used skid steer bale spear for sale

Used Skid Steer Bale Spear for Sale

If you’re shopping for a used skid steer bale spear, your goal is likely to balance affordability with reliability. A bale spear can transform a skid steer into a versatile hay-handling machine, handling round or square bales safely and quickly. To help you decide, here’s what matters most when reviewing available machines and attachments.

Why Choose a Skid Steer Bale Spear?

A skid steer-mounted bale spear drastically increases productivity for any operation that needs to move hay, straw, or silage. Compared to manual handling or outdated equipment, a bale spear:

• Boosts efficiency by enabling a single operator to lift, transport, and stack bales without repeated adjustments.
• Preserves hay quality through gentle handling—spears penetrate only where needed and minimize damage.
• Fits tight spaces thanks to the compact maneuverability of a skid steer, so you can work inside barns or along fence lines.
• Provides versatility with interchangeable spears for round vs. square bales, or combinations that tackle both.

When buying used, look for weld integrity, spear straightness, and secure mounting hardware. Even small cracks or bent tips can spell trouble once the load grows heavy.

What to Inspect Before Purchase

Buying any used attachment demands attention to detail. For a bale spear, key inspection points include:

| Component | What to Check |
|———–|—————-|
| Spear tips | Straight, sharp, not bent or fractured |
| Frame | No excessive rust, cracks, or weld failures |
| Mounting plate | Fits your skid steer brand, pins move freely |
| Hydraulics (if applicable) | No leaks, proper pressure on rotate/tilt models |
| Hardware | All bolts, safety chains, and locking devices present |

Ask the seller about usage history—how often it was used, whether it was stored inside, and what kind of bales it handled. Frequent use with heavy, wet bales might cause faster wear, especially on the spear tips.

Comparing Used Options

When evaluating listings:

1. Price vs. Condition: A lower price may hide needed reinforcements or new spear tips. Factor in the cost of repair or replacement.
2. Brand Compatibility: Ensure the mounting plate matches your skid steer’s make (Bobcat, Cat, John Deere, etc.) or that adapters are available.
3. Speartip Setup: Determine whether the spear configuration works for your bales. A three-spear setup is standard for round bales, while square bales might need dual spears or a specialized arrangement.
4. Shipping & Local Pickup: Due to weight, arrange transport or plan for local pickup with proper equipment.

Making the Most of Your Purchase

Once you have your used bale spear:

• Maintain the tips by filing out burrs and replacing bent spears before they risk bending further.
• Store it dry to slow corrosion. A coat of grease or rust inhibitor on the frame keeps it ready for the next season.
• Test before use: Lift a test bale at ground level to ensure stability and that the skid steer’s hydraulic system isn’t overworked.

If you’re a regular hay handler, pairing your bale spear with a skid steer that has auxiliary hydraulics or a multi-coupler can save time swapping attachments. Also, consider used bale spears that include extra accessories like safety chains or adjustable spear spacing, as these add long-term value.

Conclusion

A used skid steer bale spear is a smart purchase for livestock operations, hobby farms, or contractors who need to move large bales efficiently. By focusing on condition, compatibility, and thorough inspection, you can secure a high-quality attachment that extends your skid steer’s capabilities. Take your time comparing listings, confirm all dimensions, and make sure any necessary repairs won’t break your budget. With the right used bale spear, you can handle more bales faster—saving time and effort during every push season.