The GeoRipper MiniTrencher won best new product in the "specialty landscape" category at the 2016 Irrigation Show. The GeoRipper is a unique handheld, portable trencher. Similar in appearance to a chainsaw, it can dig 14 to 25 inches deep at 1.5 inches wide.
Although the MiniTrencher might look something like a chainsaw, it is actually quite different, the company points out. It was designed to dig in ground, not cut down trees. The digging chain is about 1/3 the speed of a chainsaw cutting chain, and the digging chain and bar are much heavier than a chainsaw's. Speed reduction, along with the benefit of a heavier bar and chain, greatly reduces the possibility and intensity of kickback. Also, if the MiniTrencher is being properly used and trenching in the ground, kickback is not an issue, the company assures.
Other key features include:
- Self-sharpening digging chains
- Cut tree roots up to 3 inches in diameter
- Disperse dirt on each side of trench in a 70:30 ratio
