This month we bring you top picks in armor, wheels, and recovery gear. Check out our curated list of gear designed to get you out there and back safely and in style. From upgraded wheels to cutting-edge recovery gear, from big truck suspension to covert bumpers – we have you covered, and many of these come with holiday discounts for our loyal Compass readers.
ActionTrax — Metal Tooth Recovery Boards
This winter is the time to upgrade your recovery solutions with some of the most durable and versatile recovery boards in the world. ActionTrax are made in the heartland of America with US sourced materials and US made tooling. Two years of polymer development with Dupont was required to find the “goldilocks” material that would both be strong enough to handle vehicles up to 25 tons in the world’s harshest conditions, but flexible enough to withstand subfreezing temperatures and extreme sharp rocks under heavy loads without breaking or permanently deforming.
This attention to detail and understanding of what real-life users would need to be successful in extricating their vehicles has led to their premium offering – The ActionTrax Metal Tooth Recovery Trax. Each pair of these upgraded ActionTrax have 72 stainless steel teeth placed at the high wear ends of the boards, eighteen teeth per end. This offers better purchase for your tire tread and increases recovery odds. It also prevents wear in those areas. One of the great things about the ActionTrax design is you can repair other worn teeth in the future with off the shelf stainless hardware and make your own teeth quickly and easily. Simply drill out the worn tooth, clean up the top side with a razor knife, install a nut, bolt, and two washers with the pre molded spacing already set up in the board and center punched for drilling ease, and you’ve got a pair of recovery boards that you can use for a lifetime. ActionTrax have a lifetime “no questions asked” guarantee against breakage to back that up.
ActionTrax material allows for sub-freezing use with no reservations. Temperature embrittlement curves are very low and use down to – 40 degrees Fahrenheit is acceptable. The material is pliable and rebounds quickly in hot desert climates and becomes stiffer but does not break in sub-freezing temperatures.
ActionTrax are available in red, orange, black, blue, tan, and olive drab. ActionTrax fit in most available mounting systems that are made to hold import recovery boards.
ActionTrax standard polymer tooth model retails at $299 per pair, and the metal tooth upgrade model retail at $399 per pair. There are several discounts you can take advantage of between now and Christmas Eve. Every pair on the website is marked down $10, and all standard ground shipping is free between now and Christmas standard on the website, but with this checkout discount code “MUDDYSANTA” you can receive an additional $20 off on your order, making one pair of standards only $269 delivered or one pair of metal tooth only $369 delivered.
ActionTrax is a Certified Woman Owned Small Business owned and operated by KC and Melissa Steiner. The ActionTrax team wishes you Happy Holidays from their family to yours.
Limited time pricing: $269 (standard) and $369.00 (metal tooth)
Bottle Jack Buddy — 3 Inch Axle Saddle
The BottleJack Buddy is an innovative and reliable solution designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of off-roading enthusiasts, mechanics, and anyone who finds themselves needing to lift their vehicle in tough conditions. This thoughtfully engineered product is the go-to tool for stabilizing a bottle jack, ensuring maximum performance while reducing the risk of slips or falls, which is crucial when dealing with heavy loads in unpredictable environments.
Crafted with durability in mind, the BottleJack Buddy is made from high-grade materials designed to withstand the most demanding off-road conditions. The heavy-duty construction not only guarantees longevity but also provides peace of mind, knowing that your equipment won’t fail when you need it most. This is especially vital for off-roaders who may be in remote areas, far from help, where reliability and strength are non-negotiable.
The product comes in two sizes to accommodate various types of axles and bottle jacks. The standard model is perfect for 3-inch axles, offering a snug fit that maximizes stability, while “The Big One” is designed for larger and heavier vehicles capable of handling the toughest jobs. This versatility means that whether you’re driving a compact off-road vehicle or a heavy-duty truck, BottleJack Buddy has a solution tailored for your needs.
Another standout feature is the BJ Buddy KneePad, a companion product that serves multiple purposes. Primarily designed to stabilize the bottle jack on uneven surfaces, the KneePad also offers a comfortable, padded surface for users who need to kneel while working on their vehicles. As an added bonus, the KneePad can also double as a “drone home,” providing a smooth, stable surface for launching and landing your drone during outdoor adventures. This multipurpose function makes the BJ Buddy KneePad a highly practical tool that goes beyond the typical off-roading accessory.
