Justin’s military truck conversion reflects his love for a life where every day feels different, with no idea what comes next.
Inspired by a late friend who told him, “Do all the things that I can’t,” he decided to build a vehicle capable of an epic journey from Alaska to Argentina.
That vehicle is Bronty, a Stewart & Stevenson M1079—a massive machine transformed through a full military truck conversion.
Measuring 8 feet wide by 24 feet long, the 120-square-foot interior once housed antennas and communication gear. In the van life world, it’s huge; in most people’s eyes, it’s still compact.
Choosing the right base vehicle was critical. Justin spent a lot of time in remote areas, so a 4×4 capable of handling tough terrain was a must.
The military rates the M1079’s off-road capability at 5,000 pounds, making it sturdy enough to carry everything needed for full-time travel.
And the price? Far less than commercial options. Trucks like this could be found for $18,000 to $25,000 with under 3,000 miles.
“I challenge anyone to find a 4×4 full-size diesel with those little miles for anywhere close to that price,” he says.
What began as a budget-conscious project became a full-time lifestyle.
Over seven months, Justin has tested every feature of Bronty—from high mountain passes like Telkwa Pass in northern British Columbia to watching the Aurora Borealis in Alaska.
Six years of saving, planning, and dreaming came together in this ultimate off-grid vehicle.
Features and specifications: From monstrous to mobile home
Bronty is not just a truck—it’s a fully equipped home on wheels, designed for extreme travel.
The exterior is rugged, built for off-road adventures. A massive front winch allows Justin to help other travelers, and a 50-watt radio lets him communicate up to 25 miles away.
Temporary additions include an electric dirt bike, with plans to add a “pack mule” for transporting a motorcycle.
Safety and convenience were central to the military truck conversion. The driver’s side features a snorkel for river crossings, tool storage, and a fully functional outdoor cooking grate.
The rear has a hydraulic spare tire system, air conditioning, and a diesel exhaust system for heavy off-road use. Departure angles were improved to clear rough terrain easily.
On the passenger side, a pull-out barbecue and smoker make on-the-road cooking simple.
A 15 kW four-stroke generator powers Bronty and can charge four other vehicles.
Dual 48-gallon fuel tanks provide nearly 1,000 miles per fill-up, while solar panels supplement energy usage.
Central tire inflation, outdoor outlets, and an advanced control system—what Justin calls his “crew captain”—round out the high-tech, off-grid setup.
Inside Bronty: Rooms and their functions
Stepping inside Bronty feels like entering a compact New York apartment. Cleanliness is key: shoes are off, and screened doors keep bugs out.
Bathroom
The shower is surprisingly large, enough for a few people. The design has a Tulum-inspired Mexican aesthetic, with driftwood accents from Haida Gwaii. A washing machine and waterless dryer save resources, while a MaxxAir fan ensures rapid ventilation.
The cleverly concealed toilet flushes efficiently, keeping the area clean and dry.
Kitchen and Living Area
Space utilization is impressive. A pull-out water system controls every connection, and a dishwasher cleans four days’ worth of dishes using only one gallon of water. Bronty has air conditioning, heat, and upper storage for food and linens.
The largest window in a van opens wide, is hurricane-rated, and is made of aluminum. Cabinets feature soft-close drawers, a two-burner stove, and all essential cooking gear, including a blender, rice cooker, and air fryer.
Justin takes his food and coffee seriously. A manual maple latte coffee maker, sliding spice cabinets, a French door fridge, two freezers, and storage for three full-size pies ensure he’s always prepared.
Every piece of cabinetry is crafted with joinery, using durable African woods suited to humid climates—no nails or screws in sight.
Sleeping Quarters
A bed sits atop a lift system under a 4×4-foot skylight, letting Justin enjoy the stars from inside. Under-bed storage holds clothes, tools, batteries, and filming equipment. Music fills the truck, creating a cozy atmosphere even when traveling alone.
Cab and Extra Storage
The cab houses a 12-foot kayak, a handpan, and seats. Outside, a crane and main control panel allow Justin to manage lights, water, and inverters while driving. Power comes from a 48V 276 amp-hour battery—twice the size of a Tesla Powerwall—feeding a Victron system with a touchscreen control panel.
Living Fully in a military truck conversion
For Justin, Bronty is more than a vehicle—it’s freedom, comfort, and a platform for adventure.
Starting in Alaska, he is driving south to Argentina, with plans to explore Africa, Russia, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Someday, he hopes to find a place to settle or build a small eco-lodge.
His journey proves that a military truck conversion can combine durability, functionality, and luxury at a fraction of the cost of a commercial conversion.
Every detail—from cabinetry to power systems—has been tested under extreme conditions, including almost flipping the truck in Canada without a scratch.
Justin reflects, “Do all the things that I can’t,” his late friend’s words guiding every mile.
For him, Bronty is not just a home—it’s a decade-long adventure, a lesson in bold living, and a reminder that freedom can be found in the most unconventional places.
Watch Justin share the story behind his military truck conversion and give a full tour of Bronty—then subscribe to the Tiny House Giant Journey YouTube channel for more inspiring and unique home stories.
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