Carp Porter Big Boy Tri Porter Deluxe TT Barrow

How well is it built?

There's no question this is a solid bit of kit. The steel frame is based on Carp Porter's MK2 Fat Boy, but with an extra-long steel front bar and supports that handle big loads confidently.

Everything from the welds to the fittings feels robust. The rear legs now lock in place too, which stops them slipping when the barrow is parked up.

The crossbar handle system is adjustable for height and cleverly designed. I liked being able to use the push bar for most of the walk, then switch to the separate inbuilt handles when tackling steps or tight turns.

It's these small touches that make a difference on the bank. One thing to be aware of is that the finish can show surface rust if left wet.

I've found a light spray of WD40 on the joints helps, but it's worth wiping down after wet sessions. Still, the strength and durability are definitely above average for the price.

Manoeuvrability

This isn't a barrow you pick for tight swim paths or finesse. But for hauling a big load over mud, grass or gravel, the Tri Porter is up there with the best.

The triple wheel layout makes it noticeably easier to keep upright on rough ground. I've found it tracks much straighter than dual-wheel barrows when fully loaded.

The key is to balance the weight just behind the front wheel. When packed right, it lifts and pivots easily without tipping.

The rear park brake is a useful addition, especially when pausing on banks. And although it takes up more room than lighter trolleys, the all terrain deep tread tyres and the choice of grip positions more than make up for it in control and comfort.

Storage Capacity

Storage is the Tri Porter's biggest strength. The front and side bar supports hold massive holdalls, buckets, cooking kit and bait bags without needing extra lashings.

The drop-in bag system is huge and sits securely on the frame, and on the Deluxe TT you also get the DPM panniers and a compact DPM front bag as part of the package.

On one of my longer sessions with the Big Boy Tri Porter, I managed to fit in a bedchair, a rod holdall, 2 large holdalls, a bivvy, 3 buckets, bait boat and clothing, and it didn't feel overloaded.

That kind of volume usually means multiple trips, but this barrow did it in one. The side bars adjust for width, so if you've got a wide bedchair, it'll still sit flush, and the front bar extends when you need more carrying space.

Everything is kept tidy with strap tie points and the supplied bungees, making this an ideal setup for big water carp fishing.

Is it good value for money?

At just over £400, the Deluxe TT is a bigger outlay than the standard Tri Porter was. But you're getting a serious amount of metal and design for your money, and the panniers, front bag and Deluxe Y bar are included rather than being extras you add later.

It's fully compatible with the existing Carp Porter DPM ecosystem too. If you already own Carp Porter bags or accessories, this is a smart foundation that doesn't need replacing.

The fact it folds down flat, has wheels that come off in seconds, and includes strap points, bungees and a spares kit out of the box only adds to the value.

With an overall score of 8.9, the Tri Porter Deluxe TT earns a place among the best carp barrows for anglers who want strength, simplicity and capacity without moving to a powered setup.