BottleJack Buddy’s clever design makes it incredibly easy to use. Its stability-enhancing features prevent dangerous slips or shifts when lifting a vehicle, particularly when on rugged or soft terrain such as sand, gravel, or mud. The product also contributes to faster vehicle repairs and adjustments, as its precision fit ensures that the bottle jack stays securely in place, allowing for quick and efficient operations.
For those who value convenience, all three BottleJack Buddy SKUs are available for fast shipping across North America, including Mexico, Canada, and the United States, through Amazon.com Prime. This wide availability, combined with its essential design for off-roading, has made the BottleJack Buddy a trusted companion for adventurers everywhere.
With safety, durability, and practicality at the forefront, BottleJack Buddy is more than just a tool; it’s an essential piece of equipment for anyone who values efficiency and reliability in their off-roading gear.
MSRP: $54.99 (Holiday Special Pricing – $49.99)
Buckstop — Active Electronic Suspension
Buckstop brings Active Electronic Ride Control to the BIG truck world for Ford F450, F550, and F600 Trucks. Supreme ride control and handling. Faster driving. Minimal moving parts! This bulletproof suspension is designed around extremely reliable steel springs enhanced with a layer of intelligence to provide excellent handling both on and offroad.
The challenge with Offroad Suspension is to build a system that is soft enough to absorb the bumps and grab traction in rough terrain but also stiff enough to handle high-speed travel and avoid excessive roll. The challenge is even tougher with vehicle weights approaching 20,000 pounds with large wind-capturing bodies.
Deep in the boonies, self-reliance is the name of the game. Buckstop Active Electronic Suspension minimizes complex systems. If it breaks, the truck still drives safely and easily.
In Overland trucks, the ride quality in the rear cabin can get pretty crazy with clothes bouncing out of the closet, flying coffee pots, and the obnoxious squeaking of the truck springs in the morning! By replacing the rear springs with custom-built soft-ride progressive springs, Buckstop takes the havoc out of the habitat!
To achieve a more comfortable soft ride, Buckstop replaces one-size-fits-all factory springs with Custom Rear Leaf Springs tuned to the weight of the vehicle. The new springs are more progressive, which means a more comfortable ride over small ripples and a smoother transition into the heavy jolts. They also eliminate the lift blocks required with OE springs.
The system is powered by E-Clik Electronic Dampening Shock Absorbers tuned to Buckstop specifications. Remote Reservoir Shocks are made in the USA with a robust 2.5” diameter body and 7/8” shaft. The exciting part is the smarts behind the shocks. An on-board ECU controls Electronic Valving inside the shock. Dampening is automatically changed at a rate of 250 times a second, instantly reacting to driving conditions. The ECU interprets twelve inputs through the vehicle’s OBD2 port and its own IMU accelerometer that detects movement in all directions.
With a swipe on the touch-screen, the driver may select from Three Driving Modes and performance expectations.
HIGHWAY – Provides more damping for a composed ride and excellent feedback to the driver. Allows for comfort for long distances, while handling sudden jolts with ease. Reduces body roll.
OFFROAD – Makes the roughest road comfortable without sacrificing body control. Smooths out chatter, bumps, and twists.
WIND – The patented wind mode converts ocean storm driving to smooth sailing – keeps it all between the lines, instantaneously adjusting for sudden wind gusts.
MSRP: $29,343 for a full single-wheel conversion with the electronic suspension system or $8,803 for an electronic suspension upgrade from an existing single-wheel conversion
READ MORE: How to Overland During Winter: Keeping Warm
CBI — 5th Gen 4Runner Covert Bumper
The CBI Offroad 5th Gen 4Runner Covert Bumper is the ultimate upgrade for adventure seekers. With its sleek, aggressive design and heavy-duty steel construction, this bumper seamlessly blends style and functionality, making it the perfect choice for those who demand the best in both on and off-road performance.
Engineered for exploration, the Covert Bumper boasts uncompromising strength. It’s crafted from high-grade steel to withstand the rigors of any terrain, safeguarding your 4Runner’s front end from rocks, debris, and other hazards. A key feature is the integrated winch plate, providing a secure mounting point for your winch (up to 12,000 lbs) so you can conquer challenging obstacles with confidence. When unexpected situations arise, the integrated recovery points offer reliable anchor points for winching or recovery straps. These machined D-ring mounts are compatible with both standard and soft shackles, giving you the ultimate versatility when you need it most.
