When it comes to excavation and earthmoving, the Soil Bucket is one of the most essential attachments for backhoes and excavators. Whether you’re working on a construction site, landscaping project, or large-scale earthworks, choosing the right soil bucket can make a big difference in efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
One of the most common questions contractors face is: Should I go with a Soil Bucket with side-cutters or one without? Both options have unique advantages depending on the type of project, ground conditions, and budget. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between side-cutter and no side-cutter soil buckets so you can make the right choice.
A Soil Bucket is a type of excavator bucket designed for digging and loading soft to medium-density soils such as clay, sand, topsoil, and loose aggregates. It usually comes with a standard set of teeth to penetrate soil and scoop it efficiently. The bucket’s design focuses on volume capacity and versatility, making it the go-to choice for everyday excavation and trenching tasks.
Side-cutters are additional cutting edges or reinforced plates fixed on the sides of a soil bucket. They are designed to:
Increase digging width – allowing you to scoop slightly more material with each pass.
Reduce wear on the bucket shell – since side-cutters take the brunt of abrasion.
Enhance penetration in tougher soils – helping the bucket cut through compacted ground more easily.
While side-cutters add durability and efficiency, they also come with trade-offs that are important to consider.
Increased Productivity
Side-cutters slightly widen the bucket, enabling it to capture more material per load. For large excavation jobs, this can translate into fewer passes and improved overall efficiency.
Better Protection
The bucket’s sidewalls endure less wear and tear because the side-cutters absorb most of the friction against the soil. This extends the lifespan of the soil bucket.
Improved Penetration
In clay, compacted soil, or semi-hard ground, side-cutters help the bucket slice through more effectively. This reduces stress on the excavator arm and boosts digging performance.
Cost-Effective Over Time
Although buckets with side-cutters may have a higher initial price, the reduced maintenance and longer lifespan often make them more economical in the long run.
Higher Cost
Buckets with side-cutters typically cost more than standard versions.
Extra Weight
The added metal increases the bucket’s weight, which might reduce fuel efficiency slightly and affect cycle times.
Less Precision
The extended width can make it harder to dig narrow trenches or perform highly precise excavation work.
Lower Initial Investment
Buckets without side-cutters are generally more affordable, making them attractive for small-scale projects or budget-conscious contractors.
Lightweight & Easier to Handle
A lighter bucket means less strain on the excavator and slightly improved fuel efficiency. This can be beneficial for long working hours.
Better for Precision Work
Narrow trenching, landscaping, or projects requiring accuracy benefit from the cleaner lines of a soil bucket without side-cutters.
Faster Wear & Tear
The side walls of the bucket are more exposed to abrasion, which can shorten the bucket’s life if used in abrasive soils.
Lower Productivity
Without the extra cutting edge, digging through compact or tough soil may take more effort and time.
Frequent Maintenance
Over time, the sides of the bucket may require welding or reinforcement to prevent structural damage.
When choosing between a soil bucket with or without side-cutters, consider these factors:
Type of Soil: For hard or compact soils, a side-cutter soil bucket is more efficient. For loose soil, sand, or light trenching, a no side-cutter option may be sufficient.
Project Size: Large excavation projects benefit from the added productivity of side-cutters, while smaller jobs may not justify the extra cost.
Budget & Lifecycle Costs: If you want a long-term investment with less maintenance, choose side-cutters. If you need a short-term or budget-friendly solution, go without.
Precision Needs: If your work requires narrow cuts or accurate trenching, a no side-cutter bucket will be easier to manage.
The right Soil Bucket depends on your project requirements, soil conditions, and budget. A bucket with side-cutters offers greater productivity, durability, and efficiency in challenging soils, making it a smart choice for heavy-duty or long-term use. On the other hand, a soil bucket without side-cutters is cost-effective, lightweight, and more suitable for precise excavation tasks.
By carefully evaluating your workload and priorities, you can choose the soil bucket that maximizes performance while minimizing costs—ensuring that every dig counts.
TEAM Excavator & Dozer Parts is one of the largest manufacturers of heavy construction, mining and earth moving equipment parts, such as Excavators & Bulldozers, in Southern India.