The Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High Made a Bold First Impression
The Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High promises mobility and concealment for the hunter on the move. From Ameristep, a well-known name in hunting blinds, this model aims to strike a balance between being lightweight and offering adequate cover. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo pattern is designed to blend seamlessly into a variety of environments, adding to its appeal.
My years in the field have taught me that the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating one often comes down to effective concealment. I was seeking a blind that I could quickly set up and take down in different hunting locations, without sacrificing too much in terms of comfort or concealment. A lightweight, easily deployable blind was essential, as I often find myself traversing varied terrains.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the Ameristep blind felt surprisingly lightweight. The 300 Durashell Plus fabric appeared durable enough to withstand moderate weather conditions. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo pattern looked vibrant and realistic, instilling confidence in its ability to blend into natural surroundings.
Compared to some heavier, more permanent blinds I’ve used, like the Barronett Big Cat 350, the Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun is noticeably lighter and more portable. While the Barronett offers significantly more space, it’s not ideal for quick setups in remote areas. I also considered the Primos SurroundView 270 blind, but its lighter fabric raised concerns about long-term durability in harsh conditions. I chose the Ameristep for its blend of portability, perceived durability, and effective camo.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High seemed to offer exactly what I needed: a lightweight, mobile, and well-camouflaged hunting blind at a very reasonable price of $108.49. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to its “Run & Gun” designation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun was during an early-season archery deer hunt in a heavily wooded area. I set it up near a well-worn deer trail, taking advantage of the natural cover provided by the surrounding trees. The setup was surprisingly quick and easy; the hub system worked smoothly, and the blind was fully deployed within minutes.
The weather was cool and damp, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. The Durashell Plus fabric proved to be adequately water-resistant, keeping me relatively dry inside. I appreciated the height of the blind; at 65″, I had ample headroom to stand and stretch without bumping my head. However, the windows, while functional, did require some adjustment to achieve optimal visibility and concealment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in various hunting scenarios, the Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun has proven to be a reliable and functional blind. I’ve used it in both wooded areas and open fields, and the Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo has consistently provided excellent concealment. The lightweight design makes it easy to transport, and the quick setup remains a major advantage.
While the fabric has held up well overall, I’ve noticed some minor wear and tear around the window openings. Regular use and exposure to the elements have caused some fraying of the edges. Maintenance is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my experiences with other blinds, the Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun strikes a good balance between portability and functionality. It doesn’t offer the same level of space and comfort as larger, more permanent blinds, but it excels in situations where mobility and quick setup are paramount. It certainly outperforms cheaper, less durable blinds in terms of weather resistance and overall longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High
Specifications
- Style: Hub-Style Ground Blind. This means it uses a series of hubs that pop outwards when deployed, creating the structure of the blind.
- Camo Pattern: Mossy Oak Break-Up Country. This popular camo pattern is designed for a variety of environments, excelling in wooded and transitional areas.
- Fabric: 300 Durashell Plus. The 300 denier polyester fabric offers a balance between durability and weight.
- Height: 65″. This height provides ample headroom for most hunters to stand or kneel comfortably.
- Price: $108.49. Represents great value and affordability.
These specifications are crucial for the hunter who prioritizes mobility and ease of use. The hub-style design allows for rapid setup and takedown. The camo pattern ensures effective concealment, and the fabric provides adequate protection from the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High performs admirably in its intended role. It provides adequate concealment, is easy to set up and take down, and is lightweight enough to carry for extended periods. However, the windows could be improved to offer a wider field of view and more flexible shooting options.
One of its main strengths is its portability and quick setup. A weakness is the window design; a bit restrictive. It largely meets expectations for a budget-friendly, run-and-gun blind.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price point, with sturdy hubs and relatively durable fabric. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry. Its 65″ height is comfortable for most hunters.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple hub system that requires minimal effort to deploy. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High should last for several seasons. Expect some wear and tear on the fabric and window openings over time.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Store in a dry place to prevent mold and mildew.
Accessories and Customization Options
The blind comes with stakes to secure it to the ground and a carrying bag for easy transport. There are no specific customization options offered by Ameristep.
While you can’t customize the blind itself, you can certainly add accessories to enhance its functionality. Consider adding a comfortable chair or stool, as well as scent control products to further minimize your presence. You could also replace the stock stakes with heavier-duty ones for increased stability in windy conditions.
Pros and Cons of Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High
Pros
- Extremely Lightweight and Portable: Perfect for hunters who need to move frequently.
- Quick and Easy Setup: The hub system allows for rapid deployment and takedown.
- Effective Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo: Blends seamlessly into a variety of environments.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers excellent value for the money.
- Adequate Headroom: 65″ height provides comfortable space for most hunters.
Cons
- Window Design is somewhat Restrictive.
- Fabric Durability could be improved for long-term use in harsh conditions.
Who Should Buy Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High?
This blind is perfect for hunters who prioritize mobility and quick setup, such as turkey hunters or those who scout and hunt multiple locations in a single day. It’s also a great option for budget-conscious hunters who want a reliable and functional blind without breaking the bank. The Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun is especially well-suited for archery hunters who need a compact and easily portable blind.
Hunters who need a larger, more spacious blind with enhanced weather protection should skip this product. Those who hunt in extremely harsh conditions or require maximum durability may want to invest in a higher-end model with heavier-duty materials. If you have mobility issues or difficulty setting up hub-style blinds, this may not be the best choice for you.
Must-have accessories include a comfortable hunting chair or stool, scent control products, and potentially heavier-duty stakes for increased stability. Consider adding some camouflage netting around the base of the blind to further blend it into the surrounding vegetation.
Conclusion on Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High
The Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun Ground Blind Hub-Style Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 65″ High delivers on its promise of portability and convenience. It’s a lightweight, easily deployable blind that provides adequate concealment for a variety of hunting scenarios. While it may not be the most durable or spacious option on the market, it offers excellent value for its affordable price of $108.49.
The price is definitely justified, especially for hunters who value mobility and quick setup above all else. For the run-and-gun hunter, the value is clear.
I would personally recommend this blind to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, portable, and functional hunting blind. If you’re a turkey hunter, an archery hunter, or simply someone who likes to move around and hunt different locations, the Ameristep Care Taker Run & Gun is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the freedom of hunting on the move!