Spearhead 460 rotary topper: More to machine than model number

We have been here before, having previously taken a look at buying a pre-owned Spearhead 450-6S, 450-9S and the successor Multicut 460 back in 2007 (profi6/2007). More recently we covered Alamo Group family member, the McConnel SR15-6 ‘flex-wing’ models (profi7/2019). Why the need for this this apparent duplication? First, the Multicut 460 is the strongest selling ‘topper’ of its type in the UK and Europe and secondly its shared parentage does not mean it is only its colour that separates it from its McConnel, Twose and Bomford topper siblings. And finally, the Spearhead Multicut 460 has evolved since we last took a look at the original 460 models.

Although not specifically covered here, the wider 6.20m Spearhead Multicut 620 has become increasingly popular model in the UK, and now outsells the Multicut 460 on the continent. At present, pre-owned 620 models are thinner on the used buying ground than the 460, but with a bit of legwork you may find one. As the 620 models share pretty much the same used buying checks, much of what is outlined here can be applied to these models and the even wider Multicut 820.

Subtle change and model naming

Spearhead adopted three-blades per rotor as standard for what became its 450-9S from around 1996. The three-blade rotors delivered improved mulch performance in stubble, reflected by adding Multicut to the 460 model name in 2001. Compare the actual work done by 450-9s and a Multicut 460 and the chances are you would spot little difference.

However, developments made by Spearhead mean a Multicut 460 is more robust than the 450-9S, but those seeking improved stubble mulching should also consider Multicut 460 toppers fitted with the StarCut six-blade rotor system. Offered as an option from 2007, the StarCut name was possibly confusingly pinched briefly for the 12.10m working width StarCut 1210 (see