50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro Review

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro Made a Bold First Impression

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro promises to automate and improve the feeding process for wildlife, whether you’re managing deer populations on your property or just trying to attract more birds to your backyard. This feeder combines a generous capacity with programmable features, aiming to take the guesswork out of consistent feeding. I was in the market for a reliable feeder to help manage the deer population on a hunting lease. This feeder seemed like a good value proposition at $43.49.

When the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro arrived, my first impression was positive. The Realtree AP Camo finish looked durable and well-applied, blending nicely with the surrounding environment. The build quality seemed solid enough for the price, though I was initially skeptical about the plastic components of the timer and guard.

Compared to similar feeders I’ve used in the past – a Moultrie feeder I salvaged from a friend and a Wildgame Innovations feeder that eventually succumbed to squirrel damage – the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro stood out due to its integrated varmint guard and programmable timer. I chose this model over other budget-friendly options hoping the built-in varmint guard would keep those pesky critters at bay. I was excited to test the programming capabilities and see how well it would perform in the field, hoping it could handle the challenges of a remote hunting location.

Real-World Testing: Putting 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro was on our hunting lease in East Texas. It was set up in a wooded area near a game trail, hoping to attract deer to the area. Setting the timer was straightforward, although the analog clock took a bit of getting used to in this digital age.

The feeder worked well for the first few days, dispensing feed consistently at the programmed times. We encountered a couple of rainy days during the first week, and the feeder continued to operate without issue. Initially, I was concerned that moisture might affect the timer, but it held up fine.

After the first week, I did notice that squirrels were actively trying to defeat the varmint guard. The guard, while seemingly effective, wasn’t entirely foolproof.

Extended Use & Reliability

After two months of use, the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro has shown both its strengths and weaknesses. The timer continues to function reliably, and the powder-coated No Blow slinger spreads the feed effectively. There’s been minimal wear and tear on the camo finish.

However, the varmint guard has not proven entirely squirrel-proof. The squirrels have managed to chew on the edges of the guard and occasionally dislodge small amounts of feed. Cleaning the feeder is relatively simple – I usually wipe it down with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to prevent buildup.

Compared to the old Moultrie feeder, the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro offers much better control over feed times and distribution. The Wildgame Innovations feeder, on the other hand, was more durable but lacked the programmable timer feature. I’m satisfied with the performance overall, especially considering the price point.

Breaking Down the Features of 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro

Specifications

• Capacity: 50 lbs. This capacity is ideal for extended periods between refills, reducing the need for frequent trips to the feeder.
• Timer: Analog clock timer and guard. The analog timer provides a simple, mechanical method for scheduling feed times.
• Feed Frequency: Feeds 1-24 times per day. This offers excellent flexibility, allowing for multiple feedings throughout the day or less frequent, larger distributions.
• Adjustable Feed Rate: Adjustable feed rate (1-30 sec). The adjustable feed rate enables you to control the amount of feed dispensed during each cycle.
• Varmint Guard: Varmint guard built in. This is designed to prevent squirrels and other small animals from accessing and wasting the feed.
• Slinger: Includes powder coated No Blow slinger. The powder-coated slinger enhances durability and helps distribute the feed effectively, even in windy conditions.
• Pre-wired: Pre-wired for: varmint buster BL-VB1 and solar panel BL-R680-S. Pre-wiring simplifies the installation of additional accessories, such as a varmint deterrent or a solar panel for extended battery life.
• Battery Requirement: Requires 6 Volt battery recommended DE-30045 (not included). The 6-volt battery provides sufficient power for the timer and dispensing mechanism.
• Finish: Realtree AP Camo. The camo finish helps the feeder blend into natural surroundings.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the feeder’s effectiveness and ease of use. The adjustable feed rate and feed frequency allow for precise control over the feeding schedule, which is crucial for attracting and maintaining wildlife populations. The varmint guard attempts to mitigate feed loss to unwanted animals, saving money and reducing maintenance.

Performance & Functionality

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro performs its job reasonably well, delivering consistent feed based on the programmed schedule. The analog timer, while not as precise as a digital one, is reliable and easy to set. The feed rate adjustment is straightforward, allowing you to fine-tune the amount of feed dispensed.

The main weakness is the varmint guard, which, while helpful, isn’t 100% effective against persistent squirrels. A more robust design would be beneficial. Overall, it meets my expectations for a feeder in this price range, but it’s not without its limitations.

Design & Ergonomics

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro is designed to be hung from a tree limb or other sturdy support, keeping it off the ground and away from larger animals. The materials used are adequate for the price, but I wouldn’t describe them as heavy-duty. The camo finish blends well with the environment.

There’s no significant learning curve; the timer is intuitive, and the feed rate adjustment is simple. Filling the feeder can be a bit cumbersome, as it requires lifting a heavy bag of feed.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro should last for several seasons. Regular cleaning and inspection are essential to prevent damage from weather and pests. The plastic components are the most vulnerable, so avoiding excessive force during setup and maintenance is crucial.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional inspection of the moving parts are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro is pre-wired for the varmint buster BL-VB1 and solar panel BL-R680-S. These accessories can enhance the feeder’s functionality and convenience. While it might be compatible with some generic 6V solar panels, it’s safest to stick with the manufacturer’s recommended accessories to ensure proper fit and performance.

Pros and Cons of 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro

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Who Should Buy 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro?

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro is perfect for hunters looking to attract deer to their hunting areas, landowners managing wildlife populations, or anyone wanting to provide supplemental feeding for local wildlife. It’s a great option for those seeking an affordable and automated feeding solution.

Those who should skip this product are individuals needing a completely squirrel-proof feeder or those requiring highly precise feed timing. A must-have accessory would be the recommended 6V battery, as it’s not included. The solar panel BL-R680-S is a worthwhile upgrade for those in sunny areas.

Conclusion on 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro

The 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro is a solid entry-level feeder that offers a good balance of features and affordability. While the varmint guard isn’t foolproof and the analog timer lacks the precision of a digital one, it performs admirably for the price. The programmable timer and adjustable feed rate provide excellent control over feeding schedules, making it a valuable tool for managing wildlife populations.

The price is definitely justified, making it an accessible option for those on a budget. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and inexpensive way to automate their feeding process, understanding its limitations regarding varmint control. If you’re seeking a cost-effective way to attract deer to your property, the 50 Lb Hanging Feeder w/R-Kit Pro is worth considering. Buy yours today and start attracting more wildlife to your area!

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