What size bales can the BS4 Double Bale Spear handle?
The BS4 is designed to handle two large round bales simultaneously with a combined carrying capacity of 14,000 pounds. The 100-inch outer tine spacing provides ample clearance for the largest round bales you'll encounter on farms and ranches. Each tine offers 49 inches of total length with 43.5 inches of usable spearing length, which is sufficient to securely penetrate and grip both wrapped and twine-bound bales.
The 70-degree back angle keeps bales stable against the frame during transport, preventing shifting or rolling even when moving across uneven terrain. Whether you're handling 4-foot, 5-foot, or 6-foot diameter bales, the BS4 provides the reach and strength needed to move them efficiently. Before ordering, verify that your skid steer or loader has adequate lifting capacity to safely handle the combined weight of the attachment plus two fully loaded bales.
Can this bale spear be used on machines other than skid steers?
Yes, the BS4 comes standard with a universal skid steer hookup but can be modified to fit a wide range of machines including compact tractors, wheel loaders, telehandlers, and larger agricultural tractors. This flexibility means you're not locked into using one specific machine for hay handling operations. If you run multiple loaders or tractors across your farm or ranch, the BS4 can be configured to work with your entire equipment fleet.
Forge Claw can help you determine the right mounting configuration for your specific machinery and ensure proper fitment before shipment. The key consideration is that your machine must have adequate hydraulic capacity and lifting strength to safely handle 14,000 pounds. Custom mounting modifications allow you to adapt your workflow based on which equipment is available or makes the most sense for the particular task at hand, maximizing the versatility and value of your investment.
How difficult is it to replace the tines when they wear out?
Tine replacement on the BS4 is straightforward and designed for field-level serviceability without requiring welding or specialized fabrication tools. Each tine is secured with a double-nut fastening system that allows you to simply unbolt the worn or damaged tine and install a replacement. You won't need to take the attachment to a welding shop or wait days for repairs. Most operators can complete a tine replacement in the field with basic hand tools in a matter of minutes.
This design significantly reduces downtime and repair costs compared to welded or permanently fixed tine systems. Over the life of the attachment, this replaceable tine system delivers real cost savings since you're only replacing the worn component rather than the entire spear assembly. It's recommended to periodically inspect tines for excessive wear or bending and keep replacement tines on hand so you can make quick repairs and get back to work the same day without disrupting your operation.
What kind of time savings can I expect compared to moving one bale at a time?
The time savings are substantial and immediately noticeable, especially on larger operations. By moving two large round bales per trip instead of one, you effectively cut your bale handling time in half. For example, if you typically move 20 bales from storage to feeding areas and each round trip takes 5 minutes, you'd spend 100 minutes on a single-bale spear. With the BS4, that same job takes approximately 50 minutes, saving nearly an hour of operator time and machine hours.
Those savings compound quickly during peak feeding seasons or when stockpiling hay. Beyond direct time savings, you also reduce fuel consumption since your loader or tractor makes half the trips. This frees up both equipment and labor for other critical tasks around the farm or ranch. The efficiency gains are particularly valuable during busy seasons when every hour counts, allowing you to manage larger herds or more acreage without adding equipment or personnel.
Is the BS4 strong enough for daily commercial use on a cattle operation?
Absolutely. The BS4 is engineered specifically for the demanding conditions of daily agricultural and commercial ranch work. The frame is constructed from heavy-duty structural steel including a 4x4x1/4-inch bottom tube, 4x2x1/4-inch top support tube, and 3/8-inch Grade 50 side plates that provide exceptional strength and torsional rigidity. This isn't a light-duty residential attachment. It's built to withstand the constant abuse that comes with moving hundreds or thousands of bales per season without bending, cracking, or developing frame fatigue.
Stinger Attachments manufactures the BS4 in the USA using materials and construction methods designed for commercial longevity. The 14,000-pound capacity ensures you have ample margin even when handling the heaviest wet or densely packed bales. Operators running cattle operations, large horse farms, and commercial hay contractors rely on the BS4 for its proven durability season after season. With minimal maintenance and proper operation, this attachment will deliver years of reliable service.
What maintenance does the BS4 require to keep it in good working condition?
Maintenance requirements for the BS4 are minimal, which is one of its practical advantages for busy farm and ranch operations. Keep the mounting points and hydraulic connections clean and properly lubricated to ensure smooth attachment and detachment from your machine. Periodically inspect the frame welds and structural tubes for any signs of cracks or stress, though these issues are rare with proper use.
The tines should be checked regularly for excessive wear, bending, or damage, and the double-nut fasteners should be tightened as needed to prevent loosening over time. Avoid dragging bales sideways or using the spear to push heavy loads, as this can stress the tines and frame unnecessarily. After each use, a quick visual inspection takes just a minute and can help you catch minor issues before they become major problems. Storing the attachment under cover when not in use helps prevent rust and corrosion, especially in wet or coastal environments, extending its working life significantly.
Does Forge Claw offer financing options for the BS4?
Yes, Forge Claw offers flexible and easy financing options to help operators get the equipment they need without straining cash flow. Financing makes it easier to invest in productivity-enhancing attachments like the BS4 without tying up working capital that might be needed for other operational expenses. The application process is straightforward, and approval is typically quick, allowing you to get your bale spear ordered and shipped without delay.
Financing terms are designed to fit the budgets of small to mid-sized farm and ranch operations, making professional-grade equipment accessible to more operators. When you factor in the labor savings and productivity gains from moving two bales per trip, the BS4 often pays for itself quickly through reduced operating costs and increased efficiency. Contact Forge Claw directly to discuss current financing options, rates, and terms that work for your specific situation. Every BS4 order also includes free nationwide shipping, further reducing your total investment.
How long does it take to receive the BS4 after ordering?
Lead times for the BS4 can vary depending on current production schedules and seasonal demand, so it's always best to contact Forge Claw directly for the most accurate availability information if you're working against a specific deadline. During peak seasons, demand for hay handling equipment naturally increases, which can extend lead times. Forge Claw works directly with Stinger Attachments to manage inventory and production flow, ensuring units are manufactured to exacting quality standards.
When you call, the team will give you a straight answer about current lead times and expected ship dates so you can plan accordingly. If you're gearing up for haying season or need to replace worn equipment before winter feeding begins, ordering early ensures you get your attachment when you need it. Once your BS4 ships, delivery times depend on your location, but Forge Claw's free nationwide shipping network is designed to get attachments to customers efficiently across all 50 states.