Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base Review

From Curiosity to Confidence: My Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base Review

My utility rack on the ATV has always been a bit of a disorganized mess. Carrying essential tools, fishing rods, or even just extra gear meant constantly readjusting and hoping nothing tumbled out on rough terrain. The Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base caught my eye as a potential solution to this persistent problem. Mad Dog Gear isn’t a brand I’ve extensively used, but their promise of a heavy-duty, versatile mounting system for various items piqued my interest.

The primary issue I needed to address was secure transport for items of different shapes and sizes. Previously, I’d tried makeshift bungee cord solutions and generic strap systems, all of which proved inadequate under vibration and stress. This specific clamp system, with its upright design and auto-adjusting grip, seemed to offer a more robust and adaptable answer.

My initial impression upon unpacking was one of solid construction. The materials felt substantial, and the mechanism for opening and closing the grip seemed robust enough to handle the intended load. While there are certainly more premium-looking options on the market, this one projected a sense of no-nonsense functionality, which is exactly what I was after.

I briefly considered some of the simpler single-post clamps, but the “Double Upright” design of the Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base seemed to offer a more stable and secure embrace for longer items like fishing rods or even a shovel. The included E-Z-Mount System Base was also a key selling point, promising straightforward installation without specialized tools. The first reaction was a quiet sense of anticipation; this might finally be the fix for my overloaded rack.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base onto the composite rear rack of my ATV. The installation was, as advertised, remarkably straightforward. The E-Z-Mount System Base attached securely to the rack’s tubing in just a few minutes, requiring only the tightening of a few bolts.

I immediately tested it by securing a fishing rod and reel combo. The upright claw grips opened wide enough to accommodate the rod’s handle and the reel’s body, and when closed, they applied firm, even pressure without crushing the delicate components. The rubberized interior of the grip felt reassuringly soft, promising to prevent scratches.

Next, I tried it with a foldable shovel, a tool I often need on the trail. The clamp’s ability to adjust to different diameters proved effective. Throughout an hour-long ride over moderately rough terrain, including some jarring bumps and inclines, both items remained firmly in place. There was no noticeable shifting or rattling, which was a significant improvement over my previous methods.

The only minor surprise was how much the built-in shock dampening system in the base actually seemed to work. While I didn’t have a direct comparison, the ride for the secured items felt noticeably smoother than I expected, especially over smaller, repeated bumps.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, hauling everything from my rifle case (secured with additional straps for absolute safety) to camping gear, the Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base has proven its mettle. The heavy-duty design has lived up to its billing, showing no signs of cracking or deformation despite constant exposure to sun, dust, and occasional light rain.

The rubberized grips, while still pliable, show minimal wear. I’ve noticed a slight scuffing on one of the upright arms from an accidental brush against a tree branch, but this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect the grip’s function. The EZ-Mount System has remained tight and secure, requiring no re-tightening.

Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dust and grime. Unlike some other mounting solutions that develop stiffness or looseness over time, this clamp system maintains its smooth, positive action. Compared to the cheap plastic clamps I’ve encountered on other ATVs, this Mad Dog offering feels like it’s built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base

Specifications

The Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base is designed for robust utility. It features an E-Z-Mount System Base that allows for secure attachment to both tubular and composite racks, supporting single and double rack configurations. The core of its functionality lies in its double upright claw grips, which are engineered to secure a wide variety of items.

These grips are lined with a soft rubber Fin Grip clamp, specifically designed to cushion and protect your gear from abrasion and impact. The built-in shock dampening system in the base is a thoughtful addition, intended to provide a smoother ride for the cargo it carries. This system is crucial for minimizing vibration, which can damage delicate items over time.

The entire unit is constructed from what feels like a very durable, heavy-duty plastic composite, with metal components in the clamping mechanism to ensure longevity. The specified color is a standard, practical Black, blending in well with most ATV aesthetics. While specific dimensions aren’t provided, the overall size feels substantial without being excessively bulky, designed to offer maximum holding power.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base is to securely hold items on an ATV rack. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The double upright design creates a stable cradle, and the soft rubber Fin Grip clamp provides excellent traction.

