Gardening Tools, Product Reviews

Best Hand Saws






 

Best Hand Saws

If you like to do work around the house, then you might need a hand saw. This nifty little tool is a must-have for any basic tool-set and is a staple for woodwork. Chances are, you are looking for one.

While the options for a chainsaw are there, the charm of a good old hand saw never dies. That’s because they can be more reliable. They are more portable and easier to operate with. These devices are also pretty easy to use. So, I’m going to present to you a list for the best hand saws.

Why Get A Hand Saw?

Despite talking about the more obvious advantages that a hand saw has; I’d like to elaborate why a hand saw can often be the better choice for you compared to chainsaws. For those not convinced, here are the reasons why you should get a hand saw.

1. Lightweight

This one should go without saying. You need both hands and a bit of strength to wield a chainsaw. Hand saws, on the other hand, are much lighter and you could just swing it around with one hand easily.

2. Not Expensive

Tell me this, why would you spend over a hundred dollars to get a chainsaw when you can get a hand saw that does the same thing while costing under fifty bucks. That’s right, they are that cheap.

3. Portable

Again, this is another more obvious point. A chainsaw needs a constant power source, while a hand saw needs only the force of your hand. So, you can carry it around with no problem.

4. Versatile

A hand saw can also be versatile. If you are looking for finer cuts you can get alternative teeth with certain models. You can use it to cut through bones if that’s your requirement.

5. Less Maintenance

If something happens to a chainsaw, it is a trip to the hardware store, and even if you’re lucky, it will still cost you a good deal of money. With a handsaw, you could tinker with it yourself and often get it fixed.

Even if you need to replace teeth, they usually are cheap. In case you snap the blade off, it can still be patched up at home.

Top 5 Best Hand Saws Review 

Now you might be confused about which one to get. After all, there are so many options. Don’t worry! I’ve put together a list for you to choose from.

1. EverSaw Folding Hand Saw All-Purpose

 

This robust model is excellent in both endurance and quality. It is durable enough for you to go rough on it. Something that many handsaws struggle with is cutting things that are too big. This handsaw, however, is nothing like that. It is very strong and can cut pieces of wood or bone up to six inches wide.

Since it is a very durable and strong saw, you’d expect it to be very heavy, huge, or somewhat unwieldy. But no, not at all. It comes with a folding handle. This can let you put the thing away once you’re done. And the saw itself is small enough to fit in your pocket. This can prove to be invaluable especially if you’re traveling.

One technical issue to keep in mind, however, is that it does have a mild curve. Being a Japanese saw, it has a one-sided blade. And thus, it cuts on the pull. On the push, it slides over the material. This can be confusing to some. You apply pressure on the pull. On the push, you are to relax the pressure to get the best results.

Don’t underestimate its one-sided blade though, it can cut almost anything except metal. You could use it to clear branches out with ease. Small trees can be chopped down with this too! And, it is pretty versatile. It’s good for gutting animals and can slide through bone seamlessly.

There is one drawback though. The handle is a little too heavy compared to the blade. This can result in imbalance, which could cause inconvenience to many. It can prevent you from getting a good grip, and that can even lead to accidents. Be careful about this if you’re really considering this saw for purchase.

Pros

  • Cuts up to six inches

  • Small size; portable

  • Very sharp

  • Versatile

Cons

  • Handle too heavy compared to the blade

2. BLACK+DECKER PHS550B Handsaw

 

The only electric saw on this list is the model by Black & Decker which boasts a lot of firepower. It is only one here that can cut metal. So, say goodbye to your hacksaw. We don’t need that anymore. It can cut wood clean off with no issue whatsoever.

There is almost no dust either. Metal, although a little tougher, can be cut with this almost seamlessly as well.

Since it is electric, cutting wood is easy. While it can cut metal, it is very useful in cutting wood. Clearing out branches is a cakewalk. And even thicker branches and trees can be cleared with this one with no problem at all. Bear in mind that it is not a chainsaw. You still have to move it back and forth. However, it is a lot easier.

Operation of this is easy. Just push the button. That will do the job. And since it is electrical, it works wonders for people who don’t seem to have the strength to forcefully operate a regular handsaw. No physical effort is needed. You don’t have to push much. Just a mild press should send it cutting through most materials.

However, while the operation is easy, the setup has left lots of people with their heads scratching. Yes, the saw does require setting up and it’s a little complicated. Fitting the blade has proven to be the most challenging. The locking pin, which sets the saw blade in place, is a bit difficult to secure. This can be time-consuming.

Owing to its electric build it can cut through almost anything and if the blades wear down, you can get easy replacements for just a couple of bucks. And, replacements do not necessarily have to be of the same kind.

That’s right, you can get teeth of any size you want. This will allow you to customize this machine however you want it.

Pros

  • Cuts metal

  • Easy to operate

  • Clean cut

  • Various types of teeth can be fitted

Cons

  • Difficult to set up

  • Not portable as it needs electricity

3. Silky GomBoy Curve Professional Folding Saw

 

By the virtue of being a Japanese style saw, it only cuts along one side. On the “push” part of the stroke, the saw simply slides along the material that is cut. You should pay attention to the “pull” part of the stroke because that’s when it actually cuts through. You should apply pressure on the pull, and it’ll cut smoothly.

Unfortunately, not everyone can do this properly. The backstroke or the pull stroke has to be correctly executed for the blade to advance into the material. Many simply can’t do it on the first try and just assume that it is a low-quality saw. Try it with a good backstroke. There are lots of tutorial videos for this on the web.

The extent of cut on the thing is pretty impressive too. While metal is off limits, it can easily stride through the wood. Even branches as thick as seven inches are a piece of cake for this heavy-duty unit. Need to chop up bones? Fear not. This can easily serve that purpose. Tough meat is no problem either.

