Backhoe bucket size

[cpaz]

I have a 424 on order and it will be configured for a loader and backhoe. The dealer is offering me either a 12" or 16" bucket on the loader for the same price. He says most customers choose the larger bucket. This is my first tractor and I will use the backhoe to help clear stumps, landscaping duties, etc. Any advice on what size bucket I should get? I was thinking 12" based on what other similar tractors come with, but would the larger size be a better bet?

 

[Fawken]

Not sure what a 424 is, but I have a 12" and an 8". The 12" gets the most use. A 16" would be nice for some things, but too big for others because you sometimes will need to be minimally invasive if digging around trees that you want to keep. Also, the bigger the bucket the less pry force you will be able to exert on stump removal. You do not just jerk large stumps out of the ground with a backhoe. You will need to dig around it and break the major roots first by prying with the bucket against the soil.

 

[Gods Country]

My feeling is that the larger bucket will be helpful, but on the smaller tractor you may experience some issues digging harder ground. The smaller bucket is probably better suited for a lot of jobs

I would consider purchasing both.