OEM vs aftermarket bumper

[Hemidakota]

Sad day for me today. 20+ years without an accident and had a big buck run out in front of my truck. Really surprised it didn't do more damage but just looks like the bumper took most of the damage. Already spoke with insurance and they are supposed to send an adjuster out. Already spoke with my body shop. Shop quoted aftermarket bumper but I'm sure insurance will want the same. Has anyone dealt with an aftermarket bumper on these trucks? Really impressed with the strength of the OEM one. I don't want problems down the road with aftermarket.

 

[Willwork4truck]

Maybe now is the time to get a different bumper style. Something from Ranch Hand or one of the other quality aftermarket makers.

I drive at night through deer infested areas, having missed a doe by mere inches just a short while ago. I'm thinking of the "not huge cow-catcher" style, something more like this style "bull bar":

 

[Willwork4truck]

This was some random google search, no idea how it affects front sonar, auto cruise or anything else. Price is below $500 usually, parts only.

 

[kwill]

Maybe now is the time to get a different bumper style. Something from Ranch Hand or one of the other quality aftermarket makers.

I drive at night through deer infested areas, having missed a doe by mere inches just a short while ago. I'm thinking of the "not huge cow-catcher" style, something more like this style "bull bar":
View attachment 191452

That will do more damage if you hit a deer. It is cosmetic only.