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Sportsman GEN3000iOF - 2850/3000W Open Frame Inverter Generator

The Sportsman GEN3000iOF is a compact open frame inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,850 W and a starting wattage of 3,000 W.

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Description

Zoom on the Sportsman GEN3000iOF

In summary, the Sportsman GEN3000iOF is a compact portable inverter generator especially useful for:

  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
  • Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
  • Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
  • RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle

In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device, along with its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The Sportsman GEN3000iOF in use

The Sportsman GEN3000iOF

The Sportsman GEN3000iOF's engine, 208 cc (5.5 hp) OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 2,850W and reaches a peak wattage of 3,000W. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (parallel kit not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.

The inverter generator features a simple traditional pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than an office).

With a fuel capacity of 3.1 gallons, the GEN3000iOF may run for around 8 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.39 GPH).

As the GEN3000iOF produces a clean sine wave, with a <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), sensitive electronics may be plugged in the AC outlets safely.

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.

With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this Sportsman generator is RV Ready.

Portability

The design of the Sportsman GEN3000iOF is a typical, open frame, with the dimensions of L18 x W16.5 x H18 in, offering support and stability and enabling the possibility of raising it above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

With a dry weight of 75 lbs, the GEN3000iOF can easily follow you wherever your power needs are. Moreover, its open frame design makes it incredibly easy to grab the frame in order to change its location.

Features

Panel of the Sportsman GEN3000iOF

The GEN3000iOF's control panel

When the oil level is too low, the generator is ready and the generator is on overload, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.

Thanks to a built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator allows you to quickly, conveniently and easily check the gas level at a glance.

Security-wise, this product benefits from an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), which gives you a complete peace of mind when using it.

With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Sportsman GEN3000iOF also comes with several accessories, including: tool kit and battery charging cables.

Emissions

The Sportsman GEN3000iOF is EPA approved, but NOT CARB-compliant. Thus, it cannot be purchased or sold in California.

However, it features a spark arrestor, which makes it suitable for use in forested areas.

Product Video

The Sportsman GEN3000iOF versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Sportsman GEN3000iOF compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).

  • As for its weight, the Sportsman GEN3000iOF weighs only 75 pounds, making it one of the lighter inverter generators in the 2500-3500 rated wattage category. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, standing at just 46 lbs.
  • When compared to devices able to produce a similar running wattage, this inverter generator and its lowest emitted noise of 65 dBA is on the noisier side. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Honda EU3000iS, whose lowest noise levels reach just 50 dBA.
  • Offering around 8 hours of running time on a full tank at 50% load, the GEN3000iOF is within the average autonomy range of similarly powerful inverter generators. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Ryobi RYi4022X, which is able to run for around 12 hours.
  • Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. Compared to its peers, this inverter generator is not exactly fuel efficient, compared to similarly powerful devices, with an estimated fuel consumption of 0.39 GPH at a 50% load. If you are concerned with gasoline efficiency, having a fuel consumption of just 0.22 GPH, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is a device you could look out for.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 2500-3500W inverter generators, the Sportsman GEN3000iOF 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • Lightweight for its kind (75 lbs)
AVERAGE SPECS:
  • Decent run time
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start
  • Not CARB-compliant
  • 1-year warranty
  • On the noisy side (65 dBA)
  • Low fuel efficiency

Do you own the Sportsman GEN3000iOF and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyYes
FuelGasoline
Engine208 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty1 year
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V
Running watts2,850 W
Starting watts3,000 W
Running amps23.8 amps
Peak amps25 amps
Run time @50% load8 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets2x 5V USB port
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank3.1 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight75 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)18 x 16.5 x 18 in
Noise (lower limit)65 dBA
THD< 5%
ComplianceEPA
SecurityLow oil and overload protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedTool kit and battery charging cables
UPC027077805604

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.

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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 GEN3000iOF 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?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our wattage calculator.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Hair dryer18001900
Total1992 W2992 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
RV refrigerator180600
Rice cooker650650
Radio100100
Pair of small speakers4545
Total2275 W2695 W
For workGrinder14002500
Electric fence (25 miles)250250
Bug zapper8080
Total1730 W2830 W

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