GB would be handier. So, if you have any opinions, likes, dislikes, wants/design changes or whatever I am all ears. Thanks

 

[Husabud]

I have the BMG and love it. For the ever increasing HO brush pile I am looking into a grapple rake. I will look for the link that a local dealer gave me. Sounded like a good deal.

 

[Jack]

I got a used 72" GB, for 'cheap'. For moving material as well as brush it's good ... moved some big heavy boulders with it.
However, if I had to do it over again I think I'd get a 4in1.
Just something to consider.

 

[lumberjack]

This is for a mini?

 

[sotc]

Different animals, I have both and I don't think you will be happy moving brush with the bucket. Some wood occasionally but you won't be happy moving logs on a regular basis either

 

[bonner1040]

I got a used 72" GB, for 'cheap'. For moving material as well as brush it's good ... moved some big heavy boulders with it.
However, if I had to do it over again I think I'd get a 4in1.
Just something to consider.

What is a 4 in 1?

 

[rangerdanger]

I kinda lucked into a BMG HD Grapple and a root rake grapple bucket since I bought the Gehl from Carl, so I'll have the best of both. The Root rake grapple bucket will be great for helping our friend push up the brush pile. We do a few jobs every now and then as well where it'll be a big help. But overall I think the BMG will see the most use, great for hauling brush, picking up wood, etc.

 

[Jack]

What is a 4 in 1?

Mini 4in1:
<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vY-_Ilx4pXk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Skid Steer 4in1:
<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rGHIXIs5zrE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

[Jack]

Different animals, I have both and I don't think you will be happy moving brush with the bucket. Some wood occasionally but you won't be happy moving logs on a regular basis either

Agreed. GB is rough for landscaping but it will move a lot brush for rough clearing. Like I said; for landscaping, if I had to have one attachment, the 4in1 would be my choice.

GB moving brush ... Not the smoothest operator but it did move brush:
<iframe width="640" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VqMh7J5P7jA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

[Husabud]

That is why I said Grapple Rake. It is only meant for brush and can handle a bunch. I really need to get on the other 'puter, this iPad can be a beotch.

 

[Jack]

Then there's this (below). It's exactly like mine except those dozer bits on the front. I can weld those on. I think I got enough steel laying around for that.

<iframe width="480" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ijhTKXK8Ggc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Dayum, another project. :roll:

 

[flushcut]

This is for a mini?

Yep, for my s800tx.

 

[flushcut]

Thanks for all the replies guys. To clarify I am keeping my BMG for tree work and going to be using the GB more for mass destruction and construction debris removal for a large builder friend.
Jack, I will have to look into those 4in1 buckets, thanks.

 

[flynhigh]

4 in 1 bucket any day IMHO

 

[Husabud]

If it is more for demo and dirt I definitely agree with Jack. That 4 in 1 is great. Although I may want a rake style front as opposed to the double clamp.

 

[arborworks1]

I got pretty good with a grapple rake. But the bmg is much easier for tree work. For wholesale clearing the grapple rake is the key to moving massive amounts of material.

That being said a 4-1 bucket is pretty versatile. Just takes a bit more finess IMO.

 

[lumberjack]

For clearing I prefer a grapple rake to grub out roots and separate them from the dirt enough to burn the debris.

It also allows you to rake the ground without carrying dirt like a cutting edge does. It also allows better visibility of the fingers/edges that are pushing.

A bucket grapple has its place moving loose material like rakings or dirt along with grabbing things (obviously).