General Grabber A/TX vs Cooper AT3 4S vs Pirelli Scorpion

Disclaimer: I don't like starting threads and have never started a tire thread as I usually can search and find what I need, but here goes. I'm a long time Tacoma owner and have had all 3 generations going all the way back to a '96. (I've never not had a Tacoma since then) My former 2nd gen I ran 3 sets of Revo 2's and they were pretty decent for me. My needs (and truck) have changed and I run 95% on road but hunting and dragging my bass boat up ramps are the main activities outside of highway driving.

I'm switching to 17" 4Runner Trail wheels (murdered) and so I'm shopping for 5 tires. I have narrowed my search to the Grabbers or the Coopers in 265/70 17. From all the reviews on Tire Rack and here, they are essentially even. Very good reviews for both with a couple of unsatisfied users as well. The prices are good, they look good so dead heat in those areas. I want a quiet tire and good performance in the dry and wet. Decent tread life is always a plus. Not a lot of snow in South Texas, so that's not an issue. I'm looking for a few first hand impressions and maybe someone who has run both to sway me. I'm leaning more to the Coopers for now.

EDIT: I am throwing the Scorpions into the mix due to excellent reviews and they fit the same category.

Thanks

 

Just gonna toss a couple things in to get ya started. Disclaimer, I do not own and have not owned either of your prospective tires. I like the Grabbers and considered getting them, though. Bought Goodyear UltraTerrains instead, fantastic tire if you're willing to consider another choice. They are exclusive to Discount Tire / America's Tire. I have owned Cooper Discoverer ATRs, no idea how they might compare to AT3s but I can tell you they were a bit of a disappointment, especially their tread life. And they downright sucked in a few inches of slushy snow, though that wouldn't concern you.

 

After searching here and poring over reviews on various tire sites, I ordered the Scorpions from Walmart. 5 tires, free pickup, for less than $800 out the door. My wheels are at the powdercoater and should be ready in a couple weeks. I found a spare 17" steelie on Ebay. I'll mount and balance them myself and save about $200 over going to a dealer.

 

Let us know how they do!

I only chose the cooper at3 4s for the cold weather performance, I wouldn't have chosen them for a southern state.

 

All 3 of these are pretty much equal on paper. Price, ratings and reviews are all very similar. They are 3 of the top 4 tires rated in their class on Tire Rack. Scores in all categories (off road, comfort, wet...etc.) on their site are also close. I doubt there is much difference on the truck as well. Looking forward to the upgrade and I'll post a pic and first impressions when I get it all done.

 

Ya probably already got a set by now... Personally am a fan of the Grabber A/Tx, and I know it's a personal taste, but I love the RWL sidewall. I chose them because they were rated best in their category on tire rack (for my size, 285/75r16) and well as testimonials from friends who have liked the General A/Tx and disliked Cooper AT3s (Just how it worked out, I'm sure plenty of people have plenty of praise and trash talk for both). The A/Tx incredibly well mannered on the road for an aggressive A/T, and are second to none off-road in my opinion. Personally I think they are a little bit more aggressive than either the Cooper or the Pirelli, so I think it will come down to looks and preference for performance on/offroad, as well as what you hear from others who have had personal experience with each tire. If my 2 cents is worth anything, go for the Generals. Here's a pic of the Generals:

 

I went with the Scorpions, but I think any of the 3 tires would be fine. The Pirellis are quiet on the road and handle fine with no quirks. I got 5 of them for about $800 OTD at Walmart. The wheels and powder coating totaled $940. I am happy with the result.

 

I have been happy with coopers

 

been running the general grabbers at2 for 30,000 miles here in Vermont. They work great year round!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

For that deal ya can’t pass it up, they look great too.

 

Those look great. What size tire are they? What lift?

Edit...Just saw the tire size...

 

Sorry to re-surface this on you - what size are these? The Scoprions are high on my list and seeing your picture is confirming that they meet my middle-ground of rugged enough without being too much!

 

265/70-17. Tacoma Pro suspension, no lift except thin leveling spacers in front. The tires are great for my usage. During the big snow, I had zero problems in deep snow or even ice. I have lots of winter driving experience, so that helps. Not loud on the road. Even wear, I'm pleased with them.