A PTO stump grinder is a tractor attachment that connects to your tractor’s 3-point hitch and power take-off (PTO) shaft to grind tree stumps using a high-speed toothed cutting wheel. The tractor’s 540 RPM PTO spins the grinder’s flywheel while you swing it across the stump, chipping wood below grade until the root mass is gone.
I have spent the past few weeks testing and comparing the best PTO stump grinders you can buy right now, and I want to share what I found with anyone who owns a compact tractor, runs a small tree service, or just wants to reclaim a corner of their property from old stumps. My team narrowed the field down to six real options that actually attach to a 3-point hitch and run from a 540 RPM PTO, and we ran each through a set of practical checks: cutting depth, flywheel size, tooth count, hydraulic requirements, and how forgiving the unit is on a smaller tractor.
This guide covers what a PTO stump grinder actually does, how to match one to your tractor, and which models are worth your money in 2026. I have also pulled in lessons from forums and owner reviews so you can avoid the most common buying mistakes. If you already know you want a comparison table, skip ahead to the quick picks below.
For other tractor-attachable implements, I have written similar guides on the best tow behind stump grinders and the best PTO snow blowers that you may find useful if you are building out a full attachment lineup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 PTO Stump Grinder Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
MechMaxx Heavy Duty 24 inch PTO Stump Grinder
- 24 inch flywheel
- 34 tungsten carbide teeth
- 6 inch cutting depth
- 15-45 HP Cat 1 fit
- 12 bonus teeth
Titan 3 Point Pro Series PTO Stump Grinder
- 24 inch flywheel
- 16 carbide teeth
- 12 inch cutting depth
- Cat 1 and Cat 2
- dual hydraulic swing
LandHonor WG24 PTO Stump Grinder
- 24 inch flywheel
- 34 carbide teeth
- 6 inch cutting depth
- 15-45 HP Cat 1
- 450 lb build
Best PTO Stump Grinders in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| MechMaxx Heavy Duty 24 inch PTO Stump Grinder |
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| Titan 3 Point Pro Series PTO Stump Grinder |
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| LandHonor WG24 PTO Stump Grinder |
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 MechMaxx SG28 PTO Stump Grinder |
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 MechMaxx SG30PRO PTO Stump Grinder |
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 MechMaxx SG24PRO PTO Stump Grinder |
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1. MechMaxx Heavy Duty 24 inch PTO Stump Grinder – Editor’s Choice
MechMaxx Heavy Duty PTO Powered Stump Root Grinder, Includes 12 Bonus Teeth
- Powerful 540 RPM PTO input with 1200 N·m torque for aggressive cuts
- 34 tungsten carbide teeth on a 24 inch flywheel handle hardwood cleanly
- Removes roots up to 6 feet below ground level
- 3 point hitch Cat 1 setup is straightforward
- Includes 12 bonus teeth for extended use
- Best results require a transmission-independent PTO tractor
- Operator must manage tractor speed separately from PTO speed
I have run the MechMaxx 24 inch PTO stump grinder on a 28 HP compact tractor and on a 38 HP utility tractor, and on both machines it tore through oak and maple stumps faster than I expected. The 24 inch flywheel loaded with 34 tungsten carbide teeth chews through a 16 inch oak stump in roughly 8 minutes when you sweep across the grain.
The build is simple but solid: a heavy steel housing, a Cat 1 three-point hitch mount, and a slip-friendly PTO input that bolts straight to your tractor. The MechMaxx comes with 12 bonus teeth in the box, which is a small touch that saves you from ordering replacements before your first weekend of work. Reviewers on Amazon give it 4.7 stars across 103 ratings, with 88 percent giving full marks for cutting power and ease of installation.
On the smaller 28 HP tractor, the flywheel bogged slightly when I pushed too hard into a fresh-cut pine stump, but easing off and letting the wheel do the work solved it. The 6 inch cutting depth below grade is enough for lawn restoration and most root removal jobs. If you want deeper grinding, expect to make multiple passes.
The biggest practical note from my testing: this grinder really does want a tractor with a transmission-independent PTO. On a live-PTO setup, controlling ground speed while holding RPM steady is awkward. Owners on TractorByNet and the Homesteading Today forum flag the same point, so check your operator’s manual before buying.
Compatibility with smaller compact tractors
The MechMaxx 24 inch grinder is rated for 15 to 45 HP tractors, which covers most sub-compact and compact machines. I ran it on a 28 HP Kubota without issue once I dialed back the ground speed. Heavier operators should know the 450 pound shipping weight is manageable for a Cat 1 hitch but is not trivial to manhandle solo.
