DK2 Power Stump Grinder 14HP HD Commercial Frame with Kohler Motor OPG777 Review. Dk2 stump grinder

DK2 Stump Grinder Review: Features, Specs, Price Comparison, And Alternatives

If you need to grind stumps over uneven terrain, the DK2 power stump grinder’s design can accommodate that.

This gas-powered grinder can grind old and deep stumps at high speed, and the company claims that its design makes it more durable than its competitors.

It is an adjustable grinder that can handle stumps as high as 12 in above and 9 in below ground. Safety is built-in, as this tool comes with a drop stand for storage, safety goggles, and ear protection.

The DK2 Stump Grinding Machine

DK2 Stump Grinder

• A 14 horsepower unit that’s very portable
• Great for home and farm use
• 12-inch cutting head

Power King Stump Grinder

• Also 14 HP but has 11 inch cutting teeth
• Best seller on Home Depot
• Another good choice for residential use

DOSKO Stump Grinder

• A range of buying options
• Mini stump grinder, self propelled, swivel grinder
• Professional commercial stump grinding

As with anything, the more you spend the more you’re going to get.

The DK2 Stump Grinder isn’t the cheapest machine, nor is it a top-of-the-line model (check out the Baretto Commercial Stump Grinder to compare).

Landscapers, tree care professionals, and homeowners alike may be interested in buying the DK2 Power Stump Grinder. However, before taking the plunge, there are a few things to consider.

The best stump grinders are pricey. You should be sure that you have enough stumps to grind before making such an investment.

If you do have plenty of upcoming work, especially with moderately sized stumps, this price is definitely reasonable.

The machine also comes with various safety features such as dual lock brakes, work gloves, safety glasses, and earplugs. If you find that this has problems after purchase, you can always use the limited warranty for up to three years.

Age and Size of Your Stumps

The DK2 grinder is great for grinding old and wide stumps.

Some grinders may be too thin to cover the width this machine can. With the DK2, you can grind up those older stumps quickly.

Depth of Your Typical Stumps

The depth of the grind is also a factor in choosing a machine.

You must consider whether your pesky stump is only a small portion below the ground or if it reaches deep down.

For those deep stumps, the DK2 power stump grinder may be the perfect tool. It has an adjustable handle that can go inches above and inches below ground.

In other words, if you consistently cut deep stumps, this machine is a good pick.

Tree Species

If you mostly have to grind pine or cedar stumps, you will mostly be dealing with softwood.

A smaller and cheaper machine should be able to handle that type of wood. The DK2 is built for those tougher stumps.

Specifications

The DK2 power stump grinder has the following specifications for you to consider before you purchase:

• KOHLER Command PRO 14HP (429cc) commercial gas engine (CH440)
• EU Stage V, EPA Phase III, CARB Phase III Emissions compliance
• Key shut off
• Removable tow bar
• 14 HP horsepower
• Adjustable bow handle
• Free set of 9 Carbide steel teeth
• 2×2 frame
• 1-year warranty on steel chassis
• Carbide tipped steel cutters
• 3-year warranty on the engine
• Easy drop stand
• Solid bar lift handles
• Oversized ATV tires
• Double locking hitch pins

These really are some nice features that make using the DK2 Grinder an easier and more comfortable experience.

DK2 Grinder Features And Benefits

This particular stump grinder is large enough to cover a lot of ground.

Luckily, the tow bar provides easier portability over rough terrain. The oversized ATV tires and dual locking hitch pins (for fast braking) make this large grinder easier to move over a vast amount of ground surface.

Large newly cut tree stumps may be a challenge to grind. If you need to cut wide stubborn stumps, the 12-inch carbide teeth high speed 3600 rpm cutting wheel should do the job.

Landscapers and homeowners will have to deal with stumps of various depths. This machine is useful for both deep ground and above-ground cutting.

The adjustable bow handle can adjust to grind stumps that are 12 in above ground or as much as 9 in below ground. This is a handy feature because you can use the same stump grinder for various types of jobs.

DK2 Power Stump Grinder Price

Be prepared to dig into your budget for this high-powered product.

No stump grinder is cheap, but this one is cheaper than many. It’s a good price for what you’re getting.