But the Covert Bumper isn’t just about rugged performance; it’s also designed to elevate your 4Runner’s style. The low-profile design maintains those sleek lines and aggressive styling that perfectly complement the 4Runner’s rugged exterior. This means you get a more commanding presence without sacrificing ground clearance. The clean design integrates seamlessly with your truck’s aesthetics for a look that’s both refined and ready for adventure.
The 5th Gen 4Runner Covert Bumper is more than just a protective accessory; it’s an investment in your 4Runner’s capability and a reflection of your adventurous spirit. With its blend of rugged durability, smart functionality, and head-turning style, it’s the perfect upgrade to conquer any terrain and make a statement wherever your journey leads. As a fan of CBI and Overland Expo, you can take $75 off any CBI covert bumper by using the code “Expo75” at checkout.
MSRP: Starting at $850.00 Free shipping to the lower 48
Freedom Recovery Gear — Thompson Pulley Block
Introducing the Thompson Pulley Block. Pulley blocks, also called snatch blocks or winch pulleys, enable winch users to change the direction of their winch line when they can’t do a direct pull to recover a vehicle. Pulley blocks add mechanical advantage to a pull and/or reduce the load on the winch line. They’re an essential tool for recovery, but conventional steel pulleys and open recovery rings come with challenges — they can be heavy, difficult to service, and jam or damage the winch line between the cheek and the sheave. Made in Canada by Freedom Recovery Gear, the Thompson Pulley Block was designed to address these issues and more.
Optimized for use with synthetic rope, the sheave and axle are hard-anodized 6061 aluminum for high strength and low weight. Cutting the weight even more, the non-load-bearing injection-molded cheeks are made of a high-strength, fiber-reinforced composite from DSM, makers of Dyneema brand rope fiber. The gapless design captures the winch line and keeps it in the sheave, even if the tension in the rigging is lost, and the cheeks protect the line even when rigged with the pulley lying vertically on the ground.
The cheeks also feature industry-first angle scale markings with angle vector multipliers that take the guesswork out of calculating mechanical advantage and line load reductions. Nestled between the sheave and axle are an aluma-bronze bushing with self-lubricating graphite inserts, turning on a hardened stainless bearing race for long life with minimal lubrication required. Holding the Thompson Pulley Block together are 304 stainless spiral locking rings, for easy servicing in the field with a small screwdriver or pick — no special tools required.
Anchoring the pulley is the included half-inch Tuff-X Xtreme Trail soft shackle, which can be upgraded to Freedom Recovery Gear’s Dyneema Pro Super Flex soft shackle made with DyneemaSK78 for professionals and first responders. Another industry first, the Synthetic Becket Kit, offers very compact 3:1 rigging back to the pulley.
The Thompson Pulley Block is rated for the industry with a 4:1 design factor. Independently tested in accordance with CI1500B, it has a working load limit (WWL) of 13,100 lbs, and a minimum breaking strength (MBS) of 52,500 lbs. Also rated with the same industry standard, the matched soft shackle has a WLL of 13,100 lbs and MBS of 65,500 lbs (a 5:1 design factor).
And the weight? A mere 1,350 grams (3 lbs) — half the weight of a conventional steel pulley. Including the soft shackle, the total weight is 1,550 grams (3.2 lbs), for quick rigging even in the toughest trail conditions.
Freedom Recovery Gear’s Thompson Pulley Block is proudly made in Canada and was designed in Canada and the USA.
MSRP: $295.00 Canadian Dollars (Holiday special $220.00 till Jan 1-2025)
ICON Alloys — Recon PRO
The ICON Alloys Recon PRO wheel redefines versatility and capability for off-road and overlanding enthusiasts, setting a new standard in performance and durability. Designed with cutting-edge features like InnerLock and HALO, this wheel represents next-level innovation, making it the most capable and adaptable D.O.T.-compliant wheel for trucks, Jeeps, Broncos, and SUVs.
At the heart of the Recon PRO is InnerLock technology, a patented bead-retention system (U.S. Patent No. 11,090,976) that combines off-road performance with on-road safety. Unlike traditional bead locks, InnerLock ensures a secure fit at low tire pressures for enhanced traction on rugged terrain while remaining completely street-legal. Whether airing down for off-road exploration or cruising the highways, the Recon PRO delivers unmatched confidence and convenience.
