The WoodMaxx MX-8600 and Woodland Mills WC68 are both 6-inch PTO wood chippers aimed at tractor owners who need significantly more capability than a small residential chipper.
The biggest differences are their PTO requirements, feed-system design and machine weight. For a lower-PTO-horsepower compact tractor, the MX-8600's 15 PTO HP minimum is notable. For buyers operating within a 20–50 PTO HP range and wanting Woodland Mills' self-contained hydraulic feed system, the WC68 takes a different approach.
In This Guide
MX-8600 vs WC68 Specifications
| Specification | WoodMaxx MX-8600 | Woodland Mills WC68 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum capacity | Up to 6 in. | Up to 6 in. |
| PTO requirement | 15+ PTO HP | 20–50 PTO HP |
| Feed system | Hydrostatic powered infeed | Self-contained hydraulic infeed |
| Infeed opening | 8 x 6 in. | 6 x 8 in. |
| Knives | 4 reversible | 4 |
| Approx. machine weight | About 550 lb | Heavier than MX-8600; confirm current manufacturer specification |
| Manufacturing claim | Made in USA | Confirm current manufacturer details |
Capacity: Similar on Paper
Both machines are designed around a maximum 6-inch opening, but horsepower and wood type matter. Do not choose between these machines based on “6-inch capacity” alone.
Feed System
MX-8600: Hydrostatic Feed
The MX-8600 uses WoodMaxx's powered hydrostatic infeed system, giving the operator control over how quickly material enters the chipper.
WC68: Hydraulic Feed
The WC68 uses a self-contained hydraulic system to power its infeed roller. Both are powered-feed machines, but the engineering approach differs.
Tractor Compatibility
This may be the deciding factor.
MX-8600: WoodMaxx publishes a 15 PTO HP minimum and Category 1/2 three-point compatibility.
WC68: Woodland Mills publishes a 20–50 PTO HP range.
If you own a lower-power compact tractor, that difference deserves close attention.
Weight and Tractor Lift Capacity
The MX-8600 is listed at approximately 550 lb. The WC68 is a heavier attachment. Tractor three-point lift capacity therefore matters alongside PTO horsepower.
Do not evaluate horsepower without also confirming that the tractor can safely handle the attachment's weight.
Which Is Better for Compact Tractors?
The MX-8600 deserves particular consideration when PTO output is closer to the lower end, attachment weight matters, you want hydrostatic variable feed, or Made-in-USA manufacturing matters to your purchase decision.
Which Is Better for Buyers Wanting Conventional Hydraulic Feed?
The WC68 deserves consideration when your tractor falls comfortably in the 20–50 PTO HP range, you want a self-contained hydraulic feed system, and your tractor can comfortably handle the attachment.
Which One Has Better Capacity?
Neither has a clear advantage based only on advertised maximum diameter. Both are rated to 6 inches.
The more useful question is: which machine better matches your tractor and the material you process most often?
ATE Selection Summary
Consider the MX-8600 if:
- Your tractor has at least 15 PTO HP.
- Lower attachment weight is important.
- You value powered hydrostatic feed.
- You want a USA-made chipper.
- Your tractor supports the required hitch configuration.
Consider the WC68 if:
- Your tractor has 20–50 PTO HP.
- You want a self-contained hydraulic feed system.
- Your tractor can comfortably handle the heavier attachment.
- You expect enough tractor power for the material you process.
Before You Buy Either Machine
- Confirm tractor PTO horsepower.
- Confirm three-point hitch compatibility.
- Confirm tractor lift capacity.
- Confirm PTO shaft setup.
- Measure typical wood diameter.
- Consider hardwood versus softwood.
- Estimate work volume.
- Review storage dimensions and maintenance requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which requires less PTO horsepower?
The MX-8600 lists a 15 PTO HP minimum, while the WC68 specifies a 20–50 PTO HP range.
Are both powered feed?
Yes, but they use different systems. The WC68 uses a self-contained hydraulic infeed system, while the MX-8600 uses WoodMaxx's hydrostatic powered-feed design.
Can both chip 6-inch wood?
Both are rated up to 6 inches, subject to manufacturer operating limits, available PTO power, wood species and material condition.
Which should I buy?
Choose primarily based on your tractor's PTO output, lifting capacity and workload—not just the 6-inch rating.
Compare the Products
- WoodMaxx MX-8600 6-Inch PTO Wood Chipper
- Woodland Mills WC68 6-Inch PTO Wood Chipper
- Browse all PTO Wood Chippers