The Howe and Howe Ripsaw is an extraordinary vehicle that has captured attention around the world for its impressive design, powerful performance, and unique appearance. Built by Howe & Howe Technologies, this rugged tracked vehicle has been developed for both military and civilian use, and from time to time some versions or similar units have appeared for sale, either through auctions or private deals. For enthusiasts, collectors, or offroad vehicle buyers, understanding how the Ripsaw came to be, why it’s notable, and what it costs when one goes up for sale can be both exciting and informative.
Origins of the Ripsaw Vehicle
The Ripsaw began as a project by brothers Mike and Geoff Howe, founders of Howe & Howe Technologies. They started the design in the early 2000s as a lightweight tracked vehicle that could deliver high speed and agility over difficult terrain. The Ripsaw impressed military evaluators and was developed into a prototype that drew interest from the United States Army for testing in roles such as perimeter defense, convoy protection, and reconnaissance. The vehicle’s development marked a shift from hobby project to serious tactical platform, blending speed, power, and modular capabilities.
Howe & Howe Technologies
Howe & Howe Technologies was an innovative vehicle manufacturer headquartered in Maine. It became known for unconventional vehicles such as the Ripsaw and the world’s smallest armored assault vehicle, the Badger. The company grew in reputation for pushing boundaries in offroad and armored designs, eventually attracting acquisition interest. In 2018, the firm was acquired by Textron Systems, which continued to support development of Ripsaw platforms and other cuttingedge mobility solutions.
What Is the Ripsaw?
The Ripsaw is a series of tracked vehicles that combine characteristics of motorbikes, tanks, and allterrain vehicles. Some variants are designed for unmanned operation, while others can be driven by a human operator. The vehicle’s tracked design allows it to traverse steep slopes and rough terrain that would challenge traditional wheeled vehicles. Its powerful engines, typically Duramax diesel V8s, provide rapid acceleration and high top speeds for a vehicle of its size and weight.
Variants of the Ripsaw
- MS1Early unmanned prototype with fast acceleration and rugged performance.
- MS2Larger version with modular payload capacity and optional crew control.
- Ripsaw EV2A luxury civilian version with enclosed cabin and two seats.
- M5More advanced autonomous or remotecontrolled configuration.
- F4/EV3F4Fourseat luxury tankstyle variant aimed at private markets.
Why the Ripsaw Is Not a Typical Vehicle for Sale
Ripsaw vehicles are not massproduced consumer products like cars or trucks, so they don’t typically appear for sale in dealerships. Instead, most Ripsaw units are owned by military organizations, manufacturers, museums, or private collectors. Occasionally, specific units are offered for sale at auctions. These opportunities are rare and often attract attention from enthusiasts because they represent a chance to own a piece of engineering history rather than a runofthemill vehicle.
Movie and Auction Sales
One of the most publicized Ripsaw vehicles offered for sale was a 2009 prototype featured in the film The Fate of the Furious. Built originally for around $750,000, this tracked vehicle appeared in scenes that showcased its speed and ruggedness. When it was put up for auction, estimates suggested it could sell for between $150,000 and $180,000, making it a striking example of what collectors might expect when such a rare machine comes to market.
Examples of Ripsaw Vehicles for Sale
While official for sale listings are uncommon, a few different ways Ripsaw vehicles have been sold or offered include
- Auction houses featuring Ripsaw prototypes, especially those with unique history or media appearances.
- Private collector sales where niche military vehicles or showpieces are marketed to enthusiasts.
- Custom builds or civilian variants designed for extreme offroad recreation, typically sold through broker networks rather than traditional dealerships.
Collector Interest
Highend and rare vehicles like the Ripsaw tend to attract a particular type of buyer collectors, offroad lovers, movie memorabilia enthusiasts, and wealthy hobbyists. Interest is often driven by not just the vehicle’s performance, but its uniqueness and limited availability. Because production is limited, and many units remain in military or institutional hands, owning a Ripsaw is often about owning a rare mechanical artifact rather than just a mode of transportation.
Price Considerations
Prices for Ripsaw vehicles when they come up for sale vary greatly depending on the specific model, condition, history, and intended use. Some civilianoriented versions like the Ripsaw EV2 or EV3F4 have been reported to list for midsixfigure amounts, sometimes around $500,000 or more. Rare and historically significant units, such as prototypes or those used in film productions, can fetch prices both above and below original cost due to collector demand.
Factors That Affect Value
- The rarity of the specific Ripsaw model or variant.
- Whether the vehicle has historical significance or media exposure.
- Condition and level of modification for civilian use.
- Market demand among collectors and enthusiasts.
Where to Find a Ripsaw for Sale
Because these vehicles are not sold through regular automotive dealerships, prospective buyers often look in specialized places such as auction listings, military surplus events, private sales networks, and custom vehicle brokerages. Auctions can sometimes list unique or decommissioned units, while private sales may involve direct negotiations between enthusiasts or specialized dealers. Keeping an eye on websites and events that focus on unusual vehicles increases the chance of finding a Ripsaw or similar tracked vehicle for sale.
Tips for Interested Buyers
- Research the specific variant and its capabilities to understand its performance and limitations.
- Verify the maintenance history, especially for older or prototype units.
- Understand registration and legal requirements for operation in your region, as such vehicles may face restrictions.
- Consult with experts or communities focused on military collectibles and offroad vehicles for advice.
The Howe and Howe Ripsaw is a remarkable example of engineering that bridges the gap between military prototype vehicles and civilian extremeuse platforms. While the vehicle is not commonly sold through traditional channels, examples have appeared at auctions and private sales, often attracting attention because of their rarity, performance, and sometimes even movie appearances. Prices can vary widely, and successful acquisitions often depend on patience, timing, and deep research. For collectors and enthusiasts who dream of owning a piece of unique automotive history, finding a Ripsaw for sale can be an exciting journey into the world of highend, limitedproduction tracked vehicles.