Compare here:

• Here on Amazon – plus plenty of reviews you can read
• On Home Depot here – they also stock the popular Power King Stump Grinder
• Acme Tools range here – a wide range of residential and commercial stump grinders

Now, you may not want to invest that much money if you only have to remove a couple of stumps a year.

On the other hand, professionals can avoid buying different types of stump grinders and pay more money to utilize the different features within the DK2 stump grinder.

You’ll also find this grinder alongside the Tractor Supply wood splitter range.

DK2 Stump Grinder Review

When you purchase a DK2 stump grinder, you will have a large, adjustable, and portable machine at your fingertips.

Based on the specifications, this grinder is ideal for moving over hilly, rough terrain. You can quickly grind large wide stumps of various depths.

It appears to be a good choice for landscaping professionals who must manage several different types of stumps.

However, it may be a waste of money for homeowners or professionals that only grind small stumps within a confined area. You may not want a grinder this big or heavy for small acres of land or just your backyard.

Keep this in mind if you only have to cover a small amount of ground, as you can rent these units from Home Depot and other hardware stores.

Several reviewers who use a grinder over hilly terrain praise the ease of use and portability of this product.

Some people may be cautious about polluting the environment by using a gas-operated vehicle. Rest assured that this product has EU Stage V, EPA Phase III, CARB Phase III emissions compliance.

While this grinder is a powerful machine, users should be aware of extra care regarding the belts and bolts.

One flaw of the DK2 stump grinder involves the belts and bolts around the cutters. The bolts may become loose at times and need tightening between grinding jobs.

• Helpful guides to get started
• Good support
• A well-known brand
• An effective machine
• Parts are reasonably easy to find
• Affordable

DK2 Stump Grinder Alternatives

The DK2 stump grinder is not the only stump-destroying product in town.

Feel free to check out other options, like a Home Depot stump grinder.

Here are three top alternatives to get you started!

Kohler Gas Powered Stump Grinder

Do you want a grinder that is similar in price to the DK2 and also runs on gas?

This Home Depot stump grinder uses a key to switch on. However, unlike the DK2, it has an electric start and an hour meter to measure your time.

This 11-inch commercial Kohler stump grinder could be a great alternative to the DK2. An added plus is that it comes with an extra set of teeth, tow bar, electric start.

Husqvarna SG13 Stump Grinder

At 4,899, the Husqvarna is double the price of the DK2 Stump grinder.

You can grind small to medium size stumps with the reliable Honda gas-powered engine.

Like the DK2 stump grinder, it also features an adjustable handle for better portability and deeper digging.

Generac Pro Stump Grinder

The final alternative is this Generac gas-powered grinder with a detachable tow bar.

This grinder is lighter than a DK2 and can grind any stump size.

Generac also owns the popular Dr Stump Grinder brand.

DK2 Stump Grinder

The DK2 Stump Grinder is a very powerful and portable grinder that is best for grinding several stumps or larger stumps.

If you are merely grinding a few tree stumps a year in your backyard, or over a flat small landscape, you may be better off using a smaller tool like a chainsaw attachment.

Regarding price, if you need a grinding tool of this size, the price is quite economical and compatible with other products. In some cases, it is cheaper than similar more powerful tools.

If you need a solid stump grinder that can help you remove dozens of stubborn stumps, the DK2 is a fantastic option.

Once you have got those stumps removed, here’s how to get the grass to grow again.

DK2 Power Stump Grinder 14HP HD Commercial Frame with Kohler Motor OPG777 Review

Tired of unwanted tree stumps ruining your lawn or backyard?

Not only does a tree stump look untidy, but it also poses safety and hygiene threats. Stumps are known to attract several wood-boring pests. over, stumps can take a long time to decay and rot away entirely naturally. So, you need to do something to get rid of those stumps.

And the best thing to do is invest in a stump grinder. You can use it to grind stumps into small chips. But how do you select the best stump grinder from the hundreds of options available in the market?

Today, I have put together this review of DK2 Power Stump Grinder to answer that question for you.

• PRECISE CUTTING PERFORMANCE: DK2 Power stump grinder provides a direct belt drive system, eliminating clutch slippage and demands a 100% cutting performance from the 12 inch, 50 pound cutting head

Last update on 2022-02-28 at 13:00 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why buy this product?

