Let’s Talk About Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel
The Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel is a deceptively simple piece of kit that promises to eliminate feed waste in your deer feeders. Manufactured by Moultrie, this funnel inserts directly into your 55-gallon (and according to specifications, 30-gallon) metal feeder barrel, creating a sloped surface that ensures every last bit of corn or feed is dispensed. It’s a seemingly small addition, but the potential for cost savings and improved efficiency is significant, which piqued my interest.
Over years of managing multiple hunting leases and properties, I’ve battled feed waste in my automatic feeders. Uneven ground, moisture, and just the natural tendency of feed to settle in corners always left a frustrating amount of unused corn at the bottom of the barrel. This not only wastes money but can also attract unwanted pests.
Upon unboxing, the Moultrie funnel appeared to be well-molded from a durable black plastic. It felt solid and seemed like it could withstand being jostled around inside a feeder barrel. My initial impression was positive; the design was straightforward, promising an easy install, and the material felt robust enough to handle the rigors of outdoor use.
I considered other options like building my own funnel or purchasing cheaper, universal funnels, but the Moultrie specifically designed for a 55-gallon metal barrel seemed like the most reliable and easiest solution. Other universal solutions often require modification and never fit quite right. I chose the Moultrie for its ease of installation and perceived durability.
My first impression was optimistic. It seemed like a well-thought-out solution to a common problem, and I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to its promise. It looked like a simple, effective fix for a frustrating problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel on my deer lease in central Texas during the pre-season fill-up before deer season. Installation was a breeze, simply dropping into a clean, empty 55-gallon drum. The fit was snug, and I didn’t have to modify or force anything.
The area had recently experienced some rain, so the conditions were somewhat humid, with moisture still clinging to the inside of the barrel. After filling the barrel with corn, I ran the feeder on its normal schedule to observe how the funnel affected the dispensing process. I noticed immediately that the corn dispensed more evenly and completely than before, leaving significantly less residue in the barrel.
The installation required no tools and took less than five minutes. The only initial issue I noticed was that very small pieces of corn or dust might still collect in the very bottom center, but the amount was negligible compared to what I was previously losing. This was a vast improvement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel has held up extremely well. I’ve refilled the feeder twice since the initial installation, and each time, I’ve observed minimal feed waste. There are no visible signs of wear or tear on the plastic.
The plastic material shows no indication of cracking or fading, even after exposure to direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning is also incredibly simple. Any residual corn dust wipes away easily with a damp cloth during refills.
Previously, I was losing a significant amount of feed, requiring me to periodically scrape the bottom of the barrel. The Moultrie funnel has completely eliminated that task and drastically reduced waste. It outperforms anything I’ve tried before, including homemade solutions. It’s a very worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Moultrie. This provides assurance of a product designed with deer feeders in mind.
- Color: Black. The black color blends seamlessly with the interior of most metal barrels and doesn’t seem to attract unwanted attention from animals.
- Fabric/Material: Plastic. A durable plastic construction makes it resistant to weather and corrosion.
- Included Accessories: Compatible with 30 Gallon Metal Barrels. The added compatibility makes it versatile.
- Volume: 30 gal. The description lists 55-gallon compatibility, but specifications state 30-gallon compatibility, introducing ambiguity.
The plastic construction means it won’t rust or corrode, ensuring longevity. The compatibility (despite the conflicting specifications) with different barrel sizes is a plus for those who own multiple feeders. Knowing the Moultrie brand, I trust the plastic will stand the test of time.
Performance & Functionality
The Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel does exactly what it claims: it prevents feed from being left at the bottom of the feeder barrel. This translates to less wasted feed, which saves money and reduces the likelihood of attracting rodents or other unwanted animals to the feeder site. It is a reliable solution.
Its strength lies in its simplicity. The funnel’s design effectively directs all feed towards the dispenser, leaving minimal residue. While tiny particles of corn might still collect in the center, the amount is negligible compared to the overall reduction in waste. The only thing I’d improve is clarification on the barrel sizes it’s meant to fit.
It exceeded my expectations, particularly considering the relatively low cost. I expected some level of improvement, but I was surprised by how effectively it eliminated feed waste. It helps ensure that every bit of feed is utilized effectively.
Design & Ergonomics
The Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel features a straightforward, conical design that maximizes feed flow. The material is a rigid, yet slightly flexible, plastic that fits snugly inside a 55-gallon metal barrel. Its simple construction is highly effective.
The funnel is lightweight and easy to handle during installation. The absence of sharp edges or complex components makes it user-friendly, even for those with limited experience setting up deer feeders. The lightweight design ensures it doesn’t add significant weight to the feeder setup.
There’s virtually no learning curve. It’s a drop-in solution that requires no tools or modifications. It’s a perfect example of simple design solving a real problem.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of the plastic used, I anticipate the Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel lasting for many seasons. The material is resistant to cracking, fading, and general wear and tear. It should easily withstand years of use.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth during refills is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The smooth surface prevents feed from sticking, making cleaning a breeze.
Minor cracks could appear with extreme weather and use, however, based on the material I would expect it to last through it. As long as the funnel isn’t exposed to extreme physical stress, it should provide years of reliable service. It’s a long-term solution.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel doesn’t require any additional accessories for its intended purpose. It’s a self-contained solution designed to work with existing 55-gallon metal feeder barrels. It’s a standalone product.
There are no customization options available for the funnel itself. However, it can be used in conjunction with other feeder accessories, such as varmint guards or solar panels, to enhance the overall feeder system. It works well with other accessories.
As it’s designed for the inside of the feeder barrel, customization isn’t really relevant. It does not require any additional accessories. It is compatible with other accessories.
Pros and Cons of Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel
Pros
- Significantly reduces feed waste, saving money and preventing rodent attraction.
- Simple and easy to install – no tools or modifications required.
- Durable plastic construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort.
- Affordable solution offering excellent value for the investment.
Cons
- Specifications claim 30-gallon compatibility, but the product description indicates 55-gallon compatibility, causing potential confusion regarding the product fit.
- Very small particles of feed may still collect in the center of the funnel.
Who Should Buy Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel?
The Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel is perfect for hunters and property managers who utilize automatic deer feeders with 55-gallon metal barrels. Anyone looking to minimize feed waste, save money, and reduce unwanted pests will benefit greatly from this simple addition. It is also suitable for those who manage wildlife on a budget.
Those with feeders using non-metal barrels or drums of different sizes (unless it is a 30-gallon barrel based on specifications) should skip this product. Also, if you’re content with manually scraping feed from the bottom of your barrel, you might not find this necessary. If you do not have a 55-gallon metal feeder barrel, this product is not for you.
Consider adding a Moultrie varmint guard to the bottom of your feeder to prevent raccoons and squirrels from accessing the dispensed feed. A solar panel to maintain battery life is also a good investment for your feeder. These additions will maximize the effectiveness of your feeder system.
Conclusion on Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel
The Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel is a simple, yet highly effective solution for minimizing feed waste in automatic deer feeders. Its durable construction, ease of installation, and noticeable reduction in wasted feed make it a worthwhile investment for any hunter or property manager using 55-gallon metal barrels. Despite the specification ambiguity, the benefit is there.
At $63.99, the price is justified by the amount of feed saved over time. The reduction in waste quickly offsets the initial cost, making it a smart and economical choice. It has proven to be a valuable addition to my deer lease setup.
I would absolutely recommend the Moultrie Internal Funnel Compatible w/ 55 Gallon Metal Barrel to anyone looking to improve the efficiency of their deer feeders. It is a game-changer. Stop wasting feed and start attracting more deer – invest in a Moultrie funnel today!