Thumb Please Help.....Grapple or Thumb?

[trook]

I own a JD 4320 with a 6ft FEL. I have been trying to decide between the Markham 48" grapple and "The Thumb" for quite some time. I have searched and read many previous discussions, but I haven't been able to detect a clear winner...

From what I understand, the grapple is probably best with large materials, etc, but the thumb seems to be better when used in conjunction with the FEL which allows more "versatility".

I forsee using the attachment mostly for brush piles, small limbs, etc.

Please give me your thoughts. Your input is greatly appreciated!!!

[kennyd]

I forsee using the attachment mostly for brush piles, small limbs, etc.

That say's it all for me...Grapple hands down.

[J_J]

I am assuming that you are comparing something like this. It's like comparing grabbing something with two fingers as to grabbing something with the whole hand. Go for the full grapple .

[trook]

One concern I read about is that while wearing the grapple, I may find myself in situations where I need the bucket as well.

[kennyd]

One concern I read about is that while wearing the grapple, I may find myself in situations where I need the bucket as well.

That is why you have a QA setup on your loader...2 minutes you can switch.

[99Eric99]

I recently purchased Markham 60" heavy duty grapple rake and after a couple of hours of use, I really like it. I was popping out prickly pear and gathering up cedar that I had dropped earlier this summer. The open tines allowed me to comb the ground gathering the brush until I had a big enough bundle to grapple and haul over to the burn pile. A grapple/thumb added to a solid bucket allows you to grab, but not to comb and sift.

(My first post...)

[20 20]

A thumb can get into tighter spaces maybe get both

[IslandTractor]

I think of the "Thumb" type bucket grapple as a wonderful addition to any bucket to increase it's versatility. That said, it is nowhere near as efficient as a true grapple especially for dealing with brush, roots and logs. The bucket sides will limit your ability to carry logs and branches. The lack of true tines will limit your ability to dig under brush or trees to pop them out.

I have had a grapple for the last three years and would never be without one again in landclearing operations. I'd love to add a thumb to my standard bucket though and someday may do that.

[nybirdman]

I added a thumb and tooth-bar to the bucket of my L4240 and that combo works fine for brush piles,may-be not as well as a full grapple but a little less money.

[nybirdman]

Another picture being used,we did 8 acres this spring.