Camper Shell or Rack

Hello, All
I am looking for input from the masses. I currently have a custom rack on my Taco. It is set up with three flood lights, one on each side and I can attach my ARB shade to all three sides as well. Not bad but I don't have any side storage and of course the bed is open and I still can't put tall things in the bed.

I have the opportunity to purchase a relatively new Lund (100XR). I say new because my truck is a '15 and the truck the shell is coming off of is a'15 as well. The two side windows slide open as well as the front. Obviously the back opens up as well. I have not seen the top in person. I am going to look at it tonight.

Issues I can already see with it are, I have (well i am going to) to paint it and purchase the roof racks for it to attach the RTT. I believe I will have to purchase a whole basket type thing to mount the ARB awning too.

I know the Shell will provide security and a level of weather proofing, both serious bonuses at the cost of easy access.

My questions to the masses are, which do most of you prefer and why?

 

It depends on the application.

I like the security of a shell, but prefer the looks of a rack.

I dont have an issue with access, just have to pack it accordingly.

Worst case.
You buy it and don't like it.
You'llbe able to sell it and get 95% of your money back for sure.

 

I had a rack before my shell also. Overall I could never go back to a rack. I am able to securely keep my dogs, bikes, tools, etc without worrying. I put a prinsu toprac on mine and it can hold any toys I want. You could always switch back and forth which many people do...topper in the winter and rack in the summer or something. Hope it helps!

 

I've used a shell on every truck I've owned for over 20 years. Never take them off. If something won't fit in the back it will fit in the 5'X10' trailer.

 

I prefer the secure and weatherproof storage of a cap. I don't really haul tall stuff so I don't need an open bed. Toys go on the roof of the cab and bed.

 

I vote for a cap with a rack/crossbars on the roof.

for my setup, i built a platform and sleep in the shell. I set up my roof racks to carry a kayak, my arb 2500 awning, and a 100w solar panel. I like a cap for the security and the ability to keep everything dry in the back.

 

That's a pretty sweet setup you got there. I like the idea of a shell with an awning off of it.

 

Thanks Chris! I highly recommend the shell and the awning. I'm loving them both so far and use them much more than I anticipated when I first bought them!

 

Finding a pyrite mica shell has proven tough. One just popped up for a steal, but it was for a longbed oh well, someday...

 

I told the gentlemen I would buy it ($300 OBO) and I found a reputable body shop to color match for $400. So gonna get-er-done...
Ill post pics of the process.

Thanks for the input.

 

I had the Shell / RTT combo for about a year... Found that I disliked the lack of visibility to the rear. Wound up doing a custom frame-tied rack with a diamondback hard tonneau. For me, its the best of both worlds. Secure and lockable storage that is weather proof, and if I'm really loading down, I can put up to 400 lbs of junk between the bed and rack frame.

 

As others have said, depends on your applications. Both have their pros and cons. @KB Voodoo tall rack is going to be perfect for me.