trail clearing technique and tools

[2manyrocks]

Middle TN had mid 80 temps a few days ago. Neighbor ran into rattlesnake working the fence line yesterday.

 

[jjeff]

Eastern UP and northern LP could definitely use your expertise and experience clearing trails due to the ice storms this spring. Everyone I talked with since the storms say it's a complete disaster around there guess most rec trails in that area will stay closed this summer.

 

[ArlyA]

Trail machine news: We are looking at used 4 series JD tractors to help us with trail work for Boundary Road trails or at the properties we have been looking at for purchasing. Inflammation in my wrists gets bad and hurts even when I do minimal manual work anymore. We'd need to also get a backhoe and other accessories to go along with it. Just can't do much anymore. No need to get into a best brand fight here....

 

[airbiscuit]

A 4 series John Deere would be a nice tractor. I wouldn't rule out a 3 series either if you find a good deal.
I always struggle with the backhoe question. There a those who say they would never be without one. There are those who who say they seldom get used and/or are a pain to mount/dismount/store. For what they cost, I might go without on my CUT, and buy an old school industrial tractor/backhoe, or a cheap mini ex. YMMV

 

[ArlyA]

A 4 series John Deere would be a nice tractor. I wouldn't rule out a 3 series either if you find a good deal.
I always struggle with the backhoe question. There a those who say they would never be without one. There are those who who say they seldom get used and/or are a pain to mount/dismount/store. For what they cost, I might go without on my CUT, and buy an old school industrial tractor/backhoe, or a cheap mini ex. YMMV

JD's modern ones like on the 4 series seem pretty easy to get on/off.

 

[Mtsoxfan]

I like to carry a steel cutter for my weed whacker as well as a circular disc chainsaw cutter for it as well. My steel cutter only has 4 cutters on it, and will only cut saplings up to about 1/2".

 

[airbiscuit]

JD's modern ones like on the 4 series seem pretty easy to get on/off.

Not something I'd like to do weekly.

 

[Smokeydog]

JD's modern ones like on the 4 series seem pretty easy to get on/off.

Sure like the Kubota TLBs for my mostly wooded hillside property. 4-post ROPS. Seat swivels so can reach backhoe controls to swing when operating forwards for balance. Heavier built than ag tractors. Great operator deck. Easy 3pt to backhoe change.
Feel your pain. Not as able to do as much hand work anymore. Recently bought a Precision miniclip this spring.
Most trees and limbs under 7”. Being able to reach up nearly 20’ a game changer. Cleared several acres worth of boarders and trail encroachment. Moved a least 100tons of debris. Today went over the areas with the Brown tree cutter to chop up, mulch and level to hopefully maintain with the flail cutter. Very little time spent using chainsaw or off the tractor. Wife impressed. Already being enjoyed by the deer and turkeys. Easy hunting for the owls