First Impressions of Ameristep Brickhouse Blind
Ground blinds are a vital piece of gear for hunters looking to conceal themselves from wary game. The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind, manufactured by Ameristep, aims to provide a portable and effective solution for staying hidden in the field. With its Durashell Plus fabric shell and Spider Hub frame, it promises durability and easy setup, making it an appealing option for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike.
I was searching for a ground blind that could comfortably accommodate myself and a hunting buddy, without sacrificing portability. I also needed a blind that offered excellent concealment in a variety of environments.
My initial experience with the Ameristep Brickhouse Blind was positive. The packed size seemed manageable, and the Mossy Oak Break Up Country camo pattern looked effective. Compared to a less durable pop-up blind I previously owned, this one felt significantly more robust. I chose this blind over a cheaper model because of the promise of increased durability and the larger interior space. I was excited to see how well it would perform in a real hunting scenario.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ameristep Brickhouse Blind to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Ameristep Brickhouse Blind on a whitetail deer hunt in central Texas. The terrain was a mix of open fields and wooded areas. Setup was relatively straightforward, taking about five minutes after I familiarized myself with the hub system.
The blind handled a light rain shower without any leaks. However, the interior did get a bit stuffy with two people inside, especially on a warmer day. I didn’t experience any major issues during the first use, although I wished the windows were a little easier to adjust silently.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Ameristep Brickhouse Blind has proven to be fairly durable. The Durashell Plus fabric hasn’t shown any signs of tearing, and the Spider Hub frame remains sturdy. I’ve used it for both deer and turkey hunting with satisfactory results.
I’ve noticed some minor fading of the camo pattern in areas exposed to direct sunlight. Cleaning is relatively easy with a damp cloth, although mud can be a bit stubborn to remove. Compared to a more expensive blind with thicker fabric, the Ameristep Brickhouse Blind doesn’t offer quite the same level of insulation or noise reduction. However, for the price, it’s a solid performer.
Breaking Down the Features of Ameristep Brickhouse Blind
Specifications
The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind boasts several key specifications:
- Manufacturer: Ameristep.
- Color: Mossy Oak Break Up Country.
- Fabric/Material: 300 Durashell Plus. This provides a balance of durability and lightweight portability.
- Hunting Blind Type: Ground Blind. This is designed for concealment at ground level.
- Length: 59 inches. This provides ample space for multiple hunters.
- Height: 67 inches. This allows for standing shots and comfortable movement.
- Age Group: Adults. This is designed for adult hunters.
- Weight: 16 lb. This makes it relatively easy to carry to and from hunting locations.
- Width: 59 inches. This contributes to the overall spaciousness.
These specifications translate to a blind that is reasonably lightweight, spacious enough for two to three people, and constructed from durable materials. The camo pattern is effective for blending into various hunting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind performs adequately in its intended role. The shoot-through mesh windows offer decent visibility while maintaining concealment. Its Mossy Oak Break Up Country camouflage helps it blend well into wooded environments.
One strength is the relatively quick and easy setup. The windows could be quieter, however. It meets the basic expectations for a ground blind in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind features a hub-style design for easy setup and takedown. The interior space is adequate for two hunters with gear. The shoot-through mesh windows provide a good balance of visibility and concealment.
The Durashell Plus fabric feels durable, but it can be noisy when brushed against. The hub system is fairly user-friendly, although it can be a bit stiff when new.
Durability & Maintenance
The Durashell Plus fabric appears to be reasonably durable, although long-term exposure to the elements will likely cause some wear and tear. The Spider Hub frame feels sturdy and should withstand moderate winds. Cleaning is relatively easy with a damp cloth.
Proper storage and care will extend the lifespan of the blind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind comes with shoot-through mesh windows and brush loops for adding natural camouflage. There aren’t many customization options available directly from Ameristep.
However, it’s compatible with universal ground blind accessories like chairs, shelves, and gear hangers. Adding extra camo netting or scent-control products can further enhance its effectiveness.
Pros and Cons of Ameristep Brickhouse Blind
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: Offers good value for the money compared to higher-end blinds.
- Spacious Interior: Comfortably accommodates two hunters with room for gear.
- Relatively Lightweight: Easy to carry to and from hunting locations.
- Easy Setup: Hub-style design allows for quick and straightforward setup and takedown.
- Effective Camouflage: Mossy Oak Break Up Country pattern blends well in various environments.
Cons
- Fabric Noise: The Durashell Plus fabric can be noisy when brushed against, potentially alerting game.
- Window Adjustment: Window adjustment can be difficult to do silently, potentially spooking game.
Who Should Buy Ameristep Brickhouse Blind?
The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind is perfect for budget-conscious hunters looking for a spacious and portable ground blind. It’s also a good option for beginners who are new to ground blind hunting.
This product might not be ideal for hunters who require maximum silence or those hunting in extremely harsh weather conditions. A comfortable chair and potentially some scent-control products are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Ameristep Brickhouse Blind
The Ameristep Brickhouse Blind is a solid, mid-range ground blind that offers a good balance of features and affordability. Its spacious interior, relatively lightweight design, and easy setup make it a practical choice for many hunters. While it’s not without its drawbacks, such as the noisy fabric and somewhat cumbersome window adjustment, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, especially considering its price point.
The value proposition is strong, making it a justifiable purchase for those seeking a reliable and effective ground blind without breaking the bank. I would personally recommend the Ameristep Brickhouse Blind to hunters looking for a quality blind at an affordable price.
If you’re ready to improve your hunting concealment and increase your chances of success, give the Ameristep Brickhouse Blind a try. You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.