Camper shell vs. Flat bed cover

Hey Guys,

I attempted to do a search on comparisons, pros vs cons on each.

Visually I think the flat bed covers look better, but I don't mind the look of the camper shell either.

I'm trying to wrap my brain around functionality, aesthetics, price, etc.

I remember in the past that my dad's truck was affected in a negative way by a camper shell. The paint where the camper shell met the cabin was pretty much rubbed off, which I definitely don't want to happen.

SOO...any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

i vote soft tonneau cover that way you can actually use your truck as a truck if the need arises. my uncle has a canopy on his dodge dakota ( ) and always calls me whenever he needs to move something big because he can't fit it into his truck bed.

 

It's very largely personal preference and personal needs that drives someone to a particular type of box cover. I used to have a roll up tonneau and it was nice because I could roll it up and use the full bed when I needed to. As things changed, I sold it and got a shell because I now have a flat trailer for the motorcycle and larger items. The camper shell is nice because it is dry and lockable. The hard shells won't touch the cab unless you specifically order the rubber boot to connect the two.

 

Great reason to get a shell...no more helping friends move.

I wouldn't worry about a shell damaging your paint if it is ordered to fit your model; there should not be rubbing on the cab.

 

It may be an age thing.

In my 20s and 30s, I would drive anything you could lower or take the top off, or limit myself to two wheels and no windscreen.

A few years later, hard tops and four doors.

Now, as much of a sin as I once considered it, and after getting tired of wrapping stuff in tarps in the back, cleaning out leaves, cleaning out trash, I have a Leer shell w/ headliner and a BedRug. I'll pick up a trailer in the dead of winter when someone is looking to unload one. Bed don't hold enough weight anyway.


A month or so ago when I broke down and crossed over, I just compared the prices of a good cover and a good shell. They were close enough to go ahead and get the shell.

It'll look appropriate once I do my lift/bumpers/tires after warantee is up (I know, waiting anyway). Right now it looks like a short kid with a hat on that's too big.