Owing to its versatile nature, you can take this out for your travels as well. You could use it in the backyard for some vegetation control, or you could pack this to go camping. And when you are setting up camp, it can be useful in various ways.

It’s a very good option for clearing up vegetation. If you want to clear some land really quickly, then this is your tool. It can cut trees and is on par with a chainsaw for that matter. Although it is not very fast and effortless, it still can get the same job done.

Pros

  • Cuts up to six-inch bones and wood

  • Can cut down trees

Cons

  • Learning to use is difficult

4. Tarvol Heavy Duty Pruning Saw 

 

This model, although it is a Japanese style and uses premium quality Japanese steel, cuts along smoothly with both the “push” and the “pull” stroke of the blade. For people who have issues with the one-way blade, this can be a good alternative. The double ended blade means that the cutting is done faster.

In this product the blade itself is sturdy. This is because it was made to be thick. You can ram it in there with no fear of it bending or something.

Thin blades are often the weak point of many hand saws. They can bend if you plunge it in and can flat out snap if you push it too hard. The thick blade on this will endure all of that and perform well.

Sturdiness aside, the blade of the saw is curved. This unique design was made to balance the weight between the blade and the handle. In an effort to reduce weight the blades are often thinned to the point where the handle becomes too heavy in many saws.

To avoid that and for a better grip, this model is made to be well balanced.

Something that is often a complaint with many hand saws is the absence of a sheath. The sheath is basically there to protect you from the sharpness. It is unsafe to carry it around openly. And the exposure can also eat away at the sharpness of your handsaw. This one includes a fully operational scabbard.

The teeth on this are fine and precise. This means little dust. Dust can make for a hazard and more dust usually implies an imprecise cut. It is very sharp and that means you can use it to cut softer materials such as meat or skin. This makes it a good choice for gutting animals.

Overall this is one of the best hand saws I’ve tried

Pros

  • Good cut

  • Two-way teeth

  • Good balance between handle and blade

  • Sheath included

  • Clean cut

Cons

  • The sheath is difficult to equip

5. Silky 270-33 Zubat PROFESSIONAL Series Curved Blade Hand Saw

This is another ultra-sharp tool. It cuts past wood, up to six inches thick with ease. Hence, you could use it to clear up medium-sized trees and branches. This can also cut through thick bone. So, this proves useful in hunting and camping as well.

The teeth on the saw are extremely sharp! So much so that just a little press, and you can cut a fairly thick wood clean off. This is particularly useful if you are an elderly person or if you just simply don’t have too much strength to spare. Besides, pressing it too hard can bend the saw or lead to accidents.

Since you don’t need too much pressure to operate the thing, you hack away pretty fast at the saw. In fact, this is one of the fastest tree hand saws right now in the market. You could be done with a tree in under ten minutes. This speed can really boost your efficiency around the house. It rivals the speed of a chainsaw.

There is no “proper” way of grabbing it. And there is no specific angle to hold it in; it is just your average table saw. Many saws have a certain technique to them which can pose a problem. This model is basic and very easy to use. It is also lightweight, and that can reduce the stress on you too.

Scabbards, sheaths themselves are a rare inclusion in hand saws. And on top of that, the sheaths can be difficult to use. This model fixed that problem with a simple locking pin. This lets you put on the sheath when not using it and open it quickly as well.

Pros

  • Can cut up to six inches of wood

  • Good sheath system

  • Fast cuts

  • Less force needed to cut

Cons

  • Unable to cut metal

Definitive Guide to Buying the Best One Possible

There are many factors to consider before you buy. They are listed below.

Sharpness

While this might seem obvious, there are some things to talk about here. Sharpness essentially means how easily the material you are cutting will yield. So, if you don’t fancy dragging the blade along the material, look for sharpness in your table saw.

Ultra-sharp teeth might be a tad pricey though and it can be uneconomical if you are just going to use it to cut some trees.

Tip-top sharpness is offered on many hand saws but the best application for that is usually in woodworking where you need to make precise cuts. So, if you’re just looking for a rough cutting tool, you don’t need to mind that.

Thickness of Blade

Thickness matters a lot. And it’s not what you think. It not as simple as “the thicker, the better”. The thicker your blade, the more you can roughly handle it. You can really hack it in without worrying about precision. However, the thickness comes with added weight. And beyond a certain point, it’s just not viable.

On the other hand, thinner blades are light and much easier to wield. However, they suffer from fragility. Go too hard and your blade will snap. You should know the type of materials you will be cutting and pick a hand saw that has a blade which is balanced.

Length of Blade

Again, for this, it is not as simple. You might think a long blade is the best but there are things to consider before you go for a three-feet-long blade. Length is good, especially if you’re going to use it to cut down trees.

However, the longer it gets, the more susceptible it is to bending or even snapping. The excess length might just make it wobbly.

Then again, getting something too short is an equally bad idea. You need a saw to stretch across the width or diameter of the material to cut it properly. Otherwise, it’s going to just be extremely tedious. I suggest going for a medium length.

Durability

Now, the durability I’m going to talk about is of two types. The first one is of immediate durability. That refers to whether it can take some rough handling and still retain its performance. That is a key requirement. You’re going to be using this regularly. If it was to be treated like fragile goods, it won’t be fun for anyone.

Now let’s talk about long-term durability. You can afford a little bit of leeway here. But the thing should last a reasonable length of time. The teeth shouldn’t dull for at least a few months. Yes, over time it can wear out, but you should get something that gives peak performance for at least a year or so.

