Hey everyone, noobie here but I recently became the new owner of a 94 FJ80 that has turned into my hunting/running around rig. I am looking for suggestions on firearm storage in the cargo area as opposed to just riding around with my gear and guns just laying in the floor like im doing now. For a little background information, the original plan was to install a drawer system in the back to store my guns and gear with 2 gunner kennels riding on top of the drawer system for my bird dogs. However, after looking into some options, I'm worried that a full size shotgun will not fit inside an aftermarket or DIY drawer system without a full 2nd row seat delete (something I'm not wanting to do). The drawer system would work for my over/under guns that I can easily break down and put in a case but it would be kind of a pain to break down and put up my automatics and pumps everytime I'm headed to hunt. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to make this work or if there is a better option out there? Maybe something similar to the Leer Locker that would mount inside the top of the cargo area? Thanks in advance for any suggestions and ideas.
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mudgudgeon
Resident galah
Search for threads on tailgate storage.
There's quite a bit of space in the tailgate, and several aftermarket conversion kits to give you hatch access into the tailgate from the inside when the tailgate is open
There's quite a bit of space in the tailgate, and several aftermarket conversion kits to give you hatch access into the tailgate from the inside when the tailgate is open
Delta VS
Supporting Vendor
Inside top of cargo area would be something like our ceiling storage rack (Delta Vehicle Systems - FJ/FZJ80/LX450 Modular Storage System - https://www.deltavs.com/all-products/fj-fzj80-lx450-ceiling-storage-rack there are other brands as well), tailgate storage something like this Delta Vehicle Systems - 80 Series Tailgate Storage Lid - https://www.deltavs.com/all-products/80-series-tailgate-storage-lid (other brands of those available as well), might work well for non-optics setups as is but I would prefer the overhead internal stuff, lots of room up there.
On initial review, I believe you’re right. With drawer system or tailgate storage you’d be fine with breakover guns and most rifles. However, full length shotgun would not work with drawers behind the second seat, unless maybe if they were put in at an oblique angle to the drawer and that’s a maybe. For example, most Benelli autos are 49.5” length with 28” barrel. I have the Savute Big Country drawer system from @RuggedBound (and they are awesome) which has an external front to back depth of 41”. I also have the @Delta VS ceiling storage rack and it is awesome. I could imagine rigging Molle to that for a gun case or 2, but then may not be room for kennels.
Even with the autos, not a big deal to pop the barrel off and I think problem solved…put it where you want. Alternatively look at a front seat scabbard mount if you want to keep ready access for the shotgun. But I think that would take up quite a bit of room in an 80.
Another edit: @leonard_nemoy totes a lot of firearms, but I think not usually shotguns and he’s deleted 2nd row seat IIRC. He may have some ideas.
Even with the autos, not a big deal to pop the barrel off and I think problem solved…put it where you want. Alternatively look at a front seat scabbard mount if you want to keep ready access for the shotgun. But I think that would take up quite a bit of room in an 80.
Another edit: @leonard_nemoy totes a lot of firearms, but I think not usually shotguns and he’s deleted 2nd row seat IIRC. He may have some ideas.
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Avid hunter here.
When I go on my trips from CA to MT, I need all the space I can get. I remove the second row seats (third row stays out permanently). Removal is quick. I have a homemade 2 piece platform with plenty of space for a 2 Rifle case and multiple shotguns, game cart, etc. On top of the platform I put 2 big dog crates. Still room for luggage, dog food, ammo, tools, etc. That said I do have a hitch mounted pac mule for a big cooler and sometimes gas cans.
Works for me.
- Thread starter
- #6
Do you have any pics of your platform? That sounds like it might be the route to go for longer trips if the seats remove that easily.
Side note: how do you like your pakmule? I've been eyeing one, mainly so I don't have to worry about hauling deer inside the truck lol
Yes I like the Pac Mule, it's a robust product, for sure. I got the one that fits a 200 series. I don't know if they still make them. I welded up my own adaptor so it would ride higher, yet still be able to drop the tailgate.
I made a 2 piece platform so I could install it and still be as large as possible: I used 3/4" plywood, I forgot what they call it, but, it's the finish type, and strong. (not cheap).
the two pieces are 68.5" x 27.5" The rear legs are 11" and the front ones sit on the steps in the passenger area, they are 14.75"
it's tricky to see in the photos, but each side has a wood piece that sits on the rear seat bracket in such a way to both hold up the side and keep it from wanting to slide forward.
I know the photo of trailer hitch to Pac Mule adaptor is rusty. I'll wire brush it, and paint it one of these days.
- Thread starter
- #8
Appreciate the pictures, this may be the route I end up going. Will probably end up with an overhead rack or drawer system eventually and just do like @SoTexCruiserDoc said and just break down my pumps and autos for hunting around the house.