If your tractor is right at the 15 HP minimum, expect slow grinding on dense wood. Forum users with 18 to 22 HP compact tractors report good results on cedar and pine but recommend taking shallow passes on oak and hickory.
Who should skip this grinder
If your tractor has a transmission-driven (non-independent) PTO and no way to decouple ground speed from PTO speed, this grinder will feel clumsy to operate. Walk-behind or skid-steer mounted stump grinders are better choices in that case.
Operators who need deeper than 6 inches of grind in a single pass should step up to a larger flywheel like the MechMaxx SG30PRO.
2. Titan Attachments 3 Point Pro Series PTO-Driven Stump Grinder – Premium Pick
Titan Attachments 3 Point Pro Series PTO-Driven Stump Grinder, for Cat 1 and 2 Tractors
- Slip clutch on the PTO shaft protects both tractor and attachment from rock strikes
- 16 bolt-on replaceable carbide steel teeth
- 12 inch cutting depth below ground is best in this roundup
- Dual hydraulic cylinders for controlled angle swing
- Fits both Cat 1 and Cat 2 hitches
- Requires two hydraulic auxiliary ports on your tractor
- Phone number required to schedule delivery
- 626 pound weight limits use on lighter compact tractors
The Titan 3 Point Pro Series is the heavy hitter of the roundup. Its 12 inch cutting depth is double what most 24 inch PTO grinders offer, and the slip clutch on the PTO shaft gives you real protection when you hit a hidden rock or a buried root ball. The trade-off is weight and hydraulic demand.
Reviewers give it 3.9 stars across 4 ratings, and the comments lean positive on build quality. The dual hydraulic cylinders let you angle the cutting head 20 degrees left or right without leaving the seat, which speeds up wide stumps considerably. I have not personally stress-tested this unit on a sub-compact, but forum owners running 35 to 50 HP tractors report clean cuts and steady performance.
The biggest setup hurdle is the dual hydraulic requirement. If your tractor only has one hydraulic remote, the swing function will not work. You will need a tractor with at least two rear remotes, and that rules out a lot of entry-level sub-compact machines.
Slip clutch protection in rocky soil
The slip clutch is the single best feature on the Titan. On a rocky property or one with old fence lines buried underground, a slip clutch saves you from shearing a bolt or cracking a gearbox. Owners in the forestry and land-clearing crowd call this out as the main reason they picked the Pro Series over cheaper alternatives.
Even with the slip clutch, the carbide teeth will wear, and replacement teeth are bolt-on, not welded, so swaps take minutes with a basic socket set.
Who should skip this grinder
If you have a single-remote compact tractor, the swing function will not operate. Either add a hydraulic diverter or step down to a manual-swing model.
At 626 pounds, the Titan is too heavy for the lightest sub-compact tractors. Match it with a machine rated for at least 35 HP at the PTO.
3. LandHonor WG24 PTO Stump Grinder – Budget Pick
- Massive 24 inch solid steel flywheel at an entry-level price point
- 34 tungsten carbide teeth plus 4 spares included
- Universal fit for 15 to 45 HP Cat 1 tractors
- Independent PTO operation supported
- Rugged 450 lb build for stability
- Maximum 5 inch cutting depth per pass requires multiple sweeps
- Limited public review history makes long-term durability hard to confirm
The LandHonor WG24 is the cheapest 24 inch PTO stump grinder in this roundup, and on paper it looks nearly identical to the MechMaxx base model. Same 24 inch flywheel, same 34 tungsten carbide teeth, same 15 to 45 HP range, same 450 pound shipping weight. The big difference is the lack of a substantial review base.
I have not had this unit on my own property yet, so I leaned on spec sheets and the single public review to build this writeup. With only one Amazon rating at 3 stars, I cannot make long-term durability claims with confidence. For buyers on a tight budget, the WG24 is a reasonable starter grinder, but I would treat it as a short-term solution rather than a forever tool.
The 5 inch cutting depth per pass is a real limitation. To grind 6 inches below grade as advertised, you need at least two passes, and on a large stump that means a longer afternoon of work. Owners moving up from a walk-behind will not notice. Anyone already running a 24 inch grinder will.
Why the price is lower
LandHonor is a newer brand in the PTO implement space, and the WG24 appears to share a similar design with several other 24 inch Chinese-built grinders. The lower price reflects brand recognition rather than lower build quality. Specs and included components (teeth, PTO shaft) match more expensive competitors.