After doing a lot of research, I decided to buy the DK2, and it did not disappoint at all. I have used it extensively for different stump grinding projects, and it was during these projects that I noticed some win-win aspects of this machine that are worth mentioning here.

Powerful Performance

The DK2 is as powerful as any stump grinder in its price range, if not more! And most of that power can be attributed to the 14 HP CH440 Kohler Command Pro commercial engine. With an impressive cutting speed of 3600 RPM, even large stumps don’t stand a chance against this powerful beast!

I cannot emphasize enough how powerful this stump grinder is. When you use it for the first time, you will know what I’m talking about. The dual direct V-belt drive and nine carbide cutters allow you to get 3.5-inch broad cuts. You can effectively grind stumps of any diameter, up to 12 inches high and 9 inches below the ground.

Value for Money

You will likely see some reviews that label the DK2 as expensive or overpriced, but I beg to differ. Does it have a hefty price tag? Yes, definitely. But does that mean that it is not worth it? Definitely not!

When you buy the DK2 grinder, you get an additional tow bar and a set of nine carbide teeth. But that’s not all. You also get lockout safety keys, an oil bottle, ear protection, work gloves, safety glasses, and other tools.

• PRECISE CUTTING PERFORMANCE: DK2 Power stump grinder provides a direct belt drive system, eliminating clutch slippage and demands a 100% cutting performance from the 12 inch, 50 pound cutting head

The Best Stump Grinder, According to 1,000 Customer Reviews

Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best stump grinders 2023. Thomas has been connecting North American industrial buyers and suppliers for more than 120 years. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Tree stumps are usually left behind following the felling of a tree and can make an outside space look unsightly but, more importantly, it can be hazardous to have them scattered around. A stump grinder is a heavy-duty power tool used mainly by professional arborists for the purposes of tree stump removal.

In addition to a felling axe, chainsaw, and ladder, a professional tree specialist will rely on a good stump grinder to complete the job. Unsightly stumps can be removed quickly and safely by using a reliable stump grinder.

Commercial grinders are heavy and powerful, and as with most heavy-duty equipment, DIYers should take care and ensure the appropriate safety gear is used. DIYers may prefer to use a small stump grinder in a residential setting for managing their land.

Here is a list of the best stump grinders, followed by a buying guide to help you select the best stump grinder.

Thomas’ Top Picks for the Best Stump Grinders 2023

Source a great stump grinder from some of the best stump grinder brands in our list of top picks below.

Best 14in Stump Grinder: DK2 14-in Stump Grinder | Buy Now

Best Track Stump Grinder: Barreto Tracked Stump Grinder | Buy Now

Scroll down to read more about these top picks for the best stump grinders, according to many happy buyers and stump grinder reviews.

listed in this article were as shown in US on amazon.com (USA), northerntool.com, homedepot.com, and lowes.com as of November 2022

Best Walk-Behind Stump Grinder—Power King 11-in Stump Grinder

Capable of turning tree stumps that are up to 11 inches above ground and nine inches below into wood chips with ease, the Power King stump grinder relies on a powerful 14HP Kohler engine and nine tungsten blades to get the job done.

This grinder features an adjustable handlebar for a comfortable grip, a manual brake system to assist pivoting, and, in case of emergencies, it has a palm switch and safety pull.

“This thing is brutal on stumps,” wrote one happy reviewer. “My stump was 24 inches or so and it ate through it like butter. The machine creates a nice wood mash that will be good for the soil too. Assembly is simple and I didn’t have a problem with putting it together.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Gas

Horsepower (HP): 14 HP

Max grinding height: 11 inches

Engine: Kohler Engine

Grinding Speed: 3600 RPM

Best Alternative Stump Grinder—Power King Stump Grinder with Tow Bar

Power King’s PK0803-EH model is slightly more advanced than the PK0803-H model as it comes with a detachable tow bar, has an easier start-up since it is electric, and also features an hour meter for handy maintenance reminders.

The cutting wheel is compatible with Green Teeth cutting teeth, and it has a 20-inch cutting range—11 inches above ground and nine inches below.

