A three point hay spear is an essential tool for farmers and ranchers, making hay handling efficient and effortless. Designed to attach easily to a tractor’s three-point hitch, it allows for safe and quick transport of round bales. This shopping guide highlights the key features, benefits, and considerations to help you choose the perfect hay spear for your agricultural needs.
Comparison Table: Types and Variations of Three Point Hay Spears
| Type/Variation | Number of Spears | Spear Length(s) | Hitch Category | Weight Capacity | Best For | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Spear w/ Stabilizers | 1 (+2 stabs) | 48” – 52” | Cat 1 or Cat 2 | 1,600–2,200 lb | Single round bales | Lightweight, quick hitch, anti-spin |
| Heavy-Duty Single Spear | 1 (+2 stabs) | 51.5″ – 52″ | Cat 1/Cat 1+2 | Up to 2,900 lb | Large/Heavy bales | Heat-treated replaceable spear |
| Double Spear | 2 | 39” – 48″ | Cat 1 or Cat 2 | Up to 3,000 lb | Square bales/multiple shapes | Extra stability for square bales |
| Triple or Quad Spear (3-4) | 3–4 | 33″–48″ | Cat 2 or 3N | Up to 3,000 lb+ | Stacking, carrying multiples | Large frame, can carry 2 bales |
| Adjustable/Universal | Customizable | 39”–48″ | Various | Varies | Special equipment/front loaders | Mounts for 3pt or loader, customizable |
Everyday Usage of Three Point Hay Spears
A three point hay spear attaches to the rear of your tractor via its three-point hitch system. It is designed for safely lifting, transporting, and stacking large round or square hay bales commonly found on farms and ranches. Here is how you might use it in your daily operations:
- Lifting Hay Bales: Penetrate the bale with the main spear while stabilizer spears or rods prevent the bale from spinning or slipping.
- Transporting Bales: Securely move hay from storage fields to barns or feeding areas without the risk of dropping or damaging bales.
- Stacking & Storage: Maneuver bales into neat stacks, optimizing your storage space and protecting hay from elements.
- Loading/Unloading: Some models are designed for quick loading onto trailers or quickly setting out feed in pastures.
Who benefits the most?
– Cattle, horse, or livestock operations
– Hay producers/brokers needing to load/unload frequently
– Small and large acreage hobby farms
– Anyone looking to save back strain and time compared to manual handling
Key Benefits of Using a Three Point Hay Spear
- Efficiency: Move, lift, and stack bales much faster than manual methods or with loader buckets.
- Safety: Proper spears stabilize and secure bales, reducing the risk of accidents to operator and livestock.
- Reduced Bale Damage: Penetrates the end of the bale, not the circumference, helping to prevent moisture entry that ruins hay.
- Versatility: Available in multiple sizes and with attachments for different tractor classes (Cat 1, Cat 2, Cat 3N).
- Compatibility: Many are “Quick-Hitch” compatible, meaning easy attachment/detachment without leaving the driver’s seat.
- Heavy Duty Options: Models available for moving extremely large or heavy bales (up to nearly 3,000 lb).
How to Choose the Right Three Point Hay Spear
Selecting the right hay spear is essential for safe and efficient hay handling. Follow these tips when deciding:
1. Match to Your Tractor’s Hitch Category
Three-point hitches are categorized as Cat 1 (common on compact/utility) and Cat 2/3 (larger, more powerful tractors).
– Check your tractor’s manual for its hitch type.
– Choose a spear that lists compatibility (many come with step down/up pins for both Cat 1 & 2).
2. Consider Bale Size and Weight
- Round bales typically weigh 800–2,000+ lbs; square bales may be lighter but can be awkwardly shaped.
- Pick a spear rated above your largest bale weight (e.g., if your largest is 1,800 lb, look for a 2,200 lb rated spear).
3. Number of Spears and Bale Type
- Single spear with stabilizers: Best for large round bales.
- Dual/triple/quad spears: Offer more stability for square bales, larger stacks, or when carrying two bales at once.
4. Spear Length Matters
- 48″ and 52″ spears are common for large round bales.
- 39” spears may be used for lighter or smaller bales.
- Longer spears penetrate more deeply but may require more powerful tractors.
5. Construction Quality & Features
- Look for heavy-duty, powder-coated or forged steel frames for durability.
- Replaceable heat-treated spears extend lifespan (you only replace the spear if it bends or dulls).
- Models with anti-rotation stabilizer rods ensure safe and easy handling.
6. Quick-Attach or Universal Mount
- If you switch implements often, consider “quick hitch” or “quick attach” models.
- Some universal adapters fit front loaders as well as 3PT.
Practical Tips, Advice, and Best Practices
- Never exceed the rated capacity: Overloading can damage implements and is a safety risk.
- Keep bale centered: Always spear bales in the center and keep load balanced.
- Maintenance: Inspect spear points before use. Replace or sharpen as needed.
- Secure attachment: Confirm all pins and hitch points are locked before use.
