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Feb 7th, 2025
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 Hunting Trailer Question
#301234
01/21/08 06:20 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
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great white gorilla
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OP
great white gorilla
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Posts: 37,484 |
I'm going to be welding up a couple of trailers and want to build a hunting trailer from the scraps. What is the best length and width for a perfect-sized single-axle hunting trailer - ya think? No smartarse replies from the retarded section, please...  
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301235
01/21/08 06:34 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,785
caprocker
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i think that 12 feet is the perfect length. I have a 10 footer and sometimes i really need a couple extra feet. I am presently adding onto my trailer putting on tow hooks and a spare tire mount etc..if i could change anything about it i would have a dovetail landing with a shorter loading gate...my gate is full sized and is a pain in the arse to swing up and down...width wise i would look into what the going width is on todays utv's and atvs and make my measurements /judgements off of that...my dream trailer for hunting purposes has a wheel well toolbox on each side and a front or side rack for tools kinda like a lawn mowing trailer..i get tired of hauling that stuff in the back of my truck..ultimately i would like to be able to carry everything on the trailer and nothing in the truck so that when its time to go hunting all i have to do is hook on...hope that helps a little...later bigo
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301236
01/21/08 07:21 PM
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,796
fastliberator
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I agree 12' to 13' what ever would allow you to put 2 atv''s on it one facing forward, and one sideways. Still have room for couple ice chests, generator. I agree with the short gate, I cut mine down to 28" tall, it helps on the weight, and not as much drag going down the highway.
Make me one too while you are at it. I need a new one, my 10'-6" isnt quite big enough for the 2 atv's. I mean hunting season is all but over, you should have plenty of time on your hands now.
Those of you who do not stand behind our millitary, please stand in front of it!!!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301237
01/21/08 07:22 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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Thanks, Cap.  I'm gonna add the fender boxes, a swing-out table (about 4 ft long x 2 ft wide) on one side, an awning frame and a light string bracket while I'm at it. The 12 ft length was what I was looking at, but the width is getting hard to decide on. On one hand, like here in the thickets of NE Texas, a person would want one that's not too wide. On the other hand, out in West Texas or in the open feilds, a person might want the widest legal limit, which is 8.5 feet. Still, like you, I know there's got to be plenty of folks that said, "If my trailer was just__________________ I would have the perfect hunting trailer!" Bring on yore ideas!!!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: fastliberator]
#301238
01/21/08 07:24 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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great white gorilla
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Quote:
Make me one too while you are at it...you should have plenty of time on your hands now.
Yeah...right....
Thanks for the input, Steven!!!
I'm not talking about some topwater deal here, guys. Let me know and I might make 4 or 5 of these jewels.... 
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301239
01/21/08 07:37 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,785
caprocker
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fastlib , just curious , when you cut your gate down to size did it affect the angle so much that you high centered or had too much slippage when getting into it?
BIG O- i was just thinking it might also be easier to just weld on some expanded metal cargo boxes onto the side for tools etc. things that can take the weather and drain etc..another idea , a vertical receiver to add in a 2" square tubing hangin station for workin on animals from..kinda stretchin' it but it would be cool....tell me more about this fold out table..i would like to know how it works
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301240
01/21/08 07:55 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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great white gorilla
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The fold-out table will be hinged twice - once horizontal for moving it at an angle from zero to 180 degrees - and another hinge to move it at 90 degrees upward into storage when not needed.
Horizontal movment can be locked in place with a setscrew and up and down with a clasp and positive stop.
I'll see if I can find a pic somewhere. I got my idea from an old World War 2 mechanic's trailer. I'll see what I can come up with.
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301241
01/21/08 08:16 PM
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Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 373
BigGuy
Bird Dog
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Bird Dog
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 373 |
I've got a 12ft by 6'8"(inside) with the high metal sides (about 2 ft. plus the rail) and I love it. If you can do it, I highly recommend the higher sides, at least in the front. It's amazing how much stuff it keeps off my ATVs and other stuff I load in the trailer.
Good Luck and Good Hunting.
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: BigGuy]
#301242
01/21/08 09:04 PM
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Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 9,271
Dave Davidson
THF Trophy Hunter
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THF Trophy Hunter
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Orn, I've built several of them and like the idea of 6+ ft wide and 12 long. Maybe 13 ft. long. There just never seems to be enough room; no matter what size I make them. A long tongue sure helps in backing. The high sides of expanded metal are great. Some of the large ammo boxes make great storage for straps and small jacks. I wouldn't have one without a bulldog hitch.
