Crary-Bearcat (now affiliated with Echo) and MacKissic are the two best contenders for a serious homeowner chipper. Both are good, solid designs, with proven track records in rental and home use.

Hey Rot,

A third option in the Chipper/shredder market is BCS. They sell both stand alone machines and ones that mount to their walking tractors. The biggest advantage they have over others is they are self propelled if you get one to mount on the tractor. Another advantage of BCS is you can get several other attachments like tillers, mowers, and snow blowers to eliminate engines that need to be maintained. They do have a higher initial purchase price. Earthtoolsbcs.com is one of the best sites to see them.

Hey Rot: I have over 14 acreas and have been down the chipper/shredder path many times. IMHO unless you are willing to buy a several thousand dollar tractor mounted unit - don't bother. I learned my lesson(expensively). I have built a large protected area on my property and haul the brush etc. to it for burning. Check your local codes for burn permits and burn day requirements.