The ultimate "Blank Canvas" for a safe world-traveler? A factory armored Unimog Doka cab.
Posted by AvailableTaro3123@reddit | overlanding | View on Reddit | 94 comments
I recently came across this standalone, military-spec armored double cab. It’s sitting without a chassis, which really lets you appreciate the massive build quality of the shell and that thick ballistic glass.
I’m fascinated by the idea of using this as a foundation for a high-security expedition rig. It seems like the perfect starting point if you want maximum protection in remote areas.
I’d love to hear from the builders in this sub:
If you had this cab, which chassis would you mount it on for the best balance of power and weight?
Would the added security of factory armor be a priority for your next build, or is it "overkill" for your routes?
Just wanted to share this rare piece of engineering with you all.
maximidius@reddit
Where are you planning to overland? Somalia?
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Definitely not. The armor just happens to be there. My personal focus is strictly on the factory-spec A/C system.
ChibaCityFunk@reddit
Thing is: the more military or high profile your rig looks, the more you become a target.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Actually, my main reason for picking this cab isn't even the armor—it’s the fact that it has A/C and enough room for more than two people. If you want to travel with family or friends, a standard Mog cab is just too tight.The armor is really just a 'bonus' layer of safety for me. But hey, if someone else wants to use it for serious security purposes, that’s fine too! For me, it’s mostly about having a cool, capable rig that can actually fit the whole crew comfortably.
leonme21@reddit
Then just get a regular double cab and fit some AC to it
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You're not wrong, but I’m a purist at heart. Maybe it's because of my professional background, but I've always preferred original factory engineering over aftermarket retrofits. There's just a level of integration you can't easily replicate.I actually stumbled upon this cab by total coincidence. I was inspecting a very clean 1985 Unimog, and while I was looking it over, this piece caught my eye. The factory A/C setup was the first thing I noticed. Sometimes the most interesting projects are the ones you weren't even looking for
xrelaht@reddit
This justification failed the instant you talked about fitting this cab to some random chassis instead of the one it came with.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You're right about one thing: my translation tool messed up the word 'purist.' To clarify: I’m definitely not talking about some 'random' chassis. The original chassis is gone—you can clearly see that in the photo. If I go through with this, it will obviously be mounted on a matching, compatible Unimog frame. I value original engineering, which is exactly why I’m so focused on that factory A/C. What am I supposed to do according to you? Build a frame from scratch? We don’t have to agree, but expecting me to hunt down the long-lost original chassis instead of using a proper factory-spec replacement is just unrealistic.
ChibaCityFunk@reddit
Just roll the windows down and you'll be fine. I'd be more concerned about the heat management inside the habitation box... Remember: Unimogs are ment to be light.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You're absolutely right, weight is the biggest enemy of a Unimog. That’s exactly why I’m still weighing the pros and cons of the armor.Regarding heat management in the box: That's a great point! If I go with the Zeppelin shelter, the insulation is already top-notch, but a dedicated cooling solution for the living area is definitely part of the plan. My goal is to create a balanced setup where you don't 'cook' inside—whether you're in the cab or back in the box. Thanks for the reminder to keep it light
ChibaCityFunk@reddit
Yeah... The FM2 Zeppelin shelter is already too big and too heavy for the regular mog. If you get double cab, where does the shelter go?
Also these Shelters are very sturdy and rigid. That's why they are so heavy. They are way more useful on an MAN Kat1 that comes with a rigid frame. So you can just put the shelter on it without the need of a torsion free subframe. But that's obviously not the case for the Unimog.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I appreciate the technical deep dive. This is exactly what I need to hear. I’m evaluating the FM1 vs FM2 and the whole torsion issue is a major concern. Like I said, I'm at a specialist shop next week to see if this can actually be turned into something functional without being dangerously overweight.
Glu7enFree@reddit
How about you stop using SlopGPT to reply to people. Why even make the post if you refuse to interact directly with people.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Look, I'm using a voice-to-text translation tool because my school English wouldn't get me very far on this platform. It’s simply much easier for me to speak my thoughts and have them translated.
tallgeese333@reddit
First, this is clearly an attempt to monetize a build.
