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Shooting Boom Forklift: The Telescopic Handler Explained

Published time：

2026-06-13

Author：

Xin Hong Guang

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Xin Hong Guang

Abstract

A shooting boom forklift is another name for a telehandler (telescopic handler). It is a lifting machine that combines the functionality of a standard forklift with the long reach of a crane, making it essential for jobs requiring height and versatility.What Makes It Different from a Standard ForkliftUnlike a standard forklift which only has vertical masts, a shooting boom features a hydraulic boom that extends both up and out. It can lift materials up to 75 feet high or extend forward over 40 feet. It is often equipped with outriggers (stabilizer legs) and 4-wheel drive to handle heavy loads at maximum height safely. It can swap pallet forks for buckets, hooks, or truss booms to handle various materials.Key SpecificationsHere is how a typical large-class shooting boom (e.g., 75-ft model) performs. Max lift capacity is 10,000 lbs at lower heights. Lift capacity at max height drops significantly due to leverage to approximately 6,000 lbs at 75 ft. Lift capacity at max reach is usually l

A shooting boom forklift is another name for a telehandler (telescopic handler). It is a lifting machine that combines the functionality of a standard forklift with the long reach of a crane, making it essential for jobs requiring height and versatility.


What Makes It Different from a Standard Forklift


Unlike a standard forklift which only has vertical masts, a shooting boom features a hydraulic boom that extends both up and out. It can lift materials up to 75 feet high or extend forward over 40 feet. It is often equipped with outriggers (stabilizer legs) and 4-wheel drive to handle heavy loads at maximum height safely. It can swap pallet forks for buckets, hooks, or truss booms to handle various materials.


Key Specifications


Here is how a typical large-class shooting boom (e.g., 75-ft model) performs. Max lift capacity is 10,000 lbs at lower heights. Lift capacity at max height drops significantly due to leverage to approximately 6,000 lbs at 75 ft. Lift capacity at max reach is usually limited to around 2,100 lbs when fully extended forward.


Common Applications


Shooting boom forklifts are used for HVAC installation, hoisting air conditioning units onto rooftops. They are used in construction for placing trusses, framing, and lifting heavy materials to upper floors. They are also used in agriculture and rough terrain for handling hay bales or operating on muddy, uneven ground with 4WD.


Rental Costs


Rental rates vary widely based on size and region, but high-capacity units (10k lbs, 50-75 ft) generally run between $1,400 and $2,900 per day, plus delivery and operator fees.

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shooting boom forklift
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