How Much Does a Snow Plow Weigh? (Full Guide)

As winter approaches, many of us are curious about the heavy machinery that keeps our roads safe and clear. One common question that comes to mind is, “How much does a snow plow weigh?” Understanding the weight and size of these machines can help us appreciate their work during cold, snowy months.

Snow plows come in all shapes and sizes, with different weights to match. From small, residential plows to massive, commercial-grade machines, it’s essential to consider the specific type of plow when discussing their weight.

Let’s dive into the various factors that contribute to the weight of a snow plow and examine the different types of plows available.

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Residential snow plows usually weigh between 200 – 700 lbs. Commercial snow plows weigh around 500 – 1,500 lbs while heavy-duty snow plows weigh around 1,000 – 3,000 lbs.

Basic Snow Plow Specifications

As someone curious about snow plows, I thought it would be interesting to learn about their basic specifications. In this section, I will focus on the size and dimensions of snow plows. Keep in mind that different snow plow models may vary in their specifications.

Size and Dimensions

For the average residential snow plow, I discovered that their widths can range from 6.5 to 9 feet, making them ideal for clearing driveways and sidewalks.

On the other hand, commercial snow plows, primarily used for parking lots and larger areas, have widths between 8 and 12 feet. Some heavy-duty models can even reach up to 18 feet in width!

In terms of height, most snow plows you’ll come across range from as low as 24 inches to as high as 36 inches. The height is important because it determines how much snow the plow can push at any given time. Naturally, taller plows can handle more snow.

Now, talking about the weight of a snow plow, it’s important to note that it depends on the material and size of the plow. Here are some approximate weight ranges based on the type of snow plow:

• Residential snow plows: 200 – 700 lbs
• Commercial snow plows: 500 – 1,500 lbs
• Heavy-duty snow plows: 1,000 – 3,000 lbs

In any case, consult the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact weight of the snow plow you’re considering, as these can vary from one model to another.

Consider your vehicle’s size and weight limitations when choosing a snow plow. Make sure your vehicle can safely handle the additional weight and dimensions, as this will avoid any potential damage to your vehicle or reduced performance when operating the snow plow.

Weight Variations

By Brand

As someone who enjoys writing about snow plows (I know, it’s a unique hobby), I’ve noticed that there can be quite a significant difference in weight among various snow plow brands.

For example, some well-known brands, such as Western or Fisher, often have snow plow models weighing 500-800 pounds. Other brands, like Meyer or Boss, may feature snow plows ranging from 700 to over 1000 pounds.

• Western snow plows: 500-800 pounds
• Fisher snow plows: 500-800 pounds
• Meyer snow plows: 700-1000 pounds
• Boss snow plows: 700-1000+, pounds

By Model

Moving past the brand discussion, the real determinant of a snow plow’s weight is the model. Snow plow models differ in size, design, materials used, and features, leading to variations in their weight.

For instance, a compact snow plow designed for a small truck or an ATV will weigh significantly less than a heavy-duty plow meant for commercial vehicles.

Let me give you a quick overview of some popular models and their approximate weights:

• Western Prodigy: 810 pounds
• Fisher XV2: 840 pounds
• Meyer Super-V2: 920 pounds
• Boss VXT: 930 pounds

Again, these weights are approximate and may change based on specific configuration or additional features.

Factors Affecting Weight

Accessory Attachments

I’ve discovered several accessory attachments available for snow plows, which can greatly impact their overall weight. Some of the most common accessories include:

• Wings (also called winglets or wing extensions): These are installed on the sides of the plow blade, and I found that they can increase the weight by 50 to 100 pounds, depending on size and material.
• Deflectors: A deflector is a curved or flat piece that mounts on top of the plow to help redirect snow away from the windshield. They don’t add too much weight, maybe around 15 to 30 pounds.
• Cutting edges: Cutting edges are replaceable parts at the base of the plow blade used to scrape the snow and ice off the pavement. They can vary in weight depending on the material used, such as steel, polyurethane, or rubber. Steel-cutting edges can add around 80 to 150 pounds to the weight of a plow.

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Plow Type

The type of plow can make a big difference in its weight. I looked into three common types of snow plows:

• Straight plows: As the simplest design, straight plows generally weigh less than other types. They feature a single, straight blade that adjusts vertically to remove snow from the surface. I found that straight plows can weigh anywhere from 250 to 600 pounds, depending on size and material.
• V-plows: V-plows have a more complex design, utilizing a double-blade system that can be adjusted into different positions. As a result, V-plows tend to be heavier than straight plows, usually weighing between 600 and 900 pounds.
• Box (containment) plows: With their box-shaped design, box plows are specifically designed for handling larger amounts of snow and can effectively contain snow while in use. They are significantly heavier due to the additional material used for the box design, typically weighing around 1,000 to 1,500 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions