Buying Guide for ATV Hunting

Hunting with your ATV allows you to easily traverse difficult terrain, transport your weapons and gear, and enjoy a better hunting trip. But not all four-wheelers are well-suited for hunting. There are certain models, features, and accessories that will work best. We've created the following hunter’s ATV buying guide to help you find the best model for your hunting trips. If you have any questions or want to explore four-wheelers for sale, head over to Crossroad Powersports in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. We also serve those in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware.

1. Your Physical Capabilities

A great place to begin is by thinking about what your body can handle. Not everyone is well-suited for every type of four-wheeler. You’ll want to focus on models that are compatible with your skill level, size, and strength.

For example, avoid getting a four-wheeler that is too large for you to wrangle. You don't want to arrive at your hunting spot already sore from wrestling your vehicle. You won't have much energy left to hold up your weapon.

You'll also want to consider your height and arm span. No one wants to spend their ride straining to reach the controls or hunched over trying to scrunch down. Taking a test drive of the ATVs you are considering will give you great insight into how a given model suits your size.

2. The Terrain You'll Explore

Next, think about where you'll be taking your four-wheeler, which will affect the features and capabilities the ATV needs to offer.

The Terrain's Material

If your hunting trails are standard compact dirt paths, most any four-wheeler will do. But some natural areas are full of looser material, such as sand or mud. If your hunting ground has these more difficult types of terrain, seek out ATVs equipped to handle the challenge.

The Trail Width

Some paths are narrow enough that they have width-restrictions for powersports vehicles passing through. If you'll need to use these routes, avoid getting an ATV that is too wide.

The Obstacles

Think about what obstacles (if any) you'll be facing on your rides. If you need to plow over obstacles, seek out four-wheelers that offer a high enough ground clearance to conquer them. If you'll be cruising over rocky hills, make sure the suspension system will be able to keep your ride smooth.

3. The Noise Level

ATVs are inherently loud vehicles. Their engine growls and tells the world you're ready for adventure...but it can also scare away your prey. As you explore four-wheelers for sale, keep in mind the volume of the engine. 

You can also install upgrades to make your ATV quieter. Be sure to factor those costs into your budget and check that the models you consider are compatible with those upgrades.

4. The ATV's Appearance

Some four-wheelers are made with a camouflage paint job to help you blend into the scenery. Think about whether you want this option for your rig and, if so, limit your search to these ATVs.

5. The Features and Accessories

Finally, think about any features or accessories you want your ATV to offer. Brighter LED headlamps are great if you tend to still be riding after the sun starts to set. A hitch allows you to drag a trailer, which gives you more room to store your gear. A gun scabbard offers safe, secure transportation of your weapon. Consider what upgrades you want to invest in and include those in your budget.

We hope you found this buyer's guide for ATV hunting useful. If you want more information or to shop four-wheelers for sale, head over to Crossroad Powersports in Upper Darby. Our experts can help you find the perfect ATV for your style of hunting and your budget, so stop by and visit our dealership today!