What does a box blade actually do?

[newbury]

For your reading pleasure
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/attachments/122762-beginners-guide-using-box-blade.html
http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/owning-operating/116316-various-boxblade-uses.html

They are also good for ballast.

 

[joshuabardwell]

So what happens when they hit large rocks?

If your box blade is rated for the HP of your tractor, and if you are not doing anything REALLY dumb, the tractor stops and the wheels spin. If your box blade is under-rated for the HP of your tractor, you damage your box blade. Usually the mounting arms are the first thing to go, but it all depends on the specifics of your situation. Tearing out the rippers is also common, depending on how the tube they're installed in is built.

 

[whis]

You can tell someone how to use one all day long, but the best thing to do is use it and try different things. Top link in or out see what works best, you cant mess up. If you dig a hole, fill it up. If you leave a high spot, cut it down. All it takes is practice. And unless you have a small box blade and big tractor going backwards won't hurt anything. I have seen front wheels coming off the ground while pushing backwards.