Front Bumper

Living in the San Juan Four Corners region has it's pro's and con's. Pro: access to some of the best outdoor activities in the country right in my back yard. Con: Droves of manically depressed suicidal four legged critters determined to take they're own lives and cost me thousands in damage. Let's face it, the stock front end protection on our beloved tacomas (2nd gen) is pretty much worthless for these kinds of events. All that said, I'm looking for a good aftermarket bumper. I've had some trouble finding anything that isn't in the zombie apocalypse hard core off road category (allpro/shrockworks). Believe me, I'd love to get one (I will be ready when the apocalypse comes, 12/12/12), but I have a 90 mile commute twice a week so adding that much weight and lift is a out of the question. Does anyone have any recommendations, and more importantly, does anyone know of any to stay away from. I definitely don't want to spend money on a cheap "damage multiplyer".

 

My main problem is that damn commute. Can't afford to have my mpg tank because I bought a really heavy bumper and requires a lift. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to do it but this is my main vehicle for now. Plus, the zombie apocalypse is still a few years off. Wish there was some middle ground here (I think it's called a "Prius"). Winter is pretty much here, mountains turned white over the weekend and the bigger four legged critters are on they're way.
It's a simple equation; elk+ice=bad x lots of $$.

 

I was talking to a guy at work today and he gave me the number of a guy who does custom bumpers and grills. Hopefully he knows what he's doing. airbags and other sensors can be funny things. Thoughts?

 

yep, made it myself. its made out of 1/4" and 1/2" plate with 2"x.125 wall tube and it's only about 80-90lbs!

 

Strong work man. Looks stout. Were there any issues with the airbag sensors?

 

they're an inertia-type sensor so there shouldn't be any reason the bumper would interfere with the system.