If you just cut down a tree in your backyard, you're probably thinking about what you would do with the remaining tree stump. Tree stump does not only affect the aesthetic of your garden, but it could also be a source of hazard for children and possible habitat for plant pests and insects.
Hence, you must find an easy way to remove stumps to maintain your beautiful garden. Fortunately, there's an affordable process that can give you the result you’re looking for. You can just use a stump grinder to remove the large stumps without destroying your yard or spending too much money on this task.
Another good thing is that there are many stumps grinding machines in the market, so you won’t have a hard time choosing one. If you're interested in looking for the best stump grinders available for you, read on.
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8 Best Stump Grinders Review
As mentioned, it is easy to buy a stump grinder since there are many brands and types available in the market. However, it would still be best to read this article so that you can choose the most suitable product for you.
1. Samson Machinery 15HP Grinder
One thing that makes this 15HP gas powered unit so amazing is its well thought out design. From its bold color to careful detailing, you can't help but notice it even from a distance. The design of the product itself is also useful, such as the large pipe bow handle that makes maneuverability manageable even in rough terrain.
You will also be satisfied with its tires, which are large enough for smooth handling and seamless movement during stump grinding. Unlike an ordinary stump grinder, the product also offers protruding levers attached to the base's left and right loop that you can use when the machine got stuck.
This product is also perfect for heavy-duty stump grinding work since it is equipped with the necessary features needed for the job. It comes with one 12 inches cutting wheel that is thick enough to cut big and sturdy stumps. So, you can employ this beast in both large and small scale jobs.
The cutting wheel also boasts nine powerful cutting teeth that can smoothly chip away any stump in your yard. So, you won't have to worry about the cutting range, for sure.
Another advantage of this product is its beastly engine. It is powered by a 15HP OHV 4-stroke engine, which offers an optimum output of 360 RPM. With that amount of power, you can expect that it can use its cutting wheel efficiently.
It also utilizes an upgraded drum braking system, twin V belts, and smart recoil starting system, which are essential components for starting a stump grinding machine with a single pull of the starter string. Surely, it's a strong contender for the title of best stump grinder on the market with its incredible features.
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2. DK2 Stump Grinder
In terms of durability, this product will be the first thing you'll think about since it is designed for heavy-duty work, unlike a conventional model. It is mounted on a heavy-duty 2x2 steel frame, welded solidly to give the product powerful support when used.
The axle handle comes with hitch pins that are secured by dual locking mechanisms for added stability. This feature also helps the user to gain a steady control of the machine even on rough terrain effortlessly.
Since it is powered by HP CH440 Kohler common pro engine, you will be satisfied with the excellent cutting speed with the maximum wheel rotation output of 3600 rpm. With this much power, grinding of several unsightly tree stumps in your back yard will not be a problem.
What also amazing with this DK2 Power Grinder is that it is perfect for newbies in stump grinding. You can flawlessly assemble the handlebar stump grinder by just merely following the instruction given. The instruction manual is straightforward, and the unit itself is super easy to assemble.
You don't have to worry about using it the very first time since it's carefully designed for comfortable use. The handle is ergonomically made; hence it can be fully adjusted depending on your need while the unit is not noisy when used.
Lastly, the cost effective unit comes with all the required accessories, like a oil bottle, safety keys, work gloves, etc.
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3. Bluebird Stump Grinder
If you're looking for the best stump grinder to buy, then your search is finally over with this product. The stump grinder is both efficient in removing unsightly stumps while also being eco-friendly. What more can you ask for?
This quality stump grinder boasts a 389cc beastly engine capacity that is equipped with a heavy-duty recoil start. Due to this, you will not have a hard time starting the engine, which makes the task of removing all those tree stumps more manageable.
Also, what sets this product apart from other stump grinders in the market is its cyclone air filter. Its Honda GX390 4-cycle engine is also equipped with a cyclone air filter to aid in the combustion of fuel. Due to this, the unit's engine demans less fuel expenses while still supplying proportionate power for the stump grinder.