“This is probably the best stump grinder for the amount of money that is out there on the market,” wrote one reviewer. “The engine choice is outstanding, runs great, plenty of power and gets the job done.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Electric

Horsepower (HP): 14HP

Max grinding height: 11 inches

Engine: Kohler engine

Grinding Speed: 3600 RPM

Best Commercial Grinder—DK2 12-inch Stump Grinder

The DK2 14HP stump grinder has a slightly bigger cutting range when compared to other stump grinders of similar size.

Capable of cutting up to 12 inches of tree stump, the cutting wheel makes this possible by using extremely powerful blades. The heavy-duty sturdy frame is made to last and built for some of the toughest applications.

“Nice compact stump grinder,” wrote one reviewer. “Started right up after minor assembly, along with adding oil and gas. It turned out easier to use than I thought, although it can provide a bit of an upper-body workout. Shipped with a whole extra set of cutters.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Gas

Horsepower (HP): 14HP

Max grinding height: 12 inches

Engine: Kohler Engine

Grinding Speed: 3600 RPM

Best 14-in Stump Grinder—DK2 14-inch Stump Grinder

The DK2 14-inch stump grinder goes a little further than the DK2 12-inch above, with a maximum stump grinding height of up to 14 inches. Powered by a 14 HP commercial engine with electric start, this stump grinder delivers a solid performance when it comes to eliminating tree stumps.

The direct belt drive helps to avoid clutch slippage which adds to the efficiency when using this machine, and the deck belt tension system can be accessed easily, ultimately saving time. The detachable tow bar has a mounted trolley wheel which is also very convenient for transporting it from A to B.

“I was skeptical but as long as you know how to grind a stump, this thing is actually really good and fast, fast depending on how hard you want to work,” wrote one happy reviewer. “It does make you work a bit but I like a little work. So far, it’s much better than the rentals I’ve used many times.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Gas

Horsepower (HP): 14HP

Max grinding height: 14 inches

Engine: Kohler Engine

Grinding Speed: 3600 RPM

Best Compact Stump Grinder—All Power America Stump Grinder

For a compact option, great for getting in tight spaces, with great cutting power, the All Power America stump grinder is another good choice.

This smaller stump grinder has impressive cutting power for its size and comes with a tow bar making transporting a lot smoother.

One happy customer described the machine as a “beast” and added, “To my surprise, I felt the picture of this equipment doesn’t do it justice! It was more heavy-duty than I anticipated.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Gas

Horsepower (HP): 15HP

Max grinding height: 12 inches

Engine make: JD Engine

Grinding Speed: 2200 RPM

Best Residential Stump Grinder—Dosko Stump Grinder

Although the Dosko stump grinder has a slightly smaller cutting grade when compared to other stump grinders, the lightweight design and adjustable handlebar that folds over the unit for portability, make it one of the easiest to use, compact, and comfortable stump grinders available to buy.

This small stump grinder is built with a Honda engine and Green Teeth cutting teeth, which can be rotated for a fresh cutting edge, this stump grinder will get the job done with ease.

“Good little grinder,” wrote one satisfied customer. “I’ve had it over a month and have ground up probably 15 stumps. The Honda motor starts every time and the Green Teeth are tough. I’ve hit plenty of rocks. They can be sharpened with a diamond or carbide tip grinder wheel.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Gas

Horsepower (HP): 6.5 HP

Max grinding height: 10 inches

Engine make: Honda gx engine

Grinding Speed: 4700 RPM

Best Stump Grinder For The Toughest Stumps—NorthStar Stump Grinder

Engineered to be one of the safest and fastest stump grinders available on the market today, the NorthStar stump grinder will pulverize tree stumps with little hassle.

The thick cutting wheel comes with eight carbide-tipped teeth which can grind stumps of up to 20 inches above ground level. It also features a uniquely designed discharge frame that conveniently disposes of wood chips away from the machine.

“[It] took out over 100 stumps and [I] could not be more pleased,” explained one satisfied shopper who purchased this stump grinder a month ago and used it for a week on a piece of property their family has been clearing. “Most of the trees are cedar mixed with a few oak and the stumps ranged in size from 5–6 inches to 24 inches,” they added.

