What’s your ideal hunting truck?

[Idaboy]

I’m looking at selling my 4Runner (gets roughly 12mpg) and buying a new truck to use daily, but also as a hunting rig. I’m a Ford guy, but open to other brands. I know I want a 6’ bed, 4x4.. but do I go 1/2 ton? 3/4 ton? Diesel/gas? I apply in every western state, so this truck will rack up a LOT of miles. What do you all suggest?
Also, do you guys prefer drawer systems, camper shell, etc? I won’t be towing much in the near future, but those 6.7 Powerstroke F250’s are tempting.
Currently deciding between:
1. Keeping my 2020 4Runner (it’s regeared, on 34’s, winch, Gobi rack, etc).
2. Buying new F150 Powerboost, getting camper shell and decked drawer system.
3. Buying new F250 Powerstroke, getting camper shell and decked drawer system.

Are you towing/hauling trailer/5th wheel or just your gear. Definitely have not looked back since I made switch from 4Runner to screwcab with full sized bed

 

[mb6355]

Unless you are somewhat local to where you are hunting there is no way I would get a newer diesel, Last archery season, the 2021 F-250 we took had the high pressure fuel pump go in an area about 20 miles from cell coverage in northern Colorado. Closest Ford dealers were Laramie and Steamboat. Laramie dealer would not answer phone or return calls. Ended up having it towed to Steamboat and they were able to basically read the codes two days later (only one diesel tech) and turned into a total goat rope even though truck was under full warranty. Basically Ford is trying to blame these failures on fuel and will not warranty until they have the fuel tested. So the dealer wanted almost a $1000 up front just to confirm the diagnosis in case Ford finds a way to weasel out of covering the repairs. Also, the dealer estimate on repairing it was 4-5 weeks minimum.

We ended up towing it back 1800 miles to have it repaired locally. Still took 4 weeks since the entire fuel system has to be cleaned out and several parts replaced since the pump basically grenades when it fails and sends metal shavings throughout the fuel system. Total was about $12k and Ford did end up covering it but we lost about 4-5 days out of hunt and probably $5-6K in rentals, hotels, and tows.

I haven't confirmed this but have heard this same fuel pump is also used by GM and Dodge for the same years so you may want to check that if you are considering one. There are a few youtube videos out there with owners reporting this same issue.

 

[TheHammer]

Unless you are somewhat local to where you are hunting there is no way I would get a newer diesel, Last archery season, the 2021 F-250 we took had the high pressure fuel pump go in an area about 20 miles from cell coverage in northern Colorado. Closest Ford dealers were Laramie and Steamboat. Laramie dealer would not answer phone or return calls. Ended up having it towed to Steamboat and they were able to basically read the codes two days later (only one diesel tech) and turned into a total goat rope even though truck was under full warranty. Basically Ford is trying to blame these failures on fuel and will not warranty until they have the fuel tested. So the dealer wanted almost a $1000 up front just to confirm the diagnosis in case Ford finds a way to weasel out of covering the repairs. Also, the dealer estimate on repairing it was 4-5 weeks minimum.

We ended up towing it back 1800 miles to have it repaired locally. Still took 4 weeks since the entire fuel system has to be cleaned out and several parts replaced since the pump basically grenades when it fails and sends metal shavings throughout the fuel system. Total was about $12k and Ford did end up covering it but we lost about 4-5 days out of hunt and probably $5-6K in rentals, hotels, and tows.

I haven't confirmed this but have heard this same fuel pump is also used by GM and Dodge for the same years so you may want to check that if you are considering one. There are a few youtube videos out there with owners reporting this same issue.

This is not very common but it does happen. Typically a fuel sample is pulled. The fuel sold at pumps is sub par most of it barely meets minimum standards. It is wise to add fuel treatments frequently especially on long hauls. I had some bad luck on a customers rig and on a personal vehicle myself… which lead me down the rabbit hole of fuel quality and additive saturation variables based on fuel quality and then eventually making my own fuel additive. So I’m in this scenario over 27g. It’s a very unfortunate reality some people have to face.

 

[Ludo]

Are you towing/hauling trailer/5th wheel or just your gear. Definitely have not looked back since I made switch from 4Runner to screwcab with full sized bed

Unless you are somewhat local to where you are hunting there is no way I would get a newer diesel, Last archery season, the 2021 F-250 we took had the high pressure fuel pump go in an area about 20 miles from cell coverage in northern Colorado. Closest Ford dealers were Laramie and Steamboat. Laramie dealer would not answer phone or return calls. Ended up having it towed to Steamboat and they were able to basically read the codes two days later (only one diesel tech) and turned into a total goat rope even though truck was under full warranty. Basically Ford is trying to blame these failures on fuel and will not warranty until they have the fuel tested. So the dealer wanted almost a $1000 up front just to confirm the diagnosis in case Ford finds a way to weasel out of covering the repairs. Also, the dealer estimate on repairing it was 4-5 weeks minimum.

