Grapple Grapple for clean up OR hire it out???

[IslandTractor]

As I go into the trial, I plan to clear the brush, small trees etc with the grapple. I used to use my regular bucket, but should go faster with the grapple. 63" will allow me to do most I think in one pass with the follow-up with the box blade.

Though it seems logical to advance grapple first, I have found the most efficient way to clear brush (not trees) is to advance Bush Hog first. The grapple will get clogged up with stuff the bush hog would just disintegrate. The grapple will also pull up stringy bits that will then drag behind the grapple and eventually get twisted around tires/axle etc. Using the bush hog to advance (in reverse obviously) leaves a pretty clear area. When I get to something the bush hog cannot handle, I turn around and go at it with the grapple. In my case I have been clearing a larger area than just a trail but you might consider using the combo approach if you have lots of briar/brambles etc on your trails.

 

[Slippy]

Good idea.