The wheel’s resilience extends further with the HALO Wheel Armor system, engineered for durability and practicality. Comprising four removable and replaceable aluminum segments, HALO safeguards your rims from rock rash and trail damage. This innovative design keeps your wheels looking pristine while offering easy maintenance for hardcore adventurers. The unique InnerLock and HALO bolt heads are strategically positioned inside the barrel to protect against impact, ensuring long-lasting performance in the harshest conditions.
Beyond its advanced features, the Recon PRO exudes aggressive styling and meticulous craftsmanship. Its bold 16-spoke concave design is available in premium Charcoal or Satin Black powder coat finishes, both UV-resistant to withstand the elements. These aesthetic touches complement its high-grade aluminum alloy construction, which balances striking looks with exceptional durability. The wheel boasts a substantial 3,200-pound load rating for 5- and 6-lug configurations and an impressive 4,000-pound rating for 8-lug versions, catering to a wide range of vehicles and applications.
The Recon PRO doesn’t just look the part; it’s engineered for optimal performance. Application-specific dimensions enhance tire clearance and vehicle dynamics while reduced unsprung weight and rotating mass improve handling and responsiveness. Hardened, bead retention pins, constructed from thermochemically treated high-strength stainless steel, deliver extreme corrosion resistance and incorporate an SAE J1926 O-ring seal for a secure fit. The design also ensures quick and safe tire installation and removal, streamlining the user experience.
Perfect for weekend warriors and daily drivers, the Recon PRO wheel represents ICON Alloys’ commitment to innovation, quality, and performance. It combines cutting-edge technology with rugged reliability, empowering adventurers to explore new horizons with confidence. Whether navigating rocky trails or commuting to the office, the Recon PRO offers the perfect blend of functionality, durability, and style.
MSRP: $353.95 (17” Recon Pro – All Finishes)
Ironclad Performance Wear — Command Impact Leather (IEX-MIGL) Gloves
From garage tasks and trailside repairs to remote backcountry camping and fieldcraft, a sturdy pair of gloves is an essential part of any adventurer’s kit to help safeguard hands from work and outdoor hazards alike.
Inspired by motorsports, Ironclad has been the premier brand in performance-driven and task-specific work gloves since 1998. Precision engineering and rigorous testing give Ironclad gloves class-leading, innovative, and high-performance protection against a world full of hand hazards.
The IEX-MIGL is a performance-oriented glove that uses a combination of traditional and modern materials to offer protection, durability, and versatility without sacrificing dexterity.
To begin, remarkable comfort and fit are the hallmarks of Ironclad work gloves. This is accomplished in the IEX-MIGL through the use of a hybrid, leather and woven polyester, construction. The long-wearing characteristic of leather allows it to break in with use and conform to the unique shape of hands, as it protects. Woven polyester fabric picks up where leather leaves off, promoting airflow between the interior and exterior of the glove to help release moisture and regulate temperature.
Impact protection gives the IEX-MIGL added versatility to navigate the unpredictable world of adventuring. The entire back of the hand is covered with a flexible rubber guard, from fingertip to knuckle and metacarpal area. Ergonomically designed with flex areas to promote remarkable finger dexterity that allows for easy handling of tools and small fasteners. This level of impact protection is a huge bonus for protecting knuckles in the event of an accidental wrench slip or when loading cumbersome cargo.
And since connectivity is an undeniable aspect of modern adventuring, the IEX-MIGL features Command touchscreen technology on index fingertips. This permits the convenient use of communication and navigation devices without having to remove gloves.
Drag them through the dirt, soak them in a rain storm, then dump them unceremoniously into the rig. When it’s time for a refresh, they are 100% machine washable, or you can give them a quick rinse via the convenience of a nearby stream. Just hang dry, then throw them back in the rig for the next big adventure.
For the outdoor enthusiast on your holiday list, Ironclad’s task-specific, Command Leather gloves are designed with innovative features to help them tackle any job or adventure safely and efficiently. Give the gift of empowered hands this holiday season!
Gloves on. Adventure On!
MSRP: $29.99
READ MORE: How To: Recover Your Overland Vehicle
Mile Marker Industries — Mission Series Winch
The Mile Marker Mission Series Winch is a premier 12-volt electric winch designed to meet the rigorous demands of truck, SUV, Jeep, and Bronco owners who require reliability and strength in their recovery gear. With a legacy of trust and performance, this winch has been a staple for the US Military for over a decade. Now, Mile Marker offers this robust tool to the public, providing the same military-grade quality with the added benefit of full customization to match any vehicle’s aesthetic.
