This Spring I went looking to purchase a new truck.  In my opinion, I had very clear objectives:

1. Designed to drive off-road in a variety of conditions found in Texas.
2. Able to sleep inside the vehicle with my gear so that I don't have to unload cameras, guns and other gear to stay in a local motel.
3. Able to use the roof as a platform for a camera, shooter, and allow the driver and spotter to safely talk through the sunroof.
4. Well balanced, so as not to get stuck in wet off-road conditions. Unlike my previous diesel pickup.
5. Accomplish the above goals with as much "factory" equipment as possible, rather than "aftermarket" items that will complicate the warranty process when things break - which they will - considering the conditions in which we drive.
6. Not waste money on vehicle purchase or gas.

The choices we looked at were Sportsmobile Vans (my favorite), Ford Expedition, Chevy Tahoe, Toyota 4Runner, and Hummer H2.

In several articles, including Consumer Reports, the Hummer H2 has repeatedly won "Best Full-Size Off-Road Vehicle". Once you drive one, it is clear.

The Hummer dealership made the purchase decision between an H2 or an equally loaded Tahoe or Expedition the same. Also, with the H2 Hummer, it was 100% stock.

On the mileage front, things are not impressive, but by watching the tachometer, tire pressure, air filter - which means don't accelerate or break unless necessary - I end up getting 12+ mpg in the city and 14+ mpg on the highway. This isn't great, but its better than I was expecting. Also, without the Hummer, I would have probably had to tow a trailer with an ATV. With the Hummer, I just keep on driving off-road.

This is where Off-Road Magnetics gets involved...

Many people who love to hunt and fish drive through moments of rough conditions when they wish they had something to protect the paint job on their truck. Unlike me, many people clean off their truck Sunday afternoon to get it ready to drive to work Monday morning.

Most people who drive Hummers don't leave the comforts of urban living. My truck has been accidently washed once by the dealership after a scheduled service visit. I think the layer of grime serves as "scratch protection."

Knowing this, a friend of a friend introduced me to Ron Rutherford, who has started a business called, "Off-Road Magnetics Inc."

Their slogan is, "Let TrailSkinz™ take the abuse so your paint doesn't have to!"

TrailSkinz is still in the process of taking their concept from a "custom one-off process" to a more streamlined production process that is customizable for particular vehicles, but is faster to produce the basic framework.

There are several interesting aspects to this solution:

1. Unlike other magnetic protection devices I have seen, this one was designed to roll up and store easily. The other types are stiff and do not store well.
2. The type and strength of the magnets being used are much more advanced than other products.
3. For insurance reasons, this product has a disclaimer that it is not to be driven at highway speeds, however the strength of the magnets and design of the panel attachments easily can withstand highway speeds according to test drives to date.
4. The cost is less than spraying your vehicle, less than paying for a new paint job, and less than wrapping you vehicle. Also, it is removable in a matter of less than 20 minutes so your spouse can have a normal looking vehicle during the week and you can have a ruggedized off-road vehicle when you need it.

This product review is "in process" so we will keep you posted as we continue to work with Ron Rutherford to see how his product can be fitted to our H2 Hummer. So far, we have learned that the Hummer's front-end is all non-metal and presents a challenge...

To learn more, contact Off-Road Magnetics directly:

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