Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set Review

First Impressions of Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set

The Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set promises a simple yet crucial function for any serious hunter: preserving hard-earned game meat from field to freezer. Allen, a brand known for its affordable and functional outdoor gear, offers this set as a budget-friendly solution for deer hunters. I was intrigued to see if these bags lived up to their claims of breathability, durability, and ease of use, especially considering their price point.

My usual method involves makeshift solutions – old bedsheets or repurposed pillowcases. These are far from ideal, often proving cumbersome and offering questionable protection. I was hoping the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set would provide a more practical and effective alternative for my upcoming deer season.

Upon unboxing, the bags felt surprisingly lightweight. The material, a poly/cotton blend, didn’t immediately scream “heavy-duty,” but the texture seemed reasonably breathable. Compared to heavier, more expensive canvas bags, or even synthetic alternatives with antimicrobial treatments, the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set appeared to prioritize packability. My initial thought was, “These could be a great space-saver,” but I also wondered about their long-term resilience.

I considered other options like the Caribou Gear Game Bags (known for their antimicrobial properties and higher price tag) and the Alps OutdoorZ Quarter Game Bags (which are a bit more robust but also bulkier). I ultimately chose the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set because of its affordability and lightweight design, hoping it would strike a balance between functionality and convenience. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to put them to the test in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set during the opening weekend of deer season in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was relatively mild during the day, but temperatures dropped significantly at night, providing a good range of conditions. After successfully harvesting a buck, I quartered the animal and placed each quarter into a separate bag.

The 12-inch wide x 20-inch long size of the bags proved adequate for deer quarters, though fitting the hindquarters required a bit of effort. The “deluxe stretch” material did allow for some give, but I wouldn’t want to try packing larger game, like elk quarters, into these bags. The breathable fabric was noticeable; condensation was significantly less than what I’ve experienced using plastic or non-breathable materials. I did notice some minor snagging on sharp bone edges while packing the quarters, raising a slight concern about long-term durability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during the hunting season, the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set has held up reasonably well. There are a few small snags and pulls in the fabric from contact with bone and brush, but no major tears or failures. Cleaning the bags after use was straightforward; a simple wash with cold water and mild detergent removed blood and debris effectively.

However, I did notice that the bags retained a slight gamey odor even after washing, which is a common issue with poly/cotton blends. Compared to my previous experiences with bedsheets, the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set offers superior breathability and a more secure fit, but it doesn’t quite match the odor resistance and overall robustness of higher-end synthetic game bags. Overall, I’d say they performed adequately for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set

Specifications

The Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set consists of four quarter-sized game bags designed for packing out deer or similar-sized game. The material is a poly/cotton blend chosen for its lightweight and breathable properties. Each bag measures 12-inches wide x 20-inches long, providing ample space for deer quarters.

The pack includes tie closures to secure the bags and a resealable storage bag for convenient packing. The dimensions are important because they dictate the type of game you can effectively use the bags for. The material choice impacts breathability, which directly affects meat preservation.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set is to protect game meat from insects, dirt, and debris while allowing it to cool. In this regard, the bags perform reasonably well. The breathable fabric effectively reduces condensation and promotes airflow, which helps to prevent spoilage.

However, the durability of the material is a potential weakness. While the four-way stretch is helpful for packing, it also makes the fabric more susceptible to snags and tears. Overall, the bags meet expectations for their price range, offering a decent level of protection and breathability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set is simple and functional. The lightweight material makes the bags easy to pack and carry, which is a significant advantage for backcountry hunters. The 12-inch by 20-inch size is well-suited for deer quarters, and the tie closures provide a secure seal.

The bags are relatively easy to handle, though the thin material can be a bit slippery when wet. There’s virtually no learning curve involved; they’re ready to use straight out of the package.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the poly/cotton blend construction, the long-term durability of the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set is a concern. While the bags have held up reasonably well during my testing, I anticipate that they will eventually succumb to wear and tear, especially with repeated use and exposure to rough terrain. Proper maintenance, including gentle washing and careful handling, will likely extend their lifespan.

Repairing minor snags and tears is possible with a needle and thread, but major damage may render the bags unusable. The ease of cleaning is a definite plus, but the tendency to retain odors is a drawback.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set comes with tie closures for sealing the bags and a resealable storage bag. There are no additional accessories or customization options available. The bags are designed as a standalone solution for game meat preservation. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is not applicable in this case.

Pros and Cons of Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set

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Who Should Buy Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set?

The Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set is perfect for budget-conscious deer hunters who prioritize lightweight and packable gear. It’s also a good option for occasional hunters who don’t require the durability and antimicrobial properties of more expensive game bags. Those who hunt primarily in mild climates and prioritize breathability over extreme durability will find these bags adequate.

Hunters who regularly pursue larger game like elk or moose, or those who hunt in harsh environments with dense brush, should skip this product and invest in more robust game bags made from synthetic materials. Those concerned about odor retention may also want to consider alternatives with antimicrobial treatments. A must-have accessory for anyone using these bags is a basic repair kit with a needle and thread for patching up minor tears.

Conclusion on Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set

The Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set offers a functional and affordable solution for preserving game meat, particularly for deer hunters. While the durability of the poly/cotton blend is a concern, the lightweight and breathable design makes these bags a practical choice for backcountry hunts. The 12-inch by 20-inch size is well-suited for deer quarters, and the tie closures provide a secure seal.

The value proposition is strong, as the bags provide a decent level of protection and breathability at a fraction of the cost of higher-end alternatives. I would personally recommend the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set to budget-conscious hunters who are willing to accept a slightly lower level of durability in exchange for affordability and packability. Ultimately, these bags represent a solid starting point for anyone looking to improve their game meat handling practices without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a simple, effective, and inexpensive way to protect your hard-earned venison, give the Allen Colorado Deer Game Bag Set a try. You might be surprised at how well they perform.