Pronghorn flatbeds and the CM RD sit at two ends of the steel flatbed market. The CM RD is the volume seller — proven, available, and the cheapest path to a real flatbed. Pronghorn is the heavier, more configurable bed that ranchers and oilfield operators buy when the truck is expected to work for a decade. We stock both, and the right answer depends on how hard you run the truck.
In stock now in Wharton, TX — real prices, installed in one business day.
Shop Pronghorn from $9,900 | Shop CM from $3,950
Browse all in-stock truck beds and bodies or call (979) 532-1486 for a same-day quote.
Pronghorn vs CM RD side by side
| Feature | Pronghorn | CM RD |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | Heavy steel deck, treadplate options | Smooth steel deck with rub rails |
| Skirting | Skirted and non-skirted configs available | Skirted with two lockable side boxes |
| Common sizes | Multiple widths, 56″/60″/84″ CA | 84″ wide, 84″/97″/102″ lengths |
| Headache rack | Heavy tube rack | Included on most configs |
| Gooseneck rating | 30,000 lb class ball | 30,000 lb class ball |
| Rear receiver | 18,500 lb class | 18,500 lb class |
| Finish | Powder-coat | Powder-coat |
| Approx. installed | From $9,900 for in-stock units | From $3,950 for in-stock CM units |
Where Pronghorn wins
- Heavier build. More steel in the frame and rack — it holds up to bale spears, gooseneck loads, and rough lease roads.
- More configuration choice on width, length, and rack style for a specific truck and job.
- Long-term resale. A well-kept Pronghorn moves quickly on the Texas used market.
Where the CM RD wins
- Price. In-stock CM units start around $3,950 installed — often less than half the entry price of a Pronghorn.
- Availability. CM is the most widely stocked bed in Texas, so you can usually drive in and drive out the next day.
- Parts and service. Lights, latches, and rack hardware are same-week items anywhere in the state.
- Lighter weight leaves more payload for what you’re actually hauling.
Which one should you buy?
Buy the CM RD if this is a first flatbed, a ranch truck that works seasonally, or a work truck on a budget. It does 90% of what most buyers need at a much lower installed cost.
Buy Pronghorn if the truck runs loaded every day, you’re spearing bales or towing heavy goosenecks year-round, or you want a bed you’ll move to your next truck. You’re paying for steel and longevity.
Other beds to compare
Also look at Bedrock truck beds for a skirted option, NXG truck beds for a recessed deck and integrated rack, and Norstar truck beds for a mid-heavy build. See everything in flatbed truck bodies.
Talk to Someone Who Installs These Every Week
We stock, spec, and install these bodies at our shop in Wharton, TX, and we serve buyers across Texas and Louisiana. Call us to discuss which is right for your truck — we’ll go over cab-to-axle, wheel configuration, hitch rating, and total installed cost before you commit.
📞 Call (979) 532-1486 — Star Truck Equipment, 2507 County Rd 231, Wharton, TX 77488. Most in-stock bodies are installed in one business day.