American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer Review

Let’s Talk About American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer

The American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer promises a simple and affordable solution for attracting wildlife. American Hunter aims to offer a dependable product for game management. This kit is designed to be a basic, no-frills option for those looking to automate their feeding schedule using natural light.

I’ve always looked for ways to improve my deer hunting success on my property. Maintaining a consistent food source is key, but daily trips to the feeder are time-consuming. This feeder kit seemed like a practical solution to simplify the process and free up my schedule.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the compact design and the straightforward construction. The materials seemed adequate for the price point, although I wasn’t expecting anything exceptionally rugged. The build quality appeared functional, with the timer and motor unit feeling reasonably solid.

Compared to other feeder kits I’ve seen, like the Moultrie Pro Hunter Feeder Kit or the Wildgame Innovations Quick-Set 225 Feeder, the American Hunter kit appears more basic. I chose this one primarily for its simplicity and the photocell timer. I was hoping that the automatic dusk-and-dawn feeding would simplify my setup, compared to kits that require manual programming.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, and the concept was appealing, but I was also slightly concerned about the durability of the materials. Hopefully, this kit could survive the elements and consistently dispense feed without issues.

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Real-World Testing: Putting American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer to the Test

First Use Experience

I set up the American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer in a clearing near a frequently used game trail on my property. I mounted it on an existing barrel and filled it with corn. The installation process was relatively simple, although the instructions could have been clearer.

During the first week, we experienced a mix of weather conditions: a couple of days of heavy rain, followed by some hot, dry afternoons. The feeder seemed to operate consistently despite the changing weather. The dusk and dawn dispensing was accurate, based on the prevailing light conditions.

The ease of use was definitely a plus. I didn’t have to fiddle with programming or timers; it just worked. However, the feed rate adjustment took some trial and error to get right. After some tinkering, I managed to get a consistent amount of corn dispensed each time.

The only initial issue was with the battery connection. It seemed a bit loose, and I had to make sure it was securely connected for the feeder to function correctly. Otherwise, the first use was a success and showed promise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer has proven to be reasonably reliable, but not without some caveats. The timer continues to function well, dispensing feed at dusk and dawn as intended. It has significantly reduced the time I spend maintaining the feeding site.

Signs of wear and tear are starting to appear. The plastic housing of the timer unit is showing some discoloration from sun exposure, and the metal spinner plate has some minor rust. Overall, the durability is acceptable, given the price point, but I wouldn’t expect it to last for many years under harsh conditions.

Maintenance is fairly simple. I occasionally wipe down the unit with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Replacing the battery every few months is necessary to ensure consistent operation. I’ve also applied some rust inhibitor to the spinner plate to prolong its life.

Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive feeders, the American Hunter kit doesn’t offer the same level of robustness or advanced features. But for its price, it offers a decent level of performance and is adequate for basic game feeding needs. It outperforms some of the cheaper, less reliable options I’ve tried in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer

Specifications

• Other features: Feed at dusk & dawn, adjustable feed rate(1-30sec), requires 6v spring top sla battery. The photocell timer is a key element, triggering the feeder based on light levels.

• Adjustable feed rate (1-30 seconds): This allows you to control the amount of feed dispensed. Longer durations dispense more feed, while shorter durations dispense less.

• Requires 6V spring top SLA battery: This is a standard battery type, readily available and relatively inexpensive. Using a 6V battery keeps the overall cost down.

These specifications are important because they directly affect the feeder’s efficiency and usability. The photocell timer simplifies operation, and the adjustable feed rate allows you to customize the amount of feed dispensed based on your needs and the wildlife in your area.

Performance & Functionality

The American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer performs its job adequately, provided the battery is in good condition and properly connected. The dusk and dawn feeding is consistent, and the adjustable feed rate allows for some control over the amount of feed dispensed.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and affordability. However, its weaknesses include the basic construction and potential reliability issues related to the battery connection and timer unit durability. It mostly meets my expectations, given the low price, but I wouldn’t rely on it for demanding or critical applications.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is functional, but not exceptional. The materials are adequate for the price, but they don’t feel particularly robust. The weight is relatively light, making it easy to handle and install.

The feeder is user-friendly, with minimal setup required. There’s not much of a learning curve. The photocell timer eliminates the need for complex programming.

Durability & Maintenance

The lifespan of the American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer is likely to be limited, especially in harsh weather conditions. Expect a few seasons of use before significant repairs or replacement become necessary.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and battery replacement are the main requirements. The simple design makes it easy to identify and address any minor issues.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit comes with the basic components needed for operation: the timer unit, spinner plate, and mounting hardware. There are limited customization options available directly from American Hunter. However, it can be adapted to different barrel sizes and configurations.

The feeder is compatible with standard 6V batteries and various feed types, such as corn, soybeans, and pellets. Aftermarket spinner plates and timer units from other brands might be adaptable, but this would require some modification and experimentation.

Pros and Cons of American Hunter Feeder Kit Economy W/photocell Timer