Most drivers buy a pickup truck for the utility of a truck bed. When in use, an uncovered truck bed leaves everything in it at the mercy of the weather and prying eyes. When not in use, the naked bed is exposed to the elements, dirt and debris. Covering a truck bed with a tonneau cover eliminates these issues while providing for a sleek, stylish appearance.
Though there are many types of truck bed covers, hard tonneau covers offer the most protection and security. Within this category, there are four different styles: single-piece (hinged or snap-on), folding, rolling and retractable. The best ones are durably constructed, latch closed, easy to install and simple to operate. The downsides to hard tonneau covers is that they cost more than soft-shell alternatives, can obstruct the rear view mirror and often limit use of the full truck bed. The BAK Revolver X2 stands out because it’s a hard tonneau cover that provides for full truck bed access, doesn’t block the rear view mirror and costs less than others in its class.
PROS:
- Easy, one-hand operation
- Robust latching system
- Allows for use of the full truck bed without obstructing the rear view mirror
CONS:
- Exact alignment is key for proper sealing
- Users report issues with adhesive performance in hot weather
- Not watertight
Most roll-up style tonneau covers are made from heavy-duty vinyl that doesn’t offer the security and support of a hard shell, but the BAK Revolver X2 is one exception. With a frame constructed of aluminum slats topped with a vinyl overlay, the Revolver X2 boasts the protection of hardcover combined with the utility of a roll-up design.
We installed the BAK Revolver X2 on a 2006 Toyota Tacoma and tested it over the course of a month in extreme mountain conditions, including strong winds, heavy snowfall and rain showers. While rolled up and secured in place, there was no noticeable movement during exposure to strong wind gusts at highway speeds. After consecutive snow dumps, the Revolver X2 proved capable of supporting a large amount of evenly distributed weight. There have been no signs of leakage from intermittent rain showers or snow melt, despite concerns about its watertightness.
The biggest downside of the BAK Revolver X2 is how finicky it is to get everything sealed up. Overall, installation was straightforward, but there were a couple steps that required extra attention. The first was ensuring the seals aligned past the extrusion points of the cover rails where the bedcap moves into the bed of the truck (specific to Toyota Tacomas).
The second was sealing the rear of the cover over the tailgate. We accomplished this by cutting and affixing a length of the leftover bulkhead seal. This resulted in a well-sealed tonneau cover that fits flush with the top of the truck bed, but we have concerns about the adhesive’s longevity, especially in hot temperatures.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how this product scores in our evaluations:
Is the BAK Revolver X2 a good value?
Hardshell tonneau covers cost between $500 to $1500. At $1,120, the Revolver X2 falls in the middle of the range, making it a good value product when compared to other hard covers.
How easy is it to install?
While installation will differ according to truck make and model, it’s a generally straightforward process that requires no drilling or modifications. These are the basic steps:
First, remove the bulkhead bar and affix block seals on both sides, then replace it and install the bulkhead seal. Next, remove the factory deck rail system to install the tonneau cover rails and brackets. Then, set the cover down on top of the rails and roll it up to the cab of the truck. Finally, line up the cover to the end of the rail at the tailgate before securing it into place.
How durable is it?
The BAK Revolver X2 is constructed from a sheet of aluminum slats overlayed with a gloss vinyl material. It’s capable of supporting 400 pounds of evenly distributed weight.
Is this tonneau cover convenient to use?
It’s easy to operate with one hand from either side of the truck bed. A release cable allows you to roll it up and an integrated buckle system holds it in place. While secured, it provides for full truck bed access without obstructing the rear view mirror.
Is the BAK Revolver X2 waterproof?
The vinyl material covering the aluminum slats is designed to keep water out. Paired with seals that create a flush fit onto the truck bed, the cover is very water-resistant. But it is not completely waterproof and users often report issues at the tailgate end.
Our Verdict:
The BAK Revolver X2 scores high marks in categories across the board, making it a solid tonneau cover choice for anyone who wants the combined protection of a hard cover and the convenience of a roll-up design.
We evaluate all hard tonneau covers on these weighted metrics:
- Price (20%)
- Quality of materials (20%)
- Does it lock when closed? (15%)
- Versatility: does it open completely (15%)
- Ease of installation: (10%)
- Machine washable? (10%)
- Warranty/Return Policy Installation Materials (10%)