Hay production is an essential task on many farms, and high-quality hay can also turn a handsome profit. Whether you’re making hay for your own livestock or for customers, you’re going to need the right equipment. But with so many different hay balers on the market, how do you pick the best model? Hay balers are a big investment, and you don’t want to wind up with a machine that doesn’t suit your needs. This buying guide from Torgerson’s Equipment aims to answer all your questions about hay balers so you can make an informed decision.
When you’re ready to check out some hay balers for sale, head to Torgerson’s Equipment. We have several locations across Montana for all your farm equipment needs.
Know Your Options
Hay balers are primarily defined by the shape of the bales they produce, with round and square balers being the main two categories. Within the category of round balers, you have fixed chamber and variable chamber options. Let’s look at each of these categories in detail.
Round Vs. Square Balers
Round balers work by rolling the hay in a chamber until it reaches a fixed size, then tying it together with twine or net. Many farmers prefer round bales for ease of transport, as they can simply be tipped and rolled to their destination.
On the other hand, many farmers prefer square bales for easier handling and stacking. Square balers are usually larger than round balers, requiring more powerful tractors. They also tend to produce faster results.
Fixed Chambers Vs. Variable Chambers
There are two different chamber mechanisms available for round balers. Fixed chambers are simple and straightforward, creating loosely packed bales that are easier for smaller animals to feed from. Variable chambers offer more options for bale size, and produce denser bales that are more resistant to moisture.
Consider Your Crops
Not all hay is created equal. There are a variety of grasses used in hay production, and each crop has different requirements. For crops that require more moisture, you probably want the looser bales a fixed chamber can provide. Meanwhile, drier crops may benefit from being more densely packed in a variable chamber.
Factor In Your Tractor
Needless to say, your hay baler needs to be a good match for your tractor. Before you shake hands on purchasing a hay baler, double check that your tractor has enough horsepower to handle it. Remember that square balers often require more horsepower. If you have a small tractor, you’re probably going to be looking at round balers.
Mind Your Budget
Be realistic about your budget when choosing a hay baler, while keeping in mind the returns you can expect on your investment. You don’t want to settle for a cheaper model that won’t serve your needs. You can reap better rewards by purchasing the best baler you can afford.
We hope you found this guide helpful. Looking for more advice on farm equipment? Feel free to ask the qualified staff at your nearest Torgerson’s Equipment location. We proudly serve the Montana farming community.