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Recoil

Horsepower (HP): 13HP

Max grinding height: 20 inches

Engine make: Honda gx engine

Grinding Speed: 3600 RPM

Best Track Stump Grinder—Barreto Tracked Stump Grinder

Larger grinders like the Barreto tracked stump grinder are ideal for use in commercial settings, but could also be used residentially for landowners. This machine is a lot more heavy-duty and designed differently than some of the smaller stump grinders mentioned. For starters the engine is a lot more powerful, delivering a horsepower of 31HP.

The cutter wheel is hydraulically driven and is raised and lowered into the stump, and is then moved from side to side to cut it away. Featuring 16 carbide teeth and an engine that is joined to two gear pumps that drive the cutter wheel, this machine makes light work of stump grinding even on the toughest stumps, with a cutting depth of 11 inches below ground and up to 31 inches above ground.

One happy buyer was so impressed with this machine after renting it for a day that they want to buy one for themselves. “Ground eight new cut oak from eight inches diameter to 36 inches in diameter,” they wrote, “and five old oak and sweetgum stumps plus some very small stuff in seven hours.”

Specifications

Gas or Electric: Gas

Horsepower (HP): 31

Max grinding height: 31 inches

Engine make: Briggs and Stratton Vanguard

Grinding Speed: 290 ft per minute

The Best Stump Grinders—Summary

In summary, if you’re looking for one of the top stump grinders to tackle small stumps, perhaps in a residential setting, the Power King 11-inch stump grinder (US1,949, The Home Depot) will serve you well. Alternatively, for a machine that will withstand rough terrains and bigger stumps, opting for the NorthStar stump grinder (US4,529.99, Northern Tool) is a great idea.

Choosing the Best Stump Grinder—Buying Guide

Choosing the best stump grinder may be a little tricky if it is your first time buying one as there are a few different and quite particular features to consider. This brief buying guide will look a little more in detail at the different types of stump grinders, and some of the main features to look out for when it comes to choosing one.

Types of Stump Grinders

There are different types of stump grinders available on the market today differing in design and size. Stump grinders can be categorized in two main categories: walk-behind stump grinders, and track stump grinders.

Walk-Behind Stump Grinders

Walk-behind stump grinders, also known as handlebar stump grinders, are more lightweight in design and are great for transporting from one job site to another due to their weight and size.

Since walk-behind stump grinders are slightly more compact, they are ideal for use in tight spaces or in areas where there are a lot of trees. They are mainly used for smaller stump removal due to their lower horsepower and cutting capacity.

Track Stump Grinders

Track stump grinders, or self-propelled grinders, on the other hand, are much larger and heavier items of machinery, and are a lot better suited for complex jobs like larger stumps and bigger jobs on rough terrain, for example.

These types of stump grinders are a lot more expensive than walk-behind grinders as they are much more powerful due to their higher horsepower and cutting capacity. These stump grinders are more appropriate for professionals in the trade and would not be suitable for residential use.

Horsepower

A stump grinders’ horsepower refers to how rapidly the engine works. This determines how fast the grinding speed is. Most stump grinders that are designed more for residential use, like the walk-behind stump grinder, have a horsepower ranging from 10–15 HP, with 14 being the optimum choice.

This is a sufficient amount of power for the removal of a few stumps especially if they are smaller in size. Track stump grinders, on the other hand, have a much larger engine that can range from 35 to 250 HP.

Cutting Capacity

The cutting capacity of a stump grinder refers to the cut that the cutting wheel can achieve both above and below ground.

Large stump grinders can usually handle larger tree stumps with a larger cutting depth, whereas handlebar stump grinders will be limited to smaller stumps.

We hope our review of the best stump grinders has been helpful, whether you were looking for premium stump grinders, or the best small stump grinder. For more suppliers of related products, including chainsaws, felling axes, handsaws, harnesses, and cranes, consult our additional guides, or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform.

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Make quick work of those tree stumps in your yard with one of these top stump grinders.

By Tony Carrick | Updated Mar 16, 2023 9:21 AM

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

Investing in a stump grinder may not make sense for homeowners who just have a stump or two they need to remove after taking out a tree in the yard. But those with larger properties in wooded areas who may need to remove a few stumps a year can benefit from owning a grinder as opposed to paying for stump removal, which can cost as much as 500 per stump.

