About Gradeblade
GRADEBLADE builds quick-attach grading and cleanout blades for toothed backhoe and excavator buckets. The idea is simple: keep the digging bucket on the machine, then add a straight smoothing edge when the job calls for a clean trench bottom, finish grading or site cleanup.
Gradeblade was invented and patented in 1998 by Bill Hall, a 30-year veteran excavator operator who wanted a faster way to finish work with the same bucket used for digging. Bill retired in 2023. His original demonstration video below explains the concept and shows the attachment in use.
The Gradeblade line is now manufactured and sold by Epic Grade LLC dba GRADEBLADE. The product line continues in two basic forms: bucket-width Crumbing Blades for trench bottoms and controlled grading, and wider Squeegee Blades for finish grading and cleanup.
The purpose of Gradeblade is to help contractors finish excavation work with fewer bucket changes and less hand cleanup. Each blade uses a chain binder and a weld-on hook on the back of the bucket; after that initial weld, the attachment can be installed or removed quickly. Gradeblades are made in the USA.
What, where?
Gradeblades are manufactured in Oregon. All basic models are shipped from Oregon via UPS or FedEx Ground. Larger Squeegee Blades (6′, 8′ 10′) are built-to-order in +/- 30 days, and ship by LTL Freight.