The ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION Made a Bold First Impression
The ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION isn’t just another roll of fabric; it’s a ticket to concealment, a DIY ground blind solution that promises to blend seamlessly into the Mossy Oak Obsession landscape. Allen Company offers an affordable, readily available option for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts seeking to disappear into their surroundings.
My quest for the ALLEN Burlap started with the annual pre-deer season scramble. Every year, the same problem arises: the pre-existing blinds are either compromised by weather, vandalized, or simply overgrown with vegetation rendering them useless.
Upon receiving the roll, my first impression was surprisingly positive. The burlap felt sturdier than I anticipated, and the Mossy Oak Obsession pattern was vibrant and well-defined. The sheer length, 12 feet, promised ample coverage for creating my own blinds or reinforcing existing structures. I had been considering pre-fabricated blinds, but their cost and portability were deterrents; the Allen Burlap felt like a compelling, adaptable alternative.
Compared to cheaper, generic burlap rolls, the ALLEN Burlap stood out due to its printed camouflage pattern. I also considered natural vegetation, but the time and effort required to gather and maintain it was impractical. The Allen Burlap offers a convenient and consistent concealment solution.
My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism; would it truly blend in, and how would it hold up against the elements? However, the potential for creating effective, custom blinds at a fraction of the cost of commercial options definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place in a heavily wooded area bordering a soybean field, a prime location for deer activity during the rut. I used the Allen Burlap to create a makeshift ground blind against a fallen log, weaving it through branches and securing it with zip ties.
The burlap performed surprisingly well in the dry, early-fall conditions. The Mossy Oak Obsession pattern effectively broke up my outline against the backdrop of leaves and vegetation. I noticed that even at close range, it was difficult to discern the blind from its surroundings.
The ease of use was a major selling point; cutting and shaping the burlap was straightforward, and the generous width (56 inches) allowed for ample coverage. Initial setup took about an hour, including scouting the location and constructing the frame.
My only initial concern was the burlap’s susceptibility to wind; even a light breeze caused it to billow slightly, potentially alerting game. However, strategically placing additional branches and securing the bottom edge minimized this effect.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full hunting season, the ALLEN Burlap has held up remarkably well. While it has faded slightly due to sun exposure, the camouflage pattern remains effective.
The durability is commendable; despite exposure to rain, snow, and wind, the burlap has not torn or frayed significantly. The weave is tight enough to prevent excessive unraveling, and the material remains relatively water-resistant.
Maintenance is simple: I brushed off loose debris and stored the burlap in a dry shed between hunts. No special cleaning or treatments were necessary.
Compared to my previous attempts at using natural vegetation for concealment, the ALLEN Burlap is a significant improvement. It provides consistent camouflage, requires minimal maintenance, and is far more durable. It’s a noticeable upgrade from constantly rebuilding brush blinds that wither and decay.
Breaking Down the Features of ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION
Specifications
- Brand: Allen. Allen Company is known for producing affordable and accessible outdoor gear.
- Category: Blinds. This clearly defines the product’s intended use: concealment for hunting or wildlife observation.
- Model: Camo. This indicates that the burlap is designed with a camouflage pattern for effective concealment.
- Type: Ground / Tree. This confirms the versatility of the burlap for use in ground blinds or tree stand concealment.
- Color: Mossy Oak Obsession. The Mossy Oak Obsession pattern is a popular choice for turkey and deer hunting, known for its realistic depiction of natural foliage.
- Blind Material: Burlap. Burlap offers a good balance of affordability, breathability, and concealment.
- Description: Burlap. A simple but accurate description of the product’s core material.
- Length: 12′. This provides ample material for constructing a ground blind or covering a tree stand.
- Width: 56″. This width offers good coverage and flexibility in constructing blinds.
These specifications are crucial because they determine the burlap’s effectiveness in the field. The Mossy Oak Obsession camo helps it blend with natural surroundings, and the size provides enough material to work with.
Performance & Functionality
The ALLEN 25311 BURLAP excels at its primary function: concealment. Its texture and camouflage pattern effectively break up outlines and shadows, making it difficult for game to detect movement behind it.
The main strength is its affordability and ease of use. It’s far cheaper and easier to set up than commercially produced blinds. The primary weakness is its susceptibility to wind and its lack of waterproofing.
The product meets expectations for basic concealment, but it requires some ingenuity and additional materials (zip ties, branches) to maximize its effectiveness in challenging conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The burlap is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. The material is somewhat rough to the touch, but this is typical of burlap.
There’s no real learning curve; anyone can cut, shape, and attach the burlap to create a blind. However, achieving optimal concealment requires some experience and an understanding of local vegetation patterns.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and storage, the ALLEN Burlap should last for several hunting seasons. While it’s not as durable as synthetic materials, its affordability makes it a reasonable investment.
Maintenance is minimal; simply brushing off debris and storing it in a dry place is sufficient. Applying a water-repellent spray can extend its lifespan and improve its performance in wet conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product comes with no accessories. However, it can be easily customized with additional camouflage netting, natural vegetation, or scent-masking agents.
The burlap is compatible with a wide range of readily available accessories, such as zip ties, tent stakes, and camouflage paint. Its versatility allows hunters to tailor their blinds to specific environments and hunting styles.
Pros and Cons of ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION
Pros
- Affordable: Significantly cheaper than commercial ground blinds. This makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious hunters.
- Effective Camouflage: The Mossy Oak Obsession pattern blends well in wooded environments. The proven camouflage pattern offers realistic concealment.
- Easy to Use: Simple to cut, shape, and attach to create custom blinds. The material requires no specialized tools for modification.
- Versatile: Suitable for ground blinds, tree stands, and general concealment. It can be adapted to various hunting scenarios.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to transport and set up in remote locations. The roll is relatively compact for easy storage and transport.
Cons
- Not Waterproof: Susceptible to water damage and may become heavy when wet. This can be mitigated with a waterproofing spray.
- Vulnerable to Wind: Can billow and flap in windy conditions, potentially alerting game. Secure attachment and strategic placement are crucial.
Who Should Buy ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION?
Perfect for: Hunters on a budget who need a quick and effective concealment solution, DIY enthusiasts who enjoy building their own blinds, and those who hunt in areas with dense vegetation where natural camouflage is highly effective. It is also ideal for photographers looking to build a quick photo blind.
Who should skip this product? Those who need a completely waterproof and windproof blind, or those who prefer the convenience of a pre-fabricated, pop-up blind. If you demand top-tier weather protection, look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Zip ties or cordage for attaching the burlap, additional camouflage netting for added concealment, and a water-repellent spray to protect against moisture. Consider adding scent killer to the burlap to eliminate any unnatural smells.
Conclusion on ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION
The ALLEN 25311 BURLAP 12FTX56IN MO OBSESSION offers a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts seeking concealment. While it has limitations, its versatility, ease of use, and realistic camouflage pattern make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is definitely justified; for $12.49, you get a generous amount of burlap that can be used to create multiple blinds or reinforce existing structures. It’s a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and customizable concealment option. Just be prepared to put in a little extra effort to secure it properly and protect it from the elements.
If you’re ready to ditch the expensive pop-up blinds and embrace a more hands-on approach to concealment, give the ALLEN 25311 BURLAP a try. You might be surprised at how well it works.