Most stump grinders use 14 horsepower (HP) engines to power a grinder that can grind live or dead stumps up to 20 inches high as deep as 12 inches into the ground. This guide will explore what factors one should consider when shopping for a machine that will remove those unsightly tree stumps from the yard while reviewing some of the best stump grinders on the market.

• BEST OVERALL:DK2 12-In. 14 HP Gas-Powered Commercial Stump Grinder
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Power King Kohler Gas-Powered Stump Grinder
• BEST RESIDENTIAL:Bluebird Honda Stump Grinder
• BEST COMMERCIAL:DK2 14.In. 14 HP Gas Powered Commercial Stump Grinder
• BEST COMPACT:DR Stump Grinder Premier

How We Chose the Best Stump Grinders

In reviewing more than a dozen stump grinders, we used a variety of criteria to narrow the field to produce our list of the top options. Grinding live or dead stumps requires a significant amount of torque, so we limited our search to those grinders with powerful engines of at least 14 horsepower. This engine size allows grinders to reach depths of at least 8 inches and as much as 16 inches, which is enough to handle small to medium-size tree stumps.

Stump grinders are heavy by nature, but they shouldn’t be so heavy that a single person can’t safely operate the machine. With that in mind, we stuck with stump grinders with manageable weights as well as models that feature hitch options that allow them to be towed to and from the jobsite. Finally, durability was a key factor in our selection process. Grinding out tree stumps puts tremendous strain on machinery, so we stuck with models made from heavy-gauge steel that can endure repeated use without falling apart.

Our Top Picks

The list below narrows the field to some of the best stump grinders for mostly residential use and landscaping as well as one of the best professional stump grinders. These stump grinders have durable heavy-gauge steel construction, can grind stumps at least 6 inches below ground level, and have features that make them easier to use. Read on to find out the best stump grinder to buy regardless of your needs.

DK2 12-In. 14 HP Gas-Powered Commercial Stump Grinder

A sturdy build coupled with a powerful engine make this model from DK2 one of the best walk-behind stump grinder options for removing small- to medium-size stumps. Its 14-HP engine drives a 12-inch cutting wheel that’s capable of cutting to depths of 9 inches and heights of 12 inches. A wheel brake locks the grinder into position, giving it a sturdy base from which to operate.

Durability is crucial when it comes to walk-behind stump grinders, and the DK2 is one of the sturdiest thanks to a 16-gauge steel frame that adds durability. Though this stump grinder is not self-propelled, its rugged 14-inch tires and relatively light weight make it manageable for moving around the yard. To cover larger distances, the DK2 is fitted with a 1 7/8 ball hitch that allows it to be towed behind a vehicle.

Product Specs

• Sturdy 16-gauge steel construction provides ample durability for long-term use
• Tow-bar attachment included with purchase in case transporting is required
• The powerful 14-HP engine is suitable for heavy-duty tasks

Get the DK2 12-inch walk-behind stump grinder at The Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Tractor Supply Co.

Power King Kohler Gas-Powered Stump Grinder

Despite being more affordable than other stump grinders, this Power King isn’t lacking in power, thanks to a 14-horsepower engine. That engine powers a 12-inch blade that can dig 9 inches below the surface or reach heights up to 20 inches, putting it on par with other higher-priced stump grinders.

The Power King stump grinder’s controls include a lockable throttle set close to the handlebar, making it easy to adjust blade speed. With its heavy-gauge steel construction, the Power King is built like a tank. It’s also as heavy as one at nearly 400 pounds, making the Power King a more difficult stump grinder to maneuver around the yard. With that in mind, it makes sense to spring for the tow-bar accessory that allows the Power King to be hitched to a truck.

Product Specs

• Capable of grinding tall stumps with a max height of 20 inches
• Easy to operate the throttle; enhances both control and safety
• The 12-inch blade can dig 9 inches below the surface or reach heights up to 20 inches

Get the Power King stump grinder at The Home Depot or ChippersDirect.