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Additionally, this ideal tool also has a centrifugal clutch, which can help in ensuring that your device will have a continuous supply of power for removing tree remnants. This is a useful feature since you don't need to worry about a power drop while working. It will be an excellent help if you are doing heavy-duty work.
In terms of cutting power, you will be surprised by its top-notch cutting efficiency of the cutting head since it has carbide-tipped cutting teeth. This feature makes the grinding process efficient, so you need less force to complete the job. It can grind down up to twelve inches into the ground, offering tree stump removal even below ground.
Lastly, the pneumatic knobby tires makes the handling buttery smooth. Thanks to these sturdy tires, this powerful tool can tread on problematic terrains with relative ease.
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4. PowwerKing Stump Grinder
If you're looking for something sturdy and robust, then this product will surely fit your requirements. With excellent machinery powered by 14HP Kohler engine, grinding tree stump with a length of more than 20 inches will not be a problem.
It can also make the process of grinding easier since it is equipped with dual V belts that come with nine powerful tungsten blades. The equipment is user-friendly so that new users will not have a hard time using a stump grinder like this.
As mentioned, it can be easily powered using the slap-stop button placed together with a shut-off pull latch for ease in controlling the machine. You will also like the adjustable bow handle that is provided for a secure grip once you are controlling the device.
In terms of durability, you can vouch that this product will never let you down. It is made from quality steel material and comes with a dual-bolts design that makes it sturdy against rough handling or harsh condition.
More importantly, the product is equipped with nine carbide tip grinding teeth and the disc drum brakes with a locking throttle. These features make the machine efficient and effective when grinding any tree stumps in your backyard. These stump grinders offer easy transport due to its large wheel and four lift handles.
Lastly, each of the locking throttles has a control stop button (also known as kill switches) for an emergency stop, which is all easy to reach and navigate. The throttle cable is just of the right size. The unit also comes with a debris guard to protect its users from any tree scraps that may fly out during the process of grinding.
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5. HOC ST13 Stump Grinder
One of the main selling points of this product is that it is installed with the latest cutting system. It's cutting wheel is equipped with four rows of tungsten carbide teeth which also contains independent rotating edges for removing those unwanted trees.
The design of the cutting wheel is arranged carefully so that each of the blades was positioned in a saw blade-like manner. Each blade is also attached to a rotating disc, making grinding more powerful. This feature makes stump grinding easy even up 12 inches below ground.
Additionally, the machine's top-notch cutting performance is coupled with a powerful engine, providing flawless experience when doing stump grinding in your backyard. The stump grinder utilizes a powerful Honda engine GX390 that comes with four strokes, producing 13 HP power output.
As a security feature, this stump grinder is equipped with drum brakes on each of the wheel and brakes levers. The brakes levers are carefully located in the machine where you can easily reach it. Similarly, the drum brakes can also be easily used for emergency purposes.
You will also love how portable this small stump grinder is since the grinder model has excellent wheels below the chassis, making portability easy whenever you need to move it from one place to another for large to small projects. It also is equipped with an emergency button so that whenever some accident happens, you can stop the unit's engine quickly.
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6. Toro Stump Grinder
If you're looking for a stump grinder that is not too bulky, this product surely fits the bill. Unlike other machines in the market, you won't have a hard time storing it since it is not too big. However, do not underestimate its cutting capacity since its performance is top notched. Surely, one of the best stump grinder for the money.
Although it has a relatively smaller body, it still utilizes a powerful Honda GX390 engine that can produce an optimum output of 13 HP. Since the motor itself is durable, you won't have to worry about using it even for heavy-duty work.
The product's design is well thought out, which makes it deliver an efficient grinding performance. Every part of the unit is placed ergonomically for users' comfort, such as the oil plug and air filters. It will be easy to monitor these features since it is located somewhere you can see it easily, even when operating the machine.
Additionally, the product has rubber gaskets inside its internal component, ensuring that there is less vibration when you use it. This makes the grinding process more comfortable for the users. Due to the rubber gaskets, it can also lessen the wear and tear insides the machines since the internal machinery is sufficiently protected.
