What makes the RTG-XD extreme-duty grapple bucket different from standard grapple buckets?
The RTG-XD is built for the toughest applications in land clearing, forestry, and demolition where standard equipment fails. It features half-inch Grade 50 steel tines compared to thinner materials used in standard buckets, providing superior bend resistance when handling heavy logs, root balls, and demolition debris. The XD designation means extreme duty, with half-inch back support plating that prevents twisting and flexing under load. The frame uses heavy-duty 4x4x1/4-inch top tubing and 3x3x1/4-inch bottom tubing for maximum structural integrity.
The serrated cutting tine is specifically designed for grubbing applications, allowing you to dig into and sever tough roots without switching equipment. With dual 2x8 cylinders delivering 2,500 PSI of clamping force and a 48-inch grapple opening, the RTG-XD handles materials that would damage lighter buckets. Every component is reinforced and engineered for longevity in harsh conditions where equipment failure isn't an option.
How does the serrated cutting tine improve land clearing productivity?
The serrated cutting tine eliminates the need to switch between multiple attachments when clearing land with stubborn stumps and root systems. Position the cutting tine to engage roots at an angle, using your skid steer's pushing force to sever tough fibers that would otherwise require separate cutting tools or multiple passes. Once roots are cut, the 48-inch grapple opening lets you grab the loosened stump and extract it cleanly in one operation.
This means fewer tool changes throughout the day, less time connecting and disconnecting attachments, and more productive hours actually clearing material. The serrated edge is particularly effective in grubbing applications where you're processing stumps on the spot rather than coming back later with different equipment. Combined with the half-inch Grade 50 tines and 6-inch spacing that lets dirt fall through, you're actively clearing and processing material as you go, significantly reducing cycle times and improving your bottom line on every land clearing project.
Which width RTG-XD should I choose for my skid steer?
Choosing the right width depends on your skid steer's lift capacity and the type of work you're doing. The 78-inch model weighs approximately 1,075 pounds and works well with mid-size skid steers, offering excellent maneuverability in tighter spaces while still providing extreme-duty performance. The 84-inch version at 1,150 pounds is the most versatile option, balancing capacity with compatibility across a wide range of skid steer sizes. The 91-inch model weighs around 1,225 pounds and is ideal for larger, high-flow skid steers with maximum lift capacity, allowing you to move more material per cycle on open land clearing projects.
Check your machine's rated operating capacity and ensure the grapple bucket weight plus your typical load doesn't exceed safe limits. Wider buckets grab more material but require more hydraulic flow and lift capacity. Consider your typical job sites—if you work in confined areas, a narrower bucket offers better maneuverability, while open land clearing benefits from maximum width and capacity.
What maintenance does the RTG-XD require to maximize its lifespan?
Regular maintenance keeps the RTG-XD performing at peak levels for years. Grease all pivot points regularly to ensure smooth operation and prevent premature wear—the attachment features greasable points throughout for easy maintenance access. Inspect hydraulic hoses and the included half-inch flat face couplers for damage or leaks, especially after working in demolition environments where sharp edges can cause abrasion. Check the condition of the half-inch Grade 50 tines periodically; while extremely durable, even the toughest materials wear over time with heavy use.
Look for bent or damaged tines that could affect performance. Examine the welds and frame tubing for cracks, particularly at stress points where the grapple arms connect to the bucket. Clean debris from between tines and around the grapple mechanism after working in muddy or sticky conditions. Store the attachment properly when not in use, keeping it off the ground to prevent corrosion. Following these straightforward maintenance practices maximizes the already impressive service life of your extreme-duty grapple bucket.
Can the RTG-XD handle demolition work as effectively as land clearing?
The RTG-XD excels in demolition applications thanks to its extreme-duty construction designed specifically for handling the punishment of tearing down structures. The half-inch Grade 50 steel tines resist damage from concrete chunks, rebar, and sharp metal debris that would bend or break standard grapple buckets. The half-inch XD back support plating provides structural integrity that prevents the frame from twisting when grabbing irregular demolition materials. The 2,500 PSI clamping force from dual 2x8 cylinders secures heavy, awkward pieces like concrete slabs and timber beams during transport to dumpsters or sorting areas.
The 6-inch tine spacing is ideal for demolition because it lets small debris fall through while firmly gripping valuable or large pieces you need to move. The heavy-duty 4x4 and 3x3 tubing frame handles the constant shock and stress of demolition work where impacts and sudden loads are routine. Whether you're clearing out old buildings, removing foundation debris, or sorting recyclable materials, the RTG-XD delivers the durability and grip strength demolition professionals demand.
How does the 48-inch grapple opening improve material handling efficiency?
The 48-inch grapple opening allows you to grab significantly more material in a single pass compared to smaller grapple buckets, directly increasing your productivity on every job. This wide opening easily accommodates large logs, substantial brush piles, concrete chunks, and other bulky debris that smaller grapples struggle to secure. The independent grapple operation gives you precise control—you can open wide to grab irregular materials, then close with 2,500 PSI of force to lock everything in place during transport.
