The Farmer's Guide to Choosing a Post Rammer

Fencing is one of those farm jobs that can make or break your day. Whether you're establishing new paddock boundaries, replacing storm-damaged sections, or setting up yards, the right post rammer turns a backbreaking project into a manageable task.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose a post rammer that won't let you down when you're in the back paddock and the weather's closing in?

What Farmers Need in a Post Rammer

Selecting the right post rammer isn't just about buying the biggest or most expensive model. It's about finding equipment that suits your specific farm conditions and workload.

Durability for Daily Use

Farm equipment takes a beating. Your post driver needs to handle constant use in harsh conditions, from the scorching summer sun to freezing southerlies. Here are some key points to look for:

• High Quality Mast Steel,
• Quality hydraulic components (for example, hydraulic valves & rams),
• High Quality Welds,
• Strengthening gussets where failure typically occurs,
• Well-protected hoses and valves.

Quality equipment might cost more upfront, but farms are harsh environments where inferior machinery quickly shows its limitations. When breakdowns occur in remote areas of your farm, the costs go beyond just repairs – there's also lost productivity and project delays to consider.

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Compatibility With Your Existing Equipment

What works well behind a 120hp tractor might be completely incompatible with your 90hp tractor. Make sure you have a solid grasp of your current equipment before picking out a post rammer. Modern post rammers are designed to mount to a range of tractor sizes and other machinery types, including:

• Standard tractors with three-point linkages,
• Skid steers,
• Diggers or excavators,
• Specialised fencing vehicles (i.e. track bases or bulldozers).

Before purchasing, carefully assess what size tractor you'll be using with your post rammer throughout its entire lifespan. Will you upgrade or change the size of your tractor in the next few years? Are you considering adding a digger to your equipment fleet?

Post Rammers for Tough Ground Conditions

New Zealand's diverse landscape throws up everything from rocky Canterbury plains to Taranaki papa. Your post driver needs sufficient hitting power and the correct accessories to handle the toughest conditions on your property. When tackling tough terrain, look for:

• • Heavier hammers (250kg+),
  • Rock spike attachments,
  • Auger options for pre-drilling.

Ease of Setup, Transport and Storage

Time spent setting up equipment is time not spent fencing. A post rammer that is difficult to set up on your tractor, digger or skid steer will result in more downtime. Innovative hydraulic designs have addressed this with features that speed up the setup process and enable the same post driver to be used on multiple different machines.

Do you plan to transport the post driver around your farm, or between different farms? If so, you need to consider the different mast heights that are available. Even basic post drivers are available with a hydraulic hinged mast, meaning you can safely transport your post driver around your farm while maintaining a high level of hitting power thanks to the tall mast. This hydraulic hinge option also allows you to store your post driver in a shed, meaning it stays in better condition for longer.

Consider:

• Post Drivers with hydraulic systems that work across multiple machines.
• Compact transport options (i.e. Hinging Masts).
• Do you want to store your post driver in a shed or outside?

Local Service and Support

With machinery, it is inevitable that something will eventually go wrong. When breakdowns happen, having local support can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a complete work stoppage. A good dealer network means:

• Readily available parts,
• Knowledgeable service technicians,
• Loan equipment options during repairs,
• Warranty support without shipping delays.

Local dealers also provide valuable advice on maintenance schedules and can often identify potential issues before they cause field failures.

Best Post Rammers For Lifestyle Blocks and Smaller Farms

Kinghitter Series 1

With over 45 years of experience, Kinghitter's entry-level Series 1 offers remarkable quality for smaller operations. The 230kg hammer provides sufficient force for most soil types, while the simple hydraulic system is reliable and easy to maintain. A budget-friendly option suitable for lighter use. While not as robust as premium models, it handles standard fencing jobs on flat to rolling terrain, in easy soil types.

Best Post Rammers For Mid-Sized Stock Farms

Kinghitter Series 2i 
The Series 2i steps up with a 250-300kg hammer and "interchangeable" hydraulic system for faster operation without needing a high-flow dump line. The heavy-duty 350 Grade 150UC mast handles tough conditions and allows for the full range of accessories. Another solid New Zealand-made option with good hydraulic performance and compatibility with various tractor setups.

Best Post Rammers For Larger Properties and Contractors

Kinghitter Expander 2i 
With a telescopic mast extending from 3.2 to 5.0m, the Expander 2i allows precise control even in areas with limited headroom. The Kinghitter series 2i "interchangeable" hydraulic system does not require a high-flow hydraulic dump line. These high-flow dumps are fitted to every other hydraulic post driver manufactured globally, however, they can create issues with the oil overheating and aeration. The unique Kinghitter interchangeable hydraulics are an industry game-changer that ensures durability and consistent performance. A premium option popular with contractors, featuring sophisticated hydraulics and good ergonomics.

Post Rammer Buying Tips for Farmers

Assess Your Specific Needs First

Before comparing models, ask yourself:

1. What ground conditions am I going to be working in?
2. How many kilometres of fencing do you maintain?
3. Do you plan to transport the post driver around or store it in a shed?
4. Do you need specialist attachments like augers or rock spikes?
5. What's your realistic budget, including long-term operation costs?
   

Tractor vs Digger Mounting

Tractor-mounted post drivers are the most common option and offer:

• Faster movement between fence lines
• Usually has a lower initial setup cost

Digger-mounted options provide:

• Better reach in difficult terrain
• Capability to work from one side of a fence line

Many farmers find that tractor-mounted options with good side-shift capabilities offer the best balance for most fencing jobs.

The False Economy of "Budget" Options

The initial price difference between budget and premium post rammers can be significant, but this gap often narrows when considering the total cost of ownership. Budget options typically require more frequent repairs, have shorter lifespans, and can cause significant delays during critical fencing periods.

Quality post rammers usually cost more upfront but deliver savings through:

• Reduced downtime
• Lower repair costs
• Faster operation
• Better resale value
• Less operator fatigue

Try Before You Buy

Reputable dealers will arrange demonstrations of their post rammers. These sessions provide invaluable hands-on experience with the equipment. You can see the machine in detail and test features like the valve bank control and ergonomics, which become significant factors during long fencing days.

Making Your Decision

Choosing a post rammer comes down to balancing initial cost against long-term performance. For most New Zealand farmers, investing in quality equipment that's built for local conditions and backed by local support proves the wisest decision.

A quality post rammer isn't just a purchase, it's a long-term investment in farm infrastructure and productivity. The right choice means fewer frustrations, more efficient fencing, and ultimately, better returns for your farming operation.

It is highly recommended that you speak to someone who understands your requirements and can equip you with a machine that will suit your ground conditions, price expectation, machine weight limitation, and provide ongoing support once you have made your decision.