Open bed vs. Hardshell

Why not a soft topper... best of both worlds?

 

I dig that front end. Solid work, my friend.

 

Total studs don't wear bark collars.

 

Nope, sorry, I firmly believe if you want a topper get an SUV. I like being able to load dirtbikes into mine (I never do), or mountain bikes (I don't do that either), or ATV's (don't own any). I have the short bed because the long bed looks like that awkwardly tall teenager with the really thick eyeglasses so I can't sleep in the back anyways, and honestly... that's what a damn tent is for. You asked for opinions, this is one of those.

 

Thanks, but I'm not done yet: there is a hole in the middle, that will eventually get a winch.

 

Probably the best looking combo I’ve seen!

 

In my opinion, soft tops are good for warmer climates. I have a jeep with a soft top and its sucks trying to keep that clean in the winter here in New England. The road salt WILL eventually destroy it unless you have a heated garage and are able to wash it off after every snow storm. The cold weather can also cause it to crack if you try to open it when the temperature get well below freezing. Also, they are not as good for keeping thieves away if you want to keep valuables in the back. You have a much better chance of being sneaky breaking through a soft top compared to hard top.

Yes, all of these have happened to me.

 

What rack is that on your CBI bed bars? I just bought some bed bars and like the look of that one.

 

I’ve had both so...

 

Nice. Which Leer are you running? Add-ons?

 

Leer 100XR. Track system, Double latch windows on both sides. (Easier access to to the tools, gear and for my dogs) The one thing I HIGHLY recommend if you do decide to get one, remote control unlock/lock. You don't have to deal with multiple keys to get access to the rear.

 

What brand is this and what model?

 

It's not a looks or form over function thing.

More like pros and cons.. all depends on your use of the truck and sometimes things change.. get one if you need one period.

 

I was open bed for about a year, tonneau cover for 6 month, and recently switched to a shell. I love the shell! I can keep tons of "truck stuff" secured in the bed, haul the dogs, and looks good. I have a 3 rail trailer for the dirt bikes, and can still haul the kayaks/bikes up top. Works best for my situation.

 

I've never been a big fan of caps; I do love the Bestop canvas toppers though! My uncle has one on his 2017 AC, and believe it or not it is actually intended for a 1993-2011 Ford Ranger!

 

Nice Shovel whats it going in?

 

This posters response nails it for me.
-secure storage
-hose it out to clean when necessary
-removable if/when required (agree this seldom happens, but it is an option)

 

I've had a Leer cap on my truck for about a month now and can't imagine going back to an open bed. That being said, I don't haul a lot of things in my truck nor use it like that. The biggest benefit for me is grocery runs. I love being able to put a shopping cart full of groceries secure in the bed of my truck, out of the elements, and not have to mess with stuffing everything in my back seat. I do a good bit of camping throughout the year too and my buddies and I are also into hiking/backpacking. Being able to throw all of our gear back there and not have to worry about it is such a nice feeling. I don't camp inside my truck at all but it's great to know I have the option if that unexpected rain/hail storm comes out of nowhere which happens all the time here in AR. My next alternative was a Diamondback cover but I figured I'd bite the bullet and get the shell....no regrets on this end. I plan on putting a molle panel back there with some actual gear attached for when I start hitting the trails come Spring/Summer.

*Edit*
I was going to post a pic of the shell but figure i'll just link the post I made on the Tonneau cover thread. It looks good but unfortunately I got a pretty poor condition one when it came in. Leer is building me a new one which should be coming in here in another week or two.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/new-leer-100xr-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly.651975/

 

Ranch fusion topper with reinforced roof, roof tracks, and side windoors.