40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT Review

First Thoughts on the 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of gadgets promising efficiency and convenience in the field. The 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT, from what I can gather from the description, aims to simplify game management by automating feeding schedules. This has the potential to free up valuable time for scouting, stand preparation, or just plain enjoying the outdoors instead of constantly hauling feed.

My interest in this product stemmed from a need to optimize deer management on a property I consult on. The existing manual feeding system was time-consuming and inconsistent, leading to unpredictable game patterns. The promise of an analog timer and adjustable feed rate piqued my interest as a potential solution.

Upon receiving the feeder, my initial impression was… practical. The plastic hopper felt sturdy enough, but not exceptionally durable. It’s a lightweight design meant for hanging, which is a definite plus for relocation, but the plastic feels thinner than some other feeders I’ve seen. The galvanized metal slinger gave me a glimmer of hope about longevity, but the analog timer looks like something from the ’80s – hopefully, it’s reliable.

Compared to other hanging feeders I’ve used, like the Moultrie Feed Station or the Wildgame Innovations Quick-Set 225, this 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT seemed simpler. The Moultrie boasts more advanced digital timers, and the Wildgame Innovations has a larger capacity. I ultimately chose this model for its apparent ease of relocation and the promise of a straightforward analog timer system – sometimes simpler is better, especially in demanding environments. I’m cautiously optimistic, hoping the ease of use outweighs any potential concerns about long-term durability.

Real-World Testing: Putting 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT to the Test

First Use Experience

I deployed the 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT in a wooded area known for deer activity, near a frequently used game trail. I hung it from a sturdy oak branch, about 6 feet off the ground to deter smaller critters. The initial setup was surprisingly easy, the analog timer was intuitive, and I quickly programmed it to dispense feed twice a day – once at dawn and again 12 hours later.

The first few days were uneventful in terms of issues. However, the feed rate was definitely too high initially. I adjusted it from 15 seconds down to about 5 seconds to reduce waste, and the galvanized metal slinger was kicking the feed about 10ft. The weather was mild and dry during the first week of testing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a month of continuous use, the 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT has proven… adequate. The plastic hopper shows no signs of cracking or warping, which is a plus, but the galvanized slinger is showing signs of light rust despite claims of weather resistance. Maintenance is simple – a quick wipe down every couple of weeks to remove accumulated debris.

The timer, however, has become a point of frustration. It’s noticeably inconsistent, sometimes dispensing feed a few minutes early or late. This inconsistency impacts the feeding schedule and game patterns. While it initially outperformed my expectations in terms of setup, I was hoping for more reliability in the analog timer.

Breaking Down the Features of 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT

Specifications

• 40 lb Capacity Plastic Hopper: Holds a substantial amount of feed, reducing the frequency of refills. The plastic construction keeps the feeder lightweight for easy relocation.
• Analog Timer and Guard: Controls feeding times at daylight, and is programmable to feed 6 to 12 hours later. The analog system provides simplicity in programming and operation, though it lacks precise timing.
• Adjustable Feed Rate (1-30 sec): Allows for precise control over the amount of feed dispensed. Adjustable feed rate helps conserve feed and prevent overfeeding.
• Galvanized Metal Slinger: Disperses feed effectively. The galvanized metal material increases resistance against corrosion.
• Provides for Easy Relocation: Lightweight design and hanging system facilitate quick and simple repositioning. Relocation allows for strategic feed placement based on game activity.

Performance & Functionality

The 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT performs its core function of dispensing feed reasonably well, but it’s not without its quirks. The inconsistent timer undermines its reliability. The feed rate adjustment is useful but requires careful calibration to avoid waste.

The strength lies in its simplicity and ease of relocation. The weakness is the unreliable timer. While it meets the basic expectations of an automated feeder, it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The plastic hopper is utilitarian, and the hanging design is practical.

The design is generally user-friendly with a minimal learning curve associated with the analog timer. The light weight of the feeder allows for a single person to install and relocate the feeder.

Durability & Maintenance

The longevity of the 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT is a concern. The plastic hopper should withstand normal wear and tear, but the galvanized slinger’s rust suggests it may need replacement within a few seasons.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning of the slinger to prevent clogging is essential.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT comes with the essential components for operation, namely, the analog timer and guard. There are no included accessories for customization. However, it can be used with various hanging straps or chains depending on the mounting location.

Given its fairly standard design, it’s unlikely to be highly compatible with proprietary accessories from other feeder brands. Using off-brand accessories to improve timer functionality could void the feeder’s warranty.

Pros and Cons of 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT

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Who Should Buy 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT?

The 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT is perfect for hunters or property owners on a tight budget who need a basic automated feeding solution and aren’t overly concerned with precision. It’s also suitable for those who frequently relocate their feeders and appreciate the lightweight design.

This product should be avoided by individuals who require precise feeding schedules or operate in harsh weather conditions, due to the timer’s inconsistencies and the slinger’s rust susceptibility. A must-have modification would be a better weather resistant slinger if available.

Conclusion on 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT

The 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT is a budget-friendly option for automated game feeding. Its simplicity and ease of relocation are its strongest assets. However, its inconsistent timer and potential durability issues hold it back.

At $34.49, the price is justifiable for its basic functionality, but buyers should be aware of its limitations. I would cautiously recommend it to those on a very limited budget, fully understanding the timer issue. For those who can afford it, investing in a more robust and reliable feeder with a digital timer would be a better long-term investment. If you’re looking for basic, and cheap, get the 40 Lb. Hanging Feeder w/E-KIT.

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