Second, you won't find many people here with the kind of build experience or interest you're trying to target.
Third, your marketing is hitting a wall because no one is going to be hooked by the premise. Just build the Mog because you think it's cool and you can make something cool. Your interest and motivation is what will get people's attention.
I don't think the people who will be interested in this will buy the justification outside of being a troop carrier. Anyone who has even the smallest amount of practical experience or knowledge is going to slap down the armor argument. Approach it like an Earthroamer, we all know they are useless but we all want it anyway. No need to try and make something so wildly impractical practical.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Spot on—the A/C caught my eye, the armor was the seller's surprise. And yes, if I go through with this, it’s definitely because it’ll be a damn cool rig! I’m not here to play marketing games; I’m here for genuine advice and tips.For instance, the point about the emergency exit is gold—I hadn’t even considered that. I’m still in the decision phase. If I start the project and get it finished, we’ll see: maybe after a few family trips, we’ll love the Mog so much that we keep it. Or maybe we’ll decide to sell. Both are options. Thanks for the honest input, that’s exactly why I’m here.
SKATOZZO@reddit
Asking cause im too poor to think about something like this: mpg for a rig like this armored?
ChibaCityFunk@reddit
As I’ve said earlier, a typical U1300L with a camping setup makes about 10-11 mpg. These setups are already at the maximum GVM. With the armour it will still make about 10-11 mpg but you will carry less water, less Diesel and have to get rid of all the unnecessary luxuries in the camper. Replace your regular mattress with an inflatable one… stuff like that.
The OP brought up the idea to install a specific German military shelter that is completely unsuited for a regular Unimog because of its construction, weight and size, and yet they want to fit it on an Armoured double cab… All things considered, the OP has just no clue what they are doing. More research required…
xrelaht@reddit
Single digits in the best case scenario.
TheGuyUrRespondingTo@reddit
Single digits are as low as the digits go. So also single digits in the worst cast scenario.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, to be honest, I can't even tell you yet! The whole project is still just an idea for now—whether it actually happens is still up in the air.You're absolutely right about the fuel consumption, though. That’s a very strong argument! But for me, the A/C is way more important. The armor wasn't planned and certainly wasn't my intention. I just noticed the air conditioning unit, asked about the cab, and the dealer told me: 'Yes, it works, and by the way, the whole thing is armored.' It was a surprise for me too! 😆
Rad_Streak@reddit
Why didn't you mention any of these reasons in your original post?
You literally only talk about "security", how bulletproof it is, and your only question is if other people need the safety of a bulletproof over lander like you do.
I think you're just larping a little. It's fun to fantasize about crossing a warzone in your 500000$ custom rig but the reality is you absolutely don't need something like this.
DrZedex@reddit
You'd be far safer in a mildly rusty Silverado lol
BlastTyrantKM@reddit
My Silverado isn't rusty, but it is 13 years old. I should be safe, right?
TheGuyUrRespondingTo@reddit
13 years isn't much these days. I'd want to be at least in a GMT800 in sketchy parts of the world, preferably older.
Fine-Artist-7605@reddit
Yep, my 2013 4runner didn’t get a second look in South America. I had visions of beefing it up in every way, but realized the best approach was to just focus on all the reliability upgrades that wouldn’t stand out in traffic.
Watwatinthewatwat@reddit
Plus what is the armor doing except killing mpg? Not helping you offroad
Nervous-Raccoon949@reddit
Where, pray tell, are you overlanding, Afghanistan, Sudan, Ukraine?
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You’re right about the title – I should have worded it differently. My speech-to-text tool translated it a bit too literally from German, which probably invited all these weird comments in the first place. But if you’d actually read through the thread, you’d know what my real focus is. Still, I can't blame you for your take; from your perspective, you have a point.
roberttheiii@reddit
How much does an armored cab weigh compared to unarmored?
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I can give you a better answer on that next week! I only discovered the cab yesterday while I was actually there to look at a different Unimog. I just quickly asked if the cab was available and if the A/C worked—that’s when the owner casually mentioned it’s also armored. Since it was getting late, I didn't have time to dig into the technical specs. If you're interested in the exact numbers, I can definitely find out for you when I’m back there next week
roberttheiii@reddit
I am casually interested for sure. Thanks!
