The Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W Made a Bold First Impression
Camouflage is more than just a pattern; it’s an art of deception, a skill honed by hunters and outdoorsmen for generations. The Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W promises to be a key ingredient in that art, a versatile tool for crafting concealment in the field. Allen aims to provide a cost-effective, adaptable solution for hunters needing to blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
Years in the field have taught me that the difference between success and failure often hinges on the quality of your camouflage. I needed a durable, adaptable material to create quick, effective blinds in diverse environments, particularly for waterfowl hunting and scouting new deer stands. The promise of a weather-resistant, non-glare burlap in the iconic Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern immediately caught my attention.
The roll arrived neatly packaged, and the initial impression was positive. The burlap felt robust, not flimsy like some cheaper alternatives. The Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern looked authentic and well-printed, offering a realistic blend of greens, browns, and tans perfect for marshes and fields.
I considered other options like pre-made blind panels or natural vegetation, but those solutions often lack adaptability or longevity. Pre-made panels are cumbersome to transport, and natural vegetation requires constant replenishment. The Allen Vanish Burlap struck a balance between portability, effectiveness, and cost, beating alternatives like the Cabela’s Natural Burlap Blind Material, which lacked a printed camo pattern and the more expensive Avery KillerWeed blind material, which while effective, is far less versatile for ground blind applications.
My initial excitement stemmed from the potential applications of this burlap. I envisioned crafting custom ground blinds, concealing trail cameras, and even adding a layer of camouflage to my boat. If the Allen Vanish Burlap could live up to its promises of durability and weather resistance, it would be a valuable addition to my hunting arsenal.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Allen Vanish Burlap was during an early teal season hunt in a flooded rice field. I used the burlap to create a makeshift ground blind near a known teal flyway. The conditions were typical for early September: hot, humid, and prone to afternoon showers.
The burlap was easy to work with, cutting cleanly with a utility knife and draping well over the natural vegetation I used for support. The Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern blended seamlessly with the surrounding rice stalks and weeds. It took about 30 minutes to construct a simple but effective blind.
Despite the heat and humidity, the burlap remained breathable, allowing for decent airflow within the blind. A brief afternoon shower rolled through, and the burlap shed water effectively, maintaining its color and texture. There was no noticeable glare, even when the sun peeked through the clouds.
There were no major issues during the first use, but I did notice a slight burlap odor that dissipated quickly after being exposed to the open air. The teal, seemingly unfazed by my hastily constructed blind, flew within easy shooting range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the teal and early goose seasons, the Allen Vanish Burlap has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it to create numerous temporary blinds in various locations, from muddy marshes to dry fields. The burlap shows minimal signs of wear and tear.
The color has remained vibrant, and the weave hasn’t loosened significantly, even after repeated exposure to sun, rain, and wind. Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick shake removes most of the mud and debris. I’ve also hosed it down after particularly messy hunts with no ill effects.
Compared to previous experiences with cheaper burlap materials, the Allen Vanish Burlap has proven to be significantly more durable and weather-resistant. It outshines standard burlap from the local hardware store, which tends to fade and disintegrate quickly when exposed to the elements. It hasn’t quite matched the longevity of purpose built camouflage netting, but offers greater flexibility in application.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W
Specifications
The Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It comes in a 12-foot length and a 56-inch width, providing ample material for various concealment projects. The material is burlap, a naturally textured and durable fabric.
The Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camouflage pattern is printed directly onto the burlap, offering effective concealment in marsh, grassland, and agricultural environments. The burlap is also treated with a non-glare finish, minimizing reflection and further enhancing its camouflage properties. The weather-resistant treatment adds to the overall lifespan and utility of the material.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the effectiveness and versatility of the burlap. The 12-foot length allows for creating sizable blinds or covering large objects. The Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern ensures optimal concealment in a wide range of hunting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Vanish Burlap performs its primary function – concealment – admirably. The Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern blends remarkably well with natural surroundings, effectively breaking up outlines and minimizing detection. Its performance in varied environments is one of its strengths.
The burlap is easy to cut, shape, and attach to various surfaces, making it a versatile tool for creating custom blinds and camouflage solutions. However, the cut edges tend to fray slightly, requiring some reinforcement or hemming for long-term durability. The material meets expectations for quick blind setups.
Design & Ergonomics
The burlap’s design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing concealment and durability over aesthetics. The natural texture and dull finish of the burlap further enhance its camouflage properties. Its light weight makes it relatively easy to transport and handle.
There’s no real learning curve involved; anyone familiar with basic construction and knot-tying can easily use the burlap to create effective concealment. This ease of use is a key advantage.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the Allen Vanish Burlap is reasonably durable for its price point. It can withstand moderate exposure to the elements without significant degradation. Proper care, such as storing it in a dry place when not in use, will extend its lifespan.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove mud and debris. More extensive repairs, like patching tears, can be done with burlap scraps and basic sewing skills, further extending its usable life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Vanish Burlap itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but its versatility lends itself to various customization options. It can be paired with support poles, stakes, or natural vegetation to create ground blinds. Additional camouflage netting, such as ghillie netting or leafy camo, can be layered over the burlap for enhanced concealment.
The burlap can also be painted or dyed to further customize its camouflage pattern to match specific environments. Its compatibility with other camouflage materials and support systems makes it a highly adaptable tool for hunters and outdoorsmen. Consider paracord or zip ties for secure attachment when building blinds.
Pros and Cons of Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W
Pros
- Cost-effective camouflage solution.
- Effective Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern for marsh and field environments.
- Durable and weather-resistant burlap material.
- Easy to cut, shape, and customize for various applications.
- Lightweight and portable.
Cons
- Cut edges tend to fray.
- Slight burlap odor initially.
Who Should Buy Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W?
The Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W is perfect for:
- Waterfowl hunters needing to create quick and adaptable blinds in marsh and field environments.
- Deer hunters looking for a cost-effective way to conceal trail cameras or scout new stand locations.
- Outdoorsmen and survivalists who need a versatile camouflage material for various applications.
Those who should skip this product:
- Hunters seeking a pre-made, ready-to-use blind solution.
- Individuals needing heavy-duty, military-grade camouflage netting.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- Support poles or stakes for creating ground blinds.
- Paracord or zip ties for securing the burlap to support structures.
- Scissors or a utility knife for cutting and shaping the burlap.
Conclusion on Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W
The Allen Vanish Burlap- Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades, 12′ L x 56″ W provides a solid balance of affordability, effectiveness, and versatility. For a mere $11.99, you get a sizable piece of durable, weather-resistant burlap adorned with the proven Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camouflage pattern. Its adaptability to create quick blinds in varied environments makes it a great value.
While it may not be the most durable or sophisticated camouflage solution on the market, it excels at its intended purpose: providing effective concealment without breaking the bank. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend the Allen Vanish Burlap to any hunter or outdoorsman looking for a cost-effective and adaptable camouflage solution. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any hunting pack or survival kit. Don’t just blend in, vanish! Pick up a roll of Allen Vanish Burlap and experience the art of concealment for yourself.