Learn all about bale spikes!

When choosing the correct bale spike, several factors come into play. Continue reading for a guide on how to choose the correct length, how to use them, and safety tips! 

How to choose the correct length bale spike 

The length of bale spike that you need will depend on both the type and density of the bales that you are moving. It also depends on your type of your attachment. 

For Dense/Heavy Bales such as silage and hay 

• Use a shorter bale spike so that less strain is put on the bale spike 

For Soft/Light Bales such as straw 

• Use a longer bale spike so that the bale has less chance of falling apart 

“It is important that you can always remove the bale spike from the bale, therefore you never want more than 85% of the spike through the bale.”

Tips on how to use a bale spike 

• Spear straight into the bale until bale is fully against the hitch frame. Make sure bale is fully against the hitch frame before lifting. 

• Raise bale spike up 5-10 degrees from horizontal to keep the bale slightly tilted back and against the frame. A spear that is level or lower at the front than at the back can result in the bale sliding off and falling. 

Safety tips to consider when using and repairing bale spikes 

Remember: A crushing hazard always exists around bale spikes that can result in death or serious injury. 

1. When welding a bush sleeve into the frame of your attachment. Always weld the sleeve into the frame then insert the spike afterwards. Welding the bush in with the bale spike already inserted into the bush sleeve may cause defects to the spike which will then make it harder to remove and more susceptible to get damaged. 
2. Routinely check the bale spike nut on the back of your attachment for tightness. This is one of the most common reasons for a broken or a bent tine. 
3. Never use the bale spike for any other purpose than the intended use of the attachment! Any application other than moving bales, manure or silage is considered a product misuse and the likelihood of a bent or broken tine is very likely. 
4. Do not use a bale spike for lifting, prying, digging, pushing, A crushing hazard always exists around bale spikes that can result in death or serious injury, pulling fence post, stumps, or objects from the ground. 
5. Always store bale spikes with spear points on the ground or against a solid object so that no person or livestock could walk/run into the spears or spikes. Never store bale spears where children play or where animals are kept. 

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