First Impressions of On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod presents itself as a reliable, easy-to-assemble solution for attracting and feeding wild game. This feeder promises a hassle-free experience with its one-bolt assembly, durable construction, and versatile feeding schedules, making it seem like the perfect tool for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The 30-gallon capacity and “hunt mode” are particularly intriguing, suggesting a feeder designed with the serious outdoorsman in mind.
For years, I’ve struggled to maintain consistent feed sites using unreliable, gravity-fed systems. I was looking for a controlled, timed release mechanism that could operate effectively across varying weather conditions and attract game predictably. The Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod seemed to offer this level of control and dependability, promising a solution to my previous feeding woes.
My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The green color blended well with the natural environment, and the powder-coated legs felt sturdy and well-made. The sectional leg design appeared robust, ensuring stability even on uneven terrain.
Compared to cheaper gravity feeders, the Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod immediately stood out with its programmable timer and enclosed feeding system. I had also considered the Moultrie Pro Hunter Feeder and the Wildgame Innovations Quick-Set 225, but the On Time Wildlife Feeders model seemed to offer a better balance of features, capacity, and ease of setup. I chose this model hoping that the ease of setup would save time compared to competing products that require more intensive assembly.
Overall, I was excited and optimistic about the potential of the On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod. I hoped that it would deliver on its promises of convenience, reliability, and effective game management.
Real-World Testing: Putting On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod on a private hunting lease in central Texas, a region known for its diverse wildlife, including deer, turkey, and feral hogs. The area presents a mix of open fields and dense brush, requiring a feeder that can withstand varying environmental conditions. I set the feeder up near a game trail, hoping to establish a consistent feeding pattern.
The Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod performed surprisingly well in the Texas heat, with no issues related to the feed clumping or the timer malfunctioning. Setting up the feed times was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive programming interface. I experienced no immediate problems after setup.
After the first week, I noticed a significant increase in game activity around the feeder. Deer and turkey were consistently visiting the site during the programmed feeding times. I also learned that the one-bolt assembly wasn’t entirely accurate, as the legs required a bit more fiddling than anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod has proven to be a relatively reliable addition to my hunting strategy. The powder-coated legs have held up well against the elements, showing minimal signs of rust or wear. The unit appears durable.
However, I’ve noticed some minor wear and tear on the plastic hopper, particularly around the edges. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent feed buildup and ensure smooth operation of the dispensing mechanism. I clean the hopper after every other refill.
Compared to my previous experience with gravity-fed feeders, the Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod offers a far more consistent and controlled feeding regime. The programmable timer allows for precise scheduling, minimizing waste and maximizing game attraction. The results of the test have exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod
Specifications
- Manufacturer: On Time Wildlife Feeders
- Capacity: 30 gallons (approximately 200 lbs of corn)
- Color: Green
- Package Type: Box
- Hunt Mode: Up to 20 feedings per day during daylight hours
- Legs: 4-leg sectional, powder-coated steel
- Assembly: One-bolt assembly (though may require some additional adjustments)
- Feed Tube: Roto-molded
- Nozzle: Non-clog
These specifications are important because they dictate the functionality and reliability of the feeder. The 30-gallon capacity reduces the frequency of refills, while the hunt mode offers flexibility in scheduling feeding times to coincide with peak game activity. The powder-coated legs ensure long-term durability.
Performance & Functionality
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod performs its job effectively by providing a consistent and controlled feed supply. The programmable timer ensures that feed is dispensed at predetermined times, attracting game predictably. This reduces feed waste.
One of its strengths is the ease of programming and the reliable timer mechanism. The hunt mode, allowing for multiple feedings per day, is a significant advantage for tailoring feeding schedules to specific game species and their activity patterns. One weakness is that the “one-bolt assembly” is a slight overstatement.
Overall, the Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod meets my expectations. I was hoping to find a more reliable feeding system, and I found one.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod features a functional and practical design. The green color blends well with natural surroundings, minimizing its visual impact on the environment. This is an important feature for blending into the hunting environment.
The build quality is decent, with the powder-coated steel legs providing a sturdy and stable base. However, the plastic hopper could be more robust, as it shows some signs of wear and tear after prolonged use. The learning curve is minimal, thanks to its intuitive setup and programming.
Durability & Maintenance
The powder-coated steel legs of the On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, providing long-term durability. With proper care and maintenance, this feeder should last for several seasons. The non-clog nozzle and roto-molded feed tube contribute to the longevity of the feeder by minimizing potential issues with feed clumping and blockages.
Maintaining the feeder is relatively easy. Regular cleaning of the hopper and dispensing mechanism is essential to prevent feed buildup and ensure smooth operation. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient, but occasional deep cleaning with mild soap and water may be necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod comes with the basic components necessary for operation, including the Ultra Hunt Feeder, sectional legs, and mounting hardware. However, there are limited customization options available directly from On Time Wildlife Feeders. Some users may choose to add a varmint cage around the dispensing unit to prevent raccoons or squirrels from accessing the feed, though this is not included.
The feeder is compatible with most standard-size batteries, allowing users to choose their preferred power source. There are third-party accessories available, such as solar panels for extended battery life, but these require some modifications to the feeder’s existing setup.
Pros and Cons of On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod
Pros
- Easy setup: The one-bolt assembly makes initial setup quick and straightforward.
- Programmable timer: The hunt mode allows for up to 20 feedings per day during daylight hours, providing flexibility in scheduling feed times.
- Durable construction: Powder-coated steel legs provide a stable and weather-resistant base.
- Large capacity: The 30-gallon hopper reduces the frequency of refills.
- Effective game attraction: Provides a consistent and controlled feed supply, attracting game predictably.
Cons
- One-bolt assembly is exaggerated: The leg assembly process can still require some adjustments beyond just a single bolt.
- Plastic hopper durability: The plastic hopper shows some signs of wear and tear after prolonged use.
Who Should Buy On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod?
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod is perfect for hunters looking to establish and maintain consistent feeding sites for deer, turkey, and other game animals. It’s also suitable for wildlife enthusiasts interested in observing and attracting wildlife to their property. It is especially helpful for those needing to automate the feeding process due to time constraints.
This product is not ideal for those seeking a highly customizable or heavy-duty feeder for extremely rugged conditions. Buyers prioritizing a feeder with advanced anti-varmint features may need to explore other options or purchase additional accessories. It also may not be the right solution for those looking for low-capacity feeders.
A must-have accessory for this feeder is a high-quality battery to ensure reliable operation of the timer and dispensing mechanism. A varmint cage is also a worthwhile addition to protect the feed from unwanted guests.
Conclusion on On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod offers a practical and effective solution for attracting and feeding wild game. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as the slight exaggeration of the “one-bolt assembly” and the limited durability of the plastic hopper, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. The programmable timer, durable construction, and large capacity make it a valuable tool for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
The price is justified by the convenience, reliability, and effectiveness of the feeder. It’s a mid-range option that delivers solid performance without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use game feeder. It’s a worthwhile investment that can enhance your hunting experience and contribute to wildlife management efforts. Step up your game – get the On Time Wildlife Feeders Tomahawk Ultra Hunt Game Feeder w/ Tripod today!