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
No problem at all, I should have an answer for you by the end of next week. It would be great if you could shoot me a quick DM, so I can message you directly once I have the info. That would be awesome.
DFMO@reddit
Because the dream of an overland adventure includes being surrounded by a paramilitary group in some remote area in a far flung country.
If you’re stuck in your vehicle with a group of bandits with AKs trying to get in you’re not much safer in this thing than you are a Prius.
Rambo inspired cosplay meets overland, haha.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, I promise I left the Rambo headband at home!You're right, if a whole group with AKs surrounds you, you’ve got a much bigger problem than just choice of vehicle. My thinking was less about 'fighting off bandits' and more about protection from a random rock through the window or a 'wrong place, wrong time' situation.But honestly? The real 'survival' feature for me is the factory A/C and the extra seats for the kids. If I can survive a 10-hour drive in the heat without everyone screaming, that’s the real victory for me. Everything else is just a heavy bonus.
heepsofjeeps@reddit
Bro the AI responses make this all worse
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You’re wrong there. I’m using speech-to-text; I speak, and it writes and translates instantly. My school English wouldn't get me very far here. I’m Greek, living in Germany, and I’m just trying my best to be understood. If the translation is off, that's why. If you have a tip for a better translation tool, I’m all ears.
ingenious-ruse@reddit
Wow looks cool it would be really great if you did this and then explored an active warzone haha it would be fine in an armored unimog and even better if you were the one inside it!
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
To be honest, I don't get your problem. This is definitely not about driving into a warzone. Wishing someone something like that, even if you don't share their opinion, only shows your character. I have nothing more to say to you.
LarryHoover44@reddit
I'd rather have a rusty van with AT tires, locking front and rear differentials and a solar battery setup on top hidden by a roof rack. Blending in is the key if things get weird.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I totally agree with you guys. If I take on this project, I’ll definitely go for a low-profile, uniform paint job to keep it as stealthy as possible. It’s been mentioned a few times in the comments now, and I’m 100% on board with that strategy. Function over flash.
ngc-arb@reddit
What kind of larping is this?
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Trust me, I love roleplaying, but I do that with my wife, not with an armored Doka. If you actually read the comments, you’d see what I’m after: that factory-spec AC unit. The armor is just a bonus for me, and I’m fully aware of the drawbacks. Nothing more, nothing less.
English_Cat@reddit
Without a chassis even Ukraine wouldn't want this. Hell they probably pulled the chassis to make something that wasn't so heavy and more practical.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
The armor is just a free bonus in my eyes. I'm more interested in that heavy-duty AC unit on the roof. In high-heat regions, that’s worth more than the ballistic glass anyway
Venasaurasaurus@reddit
It's a cool idea in theory, and would definitely offer some level of protection for random acts of violence, but if any level of organization wanted to do damage and you don't have a support system, you're just sitting in a VERY valuable target. In fact, if you're rolling in this through a dangerous area, you might have an even bigger target on your back because this would be an incredible vehicle to steal/take by force.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I totally get where you're coming from—it's the old 'Grey Man' vs. 'Tank' debate. You're right, rolling in something that looks bulletproof can definitely draw the wrong kind of eyes.My thought was more about that extra layer of safety against a random 'wrong place, wrong time' situation. But you've got a point: if you don't keep it somewhat low-profile, the truck itself becomes the prize. It’s always a gamble between being prepared and being too flashy. What would be your go-to setup for a sketchy route?
Neat_Albatross4190@reddit
This is dumb, especially with your kids at risk not just your own safety. Anywhere you need this isn't a good spot to be in a big obvious rig especially on vacation. For any interesting and adventurous areas I'd want to be able to get out myself or if things go badly get extracted.
Good luck getting out yourself out or emergency services getting you out.
In water? You're gonna die slowly feeling dumb? Fire? you'll make a cybertruck look sensible as you become bbq. Accident? guess you can live there for the rest of your life while you watch them try to figure out how to open it.