Design

While the design has a large subjective element to it, there are some objective aspects. I’ll talk about the functional execution of the design. In regard to the blade, you have the curved and straight designs. Tree trunks are cylindrical and as such, curved blades may be useful here. The straight blade is more for general usage.

Many users prefer a harder handle with little cushioning to get a good grip on the saw. On the other hand, many like the softer feel of a padded handle. The issue of including a scabbard also falls in the design category.

Some saws have a folding system to keep the cutting edge out of the way. Others use a separate scabbard or sheath.

Versatility

This is arguably the most important aspect of a hand saw as it is one of the biggest advantages over a chainsaw. Look for the size and ease of usage. It should be smaller and using it should be very simple. You might want to look into its other uses too if you’re looking for a general-purpose saw.

Many saws double as a bone cutting tool. So, if you are looking to go hunting look for those details. You should also look into the size of the tool, whether or not it can be put away easily. Finally, check if extra teeth sets are provided with your saw.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I get a curved blade saw or straight blade saw?

It depends on what you prefer. Since trees are usually more cylindrical, a curved blade can be used on them to cut faster. However, this leaves them mismatched if the branch or trunk is of irregular shapes and thus, can take longer. A straight edge is more general-purpose and cuts a little slower on all surfaces.

2. Can the blade be sharpened?

Yes, you can use a sharpening stone to sharpen the teeth if they dull. In fact, it is a good idea to do so for maintenance. However, if they are too worn, you might want to opt for a set of new teeth.

3. Do I need a sheath?

That depends on the type of saw. Many tree hand saws circumvent the need for a sheath by using a folding handle. If you don’t have that on your saw, look for a sheath. That can provide some extra safety.

4. How do I maintain the saw?

Just keep it clean. Avoid storing the handsaw in damp areas. Even a smidge of rust can quickly spread and dull your entire blade. You can also maintain the sharpness of the teeth with a sharpening stone.

5. What are one-sided teeth?

This is something people get confused over and end up thinking that their saw is bad. One-sided teeth are those that cut on the “pull” stroke and simply glide over on the “push” stroke. They usually last longer and are easier to operate with.

Conclusion

These are some suggestions and tips towards getting the best hand saws. Hopefully, you’ll get the right one as per your preference. Thank you for reading Best Hand Saws. Hope you have a great time hunting down your saw of choice! Good luck!

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Gardening, Gardening Tools, Product Reviews

Best Vinyl Fence Review & Buyers Guide



Best Vinyl Fence Review & Buyers Guide

When you move into a new neighborhood, it can be exciting to meet new friends and join their community. Having nice neighbors can be the best part of moving into a new home. However, it is also important to have your privacy in your own yard. Having a fence on your property can help with that.

Vinyl fences are great because they require less maintenance than their traditional wood counterparts. Finding the best vinyl fence can take a bit of work, but it will be worth it in the end! Below, we will be discussing a variety of different vinyl fencing options that will hopefully make your decision easier.

Image Product Name Our Rating Price

Zippity Outdoor Products – ZP19001 Picket Fence

Five Star

*****

$65.81

Zippity Outdoor Products – ZP19047 Highland Lattice Privacy Screen

Five Star

*****

$93.08

WamBam No-Dig BL19101 Nantucket Picket Vinyl Fence 

Five Star

*****

$291.50

Zippity Outdoor Products-Pet or Garden Enclosure Vinyl Fence Kit

YardSmart 73024967 4-in-1 Vinyl Fence

Top 5 Best Vinyl Fence Reviews

1. Zippity Outdoor Products – ZP19001 Picket Fence

If you are unsure about which fence to choose, this is a good option because it is meant to be semi-permanent. It can easily be put up or taken down at your discretion.

What We Like:

  • Setting up the fence is easy because there is no digging required for the fence posts. All you have to do is push the pointed stakes down hard enough to keep it stable and secure.

  • The materials are weather-resistant vinyl, which protects against rotting, discoloration, warping and splintering

  • Aesthetically pleasing design with a swooping style that can increase the curb appeal of your home as well

  • This model has a 10 year warranty in case there are defects and the fence needs to be repaired or replaced.

What We Don’t Like

  • This fence is not strong enough to contain large dogs. If you typically keep your dog out in the yard unattended, there is no guarantee that this fence will keep them in.

  • The total height of this fence is only 30 inches, which will go up to approximately the thigh on an adult person.

  • This fencing style is semi-permanent which means that it is not designed to sustain intense amounts of wear and tear.

2. Zippity Outdoor Products – ZP19047 Highland lattice Privacy Screen

This fence is easy to assemble the product, with additional height for privacy. You will need a drill for assembly. Typically, only two screens are placed perpendicular to each other.

What We Like

  • A product like this is good for such purposes as hiding the garbage bins, recycling bins, and air conditioning units.

  • The assembly of this unit is meant to be very simple. There is no need to dig holes to place the fence posts in the ground.

  • It is made with weather-resistant vinyl and comes with a ten-year warranty and it requires little to no maintenance.

What We Don’t Like

  • The purpose of this fence is not to surround an entire yard. There are only two panels in a pack, meant to cover a small amount of space. If you want to line the perimeter of your yard with this fence, you will need to purchase many packs.

  • If you want to paint this fence a different color, you will need to invest in specific vinyl paint. This will cost more than regular paint and will take more time to do.

3. WamBam No-Dig BL19101 Nantucket Picket Vinyl Fence

This is a traditional height fence that requires very little effort to install and is an ideal fence for use with dogs and other pets.

What We Like

  • This fence is ideal if you have children or pets such as dogs, it has a height of four feet which is useful for the prevention of kids and pets crossing over

  • The fence comes with a patented system that utilizes a steel pipe that is about three feet long which holds the fence down.

