Review: Mad Cow Metal Works Dry Box

There are a million reasons to buy local, and when the product’s craftsmanship is better than anywhere else, there isn’t any reason not to. That’s why I use a Mad Cow 36” x 16” x 16” Dry Box. They’ve been making boxes right here in Montana for 18 years, inspired by all the same rivers I float, so I’ll leave my river equipment up to the experts. Their boxes are sturdy, airtight, certified bear-proof, and come in a variety of sizes to fit any frame. The attention to design, attention to detail, and masterful execution is what sets these boxes apart from the competition; it’s not even a fair fight. It’s got locking closure mechanisms to keep all your gear safe. Plus, the tabs welded on the outside let it sit right up on your frame and facilitate easy rigging. The list of features goes on. Just do yourself a favor and get one of your own.

One of the guys behind the curtain is Todd—the namesake of Mad Cow. Allegedly, he’s been known to act a little wild both on and off the river—wild enough to earn a nickname like “Mad Cow.” The name stuck, it made perfect sense to attach it to his passion: getting folks out on the water. But Mad Cow Metal Works is more than just a box-building operation. They also fabricate custom raft frames, panniers, and Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee-certified bear boxes. In fact, Mad Cow’s fabrication journey really took off after landing a contract with the Forest Service to build bear boxes across the West. That early work shaped their current designs—and instilled a focus on durability and quality. If it’s tough enough to keep a grizzly out, it’s tough enough for anything.

Now, let’s get into the features of their boxes. Mad Cow’s standard dry boxes are built from .100 gauge aluminum from the bottom up—ideal for handling rough weather and the bumps and bangs of river life. They’re outfitted with rock-solid locking can-jar latches and full-length stainless steel hinges for a secure lid. Inside, rubber gaskets provide an airtight seal, and spring-loaded handles make for comfortable carrying and conveniently tuck out of the way when not in use. Welded 1” slotted tabs make for easy mounting on your frame, and optional trays can be added up top to keep essentials within reach. You can even choose a custom powder coat color to help your setup stand out with some style.

These guys really thought of everything. After all, they’re true experts—on and off the water. With decades of river experience, they know exactly what quality gear should look like, because they’ve put it to the test themselves. It’s funny owning a shiny new piece of equipment that’s built to take a beating. I’m torn between keeping it pristine or letting it get scuffed up like the tool it is. “Tools, not jewels,” they say—but it’s hard not to treat this thing like a piece of art. I’m sure I’ll eventually put it through its paces, but for now, it sits safely beneath the captain’s chair on my raft.

This box has already joined me on a handful of river trips, and I’m looking forward to a lifetime of use across who-knows-where in summers to come. I know the box can handle whatever I throw at it—the real question is, can I?

Available at madcowmetalworks.com; $780.