That doesn't even get into the number of injuries it can cause. Think kid shuts door on hand, wind shuts door on anyone etc. Those doors do serious damage. 30lb doors hurt. 100 lb doors remove bits.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I think you missed my earlier comments. I have zero intention of traveling anywhere dangerous or 'into conflict'.My interest in this cab started because of the factory A/C and the fact that it's a Doka (Double Cab). Period. The armor was just how it came from the dealer. I'm currently evaluating if the benefit of the extra space and cooling is worth the drawbacks you mentioned. I’m not looking for a tank.
PowerfulYou7786@reddit
AI-ass response
TheBlankScroll@reddit
Dude really though he nailed it with that "blank canvas" shit.
Thats a unimog with all the best unimog parts removed.
AutumnBrooks2021@reddit
I say go for it if that’s what you like.
FlexinR6@reddit
Any idea on how much it weighs? I would love to know what level of protection it has, and how much weight it added.
My first thought is that is pretty cool. A few seconds later, that wears off, and I think about the other issues.
The weight could cause problems.
I would rather not take my family into a place that needs that level of protection. Although, you can still run into issues in a decent area.
This can help on the road, but offers no protection at camp, without advance warning of a problem. If I was in an area that concerned me that much, I would want the living space to have protection as well. Now we have a ton of weight to deal with.
While traveling, you normally have to open a window. Could be for directions, tolls, and so on. Those windows look like they do not go down, so that requires you to open the door in those situations. That leaves you vulnerable.
I also agree, that if you are in a really bad area, your vehicle is a big target for theft. If you use it, I would paint it to look as far from military as possible, so people might not pick up on that point as easily.
I'm building a squaredrop, and might use it with a friend while he hunts. I have thought about protection just from hunters not being aware if their surroundings, but cost, and the fact that it would destroy my weight goal, I dropped it. Always had a thing for armored vehicles for some reason though.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Actually, the whole story started because I was looking at a very well-kept 1985 Unimog Doka. While I was there, I spotted this armored cab and thought, 'Wow, that would be an incredible base for a ground-up build.'The biggest selling point for me was actually the air conditioning. It’s so rare to find a Mog with factory A/C, and that’s a huge deal when traveling with family. To be clear: I have zero intention of taking my family anywhere dangerous or violent. It’s all about the unique build and the comfort.Posting this here has been a massive help. You guys pointed out so many things I hadn't even considered yet—both the pros and the cons. I don't know the exact weight yet, but I'll be back there next week to take a closer look at that '85 Mog. If you're interested, I can definitely ask about the weight and let you know!Regarding the windows: You're right, that is a challenge. I’m thinking about whether it’s possible to integrate power-operated ballistic glass, or at least some kind of opening mechanism.Also, your squaredrop trailer project sounds awesome! I wish you a lot of fun with that build. It’s great to see what everyone else is working on.
FlexinR6@reddit
Factory ac is definitely a huge bonus, if it works. I have driven a far amount of dump trucks, straight trucks, mixers, and busses. Big windows and no ac (or non working ac) sucks. One day it was so hot, I didn't feel right for about a month.
My question is, does the ac work, what is the condition of it? Even just the wiring, and the cover. One of the trucks I drove for work had a reefer, and it was having problems running over night. A guy looked over it many times and could never figure it out. I noticed that the wires were in rough shape since they are uncovered and getting weathered. So I would wonder the condition of a 41 year old ac unit.
You could also add a brand new unit to any truck you by. I think it would be worth having.
Power windows would help, not sure how easy it would be with the weight of the glass, but worth looking into.
It would definitely be unique. I wonder about sound in the cab with the protection in there. I guess it would depend on what was used. If it lowers road noise, it can help a lot with longer drives. Riding motorcycles on the highway with and without ear plugs, really emphasizes this point.
If you did the build on YouTube or other social media, the bulletproof aspect could help hype the build.
