Mini Trenchers

Handheld Mini Trencher or Trencher Attachment?

Both styles dig the same narrow trench with a chain that runs on a digging bar. The difference is where the power comes from.

• Handheld mini trencher (GeoRipper 16, 20 and 27): a complete tool with the engine included. It runs on a GeoRipper 74cc 2-stroke, belt-driven engine rated at 4.7 HP, with spring-loaded vibration control and vortex air filtration. Choose this if you don't own a compatible power cutter or want a machine used only for trenching.
• Trencher attachment (GeoRipper T/A): the engine is not included. It bolts on and off at your power cutter's existing connection points, so the saw your crew already runs can also work as a handheld trencher. Choose this if you already own one of the supported Stihl, Husqvarna, Echo or Milwaukee cutters.

Digging Depth and Trench Width by Model

Start with the deepest line you need to bury, then pick a bar that reaches it. Every model here cuts a trench about 2" (50 mm) wide. That keeps the cut narrow and leaves less soil to backfill. Your local codes and the utility or system manufacturer decide how deep a line has to be buried, so check those rules before you choose a depth.

Matching a Trencher Attachment to Your Power Cutter

Fit depends on the exact cutter model, so check the model plate on your saw before you order. Watch the deepest bars in particular. The S700 fits only the Stihl TS500i, not the TS420, and the H700 fits only the Husqvarna K970 Type III, not the K770. The Milwaukee attachments are made for the battery-powered MX314 and come in 16" and 20" depths. These attachments are built for the power cutters listed above, not for chainsaws. If your saw isn't listed, the self-contained handheld GeoRipper is the simpler choice.

Roots, Rocks and Soil Conditions

The digging chains use self-sharpening teeth that cut tree roots up to 3" below grade, and the machines remove rocks up to 4". The attachment listings say this applies in most soils. Ground still varies a lot from yard to yard. Compacted fill, heavy clay and dense, rocky ground all trench differently from loose loam, so walk the route first and probe any spots that look hard. Before you dig, contact your local utility-locating service, flag sprinkler heads and existing lines, and plan the route around tree trunks and hardscape.

The EZ Kart: With or Without?

Every model comes with or without the EZ Kart walk-behind dolly. If you searched for a walk behind trencher, note that these are handheld tools. The EZ Kart is a dolly you guide the tool with as you walk the trench line. It's worth adding if you trench long runs, such as perimeter irrigation or landscape lighting loops. The version without it suits crews that already own an EZ Kart or mostly cut short runs. Check the SKU on the product page: for example, GR727 includes the kart and GR727-NOEZ does not.

Operating and Care Basics

Read the manufacturer's manual before the first cut, and follow its instructions along with your site's safety program. The handheld models list a noise level of 116 dB, so wear the hearing, eye and other protective gear the manufacturer calls for. The attachments include a safety bar and a dirt deflection system. Leave them installed and working.

• Clean soil off the bar, chain and nose sprocket after each job.
• Check chain tension and tooth wear before every use. The handheld models come with two digging chains, so you can swap in a fresh one.
• Keep the air filter clean, and mix fuel for the two-stroke engine exactly as the engine maker specifies.
• Store the tool dry, with the bar and chain protected.

Related Equipment for Underground Work

Browse the full MiniTrencher brand page. When a line has to pass under a driveway, sidewalk or patio instead of through the lawn, look at our horizontal boring machines. For wider or deeper excavation, see our construction equipment, along with mini excavator attachments such as mini excavator buckets and mini skid steer attachments for moving backfill and site cleanup.