A Welder’s Take on the XTF: A Truck Kit Worth Buying
I’m Michael M., engaged to Nicole Smith and a close family friend of Factory Five President Dave. This winter, Mr. Smith gave me the opportunity to take the Factory Five XTF up to my grandparents’ house in New Hampshire for a holiday trip.
As a welder, I know the importance of solid craftsmanship, durability, and performance. But nothing prepared me for the experience of taking the Factory Five XTF up to New Hampshire—a trip that turned out to be more meaningful than I ever expected.
From the moment I hit the road, the XTF was an absolute blast to drive. It wasn’t just the speed—though my cousin was blown away by how fast this thing moves—it was the way it handled everything I threw at it. Snow, ice, backroads—no problem. The XTF powered through like it was built for it (which, let’s be honest, it was).
It grabbed attention everywhere I went. At one red light, a man rolled down his window and yelled, “What kind of truck is that?” Without missing a beat, I grinned and shouted back, “A Factory Five!” Moments like that made the trip unforgettable.
But this drive wasn’t just about the truck—it was personal. My Nana was sick, and she passed about a month after this trip, so this was one of my last trips up to New Hampshire that I got to spend with her and my family. Pulling up in something other than my usual GMC truck felt special. When I arrived, everyone was blown away by the XTF—no one expected me to show up in something so unique, especially a truck that had just come back from testing with U.S. Special Forces.
And after this experience, I can say with confidence that the XTF is the real deal. Now I want to buy an F-150 and build one!
PS: I may be engaged to Dave’s daughter, but as a welder and truck guy, I know a well-built machine when I see one. The XTF is the real deal! And Nicole can vouch for the grin on my face while driving it—this truck is just that good.
Now, I just need to build one… before Nicole beats me to it.
—Michael
