What Types of Machines are Back Blade Snow Plows Used On?

Anyone who lives in snow country has inevitably seen snow plows mounted to the front of anything from an ATV, lawn mower or pickup truck to a skid steer, tractor or dump truck. This type of snow plow for motorized vehicles has been around since the 1920s. A newer and less common addition to the snow removal industry is the back blade snow plows.

Evolution of Back Blade Snow Plows

Early front-mounted plows were effective for pushing snow aside, but they had limitations, especially in tight spaces or when trying to clear large areas. In the 1940s, as the demand for more effective snow removal equipment increased, engineers began experimenting with rear-mounted blades that could be adjusted to various angles. This innovation allowed for greater flexibility in maneuvering and improved efficiency in removing snow.

By the 1960s hydraulic systems further enhanced the functionality of back blade snow plows. Hydraulic controls allowed operators to adjust the angle and height of the blade from the comfort of the vehicle’s cabin, providing greater precision and ease of use.

The 1980s brought technological advancements, including the use of materials like high-strength steel and polymers, contributing to the durability and efficiency of modern back blade snow plows. Improved attachment systems and quick-mount features have made these tools more user-friendly and adaptable to a variety of vehicles.

These versatile plows now come in various types and are designed for different vehicles, each serving a specific purpose in keeping driveways, parking lots, and roads clear of snow and ice. Here, we’ll explore the types of machines that back blade snow plows are made for – namely tractors and trucks – and examples of popular back blade snow plows from KAGE Innovation, Ebling & Son Blacksmiths, Boss Snowplow and Daniels plows.

Back Blade for Category 2 Tractors

A true workhorse in plowing snow, the tractor has been around for years and continues to be a go-to machine for winter month. Equipped with Category 2 3-point hitches, 40 to 125 horsepower tractors are among the most common machines available for moving large amounts of snow. Category 2 tractors are powerful machines often used in agricultural and industrial applications. While they do often use front blades, back blades provide additional versatility and swath width for the snow plowing tractor.

The KAGE ShadowBlade is an exemplary back blade snow plow designed specifically for Category 2 tractors weighing at least 9,500 pounds. The KAGE ShadowBlade is known for its robust construction and innovative design. The electric and hydraulic powered back blade is uniquely designed extend out either side of the tractor to compliment the use of a front blade by:

• Increasing swath width
• Counteracting the crab-walk effect of angle plowing heavy snow
• & Bench winging snowbanks along shoulders and curbs.

When not plowing, the ShadowBlade even folds and stores neatly on the back of the tractor for easy transportation. It also includes the following safety & performance features:

• Easy Joystick Control
• Floating top link for constant contact
• Piston accumulator relief for maintaining curb lines and cushion blows with obstacles
• Locking cylinder to prevent inadvertent dropping when stowed
• 33″ tall moldboard

Back Blade for Category 1 Tractor

For those with smaller tractors falling utilizing Category 1 (35-50 HP), the Ebling & Son Category 1 tractor backblade is one solution. These tractors are commonly used in landscaping, small-scale farming, and residential settings. This type of back blade is engineered to provide operators with the ability to navigate tight spaces while still benefiting from the efficiency of a back blade snow plow. An Ebling and Son Category 1 Backblade offers the following safety and performance features:

• 2 hydraulic remotes control
• Breakaway sheer bolt
• 24″ tall moldboard

Back Blade for Pickup Trucks

Pickup trucks are a common sight on winter roads, and the truck mounted back blades such as the Boss Drag Pro can be real game changers for 3/4-ton and 1-ton pickup operators.  The plow mounts to the truck using a fifth-wheel rail system and receiver hitch.

With its adjustable wings and easy attachment system, the Boss Drag Pro enables operators to clear snow quickly and effectively, making it an ideal choice for residential areas, parking lots, and small commercial properties.

The Boss Drag Pro offers safety and performance features that include:

• Hand controls
• Adjustable wings
• Forward & backward plowing capabilities
• 24″ tall moldboard

Back Blade For UTVs and 4WD Vehicles

For UTVs, SUVs & smaller pickups, such as a 1/2-ton to 3/4-ton plow trucks Daniels Pull Plow is an option that fits four-wheel drive vehicles equipped with a 2″ receiver-type hitch.

The Daniels Pull plow offers:

• 2,000 lbs of downward hydraulic pressure
• 19″ tall moldboard

Benefits of Back Blade Snow Plows:

1. Versatility: Back blade snow plows are versatile, adapting to different types of machines, from tractors to pickup trucks and UTVs. This versatility makes them suitable for various applications, from residential driveways to expansive commercial properties.
2. Efficiency: Back blade plows are designed for efficiency, allowing operators to clear snow quickly and effectively. The ability to angle and adjust the blades ensures precise snow removal, minimizing the need for additional passes.
3. Control: These snow plows provide operators with excellent control over the snow removal process. Whether it’s adjusting the blade angle or navigating through tight spaces, back blade plows offer operators the flexibility needed to handle diverse snow removal challenges.
4. Durable Construction: High-quality materials and robust construction ensure that back blade snow plows can withstand the rigors of heavy snow removal. This durability contributes to their longevity and reliability in demanding winter conditions.

Investing in a back blade snow plow tailored to the specific machine and application can significantly enhance winter road maintenance. Whether it’s for Category 2 tractors, Category 1 Tractors, pickup trucks, SUVs or UTVS, these snow plows offer efficient, precise, and reliable solutions for keeping roads and surfaces clear during the winter months. Choose the right back blade snow plow for your needs, and master winter roads with confidence and ease.