Close

There's been some chatter in the HDD world about the Vermeer D24, specifically, that its automatic rod loading system might not be the fastest on the market. On paper, that may be true. But as any seasoned contractor knows, drilling performance isn't won or lost in a single cycle time metric. It's determined by how efficiently the entire system operates over the course of a job and over the life of the drill. The D24's automated rod handling is designed with consistency, control, and reduced operator fatigue in mind, factors that don't always show up on a stopwatch but absolutely show up in your bottom line.

In real-world conditions, smooth and reliable operation often outperforms raw speed. A slightly longer rod cycle that minimizes misfeeds, reduces wear, and keeps the operator focused on bore quality instead of fighting the machine can translate into fewer delays and better overall productivity. In other words, while someone else might be winning the race to load the next rod, the D24 is quietly winning the job by keeping everything else running exactly as it should. To that, add reduced wear and tear on the machine, and you're seeing lower cost of ownership for the machine with fewer breakdowns.

So yes, if you're going to time your rod changes with a stopwatch, you might find something faster. But if you're measuring success the way it actually matters, by clean bores, consistent performance, and fewer headaches, the D24 makes a strong case that speed isn't everything.

Sometimes, it's about getting it right the first time… and not having to do it again.