Snow Removal - Front Blade vs. Rear Blade

[KubotaBX1860]

I recently purchased a BX1860 with a FEL and a Front Blade (hydraulic up/down and tilt). I never really considered a rear blade. Anytime I saw sombody plowing snow with one it looked akward as they are usually half turned around in their seat. Also the plows themselves seem to be not as tall and usually (maybe always??) have to be tilted manually. All and all the rear blade seems less convenient to me.

I noticed in reading through the many forums and watching many videos online that the rear blade appears to be a more common choice than the front blade and I am curious why. Any input for this rookie????


Thanks

Dave

 

[Kubota_Man]

Depending on what I am doing I use both equally (just not at the same time ). I also use my FEL or snowblower. As far as the rear blade you can push or pull the snow. Also with a rear blade you can get closer to objects such as buildings or rock walls by pulling the snow away from them.

 

[Rusty46]

... the rear blade appears to be a more common choice than the front blade and I am curious why.

Dave - I think initial cost is also a major consideration. A rear blade at $500 to $1,000 is a lot less expensive than a front blade at $2,500 to $3,000. A front blade is also generally tractor brand and model-specific, while a rear blade can be moved from tractor to tractor.

 

[Orange Tractors]

Three point hitch five or six fooot blades usually go for somewhere around $150 at farm auctions around here. So if you have time to wait for your price, you can save some money.

Robert