To cater for those with smaller tractors or an interest in moving less soil, Cousins of Emneth has launched the Switchblade.

This uses the same chassis as the heavier-duty Patriot, but cuts weight and power requirement by running less aggressive and lighter soil-engaging elements.

See also: Versatile Guttler cultivator-cum-drill works for Suffolk farm

© James Andrews

The front of the implement is home to five low-disturbance legs with 15mm points and 100mm wings. These will work at depths of up to 300mm and have tungsten tiles bonded to the point, wing tips and lower shin to help them cover more acres.

Next in line are two rows of staggered, wavy discs that are designed to cut through crop residues and work the soil without inverting it.

Each of these is individually attached using rubber torsion bars, though the depth of the whole gang can be adjusted hydraulically on the move.

The final tool is an open channel roller that’s designed to consolidate the surface in a less aggressive fashion than a ring roller.

The 3m Switchblade weighs about half a tonne less than the Patriot and can be pulled by a 150hp tractor. On farm price is £17,920.

A smaller 2.4m, four-leg version is also available for those with smaller tractors or acreages.