Images via Polaris

Polaris Unveils New RANGER XP 1000 Hunting Models Customized for Waterfowl and Big Game

Polaris unveiled their latest 2021 machines, including two brand new Limited Edition Hunting RANGER Models.

At an exclusive media event last week, we got to be among the first to see the 2021 Polaris RANGER XP 1000 Big Game Edition and RANGER XP 1000 Waterfowl Edition, two brand new purpose-built side-by-sides created with avid hunters in mind.

The packages and features are said to deliver more capability and power to haul gear to, and game from, the hardest-to-reach hunting locations.

These new units represent years of effort and innovation, as Polaris continues to release machines that aren't just impressive workhorses, but are direct results of gathering user feedback and applying what they've learned to new, subsequent models.

You may recall a similar-sounding announcement last year of a collaboration with professional hunters Tony Vandemore and Lee and Tiffany Lakosky, who provided their input on a number of accessories and add-ons that an outdoorsman or woman like them would desire.

What was previously just curated accessory collections are now full-fledged Limited Edition side-by-side offerings from the leading powersports and off-road innovators.

"For decades, we have pushed the industry forward by putting the rider at the center of product innovation, and our new limited-edition models are just the latest example," said Steven Menneto, President of Polaris Off Road. "Many of our riders are avid big game and waterfowl hunters operating in highly-demanding environments, so we built the RANGER XP 1000 Big Game and Waterfowl editions with added strength and capability to provide the ultimate advantage for their specific hunting needs."

Both these new hunting Limited Edition RANGERS run on the same 82 HP, 4-stroke, twin cylinder engine, and employ the same High Performance On Demand AWD/2WD drive system.

RANGER XP 1000 Big Game Edition

Starting with the Big Game Edition, the special features include better clearance and traction via high-clearance arched A-arms and 29-inch Maxxis tires. A self-leveling rear suspension allows for hauling more gear and game while still maintaining ride height, smoothness, and drive-ability.

Active Descent Control, a heavy-duty front bumper, and a Polaris Pro HD 4,500-lb winch (set higher for better access) round out this RANGER's highlights.

Add in the original accessory collection curated by the Lakoskys, and you've ended up with a Lock & Ride Kolpin Rhino Grip PRO for securing bows and other gear, an 8-vent heater and defrost system to fight the elements, a 360-degree Work Beacon LED light, and a front-hood storage rack. There's nearly nothing a big game hunter would need a side-by-side to do that this Limited Edition can't accomplish.

RANGER XP 1000 Waterfowl Edition

For those of us who venture out each hunting season in pursuit of waterfowl, the new Polaris RANGER XP 1000 Waterfowl Edition has set itself up to be the ultimate machine.

The Pro Armor Mud XC tires were made for swampy, muddy terrain and the high-mounted air intakes and clutch ducting were added with deep water in mind. Even the Pro HD Winch and electrical components are sealed to be watertight, allowing this RANGER to tread through ponds, lakes, and rivers when it's needed most.

A Lock & Ride CargoMax System helps haul all the decoys a waterfowler could ever need, and there's a front hood storage rack as well. Polaris' own Pursuit camo helps conceal the machine, and LED lights plus a heavy duty front bumper gives you extra security where it's needed most.

Both the Big Game and Waterfowl Editions are available in RANGER (3-seater) and RANGER Crew (4-seater) models, and prices are as follows:

  • 2021 RANGER XP 1000 Big Game Edition - Starting at $20,199 U.S. MSRP
  • 2021 RANGER CREW XP 1000 Big Game Edition - Starting at $21,599 U.S. MSRP
  • 2021 RANGER XP 1000 Waterfowl Edition - Starting at $20,199 U.S. MSRP
  • 2021 RANGER CREW XP 1000 Waterfowl Edition - Starting at $21,599 U.S. MSRP

You can find out all the details on these two new models, as well as the rest of the 2021 lineup from Polaris Off-Road at the company's website.

If first impressions mean anything, these machines are in for a quick rise to the top of the most-wanted hunting side-by-sides on the market.

NEXT: WE DROVE THE 2021 POLARIS GENERAL: THOUGHTS ON THIS POWERFUL "CROSSOVER" MACHINE

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