First Thoughts on the MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD from Moultrie promises a simple, reliable way to feed deer, especially during the crucial antler-growing season. I’ve managed wildlife food plots for over a decade, and I’ve wrestled with everything from complex timer-based feeders to simply scattering corn by hand. The promise of a hassle-free, battery-free system immediately grabbed my attention.
What initially piqued my interest was the consistent need for a reliable protein source for my deer herd during the spring and summer. I was tired of the constant battery replacements and potential timer malfunctions of electronic feeders. I needed something simple and dependable.
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD arrived in a surprisingly compact box. Unboxing it, I was initially impressed by the apparent simplicity of the design. The plastic hopper felt sturdy, and the metal tripod legs looked reasonably robust. My initial impression was of a utilitarian, no-frills design.
I considered other gravity feeders on the market, namely those from Wildgame Innovations and Boss Buck. I opted for the Moultrie because of the brand’s established reputation in the hunting industry and the adjustable flow rate of the feeding funnels. That adjustability seemed key to controlling feed dispersal.
Overall, my first impression was cautiously optimistic. While it lacks the bells and whistles of electronic feeders, its simplicity and potential reliability were immediately appealing. It felt like a back-to-basics approach to deer feeding, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD in a secluded food plot on my property, nestled within a dense patch of woods. The setup was straightforward, even without consulting the instructions. I filled the hopper with a 20% protein deer pellet mix.
The feeder performed admirably in relatively dry conditions. Deer began visiting the feeder within a few days. The adjustable flow funnels allowed me to fine-tune the feed rate, preventing the feed from being depleted too quickly.
After the first significant rainfall, however, I noticed some clumping of the feed in the funnels. The pellets absorbed moisture, slightly impeding the flow. This wasn’t a complete blockage, but it did noticeably reduce the amount of feed available.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of continuous use, the MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD has proven to be generally reliable. The tripod legs have remained stable, even in moderately windy conditions. There are no signs of rust or corrosion.
The plastic hopper has held up well against the elements. I’ve noticed some minor fading from sun exposure, but no cracking or warping. Cleaning the feeder is relatively easy; a simple rinse with a garden hose is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous experience with electronic feeders, the MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD is a breath of fresh air. While the feed clumping in wet conditions is a drawback, the overall reliability and simplicity of the system far outweigh the negatives of constant battery replacements and timer failures. It demands less maintenance, but consistent monitoring is required to ensure optimal performance.
Breaking Down the Features of MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD
Specifications
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD boasts several key specifications. It features a 30-gallon hopper, capable of holding approximately 200 pounds of corn. The kit includes three feeder funnels with adjustable flow. The system operates entirely without batteries. This makes it ideal for dispensing protein pellets or feed.
These specifications are vital for several reasons. The 30-gallon capacity allows for extended periods between refills. The adjustable flow funnels offer crucial control over the feed rate. The absence of batteries eliminates the hassle of replacements and potential timer malfunctions.
Performance & Functionality
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD performs its primary function effectively: delivering feed to deer. The adjustable flow funnels allow for precise control over the amount of feed dispensed, preventing waste and attracting deer consistently. The system is reliable in dry conditions.
The main weakness is the feed’s tendency to clump in wet conditions, reducing the flow rate. While not a deal-breaker, this necessitates regular monitoring and occasional clearing of the funnels. Overall, it meets expectations for a simple, gravity-fed system.
Design & Ergonomics
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD features a simple, utilitarian design. The plastic hopper is durable and weather-resistant. The metal tripod legs provide a stable base.
The feeder is reasonably user-friendly. Filling the hopper can be a bit awkward, especially with a full 50-pound bag of feed, but it’s manageable. There’s no real learning curve; the system is intuitive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD appears to be built to last. The plastic hopper is thick and resistant to cracking. The metal tripod legs are sturdy and well-coated to prevent rust.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasional cleaning with a hose is usually sufficient. The absence of electronic components eliminates the need for complicated repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD doesn’t come with many accessories. The adjustable flow funnels are the primary “customization” option, allowing you to control the feed rate. Aftermarket options are limited, but some users might explore adding a rain guard to the funnels to mitigate the clumping issue. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited due to the feeder’s unique design.
Pros and Cons of MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD
Pros
- Simple and reliable design, eliminating the need for batteries or timers.
- Adjustable flow funnels, allowing for precise control over the feed rate.
- Large 30-gallon capacity, reducing the frequency of refills.
- Durable construction, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to assemble and maintain, saving time and effort.
Cons
- Feed can clump in wet conditions, reducing the flow rate.
- Filling the hopper can be awkward and require assistance.
Who Should Buy MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD?
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD is perfect for landowners and hunters looking for a simple, reliable way to supplement deer feed. It’s ideal for those who value low maintenance and don’t want to deal with the complexities of electronic feeders. This system is exceptionally useful for providing protein pellets during antler growth seasons.
Those who should skip this product are individuals needing precise, timed feeding schedules. If you are in extremely wet climates, you may want to look for a feeder with more weather protection.
A must-have modification is a DIY rain guard for the funnels. This will help to minimize feed clumping in wet weather.
Conclusion on MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD
The MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a simple and reliable deer feeding solution. While it’s not without its drawbacks (specifically the feed clumping issue), the overall benefits of simplicity, durability, and adjustable flow make it a worthwhile investment. The $160.99 price is justified given its long-term reliability and low maintenance requirements.
I would personally recommend the MOULTRIE DEER FEEDER GRAVITY TRIPOD to anyone looking for a hassle-free way to supplement their deer herd’s diet. It’s a no-nonsense system that gets the job done. Consider adding a rain guard to improve wet-weather performance.