The Mission Series Winch is engineered to be the ultimate solution for getting unstuck in challenging situations. Its user-friendly mechanics make operation straightforward, and the option to include a wireless remote adds an extra layer of convenience. Installation is hassle-free, thanks to the standard 4-bolt pattern that fits seamlessly onto most vehicles.
This winch series stands out with its customizable options. Available in three capacities—8,000 pounds, 10,000 pounds, and 12,000 pounds—the Mission Series Winch caters to various recovery needs. Mile Marker offers a palette of ten full-coverage colors and four different patterns, with plans to expand these options further, allowing users to personalize their winch to perfectly complement their vehicle. Customers can select the body color, hook color, and rope colors to create a winch that is uniquely theirs.
Every model in the Mission Series Winch lineup is packed with features designed to enhance performance and durability. These winches are fully submersible, ensuring reliable operation even in the harshest weather conditions. The automatic load-holding, low-friction brake system provides secure and efficient load management, while the rugged heavy-duty solenoid ensures consistent and powerful performance.
Each winch comes equipped with a 92-foot synthetic rope, known for its strength and lightweight properties, which is paired with an aluminum hawse fairlead to minimize rope wear and maximize smooth operation. The military-grade drum and durable, corrosion-resistant stainless accents are built to withstand the toughest environments, providing longevity and reliability.
Mile Marker also includes a plug-and-play remote with each winch, streamlining the control process and making it easier than ever to operate the winch from a distance. This feature is especially useful in situations where precision and safety are paramount.
The Mile Marker Mission Series Winch represents the pinnacle of electric winch technology, blending military-grade toughness with customizable aesthetics. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast, a professional who relies on dependable recovery gear, or someone who values both form and function, the Mission Series Winch is engineered to meet and exceed your expectations, ensuring you’re always prepared for whatever the trail throws your way.
MSRP: $695.00 (8K capacity), $ 750.00 (10K capacity), $ 875.00 (12K capacity)
MORRFlate — Air Hub
Born from the frustration of traditional tire management methods, the MORRFlate Air Hub redefines how adventurers handle tire inflation, deflation, and equalization. Designed to work seamlessly with any hose system and air compressor, it offers unmatched convenience and adaptability, allowing users to focus on their journey instead of their equipment. Whether tackling rocky trails or fine-tuning pressures for highway performance, this innovative system transforms a tedious task into an effortless experience.
At its core, the MORRFlate Air Hub features a cutting-edge learning algorithm that continuously adapts to optimize performance. This intelligent technology ensures compatibility with virtually any compressor or hose setup, automatically fine-tuning its operation for maximum efficiency. By learning and improving over time, the Air Hub delivers a tailored experience that meets the unique needs of every user, making it an indispensable tool for off-road enthusiasts.
Enhancing its practicality, the MORRFlate Air Hub incorporates a USB-C rechargeable lithium battery system. These long-lasting batteries provide exceptional lifespans between charges, ensuring the device is always ready for action. Built to outlast your tires, the lithium technology not only extends usage time but also reduces maintenance, giving you dependable performance whenever and wherever it’s needed.
Durability is another hallmark of the MORRFlate Air Hub. Corrosion-resistant brass, stainless steel, and aluminum fittings ensure long-term reliability, while its ability to operate at pressures ranging from 2-125psi accommodates tires in any size, from lawn mowers to 40ft RVs. This versatility ensures that the system meets the demands of even the most challenging adventures.Â
The MORRFlate Air Hub also simplifies tire management by automating the entire process. Once connected, it can inflate or deflate all four tires simultaneously, achieving balanced pressure with minimal effort. Its high-flow design drastically reduces adjustment times, and the integrated pressure gauge provides real-time monitoring, allowing users to oversee the process without manual intervention. This seamless operation enhances performance, convenience, and overall tire management, making it a game-changer for anyone out on adventures.
Compact and portable, the MORRFlate Air Hub is designed for ease of storage and transport, fitting effortlessly into any vehicle without taking up valuable space. Its compatibility with a wide range of compressors ensures it integrates seamlessly into diverse setups, offering reliability and convenience in one powerful package. By combining advanced technology, rugged construction, and intelligent design, the MORRFlate Air Hub empowers users to embrace every adventure with confidence and ease. Set your pressure, and walk away.
MSRP: $250.00
