Grille Guards and Bull Bars

Bull bar installation doesn’t take long, and these useful truck accessories go by many names. In the U.S., common names include bull bars, brush guards, deer pushers, and cow bumpers.

In Canada, they’re called moose bumpers, and in Australia, they’re known as kangaroo bars. If you're hesitant about upgrading to a full off-road bumper or bull bar, a grille guard might be the right option.

So, what exactly is a grille guard? It’s a protective steel framework that extends out in front of your vehicle. Grille guards come in two main styles: a one-piece welded design or a three-piece bolt-together design.

As you might expect, the one-piece welded versions are structurally stronger, while the three-piece designs are typically more affordable. For the best protection, we recommend a welded one-piece grille guard for rural drivers and off-road use.

How to Decide Which One?

Some customers wonder whether adding a grille guard makes their truck more dangerous for pedestrians or other vehicles during an accident.

Studies have shown that rigid bull bars can increase the risk of injury to pedestrians because they do not absorb impact like stock bumpers do. For city driving, we recommend less rigid options. For rural areas with fewer pedestrian risks, sturdier guards are more practical.

Bull bars generally come in black powder-coated steel, chrome-plated steel, or stainless steel. Stainless steel is typically the most durable—especially when polished to a chrome-like finish.

Powder-coated and chrome-plated options look great but can be more prone to chipping and flaking, which allows rust and corrosion to form.

While grille guards do protect your vehicle’s grille, they also provide several additional benefits.

With so many brands and styles available—from aesthetic-focused bars to highly functional heavy-duty options—it can be difficult to narrow down your choices.

Selecting a Grille Guard or Bull Bar

• Choose a bull bar with pre-drilled holes for easy auxiliary LED light installation, or one with an integrated lightbar.
• Look for a grille guard with removable headlight cage tubing for easier service access.
• Select a grille guard with quick-release latches so you can tilt it forward for hood access.
• If you enjoy off-roading, choose a bull bar with a built-in skid plate for added front-end protection.

Grille guards are some of the most practical and stylish truck upgrades available. Off-roading can be tough on your vehicle, and a grille guard provides an additional layer of protection when you need it most.

Selecting the right bull bar or brush guard ultimately comes down to your personal style, where you drive, and how you use your truck.