  • The steel pipe system is easy to install, no digging or cementing required, but at the same time it is sturdy and permanent and not easy to remove after it has been installed.

  • It is weather-resistant and provides the aesthetic of a freshly painted wood fence but it does not require the maintenance that comes along with wood fences

What We Don’t Like

  • The fence is only designed to scale the length of your lawn or back yard, which means you will need to purchase end posts that are sold separately, which means you need to check for compatibility

  • If you have irregular edges or shapes which you want to fence around you might have to make sure you can go around them as this fence does not provide curved or edging parts

4. Zippity Outdoor Products-Pet or Garden Enclosure Vinyl Fence Kit

This is a small enclosure vinyl that is great for use with small garden or very young kids. It is great for use with front lawn edging or enclosure.

What We Like

  • This vinyl fence covers and defines an area of 60 square feet and it comes with a gate as well which allows for easy access

  • It is meant for semi-permanent installment and it is easily installed as well as removed and reinstalled. There is no digging required or other permanent changes to the area that it is installed in.

  • This enclosing fence is sturdy, weather-resistant and comes with a ten-year warranty. It is also resistant to cracking, yellowing, warping and rotting.

What We Don’t Like

  • This fence is not recommended for people with large dogs or that those that require a strong enclosure for their pets

  • The fence is of a smaller height as well so it might not be ideal for anyone that is looking for a fence that will provide more coverage or privacy. The height of the fence is 30 inches and would generally reach around the knee area of the average adult.

5. YardSmart  73024967 4-in-1 Vinyl Fence

The YardSmart 4 in 1 vinyl fence is a customizable fencing option that is ideal for backyards, front lawns, and other outdoor spaces, and can be used for various purposes.

What We Like

  • You can assemble this fence in multiple ways, which allows it to have four different looks, these are called as contemporary straight, contemporary scallop, pool fence, and driveway accent.

  • The fence is of the average height of six feet and which is good in terms of keeping pets inside as well as not too high for blocking the view.

  • Due to the four different styles that can be made, this fence is ideal for use in many different situations such as vinyl railing, a decorative accent, lawn edging, and many other uses.

  • It is neighborhood-friendly as the pickets pass through the rails which allow for a finished look on either side of the fence.

What We Don’t Like

  • The fence requires certain pieces such as the vinyl fence posts and bracket kit which are not included in the purchase of the fence.

Buying Guide

When you are thinking of investing in a fence there are many different things that you need to consider prior to making the purchase decision. When you start looking for a fence to purchase there are many different kinds and varieties that are available. This can get quite overwhelming.

However, if you know what you are looking for and have a concept in mind things can be a lot easier and it can help you narrow down feasible options.

So the following are some key ideas and concepts to keep in mind when you are looking to purchase a vinyl fence.

1.

The first thing to consider when you are looking to purchase a vinyl fence is to ensure you are clear about the purpose for which you require the fence, and the elements that the fence will be facing. This means that if you want a fence for the enclosure of your back yard so that your pets can remain within it. Then you need to ensure that you purchase a fence that is strong and sturdy enough to handle your pets. In addition to this, you should also consider weather conditions such as how strong winds can get in order to determine how weather-resistant and strong the fence should be.

2.

Once you have figured out what exactly the purpose of your fence will be such as using it as an accent piece, using it to enclose your backyard or to just create an edge for your front lawn. It is time to figure out dimensions and what type of fence would best suit your needs. This is the time prior to your purchase you consider the height, the length and overall size that you would like your fence to be. It is best to accurately measure and double-check the dimensions that you would want your fence to be. In order to make the most of your purchase make sure you consider the various factors that could influence your purchase decision so that you can purchase the fence that best fits your requirements. This can include factors such as privacy, in which case you may want a slightly longer fence in terms of height as well as the spacing between the pickets.

3.

Make sure you know the different types and quality standards for the vinyl fences that you are considering. This means that you should the thickness of the fence and materials used for the supports of the fence. The metal support for fences is usually made with metal such as stainless steel or galvanized steel, which are quite strong and rust-resistant. However, if the supports are not made from those it might be a good idea to consider options that are.

4.

Another good idea when purchasing a fence is to look into warranties. Many vinyl fences come with warranties and it is always important to make sure you have good warranty coverage in order to ensure that if anything goes wrong you are protected. The protection can cover you in case the fence starts to rust or has any problems that occur, that might not be your fault. Vinyl fences generally come with lifetime warranties or ten-year warranties, it is better to look into longer-term warranties.

5.

Finally, it is important to look into how easy the fence is to install. If it is simple and easy to install the fence, make sure to look into any tools that you might require and any help that you might need. If it seems difficult it is always important to look into installation services as well. It is better to be prepared for the installation prior to the purchase so that you are relaxed when you actually get the fence.

Conclusion

It can be intimidating to try and find a fence when you have so many options available and you are not exactly sure of what to look for. A good fence can really enhance the image of your home, increase your curb appeal and it can be very practical in keeping pets and kids safe.

It is very important to know what the industry standards are prior to making a purchase as well as to understand what your own requirements are. We hope this buying guide and review of the best vinyl fences were helpful in getting you started in finding the best vinyl fence for your needs.



 

Gardening, Product Reviews

Best Rotary Tiller for Tractor Review & Buying Guide



Best Rotary Tiller for Tractor

Do you have big gardening plans? Everything starts with a well-prepared garden. And it is where you will need the best rotary tiller for tractor.

You will need the tiller to break up and turn up hard compacted soil and work amendments into the ground. In the end, you will have loose, well-drained, well-aerated, and fertile soil to support plant growth.

Unfortunately, these machines are expensive and highly specialized. Making a meaningful choice can be an arduous task, especially if you are new to gardening.

