Mini-excavator grapple comparison and recommendations for 2026 - we suggest which model to choose!

Choosing the right grapple for a mini-excavator can determine the efficiency of the entire demolition operation, labour costs and operator safety. In 2026, with an industry focused on recycling and precision dismantling, a well-fitted attachment becomes a competitive advantage, not just an attachment for excavators. In this guide, we compare two popular models from Techna Poland's range - the TE-SG2-5 and TE-SG6-9 - and suggest which will work well for light work and which can handle concrete, rebar and heavy rubble. If you're wondering how to choose a grapple that will really enhance your work, this guide will take you step by step.

What are demolition grabs and when is it worth using them?

Demolition grabs are hydraulic toolsadapted for selective demolition, grading and material handling, providing greater precision than a hammer and lower noise during operation.

In recent years, they have become essential equipment for demolition and recycling companies. Unlike hydraulic grapplesfor excavators, grapples don't just destroy the structure - they also allow you to take control of it: tear it off, lift it , move it and put the material back in the right place. As a result:

• the cost of the whole process is reduced,
• work is quicker,
• it is easier to prepare the material for further processing (e.g. crushing),
• the operator works in a much more comfortable environment.

In 2026 - with increasing environmental requirements - the importance of grabs will continue to grow, especially for companies implementing recycling as a service.

Which mini excavator grapple to choose in 2026?

Choosing the right grapple for a mini-excavator depends primarily on the weight of the machine, the type of work to be carried out and the expected force and precision. A company dealing with light demolition of gazebos or pergolas has different needs, while a company working with concrete and rebar for professional recycling has different needs.

If you are mainly working with small mini-excavators , the light weight of the attachment, low-pressure operation and the ability to manoeuvre precisely in tight spaces will be key. Compact grapples that do not strain the hydraulics and allow you to work safely and accurately are best in these conditions.

On the other hand , for larger demolition jobs, handling rubble or working with reinforced concrete, a tool that offers much greater force and a wide jaw opening is needed. Such requirements are met by grapples for e.g. mini excavators of 3.5-7 tonnes, equipped with more powerful hydraulics and a 360° swivel, which significantly increases productivity and control over heavy materials.

Two Techna Poland models meet the needs of two different segments - the TE-SG2-5 demolition grapple for excavators 2-5 t and the TE-SG6-9 demolition grapple for excavators 6 - 9 t.

Comparison of the Techna Poland models - TE-SG2-5 vs TE-SG6-9

The TE-SG2-5 grapple is a lightweight and precise tool, while the TE-SG6-9 model is designed to handle heavy materials and high hydraulic loads. To see the differences more easily, a summary of the key parameters follows:

Grapple for excavator grapple TE-SG2-5

Technical parameters:

• excavator weight (range): 2-5 tonnes,
• attachment weight: 164 kg,
• grab width: 425 mm,
• working pressure: 20-25 bar,
• oil flow: 15-18 l/min,
• price: 14 300 PLN (net).

Demolition Gripper TE-SG6-9

Technical parameters:

• excavator weight (range): 6-9 t,
• weight of attachment: 664 kg,
• grab width: 900 mm,
• maximum jaw opening: 1700 mm,
• working pressure: 40-45 bar,
• oil flow: 15-18 l/min (auxiliary circuit),
• cylinder oil flow: 150-170 l/min,
• cylinder pressure: 320 bar,
• hydraulic rotation: 360°,
• dimensions: height 1350 mm,
• price: 22 981,20 PLN (gross).

For which jobs is the TE-SG2-5 grapple best suited?

This model is best suited wherever precision, low weight and the ability to work in confined areas are important.

It is the ideal tool for companies that:

• perform demolition of small structures (gazebos, pergolas, small farm buildings),
• carry out construction waste separation and pre-sorting,
• work in confined spaces, such as between buildings,
• work inside buildings where large attachments have no chance of fitting in,
• they carry out gardening or cleaning work.

When demolishing an allotment house, the operator can precisely tear off wooden or metal components instead of destroying them in a disorderly manner - which significantly facilitates further recycling and reduces the risk of damage to neighbouring structures.

For which tasks is the TE-SG6-9 picker best suited?

This model is designed for professional companies that work with heavy materials and expect maximum performance.

