An apparatus for handling and breaking large-sized hay, feed and straw bales (1), such as ones weighing more than 100 kilograms, wherein the bales (1) are transferrable and controllably breakable by means of the apparatus utilising a work machine, such as a tractor or a telescopic handler, when said apparatus includes attachment parts (3) for attaching to loader connections of said work machines and connections for taking driving power for said apparatus from the power outlets of said work machines. The apparatus contains bale grippers (2), which are adjustable of their opening, for gripping and transporting the bale and for lowering the bale (1) on top of rotatable breaker knives (9), said breaker knives (9) being installed into a knife housing (7) included in the apparatus for performing the breaking of the bale (1) from its lower surface.