Do not worry because we have conducted thorough research on your behalf. Now we provide you with top 5 reviews of the best rotary tillers. We also share with you a few helpful tips on how to make your own choice.

Image Product Name Our Rating Price

Titan 60" Heavy Duty Rotary Tiller

Five Stars

*****

$4099.99

Titan 48" Heavy Duty Rotary Tiller

Four Stars

****

$3999.99

Kutter Gear-Driven Rotary Tiller

Five Stars

*****

$4574.06

VTI Rotary Tiller

John Deere Rotary Tiller 

Top 5 Best Rotary Tiller Reviews

We will begin this part by reviewing five models that captured our attention. Later we will share with you how we picked our choices.

1. Titan 60" Heavy Duty Rotary Tiller

This 60-inch heavy-duty rotary tiller is worth your investment. The machine runs on heavy-duty gears and not chains making it efficient in handling tough tasks. Besides, it operates with smoothness and power not seen with chain-driven models.

Another feature with mentioning is the L-shaped shear pin tines on the left and right aspects. Such tines prove optimal tilling of all soil types. The five adjustable ski height settings mean you can set the machine as low or as high as you desire.

Titan Heavy Duty Rotary Tiller's 28 oz tines allow for 2 - 8 inches working depth on soft areas. Although a maximum of 8 inches tilling depth is possible, the best results are achievable at 5-6 inches.

Choose this rotary tiller for your tractor to help you with non-industrial work. It is perfect for residential food gardens or small scale flower beds.

Pros

  • Smooth and powerful operation

  • Tilling flexibility with adjusting ski height settings

  • Excellent performing L shaped tines

  • Strong and durable construction

  • High-quality but affordable

Cons

  • Might be a little heavy for small tractors

2. Titan 48" Heavy Duty Rotary Tiller

Titan Attachments 48" Heavy Duty Rotary Tiller is an ideal choice. It comes with thirty 28 oz left and right L-shaped tines capable of tearing through all soil types. You can till to an optimal depth of 8 inches.

Same to other Titan Attachment implements, this machine operates on gears, not chains. This means excellent power delivery and smooth operation. Furthermore, dealing with the inconvenience of broken chains would be a thing of the past.

The machine prides in five adjustable ski- height settings. This allows you to set the working depth you desire. Such flexibility, along with a 48-inch tilling width, is ideal for residential food gardens.

This 48-inch rotary tiller features category 1 hitch for connection to your tractor. Weighing 643 pounds, the machine requires 18-40 horsepower towing vehicles to work well.

Pros

  • High-performance gearbox

  • Flexible ski-height settings

  • Strong and robust tines

  • Perfect for residential garden preparation

  • Quite an affordable machine

Cons

  • Confusing instruction manual

  • Titan Attachments Customer service needs improvement

3. Kutter Gear-Driven Rotary Tiller

King Kutter brand is synonymous with the agricultural and landscaping equipment niche. It thus does not come as a surprise to consider this gear-driven rotary tiller one of the best. It is equipped with many features, all of which are performance-oriented.

It boasts of cast iron gearbox along with square tube frames. That shows strength and durability. The manufacturer delivers the machine with its gearbox greased for your convenience.

Designers engineered the rotary tiller so that its adjustable skids control cutting depth. At the same time, its rear shields control soil mix. The result is a perfectly prepared land for all gardening needs.

The machine's heavy-duty gear drive will provide you with dependable performance. It also features a patented kickstand to ease hooking up. Being a category 1 rotary tiller, it comes with a PTO shaft along with a top-quality slip clutch. You will need a 25-40 HP tractor to power this machine.

Pros

  • A large cutting width of 60 inches

  • 42 tines on seven heavy-duty flanges

  • Offers maximum soil turning and mixing

  • Durable square tube frame

  • Reliable and versatile tractor implement

Cons

  • Some skills needed for assembly

  • Higher power requirement

4. VTI Rotary Tiller

The Heavy Duty HDRT-72 rotary tiller is from Victory Tractor Implements. It is an ideal machine for small to medium-sized tractors. Use it with a 30 to 50 horsepower tractor to enjoy optimal performance.

Many users agree that this HD rotary tiller is ideal for preparing any soil type for gardening. You can also use it to make a flower bed or even improve your landscape. Although sturdy, it moves in the direction of the tractor to reduce the power needed.

The machine connects to your tractor via a standard CAT I or CAT II 3-point hitch with a PTO shaft. This transfers the tractor's s 540rpm by driven gear to the 215 rpm of the rotor shaft. The outcome is a smooth and efficient operation.

It boasts of working width of 72 inches along with a 4-way adjustable cutting of depth. The tiller is capable of reaching up to 7 inches in working depth, depending on the soil type.

VTI uses a maintenance-free heavy-duty oil bath transmission. The tractor tiller blade shaft is laser balanced to run smoothly, even on heavy or hard soil.

Under the machine's 4mm housing lays 9 flanges holding 6 L-shaped tines. That's a total of 54 tines you can individually exchange and re-sharpen if needed.

The rear flap is adjustable and provides a smooth finish. It also serves to protect you from flying rocks and other obstacles for added safety.

Pros

  • Smooth and convenient operation

  • 4-way adjustable working depth

  • You can replace or re-sharpen the 54 tines

  • 60 inches wide tilling width

  • Capable of preparing any soil type

  • Designed with safety features

Cons

  • Consumer experience is lacking

  • Quite heavy at 595 lbs

5. John Deere Rotary Tiller

John Deere is a famous company when it comes to farm equipment. We can bet for the quality of their 30-inch rotary tiller for a tractor.

