Well after several positive reviews and being at the right place and the right time, I picked up this shanty last week at a very good price here is town. Also picked up the factory cover and runner kick from Franks Great outdoors in Linwood, MI. Looked at this shanty for size and weight vs. my existing shanty. It is sitting in my garage and ready to be assembled.
I have a few questions before I truly commit to this thing:
1. What is the best way to install the hyfax? My assumption is front to back but wanted to check. Also does it require a heat gun to help conform to the front?
2. Is there any special trick to putting this thing together other than the fine instructions it came with? I have put other shanties together but just wanted to be sure while I have it in part.
3. How do you guys lay out your gear. I feel this is plenty wide, but somewhat short in length, but I gues that is the tradeoff for the weight and I need to be more of a minimalist.
So far it looks good. Pros:
1. weight - 37-38 lbs roughly. I plan on adding the runners, a small piece of commercial grade but light weight walkoff carpet, and some reflectix. Seat I am keeping stock for now. The additions will be less than 10 lbs.
2. Visibility out of the vents to check tipups from the side - I was a little concern with this when I saw it had one window.
3. Takes up less space in storage and in truck.
Cons:
1. Cant fit my nils hand auger without it hanging out. Not a biggie, might have to come up with some sorta of alternative.
2. Cabelas tundra ice rod bag might not fit in a manner that takes up the least amount of space. The bag is 38" long and sits slightly elevated at the curve of the sled. This is TBD once assembled. First year trying an ice bag and for the $ ($48 on sale) this is the best I can find that has a hard side and get legitimately handle the # of rods specified provided I put them in some florescent light bulb covers. Differ topic and if I decide on this option I will post updates on how I configured the bag.
Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave