First Thoughts on the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator
The American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator promises a convenient solution for controlling wildlife feeders from a distance. Manufactured by American Hunter, this device boasts the ability to activate compatible feeders remotely from up to 300 feet away. This caught my attention due to the potential for hands-free feeding, especially when hunting or observing wildlife from a stationary position.
For years, I’ve struggled with the inconvenience of manually activating my feeder, often spooking game in the process. I was searching for a way to trigger the feeder quietly and remotely, giving animals time to acclimate before emerging. The claim of a 300-foot range made the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator seem like the perfect answer.
Upon unboxing, the activator felt lightweight and compact. The plastic casing felt reasonably durable, though not particularly premium. It definitely seemed designed for functionality over ruggedness. Comparing it to similar remotes like the Moultrie Feeder Activator and the Wildgame Innovations Remote Feeder Control, the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator seemed simpler in design. I opted for the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator due to its lower price point and straightforward single-button operation.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity was appealing, but I wondered if it would hold up to real-world use. I was eager to test its range and reliability in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator was at my deer lease, overlooking a corn feeder. I positioned myself in my tree stand, roughly 150 feet from the feeder. The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle.
Activating the remote was simple – a single button press started the feeder’s dispensing cycle. The feeder responded instantly, and I observed deer approaching the area shortly after. The ease of use was immediately apparent. However, the signal seemed slightly weaker in the damp conditions, with a couple of initial failures to activate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of consistent use, the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the plastic casing, despite being exposed to varying weather conditions. It’s relatively easy to clean; a simple wipe-down is sufficient.
However, the range is definitely impacted by obstructions and weather. In open fields, it reaches the advertised 300 feet. But in wooded areas, the range drops significantly, often struggling past 200 feet. Compared to manually activating the feeder, this remote offers a significant advantage in concealment. It doesn’t quite outperform other remote systems in terms of raw range and reliability, but it’s a good, budget-friendly option.
Breaking Down the Features of American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator
Specifications
- Remote Activation: Activates wildlife feeders remotely up to 300 ft away. This allows for discrete feeder operation from a distance.
- Compatibility: Designed to be compatible with the American Hunter XD-Pro and SunSlinger feeders. This limits its use to specific feeder models.
- Simple Operation: Features a single-button design for easy activation. This makes it incredibly straightforward to use, even in low-light conditions.
- Operating Frequency: Uses a specific radio frequency (details not publicly available) to communicate with the feeder. Understanding the frequency is helpful in troubleshooting interference.
- Power Source: Requires a specific type of battery (likely A23 or similar, not specified). Keeping spare batteries on hand is crucial.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and usability of the device. The 300-foot range is a crucial selling point, while compatibility limits its versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator performs its primary function adequately: remotely activating compatible feeders. The single-button operation is simple and intuitive. However, the range and reliability are inconsistent.
The strengths are its ease of use and relatively low cost. The main weakness is the unreliable range, particularly in wooded or obstructed areas. It meets expectations for basic remote activation, but falls short in challenging environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is basic; the plastic casing feels somewhat cheap but functional. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a pocket or attach to a lanyard. The single button is easily accessible and operable with gloves on.
There is virtually no learning curve. The design is purely functional, prioritizing simplicity over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The longevity of the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator is still uncertain after a few weeks of use. The plastic construction suggests it might not withstand significant abuse. Maintenance is minimal; keeping it clean and dry is essential.
Repair options are likely limited; if it breaks, replacement is probably the most viable option. The long-term durability remains a question mark.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator comes with no accessories. Customization is non-existent due to its basic design. It is only compatible with American Hunter XD-Pro and SunSlinger feeders.
Compatibility with feeders from other brands is not possible without modification, which is not recommended. This severely limits its versatility.
Pros and Cons of American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator
Pros
- Easy to use: Single-button operation makes it incredibly simple.
- Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly remote feeder activators on the market.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry and store.
- Compatible with American Hunter Feeders: Seamless integration with XD-Pro and SunSlinger models.
- Decent Range in Open Areas: Offers up to 300 feet of range in ideal conditions.
Cons
- Limited Compatibility: Only works with specific American Hunter feeder models.
- Inconsistent Range: Range significantly reduced by obstructions and weather.
- Basic Build Quality: Plastic casing feels somewhat cheap and may not be highly durable.
Who Should Buy American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator?
The American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator is perfect for hunters or wildlife observers using American Hunter XD-Pro or SunSlinger feeders who need a simple and affordable remote activation solution. It’s ideal for those who primarily hunt in open areas where the 300-foot range is achievable. It is also suitable for users who prioritize ease of use over advanced features or rugged durability.
Those who need a more robust and reliable remote with a longer and more consistent range should skip this product. Users with feeders from other brands should also look elsewhere. A lanyard for easy carrying and spare batteries are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator
The American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator offers a basic, affordable solution for remotely activating compatible American Hunter feeders. Its simplicity and low price point are its strongest assets. However, its limited compatibility and inconsistent range are significant drawbacks.
At $24.49, the price is justified for users who meet the specific criteria: owning a compatible feeder and needing a simple, inexpensive remote for use in relatively open areas.
I would recommend the American Hunter AH-RMT Remote Feeder Activator with reservations. It’s a good entry-level option, but be aware of its limitations. If you need more reliability and range, consider investing in a higher-end model. For basic remote feeder activation on a budget, it does the job.