The firm designed it specifically for the X500 series multi-terrain tractors. The only exception is the X534 4-Wheel-Steer Tractor. It is the right tiller for you if you want to expand the versatility of your tractor.

This unit prides itself on excellent value, modern design, and manufacturing technology. Even more impressive is that it retails at a reasonable price. It is easy to assemble and dismantle processes that take only a few minutes.

It provides a full 30-inch tilling width for exceptional productivity. Interestingly, the tines are offset to erase the tractor's tire tracks during operation.

Some users argue that this machine is one of the lightest in the market. It weighs a paltry 300 pounds. The weight notwithstanding, it is incredibly durable and compact.

Pros

  • Excellent value with modern design

  • Top-notch manufacturing technology

  • Reasonable price tag

  • Easy installation and disconnection

  • Offset tracks eliminate tire tracks

  • Perfect on all soil types

Cons

  • Limited compatibility

  • Extra consumer experience needed

Buying Guide

Rotary tillers for tractors cost hundreds or even a few thousands of dollars. Thus you must be careful to buy only the best that will suit your budget and your needs.

Finding the right quality model means high levels of efficiency and productivity. A wrong one would be an unfortunate waste of time and money with poor results.

Discussed below is a list of the most critical factors you need to consider before you make a choice.

Chain Drive or Gears

Choosing between a rotary tiller with gears and one with chain drive can be difficult. Each has its pros and cons. It will be yours to decide what will suit your needs.

Manufacturers of these machines nowadays prefer gears. The reason is that such tillers pull harder and last longer. This should be good news for you.

On the flip-side, gears feature many small parts. You cannot find these parts in the local store. In case of accidental damage, you may have to spend time and effort to repair it.

Chain drives spin much faster but may not pull as hard as gears. But in the case of damage, you will find replacement parts with much ease. Durability is comparable between the gear-driven and chain-driven models.

Tiller's Power

The power of the tiller is different from its power requirement. It depends on the weight of the machine. But a heavy model will need a reliable tractor to be able to operate it.

So, it is a matter of balancing. If you were to buy the most potent 3 point tiller in the market, you first need a tractor with high horsepower. For instance, a standard 540rpm PTO drive shaft and a heavy tiller will need a powerful tractor.

If you want to buy both types of machinery at the same time, significant determinants are the size of the plot and the soil type. Rocky terrain with virgin land may only yield to the most potent rotary tiller.

Weight of the Tiller

You may buy a tiller intending to break up and turn hard compacted soil. However, the opposite may happen as the tiller may compact the ground even further. This is possible if you buy a tiller with the wrong weight.

The significant determinants of how heavy or light the tiller is going to be are the number and size of tines installed. The type of metal used in construction the rotary tiller may also contribute.

But heavier tiller will dig deeper than lighter ones on certain types of soil. On the contrary, such weight may instead compact the soil further. You do not want this to happen.

That's why you must consider your soil type versus the weight of the tiller. Talking to an expert may help you make the right decision here. Generally, rocky soil requires a heavy tiller.

Sometimes, you may want to add some weights to the front of the tractor. This will help it balance and adhere to the ground so that it pulls the tiller better. In that case, a heavy tiller would not be a worry as it won't tilt the tractor backward.

Tilling Width

It feels good to finish tasks with success but fast. A rototiller for tractor featuring a wide tilling width can help you complete the work faster. A single pass will cover a wide area allowing you to make only a few passes.

The majority of the rototillers in the market are 4 to 5 feet wide. These are suitable for residential gardens and small areas. A few brands offer those that are 6 to 7 feet wide. Wider models than these are ideal for industrial work.

It is good to go for the broadest possible tiller that will serve you well. Keep in mind that the wider the rototiller, the more expensive it will be. Furthermore, you need a more powerful tractor to pull it.

Digging Depth

The depth of tilling is essential, mainly if you are dealing with a rocky area. An area with dirk soft sandy soil may not even need cultivating in the first place.

How deep you dig also depends on the type of crops or vegetables you wish to grow. For instance, if you intend to practice crop rotation, you may need to dig at different depths. Check out this article about how to till a garden properly.

Some brands offer rototiller for tractors that allow you to adjust the depth. It's great because you can adjust the digging depth to suit your needs.

Quality and Number of Tines

Tines do the work of tilling, so you must check them for quality. The blades are arranged on tubular flanges. Each flange has a particular number of tines attached to it.

A rototiller having more flanges will allow a higher number of tines to be arranged. This translates to better soil turning and mixing. Many tines will do a great job on already soft and loose dirt.

A hard or rocky soil requires you to till at least twice. A tiller with fewer tines is ideal when you are doing it for the first time. The opposite is true for the second pass.

Some models allow you to remove some tines and even re-sharpen them. This offers you a level of flexibility, especially if you have to till twice.

Construction Material

The nature of work rotary tillers for tractor does need them to be reliable and rugged. The aim is to prevent unnecessary damage when the machine encounters huge obstacles.

Go for a model that is well constructed with heavy-duty materials. Cast iron is by far the most robust and most rugged material for tillers. You can expect years of service from excellently engineered rototiller.

Safety Features

Safety must be your number one concern if you live in specific neighborhoods. Without incorporated safety features, you can bathe in mud and be pelted with debris.

Luckily, brands fit their newer models with a variety of safety features to protect you. These built-in safety features will protect you from flying debris and mud.

Apart from the built-in features, a feature worth mentioning is spaced out tines. This reduces the chance so jamming. Easy to reach tensioner may also add to your safety.

FAQ

What is a rotary tiller for a tractor?  

We can define it as machine farmers and landscapers use to prepare the land for planting and other needs. Others may call it with different names, including rototiller, rotatory, or power tiller.

Who needs the machine?