The last one I built held 2 four wheelers and other stuff. It got stolen and the insurance Co. paid for it. However, if I ever see it, the Ins. Co. can have their $ back.
Without a sense of urgency, nothing ever happens.
Boy, if I say "sic em", you'd better look for something to bite. Sam Shelley, Rancher Muleshoe Texas 1892-1985 RIP
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Dave Davidson]
#301243
01/22/08 04:22 AM
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 408
jsoukup
Bird Dog
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Bird Dog
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 408 |
Our 20ft carhauler is often too big.
Shoot straight and always carry a 7mm Remington Magnum.
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: jsoukup]
#301244
01/22/08 11:36 AM
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,796
fastliberator
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I havent had anytrouble with high centering. No slipping either, load it wet, muddy, loaded with deer doesnt matter. When I did it, I took the gate off, cut some card board to length, and held it up to the back of the trailer until I found the length of the gate I wanted.
Orn, about 6'-8" is what width it takes for my 4 wheeler to sit down in my trailer sideways. I also took 1" flat bar and made strips around the front and 2 sides under neith the top rails. It helps keep bags of corn, ice chests, smaller things from bouncing out. Also make your top rail out of pipe if you can, makes it alot stiffer trailer.
When can I pick mine up?
Those of you who do not stand behind our millitary, please stand in front of it!!!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: fastliberator]
#301245
01/22/08 11:38 AM
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,796
fastliberator
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Oh yeah, definately use the bulldog hitch. I am going to cut my trailer jack off(hahaha). And replace it with the kind that you pull the pin out and can swivel it parallel with the ground. That way you can still lower your tailgate, or even drive with it down if your tongue is long enough.
Those of you who do not stand behind our millitary, please stand in front of it!!!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301246
01/22/08 02:07 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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great white gorilla
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484 |
Quote:
by Dave Davidson
Orn, I've built several of them and like the idea of 6+ ft wide and 12 long. Maybe 13 ft. long. There just never seems to be enough room; no matter what size I make them. A long tongue sure helps in backing. The high sides of expanded metal are great. Some of the large ammo boxes make great storage for straps and small jacks. I wouldn't have one without a bulldog hitch.
Yeah - I know about the "never seems to be enough room" part. 
But, that's the Catch 22 part, too, ain't it? I guess it just depends on where you hunt mostly. But, at the same time, it depends on the perfect size for any hunt.
And 10-4 on the Bulldog!!!
Quote:
by fastliberator
Orn, about 6'-8" is what width it takes for my 4 wheeler to sit down in my trailer sideways. I also took 1" flat bar and made strips around the front and 2 sides under neith the top rails. It helps keep bags of corn, ice chests, smaller things from bouncing out. Also make your top rail out of pipe if you can, makes it alot stiffer trailer.
Is that 6'8" inside or outside?
And, yeah, I won't make another trailer with angle iron along the top - way too flimsy.
Quote:
When can I pick mine up?
Don't call us, we'll call you....
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301247
01/22/08 02:33 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,785
caprocker
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i am needing to put a new floor in mine..do you guys think i should go back with wood or another material..expanded metal? synthetic decking material?? just curious what might be better for the long haul..dont want to have to put another floor in it..
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301248
01/22/08 02:51 PM
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,796
fastliberator
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Inside. Measure your wheels or figure how high your side rails are then measure how wide your atv is at that height. Now I made mine where part of the side rail folds down. But before I did that, i used a ramp and drove it over the sides. It was a kind of a pain to unload, you had to push the back end around. But I made just the regular rail where I can unpin it and drop it down flat. use the rod type drop down pins for the back, and sides. the longer the better. On the sides,use 2 pieces of pipe to drop through on the side of the trailer, and 2 on the drop down gate for each side. that way the trailer is still rigid with the fold down side.
I use wood because it isnt hard to replace. expanded metal is expensive, and it rusts easy, no matter how much you paint it. Never thought about the plastic looking deck boards, that might be a good alternative. But I throw stuff on my trailer, it might crack or break.
Orn, send me your email, and i will make you a drawing of the sides, gate and pins.