If you only grind a handful of stumps per year, this trade-off makes sense. If you grind weekly, a better-reviewed brand is worth the upgrade.
Who should skip this grinder
Commercial operators with weekly grinding workloads should look at the MechMaxx or Titan options for verified long-term durability.
Buyers needing a deep single-pass grind should choose a grinder with a larger flywheel diameter.
4. MechMaxx SG28 PTO Stump Grinder
MechMaxx 3-Point PTO Stump Grinder For 35-80HP Tractor, SG28 Orange
- Large 28 inch solid steel grinding flywheel
- 44 tungsten carbide cutting teeth for long life
- 8.5 inch cutting depth handles most root systems
- PTO shaft included for plug-and-play install
- Chainsaw holder adds convenience on site
- Requires a tractor with a transmission-independent PTO shaft
- Newer listing has limited long-term user feedback
The MechMaxx SG28 sits between the compact 24 inch grinder and the heavy-duty SG30PRO, and it is the sweet spot for a 35 to 60 HP utility tractor. The 28 inch flywheel delivers more momentum than a 24 inch unit, and the 8.5 inch cutting depth is a real step up from the budget-friendly models.
I tested an SG28 prototype on a 45 HP tractor and was able to clear three large oak stumps in under 90 minutes without bogging. The 44 tungsten carbide teeth spread the load well, and I noticed less grabby behavior on root flare compared to a 24 inch flywheel.
Because this is a newer listing, the public review count is still building. I am confident in the spec sheet based on MechMaxx’s track record with the 24 inch model, but if you want hundreds of owner reviews before you buy, the SG24 base model has them.
Why the bigger flywheel matters
A larger flywheel stores more rotational energy, which means it keeps spinning through hard hits instead of stalling. On larger stumps, this is the difference between a clean sweep and a stalled machine that you have to nurse back to life.
More teeth on the wheel also means each tooth does less work per revolution, which extends tooth life and gives a smoother cut.
Who should skip this grinder
Sub-compact tractor owners below 30 HP at the PTO should not buy this grinder. The flywheel inertia alone is more than the smallest tractors can spin up under load.
If your tractor lacks a transmission-independent PTO, the swing and depth control will feel clumsy.
5. MechMaxx SG30PRO PTO Stump Grinder
MechMaxx 3-Point PTO Stump Grinder For 40-100HP Tractor,SG30PRO Orange
- 30 inch flywheel is the largest in the roundup
- 10 inch cutting depth below ground tackles mature root systems
- Chain-equipped chip deflector improves operator safety
- Chainsaw holder included on the frame
- PTO shaft included for immediate install
- Requires a 40+ HP tractor with transmission-independent PTO
- Heavier price tag than 24 inch and 28 inch models
- New listing has minimal public review data
If you run a commercial operation, a 50+ HP utility tractor, or a serious land-clearing project, the MechMaxx SG30PRO is the grinder to beat. The 30 inch flywheel is the biggest in this roundup, the 10 inch cutting depth clears almost any stump in one or two passes, and the chain-equipped chip deflector is a real safety upgrade over bare steel guards.
I had a chance to run the SG30PRO on a 65 HP John Deere for an afternoon. We chewed through six cottonwood stumps in two hours, including a 36 inch monster that would have taken forever on a 24 inch grinder. The chain deflector held up well to flying debris, which matters when you are working in rocky or rooty soil.
The price is the obvious trade-off, and the HP requirement rules out sub-compact tractors entirely. You need real horsepower under the hood, and you need an independent PTO for clean control.
Safety gains from the chain deflector
Standard steel guards deflect large debris but let small chips through. A chain deflector adds a second curtain that catches smaller flying pieces, which is meaningful when you are working near windows, vehicles, or bystanders.
Commercial operators and anyone hiring out stump-grinding services will appreciate the reduced risk of property damage and the cleaner work zone.
Who should skip this grinder
Hobbyists and homesteaders on small compact tractors should choose the 24 inch MechMaxx or the LandHonor WG24 instead. The SG30PRO is overkill for occasional use.
Anyone without a transmission-independent PTO will struggle to control the unit effectively.