Anyone who has land can use the services of a rotary tiller for a tractor. Small to moderate farmers and landscapers use this machine for land preparation. It means homeowners and professionals need the machine alike.

How do I know I bought the right tiller for my tractor?

You must buy a tiller that your tractor can pull without a problem. You must know the horsepower of your tractor. This is because rototillers are rated according to the amount of power they need to work well.

Conclusion

Did you find this review and buying guide helpful? You need to know your needs first and then match them with a kind of rototiller that will meet them.

Ensure you find one that is compatible with your tractor unless you also plan to buy a new pulling vehicle. Let the price not lead you. Costs do not hint to the tiller's efficiency.

Have you made your choice? Tell us what you think about our selection of the best rotary tiller for tractor.

Share what you learned here with your friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances. Perhaps they too will find the right rotary tiller for a tractor.

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Gardening Tools, Product Reviews

Best Hearing Protection for Lawn Mowing

Best Hearing Protection for Lawn Mowing

Most people appreciate the look of a well-manicured lawn. And there really is great satisfaction to be had when you finish mowing the lawn, and take a step back to appreciate a job well done.

However, what you probably don’t enjoy is all of the noise which comes from your lawn mower and the other lawn equipment that you use. Whether this is a task you carry out daily or once a year, hearing protection should always be at the top of the list of tools that you will be using while in these conditions.

While lawn mowers vary in the amount of noise they make, most will produce a minimum of 90 decibels, which is not a healthy noise level to be exposed to and yes continuous noise exposure at these levels will lead to permanent hearing loss and also possibly tinnitus. The threshold that we want to be underneath is 85 decibels.

You may be thinking to yourself, “hey that’s only a difference of 5 decibels, do I really need to bother wearing hearing protection?” YES YOU DO!!! Sound pressure actually doubles every 3 decibels! Yes you read that correctly. So this means that damage happens very quickly in a short amount of time. Please always wear your hearing protection when using all of your lawn and garden equipment and anytime you are in noisy conditions. If you are in an environment where the decibel levels are 100 or more then you absolutely should wear double hearing protection! That means wearing the little inserts or ear plugs and also wear ear muffs over that. It may sound excessive, but then so are the prices hearing aids!!!!

Thankfully, you don’t simply have to put up with this. Here are a few of the best hearing protection options to reduce your noise exposure while mowing your lawn.

Image Product Name Our Rating Price

WorkTunes Connect + Gel Ear Cushions Hearing Protector with Bluetooth

Five Stars

*****

$105.13
3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector Four Stars

****

$50.19

ClearArmor 141001 Hearing Protection Ear Muffs

Three Stars

***

$16.95

Professional Safety Ear Muffs by Decibel Defense

Four Stars

****

$24.79

Howard Leight Sound Amplification Earmuffs

Four Stars

****

$87.62

Top 5 Best Hearing Protection for Lawn Mowing Reviews

It can be hard to decide which product is best to protect your precious hearing. But don’t worry because we’ve put together an extensive guide for you here. Featuring five of the best current options available to choose from when looking for the best hearing protection for lawn mowing. Seriously try to make sure you don’t put your hearing at risk while mowing the lawn. There is no cure for hearing loss.

1.WorkTunes Connect + Gel Ear Cushions Hearing Protector with Bluetooth

The first entry on our list, these ear muffs are the 3M brand Work Tunes Connect + Gel Ear Cushions. They are designed to reduce noise from all sorts of noisy tasks, jobs and pastimes, including industrial work, shooting, welding and airport noise, so they are ideal for turning the noise of lawn mowing into a low whisper.

3M has deliberately not aimed to cancel noise completely, as a safe level of noise can be necessary to predict any dangers or hazards in a situation. For instance, your lawn mower blades could touch an obstacle. Instead, these ear muffs reduce noise by between 28 decibels and 34 decibels.

This should reduce the noise enough so that it is similar to the sound of a conversation at home or in a restaurant. With soft gel ear cushions, and an ergonomic padded headband, along with adjustable and rotating ear cups, these ear muffs give a fit which you can personalize for extra comfort and noise reduction.

Pros

  • Padded headband

  • Soft Gel earmuff cups

  • Significant noise reduction

  • Adjustable design

  • Foldable for easy transport

Cons

  • Can be tight fitting

  • Flimsy hinges


2. 3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector

One of the key plus points of this hearing protector by 3M Safety is the fact it comes with integrated bluetooth technology. That means you can stream entertainment from your mobile phone, or any other device you have which is enabled with Bluetooth, so that you can listen to music while you mow your lawn.

That could definitely help the time to pass in a more enjoyable way if mowing the lawn isn’t your favorite garden maintenance task. You can also make and take phone calls without the need to take your hearing protection off as there is also an integrated microphone feature.

Lightweight and comfortable, these ear muffs will reduce the noise of your lawn mower by around 24 decibels, bringing the sound down to a comfortable level. Soft ear cushions make these comfortable to wear, and the headband has been deliberately designed with a low profile so that you can wear a hat along with your ear protection.

Pros

  • Bluetooth technology

  • High-quality hi-fi sound

  • Integrated microphone

  • Noise reduction of up to 24 decibels

  • Cord free

Cons

  • Unreliable wi-fi connection

  • Low music audio levels


3. ClearArmor 141001 Hearing Protection Ear Muffs

ClearArmor’s ear protection ear muffs are cleverly designed with three layers of foam, each designed to reduce noise from different sound frequencies. This technology is coupled with a tight seal around the ears to dampen harmful sound levels. Sound should bounce off the ear cuffs as a result of their shape, rather than being absorbed by your ear.