Those of you who do not stand behind our millitary, please stand in front of it!!!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301249
01/22/08 03:11 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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OP
great white gorilla
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484 |
Quote:
i am needing to put a new floor in mine..do you guys think i should go back with wood or another material..expanded metal? synthetic decking material?? just curious what might be better for the long haul..dont want to have to put another floor in it..
I only use C-Purlin nowdays. It depends on how your frame is setup and how many braces you have running across your frame, though. You might have to add a few braces, but, it's worth it. Not using wood anymore.
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: fastliberator]
#301250
01/22/08 03:18 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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OP
great white gorilla
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484 |
Quote:
Inside. Measure your wheels or figure how high your side rails are then measure how wide your atv is at that height. Now I made mine where part of the side rail folds down. But before I did that, i used a ramp and drove it over the sides. It was a kind of a pain to unload, you had to push the back end around. But I made just the regular rail where I can unpin it and drop it down flat. use the rod type drop down pins for the back, and sides. the longer the better. On the sides,use 2 pieces of pipe to drop through on the side of the trailer, and 2 on the drop down gate for each side. that way the trailer is still rigid with the fold down side.
I use wood because it isnt hard to replace. expanded metal is expensive, and it rusts easy, no matter how much you paint it. Never thought about the plastic looking deck boards, that might be a good alternative. But I throw stuff on my trailer, it might crack or break.
Orn, send me your email, and i will make you a drawing of the sides, gate and pins.
PM sent!! Thankee kindly!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301251
01/22/08 04:08 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,785
caprocker
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you've got me thinkin now ORN ...swing out barbecue pit , awning , fold down steps..i have needed some of these for a while...swing out shooting rest for sighting in..let your table be a part time bench and a part time table by using brackets to slide it in and out of...i'm getting fired up thinking about what i could add to my little trailer.
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301252
01/22/08 04:51 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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great white gorilla
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I've built several different trailers over the years, cap, but still think I can get that "just right" feeling somehow. It might be a disease... lol! I built one with a hoosier pole for an umbrella that worked good, but was not really necessary...but looked good. My latest single-axle trailer was one I built with a headache rack and gin poles and a winch on the front. The only thing I don't like about that trailer is I can't get all my stuff on it - too short and too narrow. And you'll be surprised when you lay out the frame, turn it over, then call your wife and kids out and ask them what they want on it. A person can sure get some good ideas from them...especially the wife. "I would like a table and water tank on it...and a place to put my little gas stove...and an awning for when I'm cooking your favorite meal...and are you going to make a place for the generator?" LMAO - it'll look like the Titanic when you get through with it...
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301253
01/22/08 05:39 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,785
caprocker
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I would be interested in seeing some pics of some hunting trailers so that I can get some more fabulous ideas...orn if you have any , much obliged...anyone else with pics would be welcomed as well
Last edited by caprocker; 01/22/08 05:40 PM.
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301255
01/22/08 06:04 PM
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,796
fastliberator
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Wonder how many people know what a hoosier pole is? I bet not many that arent or were never a rig welder.
Those of you who do not stand behind our millitary, please stand in front of it!!!
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: fastliberator]
#301256
01/22/08 06:08 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484
Big Orn
OP
great white gorilla
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OP
great white gorilla
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 37,484 |
I couldn't live without it during my pipelining days, that for sure!!! And you could use it for anything, not just umbrellas. I've used mine (back in the day) to hang a tar pot from when we were winding down the job and making repairs to the dope that got knocked off while lowering the pipe in the ditch. I guess you can only make it as long as the headache rack, but you can even throw a tarp over it when it's extended all the way out for a little tent while your enjoying your daily steak and beer at lunch...
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: Big Orn]
#301257
01/22/08 06:18 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,785
caprocker
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unfortunately i do have an idea about the gin poles and hoosier pole....i spent 3 years from age 15-17 as a "welders helper"...and now after the experience i am a terrible welder because i never got to weld a lick...but i can cut with the best of them..
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Re: Hunting Trailer Question
[Re: caprocker]
#301258
01/22/08 06:46 PM
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Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 2,796
fastliberator
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I sent the picture, drawing sux but you get the idea. You could weld on a "jeepers" chair for those long trails through the lease.
Those of you who do not stand behind our millitary, please stand in front of it!!!
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