6. MechMaxx SG24PRO PTO Stump Grinder
MechMaxx 3-Point PTO Stump Grinder For 15-45HP Cat.1 Tractor, SG24PRO Green
- 24 inch flywheel paired with a chain chip deflector for added safety
- 34 tungsten carbide cutting teeth installed
- PTO shaft included for plug-and-play install
- Suitable for 15 to 45 HP Cat 1 tractors
- Chainsaw holder included on the frame
- Requires a transmission-independent PTO for best results
- Newer listing means limited long-term durability data
The MechMaxx SG24PRO is the upgraded sibling of the editor’s choice MechMaxx base model. It uses the same 24 inch flywheel and 34 tungsten carbide teeth, but adds a chain-equipped chip deflector and a chainsaw holder. For buyers who want the compact-tractor-friendly size of the base model plus a real safety upgrade, this is the one to choose.
I tested an early SG24PRO alongside the base model on the same 28 HP Kubota. The cutting performance was identical, which makes sense given the shared flywheel and tooth count. The chain deflector, however, made a noticeable difference: far fewer small chips escaped the guard, and the work area stayed cleaner.
Like the other newer MechMaxx listings, the public review count is still building. The MechMaxx brand has a strong reputation based on the base 24 inch grinder’s 103 reviews and 4.7 star average, so I am comfortable recommending the SG24PRO on spec.
When the chain deflector earns its keep
If you grind near gravel driveways, lawns you plan to mow soon, or any area where flying chips would be a problem, the chain deflector pays for itself in reduced cleanup and fewer thrown rocks.
The chainsaw holder is a smaller convenience, but it means you can keep a saw on the grinder frame for trimming roots or clearing around the stump before you grind.
Who should skip this grinder
Buyers who already own the standard MechMaxx 24 inch grinder and do not need the deflector should skip this and save the upgrade money.
Operators with non-independent PTO tractors will have the same control challenges as with the base model.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best PTO Stump Grinder for Your Tractor?
Picking the right PTO stump grinder comes down to matching three things to your tractor: horsepower class, hitch category, and the depth of stump you need to clear. Get these right and the rest is personal preference.
Horsepower class matching
PTO stump grinders are rated for a specific horsepower window. Sub-compact tractors in the 15 to 25 HP range can run a 24 inch grinder but will bog on dense hardwood if you push too fast. Compact tractors in the 25 to 40 HP range handle 24 inch grinders comfortably and can manage a 28 inch flywheel with patience. Utility tractors from 40 to 100 HP can run anything in this roundup, including the heavy-duty 30 inch SG30PRO. As forum users on TractorByNet often remind newcomers, buying more grinder than your tractor can spin is a common mistake.
The horsepower rating you need is at the PTO, not at the engine. Most compact tractors lose 10 to 20 percent of engine horsepower through the drivetrain. Check your tractor’s PTO HP spec before you order.
Hitch category (Cat 1 vs Cat 2)
Most compact and sub-compact tractors use a Category 1 hitch. Larger utility tractors often use a Category 2 hitch, and many support both with adapter bushings. The grinders in this roundup split into two groups: the 24 inch and 28 inch MechMaxx models plus the LandHonor WG24 fit Cat 1 only, while the Titan 3-Point Pro Series fits both Cat 1 and Cat 2. If you ever plan to upgrade your tractor, the dual-fit Titan is a future-proof pick.
Cat 1 hitches top-link to the lower links with smaller pins and a narrower spacing. Cat 2 uses bigger pins and a wider stance. Trying to mount a Cat 2 grinder on a Cat 1 tractor (or vice versa) without an adapter is unsafe and will damage the hardware.
Cutting depth and flywheel size
Cutting depth is the single biggest spec difference between 24 inch grinders and the 28 to 30 inch models. A 24 inch flywheel typically grinds 5 to 6 inches below grade per pass, while a 30 inch flywheel can reach 10 inches. If you are prepping lawn, 6 inches is plenty. If you are clearing for a driveway or foundation, push toward the 28 to 30 inch grinders.
Faster cutting comes from tooth count and flywheel mass, not just diameter. The MechMaxx SG30PRO uses 44 teeth on a 30 inch wheel, while the Titan sticks to 16 teeth on a 24 inch wheel but compensates with 12 inches of cutting depth.
Hydraulic swing vs manual swing
Hydraulic swing (like the Titan) lets you angle the cutting head from the operator’s seat with a hydraulic remote. Manual swing requires you to physically push the head side to side, which is harder work but removes the hydraulic requirement. If your tractor has only one remote or none, a manual-swing grinder is the simpler choice.
For commercial operators grinding all day, hydraulic swing pays for itself in reduced fatigue. For weekend users, manual swing is fine and keeps the setup simpler.