Thanks. I'm excited to get the build done. I feel like I'm behind schedule. I have the main parts of the frame done. I have the axle. The wheels and coupler came in this week. Once I get the axle on, I can see where it sits, and weld on supports for the fenders, and jacks. I want to be able to camp in the basic shell before the summer.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You hit the nail on the head. A factory A/C setup usually performs much better than an aftermarket retrofit, and as a purist, originality is everything to me. The seller says it works, but if I go through with this, everything will be meticulously inspected. The shop I'm working with has over 60 years of exclusive Unimog experience, so they know these machines inside out.As for the sound—I can practically guarantee you it’ll be the quietest Mog ever! 😆 And I think power windows are definitely a challenge worth taking on.I do have an idea I’m kicking around: I’m thinking about documenting the entire build from start to finish—digital, high-res photos, and videos—and then potentially offering the finished rig on Bring a Trailer (BaT). It’s still just a thought, but what do you think about that approach?And yeah, I feel you on being behind schedule. No matter how much you plan, it never goes exactly to script, right? 😆 Glad to hear your parts arrived though. Feel free to share some pictures of your build—I’d love to see the progress
FlexinR6@reddit
Having an experience shop is going to br helpful. If you love solving issues, it could be an interesting pr9ject.
I drive a Jeep Rubicon. Love off road vehicles, and have always been a sucker for Unimogs.
I'm also a suckered for youtube builds. Cars, trucks, garages, boats, overland rigs. I vote yes on full video and picture documentation. I would watch them. If you even half think you might want to film it, start filming the decision process. It would be good content for the first video
Just a heads up, if you are doing any of the work yourself, and filming, everything takes longer. Setting up shots, moving the camera, forgetting to dump cards, and only finding out 10 mins into recording. Although it takes longer, it can be worth it
I have posted a little content in the tiny trailer reddit. I am also doing YouTube videos on it. In the end, I plan on doing videos for it on 4 of my channels, just to make it harder on myself.
Are you planing on a 4x4 or 6x6?
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Thanks for the honest advice on filming! I can totally imagine the struggle with SD cards and everything taking twice as long—good content is hard work. But you're right: filming the decision process next week at the specialist's shop would be the perfect starting point.To answer your question: I’m definitely planning on a 4x4. While a 6x6 looks badass, a 4x4 is much more practical for my needs—better maneuverability in the woods, less weight, and easier maintenance, especially when traveling with friends.I’ll definitely check out your 'tiny trailer' content! Much respect for running 4 channels at once. I’ll keep you posted on what happens during the inspection next week
WillNotFightInWW3@reddit
Brozzer, watch civilian traffic footage in Syria or Iraq and you will see mostly small shitboxes being driven, people with a nice truck risk having it confiscated or got a bullet in the head so their stuff turns into a technical with rocket launchers or PKM in the back.
and fuckin this guy wants to drive around in a military-spec double cab for high security.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, slow down there, 'Brozzer'. First of all: I haven't even bought the cab yet. I'm currently just weighing my options and thinking about whether I should even start this project for my family. That’s exactly why I’m here asking for opinions on weight, tech, and practicality.Secondly: I have zero plans for expeditions to Iraq. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a collector who loves rare engineering. My focus is on that factory A/C and the extra space. The armor is an interesting technical detail, but definitely not a travel destination. I'm simply evaluating if the comfort benefits are worth the extra weight. No need to get worked up—I’m just looking for a cool platform for relaxed family trips
Kerensky97@reddit
In the 3 decades I've been overlanding I've only been attacked by wilderness raiders once. And if I had latched my food bin tight the racoons wouldn't have gotten in.
All that extra weight from armoring is going to be detrimental to literally every part of the overlanding journey. It provides no benefits unless you're overlanding Donbas.
Ashenfenix@reddit
I love watching all of these medium duty truck builds. it's cool until you have to change a 400lb tire.
Fuzzy3075@reddit
I was a truck driver in the military, primarily drove the MTVR. Wheels and tires were \~500lbs a piece and iirc they were 53” inches tall and over $1000 new. They were lots of fun to replace….
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, you’re not kidding! I definitely need to hit the gym more often before I attempt that. Or better yet, make sure the build includes a proper crane or a very strong winch to help with the heavy lifting. Dealing with those tires is definitely a workout I’m not looking forward to. 😆
TheDude-Esquire@reddit
I’ve had to deal with bears, but they generally run when the dogs start barking. I’ve taken more damage from falling pine cones than animals.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, point taken! Those raccoons are definitely the most dangerous raiders most of us will ever face.You're absolutely right about the weight—it’s the enemy of performance. If I were building a nimble trail rig, I’d run away from this cab as fast as I could. But for me, it was more about finding a unique Doka with factory A/C that can fit the whole family. The armor just happened to be part of the package. I'll probably have to compensate with a bigger engine and beefier suspension, but that’s half the fun of a custom build, right?
