What size bales can the Stinger BS3 Bale Spear handle?
The Bale Spear Series 3 is specifically designed for large square bales, with three tine length options to match your operation's needs. The 39-inch spear provides 33 inches of useable length, the 43-inch version offers 37 inches, and the 49-inch spear delivers 43.5 inches of penetration. This flexibility allows you to handle different bale sizes and densities effectively.
The three-tine configuration with 52-inch outer spacing provides balanced support for standard large square bales. Whether you're moving dense, tightly packed hay bales or softer straw materials, the proper tine length ensures secure penetration and stable transport. The centered third tine adds critical balance that prevents wobbling during movement across uneven terrain. Before selecting your tine length, consider your typical bale dimensions and density to ensure optimal performance and safe handling capacity.
How does the replaceable tine system work on the BS3?
The Bale Spear Series 3 features a smart double-nut replaceable tine system that significantly extends the attachment's service life and reduces long-term operating costs. Each of the three tines is secured with a double-nut configuration that ensures solid attachment while allowing for eventual replacement when wear occurs. After moving thousands of bales over multiple seasons, individual tines will eventually show wear from repeated penetration and contact with bale materials.
When this happens, you simply replace the worn tine rather than purchasing an entirely new attachment. The replacement process is straightforward and can be completed with basic tools, minimizing downtime. This design approach recognizes that tines are wear items while the heavy-duty frame and mounting system remain sound for many years. By investing in replaceable tines upfront, Stinger Attachments has created an attachment that delivers superior value over its operational lifetime compared to welded-tine designs that require complete replacement.
Will this bale spear fit my skid steer loader?
The Bale Spear Series 3 is built with a universal skid steer mounting system that provides compatibility with most modern skid steers and compact track loaders equipped with standard quick-attach systems. This universal design eliminates the need for special adapters or custom brackets, allowing you to hook up, lock down, and get to work quickly.
Before ordering, you should verify two critical specifications: first, confirm that your loader uses a standard universal quick-attach system, and second, ensure your machine's lift capacity can safely handle the attachment weight plus loaded bale weight. The 43-inch spear configuration weighs 280 pounds, and when you add a large square bale that might weigh 1,000 to 1,500 pounds or more, you need adequate lift capacity and stability. Most agricultural-sized skid steers handle this combination without issue, but checking your operator's manual ensures safe operation within manufacturer specifications. If you have questions about compatibility with your specific loader model, Forge Claw's team can help verify fitment before you order.
How does the BS3 compare to using a front-end loader bucket for bale handling?
Moving large square bales with a standard loader bucket is possible but highly inefficient compared to using a purpose-built bale spear like the Series 3. With a bucket, you're constantly repositioning to get bales balanced, dealing with bales that shift or tip during transport, and spending extra time on every load and unload cycle. The BS3's three-tine design penetrates the bale securely, creating a stable connection that eliminates shifting and allows confident transport across uneven ground.
The 70-degree back angle is optimized specifically for bale handling, making penetration easier and release smoother than trying to dump a bale from a bucket. Time savings become substantial quickly—what might take multiple attempts with a bucket happens in one smooth motion with the spear. Over a season of moving hundreds or thousands of bales, those minutes per bale translate into hours of recovered productivity. Additionally, the spear provides better visibility since the load is secured on tines rather than cradled in a bucket that blocks your view. For operations that regularly handle square bales, a dedicated spear attachment pays for itself through efficiency gains and reduced labor time.
What maintenance does the Bale Spear Series 3 require?
The BS3 is designed for straightforward maintenance that keeps the attachment working reliably without excessive service requirements. Start each day or work session with a quick visual inspection of all three tines, checking for bending, damage, or excessive wear that might compromise performance or safety. Inspect the double-nut fastening system periodically to ensure tines remain securely attached—vibration and use can occasionally loosen hardware.
Check all mounting bolts and hardware for proper tightness, especially during the first several hours of use as new equipment settles in under load. Keep the universal mounting plate clean and free of packed debris, dirt, or hay residue that could interfere with proper connection to your loader. Lubricate mounting points according to your loader manufacturer's recommendations to ensure smooth attachment and detachment. When tines eventually show significant wear after extended use, replace them promptly using the replaceable tine system rather than continuing to operate with compromised tines. Store the attachment under cover when possible to protect steel components from unnecessary weather exposure. These simple maintenance practices take minimal time but ensure the BS3 continues delivering reliable performance season after season throughout its service life.
Is the Bale Spear Series 3 worth the investment for a small farm operation?
For any farm or ranch operation that regularly handles large square bales—even on a smaller scale—the BS3 represents a valuable investment in efficiency and capability. Consider the time you currently spend moving bales with improvised methods or less suitable equipment. If you're handling bales weekly or even monthly throughout the year, the accumulated time savings from proper equipment adds up quickly.
The BS3's pricing ranges from $1,150 to $1,250 depending on tine length, which is competitive for an American-made attachment built with Grade 50 steel and heavy-duty construction. The replaceable tine system means your initial investment serves you for many years rather than requiring replacement when wear occurs. Factor in the reduced physical strain and improved safety compared to manual handling or unstable bucket methods. Small operations often benefit even more from efficiency improvements because labor is limited and time is precious. With Forge Claw's flexible financing options and free nationwide shipping, acquiring the right equipment doesn't require a large upfront cash outlay. The BS3 is backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty and built to professional standards that deliver reliable performance whether you're moving 50 bales or 5,000 bales annually.