Bluebird Honda Stump Grinder

Honda is well-known for its efficient, durable, and powerful small engines, which can be found on lawnmowers, snowblowers, generators, and also stump grinders. The Bluebird’s 13-horsepower Honda engine produces excellent torque while being easier to start and more fuel efficient than other stump grinders.

Whereas most handlebar stump grinders have a 12-inch blade, the Bluebird boasts a 14-inch grinder, which is capable of chewing through stumps up to 12 inches deep. The Bluebird’s powerful engine sits atop a heavy-gauge steel frame and two sets of 12-inch knobby pneumatic tires. The Bluebird weighs just 250 pounds; despite its large engine, it’s markedly lighter than other handlebar grinders, which can weigh upward of 400 pounds. That light weight coupled with an adjustable handlebar makes maneuvering the Bluebird around the yard a more manageable task.

Product Specs

• Capable of grinding to depths of up to 12 inches
• The lightweight design and adjustable handlebar make it easier to maneuver than other grinders
• Powerful Honda engine can take on tough residential grinding tasks

Get the Bluebird stump grinder at Chippers Direct.

DK2 14-In. 14 HP Gas-Powered Commercial Stump Grinder

With its large detachable tow bar, the DK2 is a great choice for those looking to grind stumps in remote locations.It rests on two heavy-duty 14-inch ATV wheels that make it easier to tow or push over off-road terrain.The DK2 stump grinder comes equipped with a 14-inch blade that cuts to heights of up to 14 inches and depths of 10 inches.

Unlike other stump grinders that have pull-start engines, the DK2’s 14-horsepower engine is easier to start thanks to a push-button electric start. With its wide 4-inch cutting width and a wheel brake system that allows for pivot grinding, this grinder is well-suited for handling wider trunks. Like DK2’s other stump grinders, this model is durably constructed with a heavy-gauge steel frame.

Product Specs

• Portable model; includes detachable tow bar for transporting if required
• Large ATV-style wheels can withstand turbulence and heavy-duty use
• Push-button electric start for added ease of operation; no tough pull start

Get the DK2 14-inch stump grinder at The Home Depot, Lowe’s or Tractor Supply Co.

DR Stump Grinder Premier

Stump grinders are difficult machines to operate due to their weight, with some manual push models tipping the scales at 400 pounds. A compact size and smaller 6.6-horsepower engine give this grinder a weight of just 124 pounds, making it one of the best small stump grinder choices on the market. This compact size coupled with large 15-inch tires makes this stump grinder much easier to maneuver around the yard.

Despite its light weight, the DR Stump Grinder is surprisingly durable, thanks to the 12-gauge steel construction of its frame. Of course, a small stump grinder doesn’t come without trade-offs. The DR Stump grinder can reach a maximum height of 12 inches and dig up to 8 inches below ground, which is less range than larger grinders.

Product Specs

• Its small size and light weight make it easy to maneuver
• Large pneumatic tires can withstand frequent maneuvering or towing if required
• Frame constructed from heavy-gauge steel for heavy-duty applications
• Shallower digging depth than some other comparable stump grinders; may not suit some users’ preferences

Get the DR stump grinder at DR Power.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Stump Grinder

The horsepower of a stump grinder’s engine, along with the height and depth it can grind, are key considerations when shopping for the best stump grinder. Ahead, learn more about these and other important attributes of stump grinders.

Types of Stump Grinders

Stump grinders come in three types: handlebar, track, and riding. Handlebar stump grinders, also called walk-behind stump grinders, consist of a large handlebar from which the operator controls the grinder, two wheels that support the motor, and a large spinning blade that grinds the stump. The operator tilts the grinder backward to maneuver it into place then lowers it to begin grinding. Handlebar stump grinders are best suited for smaller stumps.

A track stump grinder sits on two large tracks, not unlike a tank. The operator maneuvers the grinder via a wired remote control or controls mounted to the rear of the machine. Riding stump grinders have a cockpit in which the operator sits to control the grinder. Riding and track stump grinders can cost tens of thousands of dollars, making them more suitable for commercial use.

Horsepower

Most engines on a handlebar stump grinder range between 10 and 15 horsepower. Stump grinders with more horsepower can power larger cutting disks, giving them the ability to cut through larger stumps faster. Stump grinders that have more horsepower are typically large track stump grinders designed for commercial use.

