By McLaren Industries 
Open-Face vs. Closed-Face Skid Steer Brush Cutter: Which Is Right for You?
Whether you’re working on a large private property or brush-cutting overgrown lots, skid steer brush cutters are some of the most effective attachments for clearing brush. These products can cut through thick underbrush with ease, saving you time and utilizing your skid steer’s power to the fullest. However, when it comes to finding one of these models for your own use and bush hog design, how do you choose between the open and closed models? Read on to learn about open-face and closed-face skid steer brush cutters to determine which one is right for you.
Open-Face Skid Steer Brush Cutters
Open-face brush cutter attachments feature an open gapping front and a large push bar that makes it easier to cut through taller, denser brush and small trees. The push bar bends trees and taller brush downward before cutting, allowing the brush cutter to more efficiently cut through tall, dense brush quicker. As such, they make a great option for anyone looking to clear large quantities of overgrown with tall seedlings, weeds, and underbrush. With a quality skid steer brush mower, open-face brush cutter and push bar attachment, you can make fast work of lots with even the most overgrown brush and leave time in the day for more.
Closed-Face Skid Steer Brush Cutters
Closed-face brush cutters, on the other hand, have a front chain barrier with no push bar. Because of this, their design is more suited for brush cutting around commercial areas with fences and other obstacles that would interfere with a push bar. A closed-face brush cutter is similar to a tractor bush hog. The closed-face brush cutter can mow under trailers, fences, trucks, and fences. The closed deck and chains at the front of the deck help to contain and direct debris and cuttings in a more controlled area, preventing the cut brush from being thrown. This is ideal when cutting in an area with automobiles, people, or livestock.
Choosing Between Them
Now that you understand the fundamental differences between open-face and closed-face skid steer brush cutters, it’s time to decide which one will work best for your application and skid steer brush mower. The key to pinpointing the right one for you is to evaluate in what environment you will be cutting. For instance, if you’re looking to cut large open areas that contain tall underbrush and small trees, the open-face model will be best. However, if your task involves maintaining an established yard with pedestrians, automobiles, fences, livestock, and other valuable obstacles, then a closed-face brush cutter will be better.
No matter what type of skid steer brush cutter attachment you’re considering, buy one from McLaren Industries. Both our open- and closed-face skid steer mowers are designed for power, accuracy, and efficiency. Regardless of the project ahead, these tools can give you the extra muscle to push through and achieve the results you want. To learn more about our wide range of skid steer attachments, reach out to a McLaren Industries representative online for a quote, or give us a call at (800) 836-0040.