Lastly, it also offers easy-lift handles that make this product very portable when you need to transport it from one place to another. The placement of the handles is also strategically chosen so that it would not burden the carrier too much once lifted.
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7. Greatbull Stump Grinder
One challenge that you can encounter while doing stump grinding is the removal of the stump in hard to reach spots. Fortunately, the product being reviewed will be the answer to your problems. This stump grinder has durability, cutting power, and fantastic design to combat those annoying stumps ultimately.
It is powered by a high-quality Kohler gas engine that boasts a 14 HP output. With this engine power, cutting down sturdy tree stump can be swiftly done in no time. Additionally, the powerful machine is coupled with a high-end cutting mechanism, ensuring that cutting of stump is stable and manageable.
This product provides a swift cutting experience since its cutting wheel is equipped with nine cutting carbide teeth. And you know that more teeth help remove larger stumps.
Also, the cutting system can be easily controlled using the hand brake mechanism to get the job done. These features make the unit an excellent tool for stump grinding while also not compromising the user's safety.
You would also be surprised to see how comfortable the handles of this power tool are to use. It is designed to be easily gripped when lifting so that your hand will not go numb while using the product.
More importantly, the product utilizes pneumatic tires that can effectively access narrow areas when used. This makes the removal of tree stumps hassle-free even in problematic terrain.
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8. Western Pacific Stump Grinder
In the last spot of our stump grinder reviews, we have a product that you can rely on for your stump grinding needs anytime. It boasts a powerful motor with an optimal output of 15 HP, which can quickly produce enough power for heavy-duty work.
You can also vouch for the machinery of the product since it is made with high-end specifications to cater to the user's needs. This is made possible by its efficient Ducal 4-stroke motor and reliable recoiling start mechanisms. Due to this, the motor can work effectively in removing sturdy tree stumps in your backyard.
In terms of durability, the product boasts upgraded double V belts that give additional support to the unit's framework. It is also equipped with a sturdy cutting wheel that can flawlessly cut any stump on its way.
With durable housing and sturdy cutting mechanisms, grinding stump that is 20-25 inches tall will not be an issue. Thus, other trees will be safe from contagious diseases.
For the safety of its users, the product has a drum braking feature that can help to control the stump grinder, even in rough terrain smoothly. It is also relatively light, making it easy to lift when needed to be transported or stored in another place. Consider wearing safety glasses while operating stump grinders.
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Things to Consider Before Buying
Buying a stump grinder might be a bit hectic for someone if he/she doesn’t have enough knowledge required for it. One needs to consider few factors before buying this machine, and here is your buying guide:
Engine's Power
Similarly, when buying other motors, you must check the engine's capabilities since it should have sufficient power to match your needs. If you're doing heavy-duty works, it is suggested that you buy a grinder with a high-end engine with a steady power supply.
You must check the horsepower of the engine, fuel consumption, and how many stumps it can grind. Always remember that you cannot compromise the engine’s power for the price since its crucial in making sure that you will buy something that would last. Don't be tempted to do huge savings by purchasing a subpar unit.
Size and Weight
If you're planning to do the stump grinding yourself, you must choose smaller stump grinders that you can manage in terms of its weight and size.
Keep in mind that there are heavy stump grinders, like the track stump grinder, that cannot be lifted by one person; these types of products are not conducive for personal use. Hence, it would be wise to get something depending on your purpose and use.
It would also be easier to transport and store the equipment if it is not too bulky, like handlebar stump grinders. Make sure that you get something that you can carry around every time you use it in your backyard.
Cutter Disk
Since the cutting wheel is one of the most abused parts of the stump grinder, you must buy a grinder with a durable cutter disk. Do not settle for anything less durable than carbide, especially if you will be doing heavy-duty work. For grinding a few stumps or smaller stumps just a few inches above the ground, an ordinary wheel will do.
Cutting Depth
In terms of effectiveness, you can assess this factor by checking the cutting depth that the grinder can do. As much as possible, your machine should be able to grind down at least 20 inches below ground.
Security Features
A stump grinder has parts that can be dangerous for its users. Hence, it would be important that this equipment has security features that can help users to stop the machine in case of an emergency.
