ATV skidding on small woodlot

[Jeff]

Stacy is here today so we are working with our Logrite arch on salvaging some blowdowns from the edge of my sister's property. The 80 next to it was clear cut three years ago and this has led to many windthrown aspen on my sister's side of the line.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64tgvMpG7sA

[FTD]

From looking at the posts, it seems to me if you can only have one; either a Logrite type arch or the Nichols type DR_Buck has the Nichols type is much more versitle.  The Logrite is better for large saw logs.  I think I am going with the Nichols.  I can haul saw logs or twitches of small stuff.  I don't think the drag on the Nichols is going to amount to much.

[Kevin]

You can use a chain to choke the small stuff with the LogRite.

[FTD]

I know you can use a chain on the small stuff with the Logrite.  The trailer unit still seems more versitile.  It is shorter so it will be more maneuverable in tight spots. You can winch logs out of areas that you don't want to or can't drive to.  Not to mention it costs over 40% less ($650.00)!  That $650.00 would more than cover top of the line ATV chains, a skidding cone, tow block and rope if I was so inclinde.  Has anybody used both and want to offer a critique of them?  Please! 

DR_Buck, you said if you had it to do over again you would go with an arch.  Why?

[jander3]

I need both.  I have the Jr. Log Rite Arch and an arch to pull behind a tractor or ATV.  I can move a 25' footer (red pine 12" butt) around the yard by hand with the the Junior (with a little grunting and groaning...well, actually, alot of groaning). The pull behind arch is needed to move items over rough terain.   

I grab the log with the pull behind arch, lift the other end with the Jr. strap the Jr. handle to the log and I can move a 25' through the woods without dragging the log (needed for logs that I scribe and cut at a building site).

I purchased the Jr. Log Rite Arch.  It is very well made but a little pricey.  When I looked at the pull behinds, I just couldn't come up with the dollars.

I had a local welder weld up a frame, I used old VW front hubs, the spare tires from the trunks at the auto salvage yard, and a winch (with a brake) I purchased new from northern toolhttps://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=position"> Note:Please read the Forestry Forum's postion on this company.   I have a few extra clevis hooks and shackles on the rig so I can winch up the log and chain it in place.  I put about $450 into the arch.


Jon