Ameristep Doghouse Blind Review

Let’s Dive into Ameristep Doghouse Blind

The Ameristep Doghouse Blind promises to be a hunter’s best friend, a portable and easily deployable hide perfect for firearm hunting with a buddy. Designed by Ameristep, a company known for its innovative hunting blinds, this blind boasts a quick setup, ample space for two, and features designed to minimize visibility to game. Having spent countless hours in blinds, battling wind, rain, and the ever-watchful eyes of wary deer, I was eager to see if the Doghouse Blind could live up to its promises and provide a comfortable and effective hunting experience.

I was looking for a blind that was lightweight enough to carry into the field, spacious enough for two hunters, and provided excellent concealment. My old blind was heavy, bulky, and the zippers were constantly snagging. I needed an upgrade.

The Ameristep Doghouse Blind arrived neatly packed. My initial impressions were positive: the Durashell Plus fabric felt durable, and the spring steel frame seemed robust, yet surprisingly lightweight. Comparing it to my old, cumbersome blind and a friend’s heavier, more permanent-style blind, the Doghouse Blind struck a sweet spot in terms of portability and size. Honestly, I was excited; the weight felt right and the material had a good feel.

I was initially surprised by how compact the packed size was; it seemed too small to comfortably fit two hunters. But I was definitely excited to take it into the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ameristep Doghouse Blind to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Ameristep Doghouse Blind was during the early archery season on a friend’s heavily wooded property. I set it up near a known deer crossing, hoping to get an advantage against a wise old buck. Setting up the blind was incredibly easy; the spring steel frame popped into shape almost instantly, and I was able to stake it down securely in just a few minutes.

Despite a light drizzle, the Durashell Plus fabric kept us dry inside. I noticed the large window openings were perfectly positioned for firearm hunting, offering a wide field of view. Although it was designed for firearm hunting, it worked well enough for archery.

After a few hours, I realized the interior space, while adequate for two, was a bit tight when both hunters were wearing bulky winter gear. Also, I had issues with the zippers on the window covers; they snagged a bit, particularly when trying to close them quietly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use throughout the fall hunting season, the Ameristep Doghouse Blind held up remarkably well. The Durashell Plus fabric showed no signs of tearing or fading. The blind weathered several rainstorms and gusty winds without any issues.

I noticed a few small spots of rust forming on the spring steel frame near the ground stakes. Routine cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional spraying with a silicone-based protectant kept the fabric looking fresh. It’s definitely outperformed my old blind in terms of portability and ease of setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Ameristep Doghouse Blind

Specifications

• The Ameristep Doghouse Blind stands tall at 78 inches, providing ample headroom for most hunters. This is important for staying comfortable during long sits.
• The 60″ x 60″ platform dimensions offer enough space for two hunters, although it can feel a bit cramped with bulky gear. Consider the size of your hunting partner when deciding if this blind is right for you.
• The blind packs down to a manageable 2″ x 27″, making it easy to transport in a vehicle or carry into the field. This is a huge advantage compared to larger, more cumbersome blinds.
• Featuring four window openings, the Doghouse Blind offers versatile shooting options from various angles. The window placements are ideal for firearm hunting.
• The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camouflage pattern blends seamlessly with a variety of natural environments. This camouflage is effective in both wooded and open areas.
• The zipper window system allows for easy and quiet adjustment of window openings. Although, as mentioned earlier, the zippers can be a bit sticky.
• The blind includes a carrying case, tent stakes, and tie-down rope, providing everything needed for secure setup. Having these included is a nice touch.
• The Durashell Plus fabric provides a durable and weather-resistant exterior. This fabric is designed to withstand the rigors of hunting.
• The ShadowGuard coating on the interior eliminates shadows and silhouettes, further concealing hunters from game. This is a crucial feature for remaining undetected.

Performance & Functionality

The Ameristep Doghouse Blind performs its primary function – concealing hunters – exceptionally well. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camouflage effectively breaks up the blind’s outline, making it nearly invisible against the natural backdrop. The ShadowGuard coating is definitely helpful!

The large window openings offer a wide field of view, making it easy to spot approaching game. The zipper system on the windows could use improvement; quieter, smoother zippers would be a welcome upgrade. Overall, it exceeded my expectations for concealment, especially given the price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Doghouse Blind’s build quality is surprisingly good for its price range. The Durashell Plus fabric feels durable and the spring steel frame is sturdy.

The blind is generally user-friendly, with a very short learning curve. Setting it up and taking it down is a breeze.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Ameristep Doghouse Blind should last for several hunting seasons. Regularly cleaning the fabric and protecting the frame from rust will extend its lifespan.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the zippers. I anticipate getting at least 5 seasons out of this blind.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ameristep Doghouse Blind comes with basic accessories like a carrying case, stakes, and tie-down ropes. There aren’t many customization options specifically for this blind.

Aftermarket blind chairs and shooting sticks are compatible with the Doghouse Blind. You can also purchase replacement stakes and tie-down ropes from most outdoor retailers.

Pros and Cons of Ameristep Doghouse Blind

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Who Should Buy Ameristep Doghouse Blind?

The Ameristep Doghouse Blind is perfect for firearm hunters seeking a portable, easy-to-setup blind for hunting with a partner. It’s also well-suited for hunters on a budget who don’t want to compromise on concealment and durability.

This blind might not be the best choice for archery hunters due to the window configuration and limited vertical shooting space. Also, hunters who require a lot of interior space or prefer a more permanent blind setup should consider other options. Must-have accessories include comfortable blind chairs and possibly a small propane heater for cold weather hunts.

Conclusion on Ameristep Doghouse Blind

The Ameristep Doghouse Blind is an excellent value for the money. It provides effective concealment, easy setup, and decent durability at a competitive price.

The price is absolutely justified, given its performance and features. I would definitely recommend the Ameristep Doghouse Blind to any hunter looking for a portable and affordable blind for firearm hunting.

Get yours today and experience the difference a good blind can make!