- Height awareness: Keep loaded bales low when travelling to maintain center of gravity and avoid tipping.
- Operator visibility: Make sure attachment does not block your view—some spears have open frames for better sight lines.
- Protect paint: Powder-coated models last longer, but store indoors to avoid unnecessary rusting.
- Training: New operators should practice moving bales in an open area until proficient.
- Bale moisture: Spearing the end helps avoid creating entry points for water (which leads to spoilage); avoid piercing bale twine if possible.
- Stay clear: When stacking bales, ensure no one stands beneath or too close to a suspended load.
Technical Specification Comparison Table: Popular 3-Point Hay Spears
| Model/Brand | Main Spear Length | # of Spears | Hitch Cat. | Capacity (lb) | Construction/Frame | Quick Hitch | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CountyLine Super Spear | 51.5″ | 1 (+2 stab) | Cat 1 (pins incl.) | Not listed | Powder-coated, replaceable spear | Yes | Two lower welded stabilizers, anti-corrosion |
| King Kutter 3-Point | 52″ | 1 (+2 stab) | Cat 1 & 2, step up | 2,000 | Tube/flat steel, forged spear | Yes | Forged “super penetrator”, stabilizer rods |
| Tri-L 3PTW-2200 | 49″ | 1 (+2 stab) | Cat 1 or Cat 2 | 2,200 | Welded steel frame (31.5″x26.25″) | Optional | Easy slide spear, color options |
| Tri-L 3PTW-2900 HD | 49″ | 1 (+2 stab) | Cat 1 or Cat 2 | 2,900 | Welded steel frame | Optional | Heavy duty, replaceable spear |
| Washburn 3PT 1-Spear | 48″ | 1 (+2 stab) | Cat 1/Cat 2 | 3,000 | Heavy-duty custom | Customizable | Replaceable, fabrication options |
| Washburn 3PT 3 or 4 Spear | 39″-48″ | 3/4 | Cat 2 or 3N | 3,000+ | Large custom frame | Customizable | Moves/stack multiple bales |
| Land Pride BSR10 | Not specified | 1 (+2 stab) | Cat 1/Cat 2 | 1,800 | Quick-Hitch compatible | Yes | Prevents bale rotation, replaceable spear |
Related Video
Conclusion
A three point hay spear is an indispensable tool for efficient, safe, and effective hay bale handling on any farm or ranch. With the right model, you’ll streamline your operation, reduce manual labor, and protect your valuable hay resources. Whether you’re moving single round bales or stacking multiples, there are options tailored to your tractor, bale size, and workflow needs.
Making your selection based on tractor compatibility, bale type, spear configuration, and frame durability ensures you get the most out of your investment. Remember to use and maintain your hay spear according to these best practices to ensure longevity and operator safety. With the right hay spear, you’ll handle hay with confidence and efficiency for years to come.
FAQ
-
What is a three point hay spear?
A three point hay spear is an attachment for tractors featuring a three-point hitch. It allows operators to lift, move, and stack large hay bales with ease, typically by penetrating the bale with a main spear while stabilizer rods prevent rotation. -
Can I use a three point hay spear for both round and square bales?
Yes. Single spear models with stabilizers are ideal for round bales, while double, triple, or quad spear configurations offer more stability for square bales and when moving more than one bale at a time. -
How do I know which spear length is best?
For large round bales, a 48″–52″ spear is recommended. For smaller or lighter bales, a 39″ spear may suffice. Match spear length to bale diameter and always follow manufacturer guidance for sizing. -
Will a three point hay spear fit my tractor?
Most models are designed to fit standard Category 1 or Category 2 three-point hitches. Check your tractor’s hitch category and select a compatible spear—some include step up/down pins or quick hitch compatibility for flexibility. -
What’s the difference between a single spear and a multi-spear model?
Single spear models (with stabilizers) are quick and easy for round bales. Multi-spear variants provide extra stability, are better for heavy or awkwardly shaped bales, and may allow carrying/stabilizing more than one bale. -
How much weight can a three point hay spear handle?
Capacities vary by model, ranging from about 1,600 lb to 3,000 lb or more for heavy-duty versions. Always choose a spear rated above your maximum bale weight for safety. -
Are spears replaceable if damaged?
Yes. Many modern spears feature replaceable, heat-treated main spears and stabilizer spikes. This allows you to replace only the damaged component rather than the entire attachment. -
What maintenance does a hay spear require?
Regularly check all bolts, pins, and spear points for tightness, wear, or damage. Keep the spear clean, touch up paint as needed to prevent rust, and store indoors when possible. -
Can I transition between different implements easily?
Models marketed as “quick hitch” or “quick attach” allow for faster changeover between implements, saving time during busy farm operations. -
What safety practices should I follow when using a hay spear?
Never exceed the rated capacity; always secure the spear to the hitch; keep bales low while transporting; avoid allowing anyone near suspended bales; and only move bales when visibility and surface conditions are safe.