TR-3 vs TR-4 Elephant Trunk Bale Handlers
TR-3 vs TR-4 Elephant Trunk Bale Handlers
A Side-by-Side Comparison of Two Market-Leading Bale Handling Solutions
In the world of modern agriculture, reliable bale handling equipment is essential. Whether you call them a bale grab, bale handler, bale lift, or the increasingly popular elephant trunk, these tools make lifting, stacking, and transporting round silage or hay bales safer, faster, and more efficient.
JM Agri Design has built a reputation for delivering durable, high-performance hydraulic bale handling equipment trusted across the UK and Ireland. Two standout models in their range—the TR-3 and TR-4—both share the core “elephant trunk” design but serve slightly different needs.
Let’s break down what’s the same, what’s different, and why both are considered the best in the market.
What’s the Same: TR-3 and TR-4 Core Features
|
Shared Feature |
Description |
|
Elephant Trunk Design |
Both feature the iconic curved arm style that mimics an elephant’s trunk—strong, smooth, and gentle on plastic wrap. |
|
Hydraulic Clamping Arms |
Offer even, firm grip on bales without tearing plastic—essential for wrapped silage bales. |
|
No-Scratch Handling |
Designed to preserve bale integrity and reduce spoilage. |
|
Heavy-Duty Frame |
Built for daily commercial use with high-strength materials and minimal maintenance. |
|
Standard Euro Brackets |
Quick and easy connection to most loaders and tractors; custom brackets available. |
|
Operator-Friendly |
Simple to use, reducing fatigue and increasing productivity during long working days. |
Both models are frequently referred to by users as:
- Bale Grabs
- Bale Stackers
- Hydraulic Bale Squeezes
- Bale Handlers
- Bale Lifters
- Bale Handling Attachments
- Hydraulic Bale Stackers
This versatility in naming reflects how broadly they are used and how flexible they are in different farming setups.
What’s Different: TR-3 vs TR-4
|
Feature |
TR-3 |
TR-4 |
||
|
Frame Build |
Slightly more compact design for smaller or mixed farms |
Heavier-duty and wider for high-output farms and contractors |
||
|
Ideal User |
Ideal for small to mid-size farms or general-purpose use |
Designed for larger-scale operations with higher bale volumes or tougher conditions |
||
|
Weight & Load Capacity |
Lighter unit, easier to manage on smaller machines |
Increased weight tolerance |
||
Why TR-3 and TR-4 Are Market Leaders
- Field-Tested in the UK & Ireland
These bale handlers have been designed specifically for conditions found on British and Irish farms—wet fields, tight yards, steep terrain. Both models are based on real-world feedback from contractors and farmers. - Built for Efficiency and Longevity
JM Agri Design engineers every detail to reduce downtime and maintenance. From greaseable pivot points to heavy-duty steel construction, these machines are built to last. - Versatility Across Attachments and Machines
Both the TR-3 and TR-4 connect to a wide range of machines, with bracket customisation available—helping farmers reduce the need for multiple attachments. - Precision Handling Without Damage
The elephant trunk-style arms offer gentle lifting and perfect pressure. Whether you're using them as a bale squeeze, bale grab, or hydraulic stacker, they reduce spoilage and maintain bale quality.
How JM Agri Design Covers the Market
JM Agri Design has become a household name in the bale handling sector by:
- Catering to All Farm Sizes – From small mixed-use farms to large-scale contractors, there's a JM Agri Design solution for every type of operator.
- Custom Engineering – Offering optional brackets and technical support for specific machine compatibility.
- Continual Innovation – The TR-series continues to evolve with input from real users.
- Multi-Channel Reach – Available through direct sales, distributors, and on platforms such as their website and social media.
From TR-3 to TR-4, and even their larger-capacity TR-8 double bale handler, JM Agri Design remains committed to helping farmers move more bales, with less hassle, and zero compromise on quality.
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
- Choose the TR-3 if you need a reliable, no-nonsense bale lift that’s nimble, effective, and well-suited for daily farm use.
- Opt for the TR-4 if you require extra capacity, heavier frame strength, and improved stacking control for more demanding environments.
Both models outperform typical bale grabs and squeeze arms due to their unique elephant trunk design and proven durability in challenging field conditions.
Ready to Handle More?
Explore the TR-3, TR-4, and the full JM Agri Design Bale Handler Range today. Whether you're stacking silage in wet fields or hauling hay across a busy yard, there’s a solution ready to work as hard as you do.