We ended up towing it back 1800 miles to have it repaired locally. Still took 4 weeks since the entire fuel system has to be cleaned out and several parts replaced since the pump basically grenades when it fails and sends metal shavings throughout the fuel system. Total was about $12k and Ford did end up covering it but we lost about 4-5 days out of hunt and probably $5-6K in rentals, hotels, and tows.

I haven't confirmed this but have heard this same fuel pump is also used by GM and Dodge for the same years so you may want to check that if you are considering one. There are a few youtube videos out there with owners reporting this same issue.

Oh yeah, I’ve heard about the CP4 Bosch pump. Not sure why they’re still using it if it’s a known issue.

 

[FLATHEAD]

I'll never own another diesel.

 

[Steve300xcw]

I dont travel very far. This thing has been about perfect for me. Single cab, 2.7 5spd. Has 33's on it now, will be going back to 32-11.50's next time. They are just a tad to big and I have zero desire to lift the thing more than it is.

 

[bowhuntercoop]

This is not very common but it does happen. Typically a fuel sample is pulled. The fuel sold at pumps is sub par most of it barely meets minimum standards. It is wise to add fuel treatments frequently especially on long hauls. I had some bad luck on a customers rig and on a personal vehicle myself… which lead me down the rabbit hole of fuel quality and additive saturation variables based on fuel quality and then eventually making my own fuel additive. So I’m in this scenario over 27g. It’s a very unfortunate reality some people have to face.

Actually super common with the cp4. Lucky Cummins switched back to the cp3 but I know of over a dozen locals and guys I work with that have had a cp4 grenade on their 6.7 powerstrokes. Cost has been 12-15k for full repair.

 

[displacedtexan]

As mentioned, if you don’t tow heavy frequently, don’t get a diesel. It’s not worth it. How heavy will you haul/tow? F250 with the 7.3 gas is a beast. Will tow alot and have power to spare. It doesn’t get good mileage though. If you go the F150 route, gat the 5.0 V8. Anything with a turbo will eventually give you problems.

I've put 300k very abusive miles on a turbo with no issues.

 

[actionshooter]

Everybody has different needs, but I just built my "hunting truck" the end of last year.

I bought this 2012 F150 new and basically wore it out as a work truck... went looking for a new truck and refused to pay $80K for a crew cab diesel.. decided I didn't need deisel.

I had this one rebuilt from the ground up... New EVERYTHING, from the engine to the last bearing and belt... 100% new drive train, added a bumper, 12k winch, decked box, inverter, lights, ...

Tows well enough for what I need.. super happy with it and only have $26K into the rebuild.... way better than a new truck.

 

[Loo.wii]

I’m looking at selling my 4Runner (gets roughly 12mpg) and buying a new truck to use daily, but also as a hunting rig. I’m a Ford guy, but open to other brands. I know I want a 6’ bed, 4x4.. but do I go 1/2 ton? 3/4 ton? Diesel/gas? I apply in every western state, so this truck will rack up a LOT of miles. What do you all suggest?
Also, do you guys prefer drawer systems, camper shell, etc? I won’t be towing much in the near future, but those 6.7 Powerstroke F250’s are tempting.
Currently deciding between:
1. Keeping my 2020 4Runner (it’s regeared, on 34’s, winch, Gobi rack, etc).
2. Buying new F150 Powerboost, getting camper shell and decked drawer system.
3. Buying new F250 Powerstroke, getting camper shell and decked drawer system.

Taco

 

[Bluumoon]

Ideal truck I drive and don’t think about. Pretty much narrows it down to a Toyota. Configuration from there may vary.

 

[tourproto]

My cousin is a huge believer in 4Runners, he has 2 of them and they are just getting broken in at 400K miles

I just started using my new Ford Bronco Badlands 4 door for hunting and it has been awesome. With the front and rear lockers and 33" KO2s, it went everywhere I needed it to go last year without a problem and with the split back seats, I was able to sleep in it as well.

Gas mileage isn't great (15-17mpg) but it is what it is.

 

[2-Stix]

I have only ran toyotas the last 25 years and that will not stop anytime soon. Put a shell on it and hunt.

 

[Thinkingman]

Just curious, why the 34’s on the 4Runner? I’ve got a 21 4Runner and for me it’s pretty much the ideal hunting rig. I hunt by myself, so being able to easily sleep in my rig is a must. A factory non lifted 4Runner with BFG’s or other good all terrain tire, will get me anywhere I need to go off road in pursuit of game, with OK gas mileage. It’s reliable so I’m not worried about it breaking down somewhere outside of Yaak, Montana lol.
If I had a pickup truck, I’d 100% get one of those clamshell campers like the Gofast Camper or AT Overland. You have standing room to get dressed in the mornings, a comfy bed and plenty of storage and it all stows away in just a few seconds. That would be hard to beat for the traveling hunter like me!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

