Cleaning up weeds, tall grass, and brush along field edges before harvest requires a durable, hardworking machine. That's where flex-wing rotary cutters shine. Sometimes called a Batwing mower (Batwing is a registered trademark of Woods) or a Bush Hog (a registered trademark of Bush Hog), a flexible-wing rotary cutter can make short work of brush and weeds.
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When choosing a unit, first look at the width. Three common sizes are 12, 15, and 20 feet wide, with the most popular being the 15-foot unit. Each rotary cutter requires the right amount of horsepower, balance, and ballast. A lighter-duty 12-foot unit works well on utility tractors of 50 to 80 hp. The popular 15-foot models work best on tractors 75 hp. and up. The 20-foot models require higher horsepower and are used more by road crews and farmers in the Northern Plains.
The machines are extremely versatile. "Most farmers buy them for roadside maintenance or to clean up around row crops before harvest," says Tom Elliott, product marketing manager for John Deere Small Ag. "Livestock folks use them to clip pastures. By clipping the weeds and tall grass, it leaves more forage for the livestock to eat and reduces insect issues such as flies that cause pinkeye."
How to select
When choosing a flex-wing rotary cutter, match it to your chores and terrain, says Rob Dewey, vice president of engineering for Woods, based in Oregon, Illinois. "Look at the types of material to cut. If you are cutting pastures and brush, you can use a lighter-duty mower. If you are shredding cornstalks or wheat stubble, you need a heavier-duty cutter."
If you are mowing CRP land, you may need a heavier model for small tree saplings. Lighter-duty rotary cutters can handle tree saplings with 2-inch-diameter limbs. To handle a 4-inch limb, you need a heavier model.
"Look at your terrain," says Dewey. "If it has ditches, waterways, and obstructions, choose a heavier cutter."
Also, consider the number of hours you will use the cutter per season. "Larger farmers use them for 200 hours or more per year," says Dewey. "If you are only going to use it for 20 hours, a lighter cutter should work fine."
Costs vary, but expect to pay $15,000 to $23,000 for a 15-foot model. The heavier 20-foot models can cost $30,000 or more.
Buying points
Ease of maintenance is a key buying point. Make sure the gearbox is serviceable and it's easy to check the oil. Look at the grease points. The ease of slipping power shaft clutches is important, says Elliott. "You need the ability to release the clutches, shedding rust and condensation that might stick the clutches together. If you get into dirt on a bank or terrace, you don't want to just power through; the PTO shaft can be damaged."
Most producers will want a stump jumper pan that holds the blades, says Elliott. "If you get in an environment with small stumps, the pan skims over the stump and doesn't damage the cutter."
Most units have a smooth-slope deck so water and material won't pocket on the top causing the deck to rust. Clean off the cutter deck after every use so weed juices don't corrode it.
A deep deck chamber and tall side frames "will allow you to handle more cut material and drive through deeper grass with less horsepower," says Dewey.
Most companies offer a crop shredding kit with twin swinging flat blades for handling cornstalks or wheat stubble.
Tires
Tire technology has changed. Solid laminated tires used to be popular because they were puncture-proof. However, when tractors pulled the cutters on blacktop at 30 mph, the tires would shred apart on the road. Today, used aircraft tires and severe-duty ag tires are standard issue. The 18-ply used aircraft tires are almost puncture-proof, says Dewey. "You can even have them foam-filled so they last even longer."
Severe-duty ag tires were designed to be just like airplane tires, but without the 200-mph speed rating. They were developed because rotary cutter manufacturers were at the mercy of the aircraft industry. Once again, foam-filling severe-duty ag tires makes them virtually indestructible.
"If you are not going down a highway, laminated tires are fine," says Elliott. "If you are moving from farm to farm and going up and down the road, you need a severe-duty tire."
Tips
Replace the cutting blades every two years. When they wear down from a square point to an arrow or a needle point, the blade is worn out.
Pull the cutter out on a flat surface, says Dewey. "Make sure the machine is level side to side and 1 inch lower in the front than in the rear. It should be nose down toward the tractor. That way, it will take less horsepower to run. If it is down in the back, you will cut the grass twice."
Check the oil level and the lug nuts. Check for flat tires and anything that rattles. Check the blades. Make sure there are no large cracks or grooves, they are sharp enough to do the job, and they are mounted securely to the blade carrier.
Safety
Inspect the terrain to make sure there are no washouts or deep holes that could upset the tractor. Check for large rocks and debris, especially if you are mowing near a roadway or a farmstead where something could be thrown out from under the rotary cutter. Every flex-wing rotary cutter should have shielding, usually a chain curtain in the front and back or rubber belting. Safety packages on the machines are standard across the industry, says Dewey, who is chairman of the rotary cutter safety council.
"All companies participate, and we take it very seriously. Do not operate these machines within several hundred feet of bystanders," he says.
Besides front and rear safety chains, the PTO shafts have safety shields, gearboxes are shielded, and there are safety chains for towing.
Finally, always lock up the wings when towing.
Bush Hog: bushhog.com
John Deere: deere.com
Land Pride: landpride.com
Rhino: rhinoag.com
The Countyline rotary cutter is one of the most popular and trusted brands for rotary cutters among landowners, farmers, and ranchers. With its durable construction, versatile features, and ability to handle tough cutting jobs, the Countyline model is designed to make keeping fields, pastures, and properties neatly trimmed much easier.
However, with different sizes and specifications available, choosing the right Countyline rotary cutter for your needs and properly operating it requires some research. This detailed buying guide provides everything you need to know about purchasing, using, and maintaining the Countyline rotary cutter so you can make the most informed buying decision and keep your cutter running optimally for years.
