This post explores the most useful excavator attachments and the jobs they’re designed for. From augers to breakers, you’ll get a breakdown of how each tool expands the functionality of a standard excavator. Whether you're digging, lifting, or demolishing, these add-ons can speed up your work and reduce manual labor.
Excavators are built to dig — but with the right attachment, they can do a whole lot more.
Contractors often overlook how versatile these machines can be. Whether you’re breaking concrete, drilling post holes, or lifting debris, pairing your excavator with the right tool turns it into a multifunctional jobsite workhorse.
Here are the 7 most valuable excavator attachments, how they’re used, and when to rent them.
1. Auger Attachment
Best For:
- Drilling holes for fence posts, footings, trees, piers
- Soil sampling or utility pole installation
Why It Matters:
Augers make quick work of deep, straight holes with consistent diameters. They’re available in different bit widths and can even handle tough soil with rock-point options.
Pro Tip: For tight-access sites, match your auger with a Bobcat E20 or E35 for better reach and control.
Learn more about Bobcat auger options.
2. Hydraulic Breaker (Hammer)
Best For:
- Breaking up concrete slabs, sidewalks, asphalt, or rock
- Prepping ground for new construction
Why It Matters:
These deliver high-impact energy directly through a chisel or blunt tool. They're essential for demolition work and are far more efficient than handheld jackhammers.
Attachable To: Most compact and mid-size excavators, like the Bobcat E35 or larger.
OSHA’s demolition safety guide outlines safe use practices.
3. Grading Bucket
Best For:
- Finishing and smoothing surfaces
- Moving large volumes of soft material (gravel, topsoil)
Why It Matters:
These buckets are wider and flatter than digging buckets, making them ideal for cleanup and final-grade work. Often used in landscaping, road work, or prepping for concrete pours.
4. Trenching Bucket
Best For:
- Creating narrow, deep trenches for utilities or foundations
- Minimizing backfill
Why It Matters:
Designed specifically for deep, narrow cuts, trenching buckets reduce the amount of excavation and refill required. Perfect for residential or commercial utility work.
For detailed trenching tips, check our blog on what trenching is and which machines fit best.
5. Hydraulic Thumb
Best For:
- Picking up, gripping, and placing uneven materials
- Handling logs, rocks, concrete chunks, or scrap
Why It Matters:
A hydraulic thumb works like a clamp — allowing the excavator to securely grab items. Essential for demo, land clearing, or material sorting.
Fits Well With: Bobcat E35 or larger units equipped with auxiliary hydraulics.
6. Plate Compactor
Best For:
- Compacting soil, gravel, or trench backfill
- Preparing pads or walkways for concrete, stone, or asphalt
Why It Matters:
Instead of renting a separate compactor, you can mount this directly to your excavator and compact while staying in the cab. Saves time and boosts efficiency.
7. Tiltrotator or Tilt Bucket
Best For:
- Grading and shaping at multiple angles
- Working on slopes or curved surfaces
Why It Matters:
A tilt bucket allows lateral tilt motion (usually up to 45 degrees), giving operators better control over shape and angle. It's a major productivity boost in detailed grading or site contouring work.
Why Attachments Matter on the Jobsite
Attachments reduce:
- Manual labor
- Job time
- Equipment switching
And increase:
- Versatility
- Precision
- Return on rental investment
By choosing the right excavator size and pairing it with the proper attachments, you can tackle multiple tasks in a single day — with one machine.
Browse available machines like the Bobcat E10 for tight-access work or the Bobcat E35 for deeper excavation and heavier lifting. Full machine specs are listed under our excavator rental page.
Need the Right Attachment for Your Excavator Rental?
We offer a wide selection of excavator attachments — including augers, breakers, grading buckets, and more — with fast delivery and expert help.
Check availability here or contact us now to find the right setup for your job.
