Big square Baler vs Round Baler

[santiago]

I am considering trading in my soft core Round baler and purchasing a Big Square. From the info that I have read it appears that the Big Squares would tend to lose less feed during the baling process. I would like to hear of the pros and cons. Also, which square baler would be the best suited?

[rook]

Last week we hired a big square baler to help us finish off second cut as we have one customer who wants to try them. If you want baling capacity that is the way to go. The operator said that in a good crop he can do 70 bales/hr, although he might be exaggerating a little bit. His was a 3x4x8 machine, and they make bigger. Personally, I think he could almost keep up with two big round balers with net wrap. I think hay quality is slightly better as you don't get leaf loss like you do with round balers.

On the down side, the hay has to be dry as the bales are very tight. I think in our wet area it would be tough to get first cut down to that level in any consistent fashion. And of course, handling the bales is the main drawback. They don't shed rain and so need to be hauled immediately.

Hope these quick thoughts help.