First Thoughts on the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp promises to be a versatile and lightweight solution for hunters and outdoorsmen dealing with field dressing and processing game in the field. Made by Allen Company, a familiar name in hunting accessories, this tarp aims to be more than just a ground cover. Its potential as a makeshift shelter, pack liner, and even a poncho intrigued me.
Years of hunting have taught me the importance of having a clean workspace when field dressing an animal. I’ve used everything from contractor bags to heavy canvas tarps, each with their own drawbacks in weight and portability. The appeal of the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp was its compact size and multiple uses.
Upon unboxing, the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp felt surprisingly light. The material felt durable enough, though I had some initial reservations about its long-term resistance to punctures from sharp bones and antlers. The included aluminum stakes and stuff sack were welcome additions.
Compared to a heavy-duty canvas tarp I’ve previously used, the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp is significantly lighter and more packable. Compared to a simple plastic groundsheet, this offering from Allen Company offers superior waterproofing and a more durable construction. Ultimately, I chose this product for its balance of portability, durability, and versatility.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field, particularly regarding its waterproof capabilities and ease of cleaning. I hoped it would live up to its promise of being a lightweight and versatile tool for processing game.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Backcountry Game Tarp to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to use the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp came during a deer hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it as a ground cover while field dressing a medium-sized buck. The tarp kept the meat clean and separated from the muddy ground.
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp performed adequately in the damp conditions, repelling moisture from the forest floor. I found it relatively easy to clean with just a quick rinse from my water bottle, though I did notice some staining from blood. I was pleased with the performance and lack of setup required.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across multiple hunting trips, the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp has proven to be a valuable addition to my kit. It has held up surprisingly well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear despite being dragged across rocky terrain. I have also used it as a makeshift shelter during an unexpected rain shower.
The durability is impressive for such a lightweight material; there are no tears or punctures. Cleaning requires more than just a quick rinse after heavy use. The tarp is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional washing with mild soap and water.
Compared to previous solutions, the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp excels in portability and versatility. It packs down smaller and is lighter than my old canvas tarp, while offering better protection than a simple plastic sheet. It’s outperformed my expectations for a tarp in this price range, making it an ideal addition for my hunting pack.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Backcountry Game Tarp
Specifications
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp measures 4 feet by 4 feet 9 inches, providing ample space for processing medium-sized game. Its waterproof construction helps keep dirt, mud, and snow from penetrating the backside, while also preventing blood from soaking through the front. This means you can work in comfort, wherever you are.
The tarp is made from an ultra-light, reusable, and washable material, ensuring easy carry and maintenance. It comes with six aluminum stakes and a stuff sack for convenient storage and transport. Four reflective nylon corner cords with durable nylon cord toggles and two reflective side loops enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp’s functionality and usability in the field. The size provides sufficient coverage for game processing, while the waterproof material keeps you and your kill dry. The stakes and reflective cords ensure secure setup and visibility in dark environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp performs its primary function of providing a clean and waterproof surface for field dressing game effectively. It keeps the meat free from dirt and debris, reducing the risk of contamination. The tarp is also large enough to accommodate deboning operations in the field.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design, waterproof construction, and ease of setup. A weakness is that the material could be more resistant to staining. Overall, it meets expectations for a game processing tarp in its price range, and provides peace of mind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp is designed with practicality in mind. The materials are lightweight and durable enough for most hunting situations. The inclusion of stakes and reflective cords enhances its usability.
The tarp’s rectangular shape is efficient for maximizing usable surface area. It is user-friendly, with no learning curve required; simply unfold it and stake it down. The packable design also lends itself to easy integration with your hunting pack.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp is constructed from a durable, reusable material, but it’s not indestructible. With proper care, it should last for several hunting seasons. The tarp is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional washing with mild soap and water.
Repairs can be made with patches if necessary, extending its lifespan. However, avoid exposing it to sharp objects to prevent punctures. It is important to air-dry the tarp thoroughly after washing to prevent mildew growth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp comes with essential accessories, including six aluminum stakes and a stuff sack. There are limited customization options available for the tarp itself. However, you can enhance its functionality with additional accessories, such as larger or heavier-duty stakes for different ground conditions.
While not specifically designed for compatibility with accessories from other brands, any standard tent stake or cord will work. The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp provides a functional base that can be augmented to fit specific needs. You may wish to add brighter paracord to make it more visible.
Pros and Cons of Allen Backcountry Game Tarp
Pros
- Lightweight and Packable: Easy to carry in a hunting pack without adding significant weight.
- Waterproof Construction: Keeps game clean and dry in wet conditions.
- Versatile: Can be used as a ground cover, pack liner, poncho, or makeshift shelter.
- Reflective Corner Cords: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
- Affordable: Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Material Stain Resistance: The material can stain from blood and other fluids.
- Puncture Resistance: While durable, it’s not resistant to sharp objects like antlers or knives.
Who Should Buy Allen Backcountry Game Tarp?
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp is perfect for hunters who prioritize lightweight and packable gear. It’s also suitable for backpackers and campers looking for a versatile ground cover or emergency shelter. It is also perfect for anyone dressing game in the field and needing a clean working area.
This product might not be ideal for those who frequently process large game animals or hunt in extremely rugged terrain where puncture resistance is paramount. People looking for a heavy-duty, stain-resistant tarp should look elsewhere. Additional accessories you might consider include heavier-duty stakes for securing the tarp in windy conditions and a small scrub brush for cleaning.
Conclusion on Allen Backcountry Game Tarp
The Allen Backcountry Game Tarp is a surprisingly effective and versatile tool for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Its lightweight design, waterproof construction, and affordable price make it a valuable addition to any gear list. While it’s not without its limitations, such as stain resistance and puncture vulnerability, its benefits far outweigh its drawbacks.
At $24.99, the price is certainly justified for the functionality and convenience it offers. I would personally recommend the Allen Backcountry Game Tarp to anyone looking for a lightweight and versatile solution for processing game in the field. If you need a simple and effective way to keep your kill clean, you can’t go wrong with this tarp.