Check if the track stump grinders or the handlebar stump grinders you have shortlisted have an emergency stop button or drum brakes that the user can easily access. These automatic break buttons come in handy in some situations. Also, don't forget to use ear protection and other safety gear while achieving a flawless landscape with the tool.
Engine's Efficiency
Since this equipment uses fuel as a power source, it is also a plus if the stump grinder has features that can make the engine more efficient. If the motor is working well, you can be assured that it uses less fuel while also producing more output.
Additionally, you can check if the unit has an air filter since this upgrade makes the combustion more efficient. Try to avoid engines that produce too much vibration. Also, the units that can automatically adjust its speed based on the load tend to last longer and offer maximum fuel efficiency.
Ergonomic Handles and Wheels
As you will be using the stump grinder for a couple of hours, it would be beneficial if the equipment has ergonomic handles so that your hands will not get hurt while doing the stump grinding process.
Additionally, the wheel should also be designed in a way that it can be easily maneuvered so that you won't waste your energy from lifting the equipment itself and adjusting your working position.
Its wheels should also be sturdy enough since you may face rough terrain when removing the stump in your backyard. In summary, the unit should require minimal intervention and effort.
Price
Although a stump grinding machine is not cheap equipment, there are still brands that offer affordable pricing for their products. Do not hesitate to compare prices, especially the market for this product is extensive, and you can have many options.
However, keep in mind that you should not compromise the durability of the product. Some affordable models use thin electrical wires, and you should avoid those. If you research enough, you will surely find a product that is affordably priced while also meeting your standards. Also, chemical removal of stumps may seem like a cheaper alternative, but the process is lengthy and hazardous, like some other methods.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best stump grinder for personal use?
There is no perfect stump grinder since each customer would have a different preference in their equipment. However, if you will be using the equipment yourself, then it might be more helpful if the grinder is lightweight and easy to use.
Especially for beginners, it is more beneficial to have easy-to-use equipment for them since they might not be familiarized with the machinery of this product.
Can a stump grinder entirely remove tree roots?
A stump grinder can grind up to 8 to 20 inches below ground, but it cannot entirely get rid of the plants' root, just like manual digging.
However, keep in mind that the root system of a plant is a collection of extensive roots that are growing both vertically and horizontally. Entirely removing the root system would mean that you have to dig the ground on a much larger scale. Thus, removing the entire stump is not a good idea most of the time.
What happens to the ground after stump grinding?
As mentioned, stump grinding is a less invasive way of eliminating stumps from your back yard. After the process, you can observe that the remaining stump would level to the ground, which is less hazardous for people.
However, you can also see some settling in the ground, which can be easily leveled by filling the surrounding job site with soil or wood chips.
What should you do after stump grinding?
Once the stump is removed, you may observe a hole in the ground that is a little bigger than the stump you removed. Clean the area where you did the stump grinding and make sure no debris can be hazardous to people. You can also try to fill the hole by placing soil or wood chips to level the ground. A good stump grinder won't leave a giant hole.
Is stump removal similar to stump grinding?
Although both can remove tree stumps in your backyard, they differ in the processes involved and results. Stump grinding utilizes a cutting wheel to chip away the stump until you cannot observe any remaining part above the ground.
On the other hand, stump digging is the actual removal of the stump by digging the stump out of the soil, several inches below the ground. This can affect the yard on a larger scale since you are digging up the whole root system.
What is the benefit of stump grinding compared with other processes of stump removal?
The main advantage of stump grinding is that it is less invasive since you will only affect a small area where the stump is located. Unlike stump removal, it would not destroy a large area of your yard, and it is also less expensive.
What should I wear when doing stump grinding?
The process of stump grinding involves the removal of wood parts by chipping it away. In the process, it is crucial to wear protective equipment to protect yourselves from flying wood particles or debris.
Final Words
Stump removal can simply be done using the right process and equipment. Ensuring that you get the right stump grinder is beneficial since it would make the task smooth and more manageable. Hopefully, this review did help you to learn more about the best stump grinders in the market.
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