Sportsman GEN1000 - 900/1000W Portable Generator
The Sportsman GEN1000 is a compact and lightweight open frame generator with a rated wattage of 900 W and a starting wattage of 1,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Sportsman GEN1000
In summary, the Sportsman GEN1000 is a compact and lightweight portable generator especially useful for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
Running on gasoline, the Sportsman GEN1000 operates with a 72 cc (2 hp) 2-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 900W and a peak wattage of 1,000W.
At a noise rating of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), the generator is started via a manual recoil starter system.
With its 0.8 gallon fuel tank, the GEN1000 can operate for around 5 hours at 50% load when fully fueled (with fuel usage averaging around 0.16 GPH).
Outlets
The control panel features the following AC outlet:
Portability
Measuring L14 x W12 x H12 in, the Sportsman GEN1000 showcases a classic open frame layout, offering stability and simple maintenance access to components, while facilitating air circulation. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.
The GEN1000's weight, at just 38 lbs, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable generator. With its manageable weight, one person can easily move it around, ensuring power wherever needed. With its handle, carrying it becomes a breeze, adding to its convenience.
Good to know: This unit ranks 2nd in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
Security-wise, this product benefits from an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.
In addition to the standard documentation and owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for prompt setup, Sportsman has also included a tool kit in the packaging of the GEN1000.
Product Video
The Sportsman GEN1000 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Sportsman GEN1000 compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).
- Weighing in at 38 lbs, the Sportsman GEN1000 fits within the expected weight range for devices producing 500 to 1500 rated watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Sportsman GEN1000i, with a dry weight of only 20.3 lbs.
- This generator, with its lowest noise level at 65 dBA, is noisier than most generators of comparable running wattage. If you wish to prioritize minimal noise, the Honda EU1000i stands out as one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, with a rating of 42 dBA.
- Regarding its runtime, the GEN1000 operates for around 5 hours at a 50% load, positioning it at the lower spectrum among comparable products. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Sportsman GEN2000-SS, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting around 11 hours.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank's capacity and thus, doesn't say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. This generator is rather wasteful, compared to other devices within the aforementioned output range, when it comes to gasoline consumption, as it reaches roughly 0.16 GPH at a 50% load. If you're placing a high priority on fuel consumption, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO, with a low fuel consumption rate of 0.09 GPH, could be an option to consider.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 500-1500W generators, the Sportsman GEN1000 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- Decent weight (38 lbs)
- No data center
- Only 1 AC outlet
- Gas/oil mix required (2-cycle engine)
- 1-year warranty
- On the noisy side (65 dBA)
- Relatively low run time
- Low fuel efficiency
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 72 cc 2-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 900 W |
| Starting watts | 1,000 W |
| Running amps | 7.5 amps |
| Peak amps | 8.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets | 1x 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | No |
| Fuel tank | 0.8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 38 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 14 x 12 x 12 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 65 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | No |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Tool kit |
| UPC | 027077057362 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
About Sportsman Series
Sportsman Series is a small brand registered under the US based Buffalo corporation. Founded in 1964, the Buffalo Corporation is a small company, which sells tools and home products. Their brands include AmeriHome, Black Bull, Buffalo Tools and Sportsman Series – which offers a selection of generators and several other general products. The brand, and in fact, the corporation itself seemingly outsources all of its production overseas and acts only as a distributor, under its own brands.
Warranty Information
The Sportsman GEN1000 is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Sportsman generators, please contact the Buffalo Tools Customer Support: 1-636-532-9888.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Rice cooker | 650 | 650 |
| Set of 5 LED light bulbs | 55 | 55 | |
| Total | 705 W | 705 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 550 W | 970 W | |
| For work | Paint sprayer | 600 | 600 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 680 W | 680 W |
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