Items are held with a secure, positive grip that inspires confidence. The clamping mechanism is strong enough to prevent slippage even when the ATV is subjected to significant movement. I found that securing tools like shovels and even longer items like fishing poles was remarkably easy and secure. The ability to adjust the grip quickly is a major advantage for quick loading and unloading.

A key strength is its versatility; it truly can carry a diverse range of items, from hunting gear to tools. The built-in shock dampening system in the base does contribute to a smoother ride for whatever is clamped, reducing the jolt and vibration that can transfer to the cargo. Its main weakness, if one must be identified, is that for extremely heavy or irregularly shaped items, additional strapping might still be advisable for absolute peace of mind, though this is true for most rack accessories.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this grip system is focused on practicality and durability. The double upright claw grips are intuitively designed to open and close with a satisfying click, indicating a secure lock. The soft rubber Fin Grip clamp material feels high-quality and resilient, promising to withstand repeated use without degrading.

Ergonomically, it’s straightforward. The clamp mechanism is easy to operate, even with gloves on, which is a critical consideration for ATV use. The EZ-Mount System Base is also well-designed, featuring a simple bolt-on system that requires no specialized tools. The overall construction feels robust; it doesn’t feel flimsy or prone to breaking under stress.

The Black color is practical and unobtrusive, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the ATV’s existing hardware. Markings are minimal, focusing on functionality rather than aesthetics. The uprights are spaced adequately to accommodate a variety of object widths without being overly cumbersome.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base appears to be a durable product built for the demanding environment of off-road use. The heavy-duty design suggests it’s intended for long-term service. The materials used, particularly the thick plastic composite and the resilient rubber grip lining, show excellent resistance to abrasion and UV exposure.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse with water or a wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning optimally. There are no complex parts to lubricate or intricate mechanisms that are prone to failure. The EZ-Mount System is also designed for low maintenance; the hardware provided is typically stainless steel or similarly corrosion-resistant.

Potential failure points might arise from extreme misuse, such as attempting to clamp objects far beyond its designed capacity or subjecting it to excessive side-loading. However, under normal operating conditions as intended by Mad Dog, it seems very likely to provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessory included with the Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base is the integrated EZ-Mount System Base, which facilitates its attachment to various rack types. The product itself is designed to be a standalone solution for securing items, rather than a platform for extensive modification.

It’s compatible with standard ATV racks, and the E-Z-Mount System makes installation straightforward. While the unit is designed to hold a wide array of items on its own, for absolute security of certain loads, particularly those like firearms, users may opt to supplement it with additional bungee cords or ratchet straps. The grip itself isn’t designed for interchangeable components like different needle sizes or optics, as its function is purely mechanical holding. However, its robust design makes it a reliable component within a larger gear-hauling setup.

Pros and Cons of Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base

Who Should Buy Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base?

This product is an excellent choice for any ATV owner who frequently hauls gear and tools and is tired of makeshift securing methods. It’s ideal for recreational riders who carry fishing rods, hunting equipment, or camping supplies, as well as utility users who need to transport shovels, axes, or other implements securely. The Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base is perfect for those seeking a practical, durable, and easy-to-install solution for their ATV rack.

Individuals who require highly specialized or extremely high-capacity mounting solutions might need to look elsewhere. Those who primarily transport delicate electronics or require precise, multi-axis adjustments might find this simpler system insufficient. For most general-purpose ATV hauling needs, however, this is a solid contender. A highly recommended complementary item would be a set of quality bungee cords or a small ratchet strap for added security on particularly rough trails or for oddly shaped loads.

Conclusion on Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base

The Mad Dog ATV Premier Double Upright Claw Grip W/ E-Z-Mount System Base is a well-executed piece of equipment that effectively addresses a common ATV utility problem. Its heavy-duty design, coupled with the protective soft rubber Fin Grip clamp and the convenient E-Z-Mount System, makes it a practical and reliable choice for securing a variety of gear. The included shock dampening is a subtle but welcome feature that enhances its value.

At its price point of $43.00, it offers significant value for the functionality and durability it provides. It performs its intended job admirably, offering a secure and protected way to transport items that would otherwise rattle around or fall off the rack. I would confidently recommend this grip system to anyone looking to enhance their ATV’s carrying capacity and organization. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense solution that delivers on its promises, making it a worthy addition to any ATV setup.