Rotary Cutter vs Grooming Mower

Rotary Cutter vs Grooming Mower

Maintaining a well-kept larger property can often require specialized equipment. Two common

implements used for cutting grass and brush on large properties are a Rotary Cutter and

Grooming Mower. While both serve similar purposes, they have differences that make them

best suited to their own specific tasks. Let’s explore the differences between a rotary cutter

and a grooming mower, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the right

equipment for your needs.

A Rotary Cutter (commonly referred to as a Brush Hog), is a heavy-duty cutting implement

designed for tackling rough, overgrown landscape. They are commonly used in agricultural

settings, large properties, and areas where land clearing and brush management are

required. Cutting widths on these implements can range up to but not limited to 20’ depending

on the manufacturer. It excels in clearing dense brush, tall grass, and even small trees. A

rotary cutter is typically attached to a tractor's three-point hitch and is driven by a power take-

off (PTO). They are capable of handling uneven ground, slopes, and obstacles encountered in

overgrown areas.

Rotary cutters utilize a swinging blade system with heavy-duty cutter blades. The blades

swing loosely under the deck shell until engaged where then centrifugal force directs them

outwards. They are designed to cut through thicker saplings and tough overgrown areas.

They can withstand significant impacts from rocks, stumps, and other obstacles that may be

encountered during rough terrain clearing due to their ability to swing back when hitting

objects. Rotary cutters are also designed to accommodate higher cutting heights. They are

capable of cutting through landscaping measuring several inches to a foot in height. As a

result, the quality of the finish cut provided by a rotary cutter is often times rougher and not as

clean cut.

A grooming mower is normally a lighter-duty cutting device that provides a higher quality

finishing cut compared to a rotary cutter. They are commonly used in residential and

commercial or rural settings, including parks, lawns, sports fields and well-maintained

pastures. Grooming mowers are best suited for relatively even surfaces. Grooming mowers

are not designed to handle very rough terrain or heavy vegetation like a rotary cutter is

designed to. It is generally mounted on a tractor's rear PTO as well. Widths of up to 17’ or

more are commonly available with these mowers depending on the manufacturer.

Grooming mowers use a different cutting mechanism then the rotary cutter. They typically

feature multiple rotating blades with individual spindles housed within a single or multiple deck

shell space, similar to a standard lawn mower. The blades of a grooming mower are

specifically designed to deliver a precise and even cut on grassy surfaces, ensuring a clean

and aesthetically pleasing appearance. These mowers provide a low/even cut, typically

adjustable between 1 to 4 inches.

The differences between a Rotary Cutter and a Grooming Mower lie in their function, cutting

mechanism, cutting height, finish, and application. While both tools are used for cutting grass

and vegetation beyond the capabilities of a lawn mower, a rotary cutter is heavy-duty and

designed for rugged clearing, while a grooming mower is lighter-duty and focused on

maintaining a groomed appearance. These distinctions will help you choose the right piece of

equipment for your specific needs, ensuring efficient and effective landscaping maintenance.