Flail mowers have become increasingly popular attachments for mini excavators, offering versatility and efficiency in various landscaping and land-clearing tasks. But are they truly worth the investment? In this article, we’ll explore the key considerations and answer some common questions to help you decide if a flail mower is the right tool for your needs.
What is a Flail Mower Attachment? 
A flail mower is an excavator attachment equipped with a rotating drum that houses a series of flails (typically metal bars or chains). These flails strike the ground, effectively cutting and shredding vegetation, brush, and even small trees. This makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, including:
- Land Clearing: Clearing brush, small trees, and debris from construction sites, roadsides, and overgrown areas.
- Lawn Maintenance: Maintaining large lawns, parks, and sports fields.
- Agricultural Applications: Clearing fields, preparing land for planting, and controlling weeds.
- Snow Removal: In some cases, flail mowers can be adapted for snow removal.
How much horsepower do you need for a flail mower?
The required horsepower for a flail mower depends on the size and weight of the attachment, the type of vegetation you’re dealing with, and the terrain. Generally, you’ll need at least 15-20 horsepower per foot of flail mower width.
How thick of material can a flail mower cut?
Flail mowers can effectively cut through brush, small trees (up to 4-6 inches in diameter), and dense vegetation. However, extremely thick trees or large stumps may require more powerful equipment.
Which is better, a flail mower or a bush hog?
While both attachments are used for similar tasks, bush hogs typically utilize a spinning disc with blades to cut vegetation. On the other hand, flail mowers use a rotating drum with multiple flails, offering greater versatility and often better performance in dense vegetation.
What RPM should a flail mower run at?
The optimal RPM for a flail mower will vary depending on the specific model and the application. Consult your equipment manufacturer’s recommendations for the best operating speed.
Are flail mowers good for rough terrain?
Flail mowers are generally well-suited for rough terrain. However, choosing an attachment with appropriate ground clearance and sturdy construction is crucial to prevent damage.
Conclusion
A flail mower attachment for your mini excavator can be a valuable investment if you need a versatile and efficient tool for land clearing, brush control, or similar tasks. By carefully considering your specific needs and choosing the proper attachment for your machine, you can significantly increase the productivity and efficiency of your operations.