You asked why 34s on the 4rnr?
It's for 'the look'.
OP, you would be well-served by a 6.5' bed 1/2 ton with a canopy.
And better mileage than your Toyota.
I have a 2015 F150 and mounted a bed rack platform in the back.
Yellow bins and cooler fit under, sleeping pad and sleeping bags on the plaform.
Safe, (relatively) secure, no weather concerns.
BTW, I had my first part failure on the 3.5 Ecoboost at 144k miles....Boost pressure regulator.
I noticed a lack of power, especially mountain passes at freeway speeds.
I got a CEL, underboost code, and for $50 and an hour of fiddly work, the boost is back.
I averaged 18.6 mpg in a 6000lb car going over the pass and back yesterday.
No downshifting and smooth, easy power.
I'll post a separate thread on that later.

 

[akcabin]

I built this buggy for cruising the tioga areas near our cabin. And a freight truck from the lake to the cabin. It's base is a 1955 to 59 range GMC pickup. 4x4 Norco axles. Fired it up yesterday and took the grandkids for a ride after a few years. Purrs. Drop it in granny n crawl along. 270 engine with no serial number stamped into the block. Kinda unique as it was a factory replacement engine. Cost me fitty bucks and a box of beer. I'm a old iron guy when it comes to being in the bush. File the points n go

 

[Braaap]

I wouldn’t go supercrew with 6 ft bed. I’m going to sell my ‘21 f150 screw 6.5 bed because it’s too long and too low. A lift wouldn’t fix it. My 2005 tundra double cab is a great hunting rig and the perfect size imo. Cab is big enough for adults in the backseat and bed is around 76” so at 6’1” I can sleep in the bed.

A f150 screw with 5.5 bed is barely longer than my tundra overall so I might try a gen 1 raptor.

I think it depends on the number of people going hunting with you. If you’re solo or have just one passenger a Tacoma with 6ft bed would be pretty nice. Or a newer tundra.

 

[Str8shooter]

So where you hunt is a major factor. Id love a longbed lifted 350 with cap or camper top and all the fixings but hunting in central CO, most USFS roads are single track and they are called jeep roads for a good reason. F150+ sized vehicles can have a hell of time attempting to turn around, back up or even going forward up switchbacks or letting other vehicles through. This applies to much of Wyoming and Idaho as well. Its not about approach angle, lift or lockers as much as length and turning radius of the vehicle. The modern Tacoma/4runner is about as big as it gets for being jeep road nimble and I would not take any larger vehicle up unknown roads, particularly in busier OTC areas or in September when the non hunter users are still going up jeep roads. Tacomas/four runners/ chevy colorados/ ford rangers/ jeeps (if you like breaking down haha)/ are all about the max vehicle size Id recommend. You only need to watch an F250 8 point turn up a switchback on a 40 degree face shelf road once to realize they aren't it. Or have to back down a trail half a mile because the 1500 long bed couldnt fit in the pullout to let you pass.... For my money the FJ cruiser is the best rig Ive hunted in. Excellent turning radius, can tow 5k, can sleep in the back and can crawl up any road without worry of whether I can turn around or make it up.

 

[Fever Buck]

Gonna jump into this thread for some guidance as well. I’ll be getting a 2024 Tundra with the 5.5ft bed. I currently run a diamondback cover on my Tacoma and love it. However, fitting coolers isn’t possible under the cover. It has me debating whether I should stick with the diamondback cover for the tundra or move to a decked system and nice camper topper for the bed. Really didn’t enjoy having a camper on the Tacoma as it made it too sluggish and was hard to keep clean so I could see out of the back of the truck. Anyone else have good advice on what direction to go with? I’m also holding out hope that the larger yetis will fit in the deeper tundra bed with the diamondback installed.

 

[Steve300xcw]

Always interesting reading about some of these mountain roads. Musta been some pretty small equipment that made them....

 

[WKB]

I've had a myriad of gassers and Diesels. Even had a launch edition Gladiator. All had their pluses and minuses. I hate running Diesels in the winter. They are hard to start, take forever to warm up, and honestly the cold weather affects the compression cycle and puts additional wear on the motor. Maintenance is a pain, and when they break, it is expensive.
My go-to ultimate hunting truck now is a 1999 K2500 Suburban with 4.10s and the 7400 Vortec. I'm rolling on 235x85x16 Falken Wild Peaks. The narrow pizza cutter rims reduced surface area focus pressure on the road and cut through snow and ice and mud and make hydroplaning or floating almost non existent. I can tow a 12k trailer, and seat 8 people with luggage comfortably. With all the seats down I can put a bed in the back and camp out of it. I've thrown three 120quart coolers full of meat in the back and still had room for cargo and people. I get 15.5 mpg on the hwy, 13-ish combined. Easy to work on, easy to find parts for. If I couldn't have the Suburban I would look seriously at Ford Excursion with 6.8L V10.
My next set of tires will be 255x85x16s.