Power Transmission System

When considering stump grinders, you’ll find self-propelled models as well as walk-behind grinders. Smaller handlebar stump grinders require the user to manually push the machine while larger track models are self-propelled, allowing the operator to drive the grinder into place via remote control or side-mounted controls.

Size and Cutting Capacity

The size of the grinder’s cutting wheel determines how quickly it can remove a stump as well as how deep it can cut. Grinders can generally have a cutting capacity that reaches depths of a few inches less than the size of the blade. For example, a 12-inch grinder can reach a maximum depth of 9 inches. There are some models with designs that allow them to cut to depths equal to the size of the blade.

Track stump grinders and riding stump grinders, the largest of the three types, can cut to depths ranging from 10 to 30 inches, heights of 20 to 50 inches, and widths of between 45 and 80 inches.

Walk-behind stump grinders have a smaller cutting capacity with cutting depths ranging from 5 to 16 inches and heights of 10 to 20 inches, making them suitable for smaller stumps.

Frame Durability

Stump grinders generate a significant amount of torque to power the cutting wheel that grinds out stumps. This force places a significant amount of stress on the machine. The best walk-behind stump grinders have heavy-gauge steel frames that can endure repeated use without falling apart.

Ease of Use

Stump grinders are considered heavy machinery, with most weighing well over 100 pounds. Weight is vital to consider as most stump grinders for residential use are not power-assisted and require the operator to push them into position. Weights for handlebar grinders range from as little as 125 pounds to more than 400 pounds. Stump grinders have features designed to make them easier to move, including large pneumatic tires and adjustable handlebars.

Additional Features

Stump grinders come with features that make them safer and easier to use, including auto-stop safety bars that operate similarly to safety bars on a walk-behind lawn mower, shutting off the engine to prevent injury when the operator removes pressure from the bar. Track stump grinders have swing-out control stations and remote controls that allow the user to operate the grinder from a safe distance.

Heavier stump grinders are equipped with tow bars and large wheels that allow the user to hitch the machine to a truck for transport to the jobsite.

Tips for Using a Stump Grinder

A stump grinder can make quick work of that ugly stump in the middle of the yard, but only if it’s operated correctly. Stump grinders are dangerous machines. First and foremost, take the necessary safety precautions by wearing safety goggles, ear protection, and clothing that covers exposed skin. While the machine has safeguards to protect the operator, such as guards that block debris and auto-shutoff bars, they won’t prevent harm to bystanders. Cordon off the area around the stump removal area to prevent people or pets from getting too close. Stump grinders are made to grind a few stumps, not rocks. Remove any stones, rocks, or debris from around the stump that may damage the grinder’s blades. A stump grinder may do the job of grinding up the stump, but you’ll need other tools to assist, including a rake, shovel, and chainsaw.

• Wear the appropriate safety gear
• Put boundaries around the area to keep people and pets at a safe distance
• Remove rocks and debris from around the stump
• Have a rake, shove, and chainsaw handy

FAQs

If you’re wondering why stump grinders cost so much or just how deep into the earth you need to grind that dead stump, read on for answers to these and other questions about this heavy machinery.

Q. How far down do you grind a stump?

Generally speaking, you should grind a stump down 4 to 6 inches below ground level. This depth is deep enough to remove the stump from view while allowing for fill to be applied on top of it and, if desired, grass to grow.

Q. Why are stump grinders so expensive?

Stump grinders are heavy machinery that requires large blades and powerful engines to drive that blade. Larger engines and the hard metals required for stump grinder blades drive the price of the grinder up.

Q. Does stump grinding attract termites?

Not really. While stump grinding does create material termites like to feed on, grinding the stump doesn’t release any scents or create an environment that would necessarily attract termites.

Q. What can I do with shavings from stump grinding?

The best use for stump shavings is as mulch in surrounding landscaping. Stump shavings, like the mulch you buy at the store, help the soil retain moisture while serving as an excellent weed barrier.

Q. Can I use a stump grinder in the rain?

You can use a stump grinder in the rain—just keep in mind that the weight of the grinder can make it difficult to push in soft soil. The grinder can become stuck or may sink into the ground if it’s too wet.

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