This matters especially when working on uneven terrain or traveling across job sites where a loose load could shift or fall. The combination of wide opening and powerful cylinders means you're not making multiple trips to move material that could be handled in one cycle. You'll notice immediate efficiency gains when loading trucks or dumpsters, as you can grab full loads confidently without worrying about materials slipping out. The 48-inch capacity is optimized for skid steer applications, providing maximum grip without requiring excessive hydraulic flow that smaller machines can't deliver.
Is the RTG-XD worth the investment compared to renting grapple buckets?
Owning the RTG-XD makes financial sense if you regularly perform land clearing, forestry, or demolition work. Rental costs add up quickly—what you pay in just a few months of rentals often exceeds the purchase price of your own extreme-duty grapple bucket. When you own the RTG-XD, it's available whenever you need it without scheduling conflicts or last-minute rental availability issues that can delay profitable jobs. The attachment's extreme-duty construction means it will serve your business for years, handling work that generates premium rates from customers who need heavy-duty clearing and demolition services.
Forge Claw offers flexible financing options that make ownership accessible without straining cash flow, and free nationwide shipping eliminates surprise freight costs. The RTG-XD's durability minimizes repair expenses and downtime that plague cheaper alternatives. Consider the revenue potential—owning reliable, professional-grade equipment lets you take on more challenging, higher-paying projects that rental-dependent competitors might avoid. Over its lifetime, the RTG-XD pays for itself through increased job capacity, eliminated rental fees, and the ability to respond immediately when opportunities arise.
What hydraulic requirements does my skid steer need to operate the RTG-XD effectively?
The RTG-XD requires adequate hydraulic flow to operate the dual 2x8 cylinders that provide 2,500 PSI of clamping force. Most modern skid steers with standard auxiliary hydraulics can power the grapple function, but performance improves significantly with higher flow rates. Check your machine's hydraulic specifications—high-flow systems deliver faster grapple response and more powerful clamping, which matters when you're working quickly or handling difficult materials. The attachment includes half-inch flat face hydraulic couplers for quick, clean connections that minimize hydraulic fluid loss and contamination.
Your skid steer should have an auxiliary hydraulic circuit; most machines manufactured in recent years include this as standard equipment. The independent grapple operation means you control opening and closing separately from bucket functions, requiring a two-way hydraulic flow. If you're unsure about compatibility, Forge Claw's team can discuss your specific skid steer model and confirm the RTG-XD will perform optimally with your machine's hydraulic system. Proper hydraulic flow ensures you get the full benefit of the extreme-duty construction and powerful cylinders.
How does the 6-inch tine spacing benefit different types of jobs?
The 6-inch tine spacing is engineered to provide the optimal balance between grip strength and debris shedding across various applications. In land clearing work, this spacing lets dirt and small debris fall through while you're grabbing root balls and stumps, reducing unnecessary weight and saving time on every cycle. You're moving what matters rather than hauling excess soil that adds load without value. For forestry applications, the spacing securely grips logs and large branches while allowing smaller twigs and forest floor debris to pass through, giving you cleaner loads that are easier to process or transport.
In demolition work, the spacing captures concrete chunks and structural materials while shedding dust and small rubble, making your loads more manageable and potentially more valuable if you're sorting recyclables. The Grade 50 half-inch tines maintain strength despite the spacing—you're not sacrificing grip force for the ability to shed debris. This design choice directly improves productivity because you complete more useful work per cycle, spending less time shaking out loads or making extra trips to move material that could have been filtered naturally through properly spaced tines.
What safety considerations should I keep in mind when operating the RTG-XD?
Operating the RTG-XD safely starts with understanding your skid steer's rated operating capacity and not exceeding it with overloaded buckets. The attachment's weight plus your material load must stay within safe limits to maintain machine stability, especially on slopes or uneven terrain. Always ensure the grapple is fully closed and locked before traveling with a load—the 2,500 PSI clamping force is designed to secure materials, but operator confirmation prevents accidents. Be aware of your surroundings when opening the 48-inch grapple, as the wide arc can contact nearby obstacles, structures, or personnel if you're not careful.
Wear appropriate safety equipment including hard hats and steel-toed boots when working around the attachment, particularly during demolition when debris can shift unexpectedly. Inspect hydraulic hoses before each use; damaged hoses can fail under the high pressure required to operate the cylinders. When using the serrated cutting tine for grubbing, approach roots at controlled angles to prevent sudden equipment movement if roots release unexpectedly. Regular maintenance of greasable pivot points ensures smooth, predictable operation that reduces the risk of mechanical failures during critical operations. Forge Claw provides free nationwide shipping on the RTG-XD, and our flexible financing makes it easy to get this professional-grade attachment working safely on your job sites.