First Impressions of Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds
The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds promises to be a game-changer for hunters seeking a comfortable and concealed hunting experience. Combining a ground blind with integrated seating, this product aims to offer both mobility and concealment in one convenient package. I was intrigued by its potential to simplify my hunting setup and provide a comfortable vantage point in the field.
I’ve spent years lugging separate blinds and chairs into the woods, often finding the setup cumbersome and time-consuming. The promise of an all-in-one solution was definitely appealing, especially for those early morning hunts when every minute counts. My hope was to find a lightweight, easily deployable blind that wouldn’t sacrifice comfort or concealment.
Unboxing the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds, my initial impression was positive. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo pattern looked effective, and the carrying case seemed durable. The overall weight felt manageable, though noticeably heavier than just a standard pop-up blind.
I’ve previously used the Primos Double Bull Blind and the Barronett Big Cat 350, both excellent blinds but lacking integrated seating. I chose the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds hoping the integrated chair would offset the need for additional gear and provide a more streamlined hunting experience. The price point, at $169.99, seemed reasonable considering the potential benefits.
Initially, I was excited about the concept but slightly concerned about the practicality of combining a blind and chair. Would it be comfortable enough for long sits? Would the blind material be durable enough to withstand the elements? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds was during a turkey hunt in the early spring. I set it up near a known strutting zone in a hardwood bottom, hoping to blend seamlessly into the environment. The setup was surprisingly quick and easy, thanks to the pop-up design.
The conditions were damp and chilly, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds provided adequate shelter from the elements, although I could feel some moisture seeping through the seams after a few hours. The integrated chair was relatively comfortable, offering good back support for extended periods.
The initial setup was fast and the viewing area felt sufficient, but I noticed a slight obstruction when drawing my bow, requiring some adjustments. Also, packing it back down into the carry bag took a bit of practice and patience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during turkey and deer season, the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds has held up reasonably well. There are a few minor signs of wear and tear, particularly around the stake loops and zipper pulls. The 300 Durashell Plus fabric seems durable enough to withstand light abrasion, but I wouldn’t recommend subjecting it to heavy brush or sharp objects.
Maintenance is relatively simple; I usually wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and debris. I also apply a waterproofing spray periodically to maintain its water resistance. Compared to my older blinds, the integrated chair of the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds is a definite plus for comfort, but the fabric feels slightly less robust.
Breaking Down the Features of Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds
Specifications
The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds features a two-person capacity with dimensions of 61 inches in width, 52 inches in depth, and 60 inches in height. It utilizes 300 Durashell Plus fabric for its outer shell, providing a balance of lightweight and durability. The blind is finished in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo, designed for effective concealment in a variety of environments.
Weighing in at 17 pounds, it’s relatively portable, and the packed size is 15 x 5 x 45 inches. It includes tent stakes for secure anchoring and a carrying case with a shoulder strap for easy transport. These specs are important as they dictate the portability, concealability, and overall comfort offered by the blind.
Performance & Functionality
The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds performs its primary function of concealment reasonably well. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo blends effectively into wooded environments, and the ShadowGuard coating helps to minimize shadows and silhouettes. The integrated chair provides a comfortable and stable shooting platform, though the shooting windows could be slightly larger for optimal bowhunting.
The main strength is its ease of setup and the convenience of having an integrated chair. A weakness is the limited window placement which made it more suitable for rifle hunting than bow hunting. Overall, it meets expectations for a mid-range ground blind with added comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The 300 Durashell Plus fabric feels relatively durable, and the frame is sturdy enough to withstand moderate winds. The integrated chair is adequately comfortable, although it could benefit from additional padding.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple pop-up mechanism that allows for quick and easy setup. However, the blind can be a bit challenging to fold back down and fit into the carrying case. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the folding technique.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds should last for several seasons of hunting. The 300 Durashell Plus fabric is reasonably resistant to abrasion and tearing, but it’s important to avoid exposing it to sharp objects. Regular cleaning and waterproofing treatments will help to extend its lifespan.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and apply a waterproofing spray as needed. Repairs can be made with a patch kit if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds comes with tent stakes and a carrying case with a shoulder strap. There are no significant customization options available, but users can add aftermarket accessories such as shooting rests or storage pouches. The blind is compatible with most universal ground blind accessories.
Pros and Cons of Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds
Pros
- Quick and easy setup makes it ideal for mobile hunting.
- Integrated chair provides a comfortable and stable shooting platform.
- Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo offers effective concealment.
- Lightweight and portable design allows for easy transport.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of hunters.
Cons
- Window placement less than ideal for bow hunting.
- Folding and packing can be challenging.
Who Should Buy Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds?
The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds is perfect for rifle hunters, casual deer and turkey hunters, and those who value comfort and convenience. It’s also a good option for hunters who prefer mobile hunting and want a lightweight, easy-to-setup blind. It is perfect for hunters who need a blend of comfort and concealment in one portable package.
Bow hunters might want to consider other options with larger, more strategically placed windows. Those who require a highly durable blind for extreme conditions should also look elsewhere. Must-have accessories include a comfortable seat cushion for added comfort and a reliable set of tent stakes for secure anchoring in windy conditions.
Conclusion on Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds
The Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds offers a compelling combination of comfort, concealment, and convenience at an affordable price. The integrated chair and easy setup make it a great option for hunters who value mobility and comfort. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as window placement and packing difficulty, its overall performance and value proposition are strong.
The price of $169.99 is justified by the convenience and functionality it offers, making it a worthwhile investment for many hunters. I would personally recommend it to rifle hunters and those seeking a comfortable, easy-to-use ground blind. If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable hunting blind, the Ameristep Deluxe Tent Chair Blinds is definitely worth considering.