The American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit Made a Bold First Impression
The American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit promises to be a reliable and versatile option for attracting wildlife. American Hunter designed it with a metal spin plate, varmint guard, and even a rail mount for accessories. This kit immediately piqued my interest with its promise of durability and ease of customization.
My property has always been a popular spot for deer, but I wanted a more controlled feeding system. Previously, I’d relied on simple gravity feeders, which were constantly raided by raccoons and squirrels. The promise of a metal varmint guard on the American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit was a major selling point, as was the integrated solar panel plug.
Unboxing the kit, I was immediately impressed with the apparent sturdiness of the components. The plastic housing felt robust, and the metal spin plate looked capable of withstanding some serious abuse. The rail mount was a welcome surprise, hinting at expandability down the line.
I considered several other feeder kits, including models from Moultrie and Wildgame Innovations. Ultimately, the American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit won me over due to its combination of features and price point. Other kits either lacked the varmint guard or were significantly more expensive. My first impression was one of cautious optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I set up the American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit in a clearing near a well-used game trail on my property. The feeder was filled with corn and programmed to dispense feed twice a day: once at dawn and once at dusk. The initial setup was straightforward.
The first week was fairly uneventful, but it proved the kit’s core functionality. The feeder consistently dispensed feed at the set times. I noticed immediate increase in deer activity near the feeding site.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit has proven to be a reliable performer. The motor still operates smoothly, and the timer functions as intended. I have not experienced any malfunctions.
The plastic housing has held up well against the elements, showing no signs of cracking or fading. However, the metal varmint guard has suffered a few minor scratches. These scratches are likely caused by persistent raccoon attacks. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting mostly of refilling the feeder and occasionally wiping down the housing. Compared to my previous gravity feeders, the XD-Pro has significantly reduced feed waste and varmint interference.
Breaking Down the Features of American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit
Specifications
- Brand: American Hunter
- Model: XD-Pro
- Category: Feeders
- Housing Material: Plastic
- Includes: Solar Panel Accessory Plug
- Spin Plate: Metal
- Varmint Guard: Metal
- Motor: Upgraded Industrial Motor
- Accessory Mount: Rail Mount
These specifications are important because they dictate the feeder’s durability and functionality. The metal spin plate and varmint guard suggest a level of robustness often lacking in cheaper models. The rail mount adds versatility by allowing for the attachment of cameras or other accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit performs its primary function exceptionally well. The timer is accurate, the motor is strong enough to reliably distribute feed, and the varmint guard is moderately effective. The overall performance has exceeded my expectations, particularly considering the kit’s affordable price.
The only significant weakness is the lack of a built-in solar panel. A dedicated solar panel would have been preferable to needing to purchase and connect one separately. The feeder meets and mostly exceeds expectations, but the absence of an included solar panel is a notable drawback.
Design & Ergonomics
The plastic housing is functional, but not particularly aesthetically pleasing. However, its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and install. The metal components appear to be well-made and are strategically placed in high-wear areas.
The design is relatively user-friendly. The programming interface is intuitive, and refilling the feeder is a simple process. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With regular maintenance, the American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit should last for several seasons. The metal components are resistant to rust and corrosion. The plastic housing is UV-resistant and should not degrade quickly in direct sunlight.
Maintenance is limited to cleaning the spin plate and occasionally wiping down the housing. The upgraded motor is designed for long life and should not require frequent repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit comes with a solar panel accessory plug, which allows the user to connect a solar panel for extended battery life. It also features a rail mount, which is compatible with standard picatinny rail accessories. This allows for the addition of cameras or other devices.
While American Hunter offers limited specific accessories for this kit, its compatibility with standard rail accessories opens up a wide range of customization options. This flexibility is a major advantage for users who want to tailor their feeder setup to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit
Pros
- Reliable timer and motor provide consistent feeding.
- Durable metal spin plate and varmint guard. These protect against wear and unwanted guests.
- Affordable price point. It offers great value for the features included.
- Rail mount for accessory customization. This allows for expanded functionality with cameras or other devices.
- Easy to set up and maintain. The intuitive design reduces the time and effort needed to keep it running.
Cons
- Solar panel not included. This requires an additional purchase.
- Plastic housing is functional but lacks aesthetic appeal. It is not as visually impressive as other metal encased models.
Who Should Buy American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit?
Perfect for hunters looking to attract deer to specific areas. This is also great for wildlife enthusiasts who want to observe and support local animal populations. Also ideal for property owners seeking a reliable and affordable feeder system.
This product might not be the best choice for users who require a completely varmint-proof feeder. The kit is also not ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics over functionality. Skip if you are in an area with large bear population as the plastic housing will not hold up.
Must-have accessories include a compatible solar panel for extended battery life. Game camera is also a great addition using the rail mount for monitoring activity.
Conclusion on American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit
The American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit delivers on its promise of reliable and customizable wildlife feeding. Its sturdy construction, functional design, and affordable price make it a compelling option for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Despite the lack of a built-in solar panel, its performance and versatility outweigh this minor drawback.
The price is more than justified for the features and durability offered. The metal spin plate and varmint guard are significant upgrades over cheaper models. The ability to add accessories via the rail mount further enhances its value.
I would definitely recommend the American Hunter XD-Pro Feeder Kit to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable wildlife feeder. It represents a solid investment for anyone seeking to attract and support local wildlife. Don’t hesitate – improve your feeding setup today!