For those who travel overland, their rigs are their temples. Well thought-out and organized for self reliance and efficiency. At least, that’s what I’d like to think our FJ Cruiser embodies. As I set out on various adventures, I constantly run through my gear checklists. Meticulously loading the vehicle and insuring everything is somehow secured. One item I feel is essential for Overland travel is a sturdy shovel. As part of my recovery gear, I chose the Delta Shovel from the DMOS Collective. I own both the aluminum and steel versions of the Delta Shovel plus an Alpha 2 for wintertime use. Recently, I was provided with a Delta Shovel Mount. Made from USA-sourced T6 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, this versatile mount allows me to mount the Delta practically anywhere for easy, secure access.
Delta Shovel Mount Demo Video
“Constructed from USA-sourced T6 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum, the DMOS Delta Mount provides you with a compact, rattle-free, and secure mounting solution for your DMOS Delta Shovel. Backing plate of mount comes with pre-drilled holes or you can drill your own holes for a custom mounting solution. Includes backing plate bars and screws/nuts to accomodate up to 2″ ladders or racks or bars.” ~dmoscollective.com
As we bounce our way through the high mountain passes carved out of the Colorado Rockies with dynamite, shovels and pick axes. These rustic roads haven’t changed much since the late 1800’s. The ability to lock down and secure the more robust steel Delta Shovel in a rattle free mount on the outside of the vehicle is the best scenario. Shovels get dirty when used and not having to store it inside the vehicle is preferred. Additionally, the Delta Shovel Mount features a latch that that can be locked for maximum security. A good idea with these premium shovels.
Mounting the Delta Shovel Mount is simple with the included hardware from DMOS. Versatile enough to be mounted to the roof of your vehicle, spare tire, snow machine or whatever. As we refine the layout of the FJ Cruiser, we chose to keep our Maxtrax and shovel on the roof. Both for ease of access as well as keeping the dirty items outside the vehicle. I just spent three weeks living in the FJ and cleanliness is a good thing. Not always easy but we felt it best to keep a few common recovery items outside. I utilized the accessory rails built into the Roofnest Falcon Tent. Drilling a couple of holes in the Delta Shovel Mount and bolting it to the tent was a 15 minute project. Finally, I can now access the shovel on the driver side in seconds.
DMOS Delta Shovel Mount Specs:
- Construction: 6061 Aluminum
- Weight: 4.0 lbs
- Dimensions: 15” x 12” x 3.875”
- Lynch locking pin included, but also combination or key padlock compatible
- Fits bars up to 2.00” and includes mounting hardware of (4 each) .250”/20 x 2.750” Hex bolts, ( 8 each) .250” flat washers, (4 each) .250”/20 Nylon Locking Hex Nuts
- Rated from -40 Degrees to 170 Degrees F
- MSRP $189.00
Final Thoughts:
Although not inexpensive, the Delta Shovel Mount is still a great investment. Made in the USA by a small midwest business, this well engineered mount is the best compliment to the Delta Shovel. I didn’t receive this mount until after our three week trip out west. Although the Delta Shovel was seldom used on this particular trip, I did store it in my rear drawer system. Constantly having to move it out of the way to access other needed equipment. Now that the Shovel is permanently mounted on the driver side of the FJ Cruiser, I can easily access it when needed. And it remains secure and out of the way when not needed.
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