Countyline rotary cutters are sold at most major farm and tractor supply retailers across the United States. Some of the most popular places to purchase them include:
No matter where you choose to purchase from, be sure to compare the different sizes and models to find the Countyline rotary cutter best suited for the cutting jobs you need to complete. Asking questions is also recommended to determine if a particular model will work with your tractor.
The Countyline rotary cutter uses a simple yet effective design to slice through grass, weeds, brush, and saplings up to 2 inches thick. The basic components and operation include:
With this basic rotating blade principle, the Countyline cutter is able to trim and maintain areas ranging from small yards up to large fields efficiently. The simple mechanics mean minimal maintenance is required.
With competitive price and timely delivery, GTM sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
Countyline rotary cutters have several important features that make them versatile and durable for managing all types of properties:
These features allow the Countyline cutter to deliver professional rotary cutting results in the most demanding mowing applications.
One of the great benefits of the Countyline rotary cutter is that it can attach to most compact tractors and riding lawn mowers to improve the cutting and mowing capabilities. Here are the key steps to properly attach it:
Always review the operator’s manual for proper attachment procedures. Having the Countyline cutter securely connected allows you to leverage the power of your tractor for cutting large areas with ease.
Countyline rotary cutters are very competitively priced against other similar cutter models. Here are some typical prices depending on the size:
The prices may vary slightly depending on the exact specifications and features. For instance, hydraulic lift models typically cost a bit more than standard 3-point hitch models.
Overall, Countyline rotary cutters provide excellent value by combining heavy-duty construction, reliable performance, and reasonable prices. This makes them affordable for most people compared to similar commercial-grade cutters.
The Countyline rotary cutter earns consistently positive reviews and high ratings from most owners. Here are some of the most common pros and cons mentioned:
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, most owners agree the Countyline rotary cutter is a reliable, rugged performer perfect for keeping large areas neatly trimmed. Paying attention to the installation and reading the manual helps new owners get the best results.
The Countyline rotary cutter is a versatile tool suitable for a wide range of residential and agricultural cutting applications, including:
No matter what the application, the Countyline provides an efficient cutting solution for owners requiring a heavy-duty rotary cutter.
Countyline rotary cutters are designed for durability and have several features that contribute to their long lifespan:
Reviews show Countyline cutters regularly lasting over 10 years under private ranch and farm use. For most owners, following basic maintenance procedures allows their Countyline cutter to deliver many years of reliable service.
Countyline rotary cutters utilize heavy-duty materials well-suited for the high-impact operation. Here are the main raw materials:
The combination of the highest quality materials ensures Countyline rotary cutters will withstand the demanding operation and last for the long haul.
An important consideration is making sure the Countyline model you choose is compatible with your tractor. Here are some key factors in determining compatibility:
Consulting the specs for your tractor model and cutter before purchasing provides the best assurance that you’ll have compatibility and good performance.
Like any mechanical equipment, proper maintenance is key to getting the best performance and life from your Countyline rotary cutter. Here are the most important maintenance tips:
Following the maintenance schedule provided in the operator’s manual will keep your Countyline cutter running smoothly for years.
One advantage of the Countyline cutter is that replacement parts are available through most retailers that sell the cutters, either in-store or by special order. Some common replacement parts include:
Having access to replacement parts lets you repair damage and perform needed maintenance to keep your Countyline cutter working like new. Always check the specific part number for your model when ordering.
Countyline provides several warranty periods covering different components:
The limited lifetime deck warranty provides excellent long term protection against the most expensive component. Just be sure to follow all recommended maintenance procedures to keep the warranty valid on your Countyline cutter.
Keeping your Countyline cutter deck clear of clippings, sap, and other debris will maximize its performance. Follow these cleaning tips:
Proper cleaning after each use will maintain the good condition of your Countyline cutter for optimum performance season after season.
Countyline rotary cutters are available in a range of cutting widths, with corresponding weights as follows:
Match the cutting width you need for your tractors horsepower. Going too wide can overload a smaller tractor. The weights allow ensuring tractor compatibility and having enough counter balance.
Countyline rotary cutters require some assembly once unpacked. Here are some tips for smooth assembly:
Taking the time to properly assemble your new Countyline cutter prevents problems and gets you up and running quickly.
If you are a visual learner, there are numerous excellent videos demonstrating proper use, adjustment, and maintenance specific to Countyline rotary cutters. Here are some of the most helpful:
Watching these comprehensive videos supplement the written manual and provide visual demonstrations of proper Countyline rotary cutter use. This helps both new and experienced operators master their cutter.
One key advantage of the Countyline rotary cutter is the ability to adjust the settings for optimal cutting over different terrain. Here are some key adjustments:
Taking the time to properly adjust the Countyline cutter allows you to get the highest quality cut whether finishing lawn grass or reclaiming overgrown fields.
Countyline includes important safety features to protect operators during cutting:
Using all the integrated safety features and following the safe operating procedures in the manual ensures safe and trouble-free operation.
With rugged build quality, high cutting performance, and broad compatibility with all types of tractors, it’s easy to see why Countyline delivers the best rotary cutter value for property owners. This detailed guide provides everything you need to select the model suited for your land, properly operate and maintain it, and leverage Countyline’s safety and convenient adjustment features. Review all the tips and videos to gain the skill and confidence to use your Countyline cutter like a pro. With the proper knowledge, your Countyline rotary cutter will keep your property neatly trimmed and managed for years to come.
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