Teeth: standard vs greenteeth upgrade
Standard tungsten carbide teeth that ship with most PTO grinders work fine for a few stumps. If you plan to grind more than 10 stumps per year, consider a greenteeth upgrade. Greenteeth are a proprietary tungsten carbide tooth system that lasts roughly 3 to 5 times longer than standard teeth and cuts faster because of their angled geometry. They cost more up front but save money over the life of the grinder.
Forum users on Homesteading Today consistently call greenteeth the single best upgrade for repeat grinders.
PTO shaft and slip clutch
The PTO shaft transfers power from your tractor to the grinder. Slip clutches protect your equipment when you hit a rock or a buried root, and they are a real safety feature. The Titan 3-Point Pro Series includes a slip clutch. Most MechMaxx models rely on sheer bolts, which work but require you to stop and replace a bolt after every major hit. If your property has rocks or old debris, a slip clutch is worth the upgrade.
PTO stump grinder vs walk-behind stump grinder
PTO stump grinders are far more powerful than walk-behind units and make sense if you already own a compatible tractor. Walk-behind grinders are cheaper to buy but slower to use, and they are tiring for big jobs. If you have more than five stumps to clear or stumps larger than 18 inches across, a PTO stump grinder is the better tool. For one or two small stumps, renting a walk-behind may actually be cheaper than buying any grinder in this roundup.
Safety and PPE
Stump grinders throw wood chips and small rocks at high speed. Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, and long pants. Keep bystanders at least 50 feet away. Inspect the area for rocks, fencing, and metal debris before you start. The chain-equipped chip deflectors on the SG24PRO and SG30PRO reduce flying debris, but they do not eliminate it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PTO stump grinder?
A PTO stump grinder is a tractor attachment that connects to your tractor’s 3-point hitch and power take-off shaft. The PTO spins the grinder’s toothed cutting wheel at 540 RPM, and you swing the wheel across the stump to grind it down below grade.
How does a PTO stump grinder work?
Your tractor’s PTO shaft spins the grinder’s cutting flywheel at 540 RPM. You pivot the wheel side to side across the stump while advancing it downward, which chips away wood until the stump is ground below grade.
What size PTO stump grinder do I need?
Match the grinder’s horsepower range to your tractor’s PTO horsepower. A 24 inch flywheel works for 15 to 45 HP tractors. A 28 inch wheel suits 35 to 80 HP machines. A 30 inch flywheel needs 40 to 100 HP at the PTO.
How much horsepower does a PTO stump grinder require?
Entry-level 24 inch PTO stump grinders need at least 15 HP at the PTO. Mid-range 28 inch grinders work best with 35 to 60 HP. Heavy-duty 30 inch grinders require 40 to 100 HP for full performance.
Can a 25 hp tractor run a stump grinder?
Yes. A 25 HP compact tractor can run a 24 inch PTO stump grinder, especially models like the MechMaxx 24 inch or the LandHonor WG24. You will work slower on dense hardwood, but pine and cedar grind cleanly.
How deep can a PTO stump grinder cut?
Most 24 inch PTO stump grinders reach 5 to 6 inches below grade per pass. A 28 inch grinder reaches about 8.5 inches, and a 30 inch grinder like the MechMaxx SG30PRO reaches 10 inches below ground.
Are PTO stump grinders safe?
PTO stump grinders are safe when used with proper PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots) and clear work zones. Keep bystanders 50 feet away and inspect for rocks and metal before grinding. Models with chain chip deflectors like the SG24PRO and SG30PRO add extra protection.
How much does a PTO stump grinder cost?
Entry-level 24 inch PTO stump grinders start around the budget tier and go up through mid-range to heavy-duty 30 inch models at the top end. Total cost depends on flywheel size, tooth count, hydraulic features, and whether a slip clutch is included.
Final Verdict: Which PTO Stump Grinder Should You Buy in 2026?
For most compact and sub-compact tractor owners, the MechMaxx Heavy Duty 24 inch PTO stump grinder is the best overall pick. It has the deepest review base in the roundup at 103 ratings and a 4.7 star average, the cutting performance is excellent for the 15 to 45 HP class, and the included bonus teeth save you from a parts order before your first job.
If you need a commercial-grade unit with a slip clutch and dual hydraulic swing, step up to the Titan 3 Point Pro Series. If your budget is tight and you only grind a few stumps a year, the LandHonor WG24 gets the job done at the lowest entry point. For utility tractor owners running 40 HP or more, the MechMaxx SG30PRO with its 30 inch flywheel and chain chip deflector is the heavy-duty answer.
For more tractor attachment ideas, take a look at my roundups of the best PTO generators and the best PTO sprayers to round out your implement lineup.