SUV Hunting Setup

[SunnyInCO]

So with all this talk about renting trucks, the I-80/I-70 drive west, etc I thought it would be interesting to see how many of you use a SUV to get to your hunting grounds. If so, have you done any special modifications, storage/organization setup, cooler storage, etc.

 

[JimP]

Quite a few years ago I did. I had a 1977 Chevy Blazer with a 4 speed.

All I did to it was to carry a tarp to but bloody body parts on in the back since it had carpet in it. But I also carried chains, tow chains, a shovel, and a high lift jack in it when I went off road.

I now have a Ford Explorer go go with my truck and about the only off road it will see is dry and dusty dirt. If I need to take it somewhere it is muddy, snowy or both I'll park it and get into my truck.

 

[LCH]

I like hunting out of an SUV. On solo trips I'll fold down the back seat and sleep right in the back. Hitch basket for extra storage. Decent tires, chains, shovel, and tow strap on most trips. The only real disadvantage is ground clearance isn't usually as good, and aftermarket parts aren't as common.

 

[Slugz]

We have a farm truck (p/u) that's sole job is to drive 6 hours to camp and back 3 times a year. Its on its last legs now. We are gonna get a older suburban, lift it up, bigger tires in the near future as we liked the idea of being able to use it later season also to have more room/space out of the weather. I think its always a trade off though depending on the style/type of hunting. It will have a roof rack and rear hitch rack for even more storage.

 

[SunnyInCO]

I like hunting out of an SUV. On solo trips I'll fold down the back seat and sleep right in the back. Hitch basket for extra storage. Decent tires, chains, shovel, and tow strap on most trips. The only real disadvantage is ground clearance isn't usually as good, and aftermarket parts aren't as common.

I have a standard size Yukon (Tahoe), 2008 so on the newer model side. From what I have read chains will not work because of the placement of the emergency brake. I have not modified at all and agree on ground clearance. Because of aerodynamics the front is slightly lower than the rear.

I was thinking about a hitch basket/platform to store a a cooler unless there are larger platforms then I have seen in the past. I think that maybe one of the biggest negatives.

I also have one of those cargo boxes for ski's that works well for extra storage or short term/emergency cooler.

 

[LCH]

Here is a picture of my set-up. Real comfortable.



This is a newer Durango, and it has some clearance issues in the front suspension for chains. The cable-type will fit though, and I have regular heavy duty chains for the rear. Haven't had to use them yet, but gives you peace of mind knowing they're there.

 

[Daubs]

I'm lucky (or unlucky), most of my hunting spots here in Nebraska are close to roads, or public land that doesn't allow vehicle traffic.

My 2004 Chevy 2500HD Crew Cab 4x4 is primarily used to get me from home to the hotel and hunting area. Then i walk in from there. There are some public areas where I walk in 3-5 miles, but that's not the norm in NE. Really no need for specialized SUV or pickup modifications. Well, there is the occasional blizzard / snow storm. 8.1L/496 cid V8 in a #7klb 4x4 truck tends to fare well in the snow.

 

[25contender]

A pic of my 2001 Excursion packed with all our gear and two elk heading for home. Love the X.

 

[Tim McCoy]

Toy Sequoia. My station wagon... Hitch basket carrier for fresh kills, otherwise, better than a PU.