Scorpion Snowmobiles
Scorpion was an American snowmobile brand manufactured in Crosby, Minnesota. Produced from the early 1960s through the early 1980s. The company played a key role in the early development of the snowmobile industry and was one of the first to adopt rubber tracks and fiberglass chassis.
History
Origins as Trail-A-Sled
Scorpion's roots trace back to 1959, when Trail-A-Sled, Inc. was founded in Crosby by Glen Gutzman, Richard “Dick” Harrison, and Eugene “Stub” Harrison. The company initially manufactured fiberglass boats and air-powered sleds, but the founders quickly pivoted to snowmobile production after recognizing growing demand and performance limitations of early snow machines.
By 1964, the company had committed fully to snowmobiles, discontinuing marine products. The name Scorpion was adopted as the brand for their machines, while Trail-A-Sled remained the corporate name until a later reorganization.
Innovations
Scorpion was one of the most technologically advanced snowmobile manufacturers of the 1960s and 70s. Key innovations included:
- First U.S. rubber track: In 1964, the company introduced the first American snowmobile with a continuous rubber track, providing improved traction and durability.
- Fiberglass construction: Scorpion used fiberglass for hoods and body panels, reducing weight and increasing performance.
- In-house manufacturing: Scorpion produced its own tracks, clutches, and chassis components at its Crosby facility, which allowed for greater quality control and product integration.
Growth and Success
By the late 1960s, Scorpion had become one of the top snowmobile manufacturers in the United States. The company employed hundreds of workers in the Crosby–Ironton area, becoming a major local employer and economic driver. At its peak, Scorpion was producing over 20,000 snowmobiles per year and held a prominent place in snowmobile racing and recreation markets.
Notable models included:
- Scorpion Mark I, II, and III
- Scorpion Whip – featuring an aluminum chassis and modern styling
- Sears Snowcruiser – a private-label version sold through Sears
Ownership Changes
In 1969, Fuqua Industries, an Atlanta-based conglomerate, acquired Trail-A-Sled and renamed the company Scorpion, Inc. The move brought additional investment but also ushered in changes in management and strategy.
After weathering the economic downturns and fuel crises of the 1970s, Scorpion was eventually sold again. In 1978, the company was acquired by Arctic Enterprises, the parent company of Arctic Cat, which ultimately phased out the Scorpion brand in the early 1980s.
See also
References
- Trail-A-Sled History – trailasled.com
- SnowTech Magazine – "Scorpion Snowmobiles: A Pioneer in Red"
- Stern Rubber Company – "A Brief History of Scorpion"
- SnoRiders – "Old Sled Zone: Trail-A-Sled Scorpions"
External links
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