The most common applications:

• demolition of masonry and reinforced concrete buildings,
• separation of concrete from reinforcing steel,
• loading of large quantities of rubble,
• trans-shipment work in recycling,
• transporting heavy structural elements,
  selective demolition of wall sections without the use of impact material.

Thanks to the 360° turntable, the operator can position the tool precisely without having to move the entire machine - which speeds up work on large construction sites enormously.

Hydraulic parameters - what actually affects performance?

Cylinder pressure and flow make the biggest difference - they determine the real gripping force.

Key comparison

What does this mean in practice?

• The TE-SG6-9 generates many times more force, so it can cope with concrete, thick components and rebar.
• The high flow rate on the cylinder ensures dynamic jaw action and therefore faster work cycles.
• The 360° turntable eliminates wasted time and increases work accuracy.

On small mini excavators (2-3 t), such hydraulics would be impossible to use - so the TE-SG2-5 t model remains ideally suited to machines with limited power.

How to choose a grapple for a mini excavator? A checklist of purchases for 2026

The most important parameters are the weight of the excavator, the hydraulic pressure, the oil flow and the nature of the work to be carried out - these determine the right attachment for your machine.

Before buying, it is worth analysing:

• theweight of the machine, i.e. the actual lifting capacity and stability during operation,
• the flow of the auxiliary circuit, which must be compatible with the requirements of the attachment,
• the required operating pressure, particularly important when working with concrete and heavy parts,
• the accessibility of the turntable, which influences the precision and comfort of manoeuvring,
• the type of materials you will work with most frequently (timber, rubble, concrete, rebar),
• frequency of use, to determine whether you need a compact model or a tool for continuous work,
• budget and ROI, i.e. the real payback time and the profitability of the purchase for your business.

This checklist allows you to quickly assess which model of grapple will best suit your excavator and the range of services planned for 2026. At Techna Poland, you will find parts for excavators that combine the highest quality workmanship with reliability in the most demanding conditions. We offer solutions designed for professionals who need equipment ready to work every day.

FAQ

1. Can a grapple completely replace a hydraulic hammer?

Not in every situation - the grapple will work well for selective demolition and grading, while the hammer is essential for full structural crushing. The two tools are often complementary on a construction site.

2. Does every grapple fit every mini excavator?

No, the attachment must be matched to the weight of the machine, the hydraulic parameters and the type of quick coupling. The right choice guarantees safety and full productivity.

3. Can the TE-SG2-5 grapple handle concrete?

It can handle smaller concrete elements, but is not designed for heavy structures. For working with large concrete, the TE-SG6-9 model is definitely better.

4. Is a 360° turntable necessary?

It is not required, but it greatly increases precision and reduces working time, especially for masonry demolition and grading. On the TE-SG6-9 it is a huge convenience.

5. How often does the gripper need to be serviced?

Basic maintenance is limited to lubrication and checking the condition of the working elements. Regular servicing every few months ensures a long service life for the tool.

6. Are the grippers resistant to working with sharp materials, such as rebar?

The TE-SG6-9 model, made of NM400 steel, is suitable for working with highly abrasive materials. Interchangeable tongs further extend the life of the attachment.

7. Does the purchase of a grapple pay for itself quickly?

In most companies, the return on investment comes after a few days of intensive work due to time savings and increased productivity. The quickest payback is in the recycling industry.

8. Can a mini excavator 2.5 t lift any 2-5 tonne grapple?

Yes, as long as the attachment is within the 2-5 tonne range and does not exceed the hydraulic load limit. This is why it is important to check the weight of the attachment before purchasing.

9. Can the grapple work indoors?

Yes, models with a compact design - such as the TE-SG2-5 - are designed for this. They provide precise work with minimal noise emissions.

10. Does Techna Poland provide assistance with the selection of attachments?

Yes, we offer professional technical advice and selection of a grapple grapple for the specific excavator model and the type of work to be performed. This way you are assured that the tool you choose will perform optimally from day one.

Read also:

• How hydraulic grapples work - construction and principle of operation
• Demolition and grapples - applications in demolition and recycling
• How to choose a demolition grapple?
• Maintenance of hydraulic grapples - what to do to avoid losing power?
• The role of grapples in the recycling and material selection process
• Grapples for mini excavators - precise work in tight spaces
• Buying or renting hydraulic grapples for excavators?