American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit Review

Let’s Dive into American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit is designed to automate wildlife feeding, a critical task for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and property managers. American Hunter aims to provide a reliable and easily programmable solution for consistent feeding schedules. This kit promises durable construction and flexible settings to cater to varying needs.

For years, I’ve struggled with inconsistent feeding schedules, relying on manual methods that were time-consuming and often disrupted by my own travel. I was searching for a dependable, programmable feeder kit that could maintain a consistent food supply, especially during critical periods of antler growth and pre-season preparation. I needed something robust enough to withstand the elements and simple enough to program without needing a computer science degree.

My initial impressions upon unboxing the American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit were positive; the metal control housing felt solid and the components seemed well-made. The weight of the unit suggested a certain degree of durability, crucial for outdoor applications where exposure to the elements is unavoidable. The “No Blow” slinger design also caught my eye, promising to minimize waste in windy conditions, a frequent challenge in my area.

Before settling on this kit, I considered the Moultrie Pro Hunter Feeder Kit and the Wildgame Innovations Quick Set Feeder Kit. While those options were slightly cheaper, the American Hunter kit’s heavy-duty metal housing and reputation for longevity swayed my decision. The digital timer with its multiple feeding settings per day also offered more flexibility than the simpler timers on the competing models.

Right away, I was excited by the apparent build quality and the promise of a truly programmable feeding schedule. The potential for consistent, reliable performance made me hopeful this kit would finally solve my wildlife feeding challenges.

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Real-World Testing: Putting American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit was at my deer lease in central Texas, where I manage a herd for hunting purposes. I mounted the kit onto a 55-gallon drum, filled it with corn, and programmed it to dispense feed three times a day: morning, noon, and evening.

The kit performed flawlessly in dry conditions, accurately dispensing the programmed amount of feed each time. The ease of programming the digital timer was a pleasant surprise; the instructions were clear and the interface was intuitive, allowing me to set up the feeding schedule within minutes.

There were no immediate issues after the first day, though I was curious how it would handle a Texas thunderstorm which are often windy. The “No Blow” slinger seemed promising, but the real test would be an actual windy downpour.

Extended Use & Reliability

After six months of continuous use, the American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit has proven to be remarkably reliable. The metal housing has withstood numerous rainstorms, intense sun, and even a minor run-in with a curious cow.

I’ve noticed minimal wear and tear; the motor continues to operate smoothly, and the digital timer remains accurate. The “No Blow” slinger has lived up to its name, significantly reducing corn wastage even during strong winds.

In comparison to a previous, cheaper feeder I used, the American Hunter kit has far exceeded my expectations. Where the old feeder constantly malfunctioned and required frequent repairs, this unit has been a set-it-and-forget-it solution. The consistency of the feeding schedule has also demonstrably improved the health and size of the deer herd, validating my investment.

Breaking Down the Features of American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit

Specifications

• Manufacturer: American Hunter: This company is well-known for its hunting and wildlife management products. American Hunter has been a reliable brand for many outdoorsmen for years.
• Color: Black: The black color helps the feeder blend in with its surroundings. This reduces the chance of spooking wary wildlife.
• Power: Operates on either 6V or 12V batteries (not included). The flexibility to use either voltage gives the user options for battery size and longevity.
• Feed Rate: Adjustable from 1 to 30 seconds. This granular control allows for precise feed quantity management, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
• Feeding Times: Programmable for 1 to 16 different feeding times per day. This high level of programmability enables complex feeding schedules to match animal behavior patterns.
• Weekly Scheduling: Can be programmed to feed on various days of the week. This feature enables targeted feeding based on specific days or time periods.
• Slinger: Heavy-duty “No Blow” slinger. This reduces waste of feed due to wind, saving money and ensuring consistent delivery.
• Motor: Heavy high-torque industrial motor. The high-torque motor provides reliable and powerful dispensing, even with heavier feed types.
• Housing: Heavy-duty metal control housing. The metal housing offers excellent protection from the elements and animal damage.
• Downspout: Metal downspout. The metal construction improves durability and prevents damage from squirrels and other rodents.
• RPM: Three spread speeds: 3000, 3300, and 3800 RPM. Adjustable speeds provide control over the spread radius of the feed.
• Timer: Digital timer with power indicator. The digital timer allows for precise scheduling and the power indicator ensures the user is aware of battery status.
• Memory: Memory preserves user settings. This ensures settings are retained even if power is lost, avoiding the need to reprogram.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the feeder’s reliability, efficiency, and ease of use. The adjustable feed rate and multiple feeding times allow for fine-tuning the feeding schedule to match the needs of the local wildlife. The durable construction ensures the feeder will withstand the rigors of outdoor use, while the “No Blow” slinger minimizes waste and maximizes feed effectiveness.

Performance & Functionality

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit performs its primary function of dispensing feed consistently and reliably. The adjustable settings allow for precise control over the amount of feed dispensed and the timing of feedings.

A notable strength is the “No Blow” slinger, which effectively reduces feed wastage in windy conditions. The digital timer is easy to program and the memory function ensures settings are retained even if the battery is temporarily disconnected. A potential area for improvement is the bracket design for mounting, as noted by some users, which may require slight modification to fit certain feed containers.

Overall, the American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit has met and exceeded my expectations. Its reliable performance and user-friendly design make it a valuable tool for wildlife management.

Design & Ergonomics

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit features a robust design with a heavy-duty metal control housing that provides excellent protection from the elements. The weight of the unit reflects its sturdy construction, assuring the user of its durability.

The digital timer interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, minimizing the learning curve. While the mounting brackets may require some adjustment for certain containers, the overall design is user-friendly and practical.

Durability & Maintenance

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit is built to last. The heavy-duty metal housing and high-torque motor are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning of the slinger and checking the battery. With proper care, this feeder kit should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit primarily focuses on the core functionality of timed feeding and doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of the unit itself. However, the feeder is compatible with a wide range of feed containers, allowing users to choose the size and type that best suits their needs.

While American Hunter recommends their DE6120 6V or DE1270DC 12V rechargeable batteries for optimal performance, the kit is compatible with any standard 6V or 12V battery. Additional accessories that could enhance the system include solar panels for battery charging and varmint guards to protect the feeder from unwanted animals.

Pros and Cons of American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit

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Who Should Buy American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit?

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit is perfect for hunters, wildlife managers, and landowners seeking a reliable and automated solution for feeding wildlife. It’s ideal for those who want to maintain consistent feeding schedules without the need for manual labor.

Those seeking a simpler, less programmable feeder or those on a very tight budget might want to consider alternative options. However, for those prioritizing reliability, durability, and programmability, this kit is an excellent choice.

Must-have accessories include a high-quality 6V or 12V rechargeable battery and a varmint guard to protect the feeder from unwanted animals. A solar panel charger can also be a worthwhile investment for extending battery life.

Conclusion on American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit

The American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit is a well-built and reliable solution for automating wildlife feeding. Its durable construction, user-friendly digital timer, and effective “No Blow” slinger make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to maintain consistent feeding schedules.

The price is justified by the kit’s performance, durability, and the long-term cost savings associated with reduced feed wastage.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the American Hunter 6V/12V Digital Feeder Kit to anyone looking for a dependable and programmable wildlife feeder. Upgrade your feeding program today and witness the difference it makes!