Introduction
While there are many similarities between slashers and mowers, they perform different functions and should not be mistaken for one another. Making the wrong choice of tool can result in wasted time, fuel, and money. Read on to learn more about the difference between a slasher and a mower, as well as some tips on how to decide between the two.
Let us first understand what each is.
Slasher
A slasher will get the job done quickly and won’t stifle under the pressure of concealed rocks and debris. Because slashers are suitable for large areas of thick, tall grass, they are perfect for clearing paddocks. With a bit of practice, they can also handle grass of different lengths.
Mower
A flail mower is a combination of a slasher lawn mower and a finishing lawn mower. In other words, they can mow overgrown grass while maintaining an attractive finish.
Flail mowers thus produce mulch that rots back into the ground. This nourishes the grass and soil that’s left. It also helps your soil since it reduces the number of pests. As a result, you don’t need as many pesticides or herbicides.
Flail Mower vs. Slasher: How to choose
While the flail mower may seem like the best option based on the features of both, your choice will ultimately depend on several factors;
Do your tractors, skid steers or excavators support flail mowers and slashers?
Tractors with 25 HP or less will usually only support implements no wider than 4 feet.
Larger machines with 50 HP or more will allow you to expand your search to include implements between 4 feet and 6 feet.
Largest tractors and excavators with 50 to 80 HP engines can support larger implements up to 7 feet.
How big is the work size you need to tackle?
Depending on the size of the job you have to do, a slasher may be better suited to larger jobs where the main objective is to clear a field or other large area of grass.
On the other hand, if you’re preparing the land for other purposes, such as for planting or growing crops, you may want to consider flail mowers.
Decide on your preferred finish
No slasher and no flail mower will give your cut grass the same look. A slasher will cut through overgrown grass faster than a mover, but you have an edge with mowers. They give an attractive, even cut and have the advantage of stimulating new grass growth because of the mulching effect.
Decide how much ongoing maintenance you’ll tolerate
A slasher consists of just a few swings back blades. It has a gearbox, oil, and blades that need to be sharpened and kept free of debris. Flail mowers are more expensive and require more ongoing maintenance. In addition to the gearbox and blades, you’ll need to take care of belts, bearings, and many other blades.
Determine your budget
As you’ve seen, slashers are more limited in terms of what they are capable of and what you can expect them to accomplish.
On the other hand, a flail is more expensive and requires more maintenance, but it also produces a more attractive result.
Conclusion
AgKing the exclusive and trusted supplier of tractor and implements is not only a supplier in Australia but also delivers these in the whole of the continent with a tag of warranty. To sum things up, the two most important factors to consider are the horsepower your machine has and the result you’d like to achieve.
If you’re looking to clear a paddock or other large area of grass, a slasher might be the right choice for you.
On the other hand, if you’re after an attractive finish and the advantages of mulching the grass into the ground, a flail mower is the way to go.
You’ll also want to make sure that the implements you’re planning to use, such as tractors, excavators or skid steers, are compatible with your machine.