First Thoughts on the Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color
The Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color Camo Wheel Facepaint, offered by Trophy Taker, is a product designed to provide hunters and outdoor enthusiasts with a convenient and effective means of concealing their skin. At a mere $3.99, it promises an affordable entry point into the world of camouflage. I’ve been working outdoors, advising on and using tactical gear for over a decade, and I’ve seen countless camo solutions come and go, from elaborate ghillie suits to spray-on concealers.
What really piqued my interest was the compact, wheel-based design, something that seemed promising for quick application in the field. Years ago, I was on a deer hunt with a buddy who forgot his camo paint; he ended up using mud, which looked terrible and smelled even worse. This Trophy Taker offering looked like a far superior, and less messy, option.
Upon receiving the Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color, my initial impression was that of practical simplicity. The lightweight plastic wheel felt sturdy enough for regular use, and the color palette seemed well-suited to a variety of environments. Compared to tubes of cream-based paints, which often dry out or become a gooey mess, or palettes requiring separate brushes, the all-in-one wheel design was instantly appealing. I had considered a competitor’s camo stick, but the wheel offered more versatility in color mixing.
Frankly, I was cautiously optimistic. Camo face paint, in my experience, can range from impressively effective to utterly useless. If the Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color performs even moderately well, its price point makes it a very attractive option.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color to the test during a recent turkey hunting trip in the early spring woods of Pennsylvania. The weather was damp and cool, with a light mist hanging in the air. The ambient light was fairly low, testing the paint’s ability to subdue shine.
Application was surprisingly easy. The paint went on smoothly, and the color payoff was decent, allowing for blending and layering. There was no initial irritation to my skin, which is a huge plus, as some paints have caused allergic reactions in the past.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, primarily during scouting trips and early morning hikes, the Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color has held up reasonably well. There is some minor wear on the edges of the paint cakes within the wheel, but nothing significant. The colors still apply evenly and blend well.
Cleaning the paint off my face is easy with soap and water, leaving no residue. Compared to other camo paints I’ve used, this one is noticeably less greasy and doesn’t clog pores. It doesn’t outperform high-end, professional-grade paints in terms of longevity (it will fade somewhat with sweat and moisture), but given its price, I’m pleasantly surprised.
Breaking Down the Features of Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color
Specifications
- The Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color features five distinct camouflage colors in a single, rotating wheel. These colors are earth-toned, designed for blending into natural environments such as forests and fields.
- The paint itself is a non-toxic, cream-based formula. This design minimizes the risk of skin irritation.
- The entire unit is lightweight and compact, easily fitting into a pocket or pack. This makes it ideal for mobile hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Performance & Functionality
The Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color performs its primary function – camouflage – adequately. The colors are well-chosen and blend together easily to create a convincing mask. It helps to reduce shine and break up the human outline, making the wearer less visible to game animals.
However, it’s not a miracle product. It won’t make you invisible, and it does require occasional reapplication, especially in wet conditions. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly camo paint, though.
Design & Ergonomics
The wheel design is simple and effective. The individual paint cakes are easy to access, and the rotating wheel makes color selection straightforward. The compact size is a definite advantage.
The plastic casing is functional but not particularly robust. While it hasn’t broken yet, I wouldn’t want to subject it to excessive abuse.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and price point, I expect the Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color to last a hunting season or two with regular use. The paint itself seems to be reasonably durable, though I anticipate the wheel mechanism might wear out over time.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe the wheel clean after use to prevent dirt buildup. It’s a product designed for convenience.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization is limited to the application of the paint itself, allowing users to blend and layer colors to create unique camouflage patterns.
It is compatible with any standard face paint removal products, as well as basic soap and water.
Pros and Cons of Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color
Pros
- Affordable price point: At under $4, it’s accessible to everyone.
- Convenient, compact wheel design for easy transport and application.
- Non-toxic formula reduces the risk of skin irritation.
- Effective camouflage colors for blending into natural environments.
- Easy to clean with soap and water.
Cons
- Durability of the plastic wheel casing could be improved.
- Requires occasional reapplication, especially in wet conditions.
Who Should Buy Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color?
The Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, casual campers, and airsoft enthusiasts who need a simple and effective camouflage solution. It’s also a great option for beginners who are just starting to experiment with camouflage techniques.
Those who require professional-grade, long-lasting camouflage or have sensitive skin might want to consider a higher-end product. A small mirror for application and a damp cloth for cleanup are must-have accessories.
Conclusion on Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color
The Trophy Taker Ambush 5 -Color Camo Wheel Facepaint is a surprisingly effective and affordable option for basic camouflage needs. While it’s not the most durable or long-lasting product on the market, its convenience, ease of use, and budget-friendly price make it a worthwhile purchase.
The price is absolutely justified for what you get. For a few dollars, you receive a convenient, functional tool that can enhance your concealment in the field.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an entry-level camo paint solution. Pick one up, toss it in your pack, and get out there!