RedditBot90@reddit
BlastTyrantKM@reddit
How much enjoyment can you have in an area that would require this level of protection from bring attacked? Not to mention, what kind of fuel mileage would this get 4 or maybe 5mpg? I think the fuel anxiety would be rather detrimental, not to mention that 55g drum of emergency fuel you'd have to carry with you would seriously cut into your gear storage
ChibaCityFunk@reddit
Thing is, a Mog is not bad in terms of fuel economy. A regular U1300L with a camper box usually takes around 20 - 22 Litres per 100 Kilometer (10-11 mpg) on tarmac.
The whole armour thing is idiotic and 100% pointless though.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You're hitting on the two biggest headaches of every Mog owner: fuel and weight! 4-5 mpg might actually be optimistic if I’m fighting a headwind with all that armor. 😆But honestly, I look at it differently. The protection isn't because I plan to go looking for trouble in war zones—it's just a 'better safe than sorry' layer while I'm enjoying the scenery with my family. And as for the fuel: a Unimog is never about efficiency, it's about getting where others can't. I'll probably just have to get creative with extra tanks and accept that I won't be winning any 'green vehicle' awards anytime soon.
BlastTyrantKM@reddit
To be fair, I don't do long distance overlanding across desolate, but still populated areas. I'm just a weekend warrior out in the woods, so not much chance at all of encountering roving marauders. I didn't even need locks on my doors, much less does that can withstand a barrage of heavy fire from a gang of bandits
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I totally get that. I might have given the wrong impression here!My main goal isn't actually to spend time in dangerous areas. For me, it’s really all about the double cab and especially the factory A/C. It’s so rare to find these rigs with air conditioning, and that’s a massive plus when you're traveling with kids or heading out for a trip with four friends.It’s more about making those long drives comfortable for the whole crew than about expecting trouble. Just a cool, capable truck to enjoy with the people I care about.
davegsomething@reddit
Having traveled around the word on a dirtbike, I don’t think you’ll get more attention than I did on my DRZ-400 when you show up in a village outside of Europe or USA. Even though I was on what is considered a small bike in the USA it stuck out and drove tons of curiosity abroad. Even on the bike on South/Central America I was always an interest to police and military checkpoints.
I was robbed on the road in Guatemala by guys with .45 pistols. You would probably be able to keep driving where I had to stop.
So go for it!!
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, exactly! I’m not even really looking for the armor, it just comes for free with the deal! 😆Wow, that is such an intense story. How long were you actually on the road with your bike? And man, being robbed like that... what did you do after it happened?Did you take any videos or photos during your travels? If you posted them anywhere or even here in the group, I’d love to check them out. Respect for doing that on a DRZ
kreiggers@reddit
I don’t want to travel anywhere this would be useful
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
That’s exactly the challenge, isn't it? Both time and money are always the biggest factors. I’m still weighing my options because a project like this takes a massive amount of time—which I barely have as it is—and it definitely burns a big hole in the wallet! 😆But then again, every time I look at those semaphores, I start dreaming again. It’s a tough battle between common sense and passion
WelpSeaYaLater@reddit
if you're overlanding in a remote foreign country, and you're in a situation where you're being shot at, you are already completely fucked.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Well, you never know—sometimes you're just traveling and a country suddenly faces unrest or conflict. You didn't do anything 'wrong' beforehand, you just got caught in a situation.But again, the armor wasn't even my starting point! I was mainly interested in the A/C unit on top, which is so rare to find. When the dealer told me the whole cab was armored as well, I just thought, 'Well, that’s an interesting bonus.' For me, it's about the unique engineering and the comfort for my family, not looking for trouble.
leonme21@reddit
If you’re some anxiety ridden mess, sure.