This option also features soft ear muffs for extra comfort as well as the ability to tilt the angle of the ear protection and the headband so that you can customize the fit to the best protection for you. The headband can be altered by a width of one-and-a-half inches, so can be moved into position to fit your head, whether you need a small or a large fitting for your head.

These are ClearArmor’s most effective noise-cancelling protection, so if you do decide on an option from this brand, these ear muffs offer the greatest sound reduction to protect your hearing.

Pros

  • Sonic seal to block sound leakage

  • Shell designed to reflect sound

  • 3 layers of sound reducing foam

  • Adjustable headband

  • Foam ear cushions for comfort

Cons

  • Tight for large heads

  • Ear cups can slide

4. Professional Safety Ear Muffs by Decibel Defense

A big draw for this safety ear muffs by Decibel Defense is the amount they can reduce noise by. Offering a reduction of 37 decibels, Decibel Defense makes a promise that these muffs cut down noise by more than any other safety earmuffs.

That should take the 90 decibels of your lawn mower down to a much more comfortable level for your hearing. Plus, these earmuffs could be considered a risk-free purchase as there is a money-back guarantee if you aren’t happy with them.

Pros

  • Foldable and compact for travel

  • Extra large sizes available for large heads

  • Comfortable headband with padded design

  • Sturdy construction

  • Money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Slightly heavier than some models

  • Can be tight


5. Howard Leight Sound Amplification Earmuffs

Okay, this may sound like these earmuffs do the opposite of what you would expect as they are described as a sound amplification device. However bear with us for the final ear protection option on our list. These Howard Leight earmuffs are indeed designed to amplify sound.

However, they only enhance sound which is below a safe level for your hearing. Any sound over 82 decibels should be blocked out. That means you should be able to have a conversation, and retain full situational awareness while you are mowing the lawn, but if the noise does get up to dangerous levels for your hearing, the earmuffs will automatically shut off any loud, sudden sounds to make sure that your ears are protected.

There’s also a stereo jack, so if you do want to use these as normal headphones when your tasks in the garden are completed, you can simply connect them to your audio source.

Pros

  • Amplifies lower level noise such as conversation

  • Automatically offers protection when sound levels reach 82 decibels or above

  • Can reduce noise by around 22 decibels

  • Low profile earmuffs which fit snuggly to your face

  • External audio jack to use as normal headphones

Cons

  • Best only for outdoor activities

  • Seal not always tight around earmuffs


Things to consider before buying hearing protection for lawn mowing

While you may not be standing close to a jumbo jet on take-off or landing, or experiencing the sort of volume your ears would be exposed to at a rock concert, you do need to be aware that mowing the lawn can still produce decibel levels which aren’t healthy for your hearing, particularly if you are exposed to this noise for lengthy periods of time.

Here is what we considered when selecting the best options for ear protection for you while you are mowing the lawn:

  • Decibel reduction: Did the ear protection muffs in question lower the decibel enough to be in a healthy range for your hearing?

  • Comfort: Depending on the size and condition of the lawns you are mowing, the task may take some time. Were the earmuffs comfortable to wear while completing the job?

  • Value: While your hearing is clearly more valuable than anything monetary, it is still important to consider whether you are getting value for money. Are the ear muffs a good price for the level of protection they are offering?

Features to look for in lawn mowing protection

There are a wide range of options available to protect your ears from all sorts of noises, including while you are at work, carrying out DIY, attending a music concert, shooting, or mowing your lawn.

As such, the choice can be bewildering. So, how do you ensure you choose the right option to provide you with the features and the protection that you need? Here are the factors you should consider:

  • Noise reduction. As a typical lawn mower creates noise around the 90 decibel level, you will want to lower that to a noise range  which is much more comfortable for your hearing. The level of noise reduction you choose may also depend on how sensitive your hearing is.

  • Comfort. You’ll be wearing your ear protectors for a fairly long period of time while you mow your lawn, so you’ll want to make sure they are comfortable. Look for ear protection which has cushioned ear muffs.

  • Adjustability. Obviously, not everyone has a head the same shape and size. Check if the option you are looking at allows you to make adjustments to the headband and the angle of the ear muffs.

  • Extra features. Is it important to you to be able to listen to the radio, or music while you work? Do you want to be able to make phone calls while you carry on with your task? If so, you’ll want to choose a pair which have bluetooth.

  • Situational awareness. It’s important, for safety reasons, that you can still hear some noise, so look at reducing the sound rather than eliminating it completely with your ear protection. Also, if you need to be able to carry on with conversations while reducing the noise of your lawn mower, opt for a pair of ear protectors which amplify conversation but dampen louder noise.

Conclusion

We hope you are well informed after reading our guide, and that you are ready to take the important step of buying ear protection to safeguard your hearing.

From our point of view, the Professional Safety Ear Muffs by Decibel Defence are the best option as they reduce the decibel level you are exposed to by the highest amount for the cheapest price. That’s not to say it’s the very best available option, but for the price, it’s hard to beat.

However, the other options on this list are also a great buy and, depending on your needs, you may find one of the other choices is actually a better option for you.

For instance, if you like to listen to music to make the time pass more quickly while you work, you may decide on the 3M WorkTunes protector. Or, if you need to be able to converse with colleagues, you could opt for the Howard Leigh Sound Amplification Earmuffs.

Have you found the right earmuffs for lawn mowing here? What are your priorities when looking for the best hearing protection for lawn mowing? Let us know in the comments below.

And, if you have found this article helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family, particularly if any of them are often exposed to noise at work or home. It might help them to find the best ear protection for them too. Hopefully now you have a better understanding of what exactly is the Best Hearing Protection for Lawn Mowing and other outdoor activities.


Gardening Tools, Lawn Care, Lawn Care Basics, Lawn Tools, Product Reviews
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