Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD Review

First Impressions of Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD in Realtree Edge camo promises to be a game-changer for ground blind hunters, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. With a full-door design, 180-degree see-through mesh, and spacious interior, it seemed like the perfect solution for comfortable and effective hunts. Rhino Blinds is a well-known manufacturer in the hunting blind space.

As an avid hunter with over a decade of experience in various terrains, I’ve always struggled with the limited visibility and awkward entry points of traditional blinds. Finding a blind that offers both concealment and a wide field of view has been a constant challenge. The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD aims to solve these issues, and I was excited to put it to the test.

Unboxing the blind, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the materials and the robust construction. The Realtree Edge camo looked fantastic, and the fabric felt durable. The weight, at 17.6 lbs, was substantial but manageable, suggesting a good balance between sturdiness and portability.

Compared to other blinds I’ve used, such as the Primos Double Bull SurroundView and the Ameristep Doghouse Blind, the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD stood out with its full-door design and expansive see-through mesh. I chose it over the others primarily for the improved accessibility and enhanced visibility it promised. I was also drawn to Rhino Blind’s reputation for quality and durability.

My initial impression was one of excitement and cautious optimism. The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD appeared to be a well-designed and thoughtfully constructed blind, but the true test would be in the field. I couldn’t wait to see how it performed under real hunting conditions.


Real-World Testing: Putting Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD on a weekend deer hunt in the oak-hickory forests of central Missouri. The weather was typical for late fall: cool, damp, and with occasional light rain. The blind was set up near a well-traveled deer trail, offering a good vantage point.

The blind performed remarkably well in the conditions. The ultra-durable 300 Denier fabric effectively repelled the light rain, keeping me dry and comfortable inside. The Realtree Edge camo blended seamlessly with the surrounding vegetation, making the blind virtually invisible to approaching deer.

Setting up the blind was surprisingly easy thanks to its 5-hub design. It took only a few minutes to pop it into shape and secure it with the included high-quality stakes. The full-size walk-through door with zipper closure was a game-changer, allowing for effortless entry and exit, even with bulky hunting gear.

Initially, I was concerned about the 180-degree see-through mesh spooking deer, but I was pleasantly surprised. The deer seemed completely unfazed by the mesh, allowing me to observe them without being detected. One minor issue was adjusting to the panoramic view, which took some getting used to.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during both deer and turkey seasons, the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD has proven to be a reliable and durable hunting companion. The blind has held up exceptionally well, with no noticeable signs of wear and tear. Even after being subjected to wind, rain, and snow, the fabric remains taut and the seams are intact.

Maintaining the blind has been relatively easy. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and mud. The stakes are sturdy and have shown no signs of bending or breaking, even when hammered into rocky ground.

Compared to my previous experiences with less expensive blinds, the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD is a significant upgrade. The enhanced visibility, ease of access, and overall durability make it a worthwhile investment. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD

Specifications

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD boasts several impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It is available in Realtree Edge Camo. The blind measures 58″ x 58″ at the base and stands 70″ tall.

The 82″ hub width provides ample space for up to three hunters. It weighs 17.6 lbs. The fabric is ultra-durable 300 Denier, providing excellent weather resistance.

These specifications are crucial for providing a comfortable and effective hunting experience. The spacious interior ensures that hunters have enough room to move around and position themselves for a shot. The durable fabric offers protection from the elements. The Realtree Edge camo ensures maximum concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD excels in its primary function: providing a concealed and comfortable hunting environment with exceptional visibility. The 180-degree see-through mesh is a game-changer, offering a clear and broad view of the surrounding area without compromising concealment. Deer and other game are often oblivious to the hunter’s presence.

The silent slide window system allows for quick and quiet adjustments. This is essential for avoiding spooking game. The full-size walk-through door makes entry and exit effortless.

One minor weakness is the lack of additional internal pockets or storage compartments for gear. However, this is a relatively minor inconvenience. Overall, the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD meets and exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and user comfort. The Realtree Edge camo is effective in a variety of environments. The 5-hub design ensures a quick and easy setup.

The silent slide window system operates smoothly and quietly. The full-size walk-through door is a welcome addition, eliminating the need to awkwardly crawl in and out of the blind.

There is a slight learning curve involved in initially setting up and taking down the blind, but after a few practice runs, it becomes second nature. The weight of 17.6 lbs is manageable for most hunters.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD is constructed from ultra-durable 300 Denier fabric, ensuring long-lasting performance. The reinforced corners and sturdy stakes provide added stability and resistance to wear and tear.

With proper care and maintenance, the blind should last for many hunting seasons. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and mud. The stakes can be easily replaced if necessary.

The overall construction and materials suggest that the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD is built to withstand the rigors of the hunt. This makes it a reliable investment for serious hunters.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD comes with high-quality stakes for secure grounding. The blind itself doesn’t offer many customization options. However, hunters can add accessories such as chairs, shooting sticks, and storage pouches to enhance their hunting experience.

The blind is compatible with most standard hunting accessories. This allows for a high degree of personalization and customization. Some users have added camouflage netting or vegetation to further enhance concealment.

Pros and Cons of Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD

Pros

  • Unparalleled 180-degree see-through mesh offers exceptional visibility without compromising concealment.
  • Full-size walk-through door with zipper closure provides easy and convenient entry and exit.
  • Ultra-durable 300 Denier fabric ensures long-lasting weather resistance and durability.
  • Spacious 58″ x 58″ footprint and 70″ height comfortably accommodates up to three hunters.
  • Silent slide window system allows for quiet and adaptable window adjustments.

Cons

  • The 17.6 lbs weight could be a drawback for hunters who need to carry the blind long distances.
  • Lack of internal storage pockets or compartments.


Who Should Buy Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD?

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD is perfect for hunters who prioritize visibility, ease of access, and durability in a ground blind. It is ideal for deer, turkey, and other game hunting. It is also suitable for wildlife photographers and observers.

Hunters who primarily hunt in open areas or those who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear might find other blinds more suitable. If you prioritize portability above all else, a smaller, lighter blind might be a better option. Someone who demands a lot of internal storage in their blinds should also look elsewhere.

A comfortable hunting chair and shooting sticks are must-have accessories to enhance the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD hunting experience. Also, consider adding some extra camo netting for added concealment in specific situations.

Conclusion on Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD

The Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD is an exceptional ground blind that delivers on its promises of enhanced visibility, easy access, and durable construction. The 180-degree see-through mesh is a game-changer, providing a significant advantage over traditional blinds. The full-size walk-through door and silent slide window system add to the overall user-friendly design.

At $249.99, the price is justified by the blind’s high-quality materials, innovative features, and overall performance. It is a worthwhile investment for serious hunters who demand the best.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD to any hunter looking for a comfortable, effective, and reliable ground blind. Upgrade your hunting experience today with the Rhino Blinds 180 Pro FD and see the difference it makes.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top