Otherwise just use a normal vehicle
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I still find it fascinating, but honestly, it’s not about the armor for me. It’s all about that A/C unit you can see on top of the cab in the photo.I’m definitely not looking for attention or planning to drive into restless areas. It’s just so much more enjoyable when you’re out with family or friends and you actually have air conditioning to keep everyone cool. That’s the real 'protection' I’m looking for—protection from the heat! To me, it’s just a unique piece of engineering that fits my needs perfectly.
leonme21@reddit
A normal cab with an aftermarket AC would just be soooo much easier in so many ways
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
You're absolutely right, and I see your point. But because of my professional background as a collector and classic car consultant, preserving originality is everything to me. I've always preferred factory engineering over aftermarket solutions.I know it might be hard to understand for some—and it's definitely not the easy route—but for me, as with many other enthusiasts and collectors, maintaining that original substance is a very important point. It’s what makes the project worth it for me.
DeFiClark@reddit
For the truly rare situations where armor might be a bigger benefit than hindrance … you really need a convoy and over watch.
Otherwise you are making yourself a more valuable target.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, you’ve got a point there! But like I said, for me, it’s all about that A/C and the extra space.As for the looks—I’d definitely give the whole rig a fresh, uniform paint job. I want it to look like a clean, civilian expedition vehicle, not something that just rolled off a battlefield. Once it’s all one color and built out, I think it’ll look a lot more like a 'home away from home' and less like a target.
rocklol88@reddit
for Americans... I assume OP is from USA... usually... USUALY it's ok to travel in the world... I know you guys drive with guns, have metal detectors in schools and even go on a hike\camping\bike with guns. But outside of USA is actually pretty chill and we do not shoot children or empty AR15 mags due to some minor road rage
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
I had to laugh when I read your comment!To clear things up: I’m actually from Europe, not the US. We don't walk around with guns here, and we definitely don't carry metal detectors with us.The main reason this cab caught my eye—and why I still love it—is the factory air conditioning. As I mentioned, my goal is to build this for my family and friends to enjoy our trips together in comfort.I only posted the photo to gather ideas and hear different perspectives on the pros and cons of such a unique build. Nothing more, nothing less. Cheers from Europe.
speedshotz@reddit
Outside of a very cool build at overland expos and gatherings, you would be the envy of every drug lord or rebel commander.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Haha, fair point! I'll make sure to keep the 'Drug Lord Edition' decals off the doors then.In all seriousness, I think a lot comes down to the final look. If it’s painted in a friendly, non-military color and looks like a regular family camper, hopefully, I’ll just be the envy of other Mog enthusiasts at the gas station. But I appreciate the reality check—staying low-profile is definitely part of the plan for the final build!
speedshotz@reddit
To be fair, a stealth Mog is still somewhat less eyecatching than a fancy Earthroamer.
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Honestly, I spent so much time overthinking how to approach this build—what to do and what to avoid. That’s exactly why I decided to post it here.I really needed fresh ideas and different perspectives, and this is definitely the right place for that. I’m sorting through all your suggestions now, and it’s helping me shape the plan for the build. It’s not something that happens overnight, but thanks to your input, I’ve already made a huge leap forward. Thanks for the help, everyone!
BisonRock@reddit
Aside from the valid points made by all other commenters: what happens if you flip it or wreck it and emergency responders can’t break the glass? Would the jaws of life even pry open something like this?
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
To be honest, I hadn't fully considered the emergency extraction side of things yet. But you’re absolutely right—that is a massive point to think about.This is exactly why I posted this here: to get these kinds of insights, concerns, and ideas from people who know the trail. I’ll definitely be looking into emergency quick-release hinges or a roof hatch now. Thanks a lot for the heads-up, I really appreciate the input!
Gnoobl@reddit
Personally I wouldn’t take the extra weight over the extra security
AvailableTaro3123@reddit (OP)
Fair enough! The weight is definitely the biggest downside, no argument there. I guess it all comes down to what you're planning to do with it. For a hardcore rock crawler, every pound counts. But for a slow-and-steady family expedition where I've got the A/C cranking and everyone has a comfortable seat, I’m okay with being a bit heavier. It’s all about the trade-offs we’re willing to make, right?