American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA Review

First Thoughts on the American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA

The American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA promises a convenient and economical solution for attracting wildlife. The collapsible design and adjustable feed rate piqued my interest, suggesting a product that prioritizes portability and control. After years of lugging around heavy feeders, the promise of something easily transportable and storable felt like a godsend.

My property has become a regular stop for deer and other wildlife, but keeping a consistent food source has been a challenge. Traditional feeders are bulky and difficult to move, especially when repositioning them to avoid over-grazing in one area. I needed a reliable, portable feeder that wouldn’t break the bank, and the American Hunter offering seemed to tick both boxes. I was tired of inconsistent feeding schedules and wasting feed due to unreliable timer mechanisms on older models from other manufacturers.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the compactness of the folded-down feeder. It was significantly smaller and lighter than I anticipated, a welcome surprise. The materials appear to be durable plastic, and the Econ Feeder Kit looked straightforward to assemble. Compared to the Moultrie Pro Hunter Feeder and the Wildgame Innovations Quick-Set 225 Feeder, the American Hunter stood out for its focus on portability and ease of setup.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The compact design and promised features were enticing, but the ultimate test would be in its real-world performance and durability. If it could consistently deliver feed and withstand the elements, it would be a valuable addition to my wildlife management efforts.

Real-World Testing: Putting American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA to the Test

First Use Experience

I deployed the American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA in a wooded area near a frequently used deer trail on my property. The setup was surprisingly easy; the collapsible design snapped into place securely, and the Econ Feeder Kit attached quickly with minimal fuss. Filling the feeder with corn was also less cumbersome than with my larger, barrel-style feeders.

The weather was damp, with a light drizzle falling intermittently throughout the first week. The feeder continued to function without issue, dispensing feed at the programmed intervals. The deer quickly took to the new food source, visiting the feeder multiple times daily. I was impressed with the feeder’s consistent performance in these less-than-ideal conditions.

I did notice that the digital timer required some initial familiarization. It wasn’t overly complicated, but it took a few minutes to understand the programming sequence for setting feed times and durations. After the initial setup, the feeder operated flawlessly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. The plastic construction has held up well to exposure to sun and rain, with no signs of cracking or fading. The collapsible design remains secure, and the feeder dispenses feed consistently.

I’ve only needed to perform basic maintenance, such as refilling the feeder and wiping down the exterior. The plastic is easy to clean, and there are no complex mechanisms to worry about. Compared to my previous experience with metal feeders that rusted and required frequent repairs, the American Hunter has been remarkably low-maintenance.

In my previous experience, I had feeders that the local racoon population was able to climb and tear apart. I am constantly checking the condition of the feeder and have yet to see any signs of that with the American Hunter feeder. This is also a welcomed sign.

The only minor issue I’ve encountered is that the AA batteries require replacement every few weeks, depending on the frequency of feedings. This is a relatively minor inconvenience, but it’s something to be aware of. Overall, the American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder has exceeded my expectations in terms of portability, ease of use, and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA

Specifications

  • Collapsible Design: The feeder folds down to less than 10 inches for easy storage and transport. This feature is a game-changer for anyone who needs to move their feeder frequently or store it during the off-season.

  • Econ Feeder Kit: Includes a digital clock feeder for precise timing. This allows for accurate and consistent feed dispensing, helping to establish reliable feeding patterns for wildlife.

  • Adjustable Feed Rate: The feed rate can be adjusted from 1 to 30 seconds. This provides excellent control over the amount of feed dispensed, minimizing waste and allowing for tailored feeding schedules.

  • Multiple Feed Times: The feeder can be programmed to feed 1 to 16 times per day. This provides unmatched flexibility and is perfect for maintaining consistent feeding patterns throughout the day.

  • Battery Powered: Operates on AA batteries. While convenient, keep replacement batteries on hand to avoid interrupting your feeding schedule.

These specifications combine to create a feeder that prioritizes portability, control, and ease of use. The adjustable feed rate and multiple feed times are particularly valuable for managing wildlife populations and minimizing feed waste.

Performance & Functionality

The American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA performs its intended function effectively. The feed timer is accurate and reliable, and the adjustable feed rate allows for precise control over the amount of food dispensed. It works perfectly for attracting a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and squirrels.

One minor weakness is the limited battery life, requiring frequent replacements. Another potential area for improvement is the robustness of the plastic hopper; while durable, it might not withstand extreme abuse or very heavy use. Overall, the feeder’s performance and functionality meet expectations for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The collapsible design is the standout feature, making the feeder incredibly easy to transport and store. The lightweight plastic construction contributes to its portability. The feeder is relatively user-friendly, although some may require a few minutes to become familiar with the digital timer settings.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic construction appears durable enough to withstand normal outdoor conditions. With proper care, the American Hunter feeder should last for several seasons. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery replacements.

Accessories and Customization Options

The American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA comes standard with the Econ Feeder Kit, which includes the digital timer and dispensing mechanism. There are no readily available customization options in terms of adding solar panels or upgraded components. However, the standard configuration should suffice for most users’ needs. It is compatible with most standard feeder legs available at sporting goods stores, allowing for some level of height adjustment.

Pros and Cons of American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA

Pros

  • Collapsible Design: Extremely easy to transport and store, making it perfect for remote locations or seasonal use.
  • Adjustable Feed Rate: Precise control over feed dispensing, minimizing waste and tailoring feeding schedules.
  • Multiple Feed Times: Flexibility to feed up to 16 times per day, maintaining consistent feeding patterns.
  • Easy Setup: The simple design allows for quick and hassle-free assembly.
  • Economical Price: Affordable option for attracting wildlife without breaking the bank.

Cons

  • Battery Life: Requires frequent battery replacements, adding to the overall cost.
  • Plastic Construction: While durable, might not withstand extreme abuse or heavy use.


Who Should Buy American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA?

The American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA is perfect for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and property owners looking for an affordable and portable feeding solution. It is especially well-suited for individuals who need to move their feeder frequently or store it during the off-season.

Those who require a heavy-duty, vandal-resistant feeder or who prefer solar-powered options should skip this product. While functional, it does not offer the same level of ruggedness or advanced features as more expensive models.

Must-have accessories include a supply of AA batteries and a reliable source of feed. Securing the feeder to the ground with stakes or a cable can also help prevent it from being knocked over by larger animals.

Conclusion on American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA

The American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA is a solid, budget-friendly option for attracting wildlife. Its collapsible design, adjustable feed rate, and multiple feed times make it a versatile and convenient choice.

The price is definitely justified for the features and functionality offered. While it may not be the most durable or feature-rich feeder on the market, it provides excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the American Hunter Collapsible Nesting Feeder with Econ Feeder Kit 1-30 Seconds AA to anyone looking for a portable, easy-to-use, and affordable wildlife feeder. If you are looking for a reliable way to supplement food sources on your property, this feeder is worth considering. Head to your local sporting goods store or visit American Hunter’s website to purchase yours today and start attracting more wildlife to your property!


Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top