Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long Review

The Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long Made a Bold First Impression

The Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long promises a lightweight, portable, and easily deployable solution for hunters who prioritize mobility and concealment. As someone who’s spent countless hours lugging cumbersome blinds into the field, the “Run & Gun” aspect immediately piqued my interest.

My need for a blind stemmed from frustrating experiences spooking deer while trying to set up traditional ground blinds. The ideal solution needed to be quick to deploy, easy to carry, and offer adequate concealment without feeling claustrophobic. I had been using natural blinds, but weather and lack of suitable natural cover in many areas of the properties that I hunt made that unreliable.

The Ameristep blind arrived neatly packaged. My initial impression was positive, as the Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo pattern looked vibrant and effective. The material felt robust, promising decent weather resistance despite its lightweight design.

Compared to other pop-up blinds I’ve used, like the Primos Double Bull SurroundView or the Barronett Big Cat 350, the Ameristep Doghouse seemed noticeably smaller and lighter. The Primos offers superior visibility, while the Barronett boasts a larger footprint. However, they both sacrifice portability.

I was excited about the potential for swift setups and teardowns, and the promise of effortless transport. This would allow me to adapt to changing deer movement patterns without the hassle of a time-consuming blind relocation. I was cautiously optimistic, eager to test its performance in real hunting scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Ameristep Doghouse was during an early-season bow hunt for whitetail deer in central Texas. The area consisted of mixed hardwoods and open fields. I deployed the blind in a brushy edge of a field, intending to intercept deer moving from bedding areas to feeding grounds.

The setup was remarkably easy; the spring steel design practically springs into shape. It took mere seconds to pop open the blind and secure it with the included stakes. The wind was calm, but the temperature was already in the mid-80s, creating a sweaty setup.

The compact size was both a blessing and a curse. It was easy to conceal within the natural surroundings, but the limited interior space felt a bit cramped. After adjusting, I managed to get comfortable with my bow. I appreciated the zippered windows, allowing for customized shooting lanes. No deer were harvested that day, but the Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long provided excellent concealment and didn’t spook any deer.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during both archery and rifle seasons, the Ameristep Doghouse has proven to be a reliable, though not perfect, companion. There’s been no significant wear and tear. The 300 Durashell Plus fabric has held up well against branches and thorns.

Cleaning is straightforward; mud and dirt brush off easily. I’ve stored it in a dry bag to prevent mildew from developing. The biggest challenge has been folding it back into its original shape. It takes practice and a bit of patience to get it right.

Compared to a heavier, more permanent blind I used previously, the Ameristep Doghouse excels in its portability and speed of setup. However, it definitely lacks the spaciousness and comfort of a larger blind. The Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long has proven to be a valuable tool for specific hunting situations where mobility and concealment are paramount.

Breaking Down the Features of Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long

Specifications

The Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long boasts several key specifications that contribute to its “Run & Gun” designation:

• Dimensions: 60″ High x 60″ Long. The 60-inch height is adequate for sitting, but standing inside is impossible.
• Material: 300 Durashell Plus Fabric. This fabric is designed to be durable, weather-resistant, and quiet.
• Camo Pattern: Mossy Oak Break-Up Country. This popular camo pattern is effective in a wide range of environments.
• Frame: Spring Steel. This construction allows for quick setup and takedown.
• Windows: Zippered windows for customized shooting lanes.
• Weight: Lightweight and portable, though the exact weight is not specified. Expect roughly 10-12 lbs.
• These specifications are crucial for understanding the blind’s intended use and limitations. The compact size and lightweight materials are ideal for mobile hunters.

Performance & Functionality

The Ameristep Doghouse performs its primary job of concealment admirably. The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo blends well with various natural environments. Its functionality hinges on its ease of setup and portability. Both are strengths.

However, the compact size is a compromise. It’s not ideal for multiple hunters or those who prefer more space. The zippered windows offer customizable shooting lanes. The quality of the zippers could be better, as they sometimes snag. Overall, it meets expectations for a lightweight, portable blind.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for a blind in this price range. The 300 Durashell Plus fabric feels relatively durable and quiet. The spring steel frame, while convenient, can be a bit unwieldy when folding.

The design is functional, prioritizing portability over spaciousness. The low profile minimizes its visual impact in the field. The interior space is somewhat cramped, especially for larger individuals. This is something potential buyers should seriously consider.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ameristep Doghouse is reasonably durable for its weight and price. I expect it to last several seasons with proper care. Storing it dry is crucial.

Minor tears can be easily repaired with a patch kit. The spring steel frame should retain its shape unless subjected to extreme stress. Overall, maintenance is minimal.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long comes with basic stakes for securing it to the ground. There are no specific customization options offered by Ameristep.

However, aftermarket options like scent control sprays, aftermarket stakes, or improved seating can enhance the experience. It does not appear to be readily adaptable with shooting sticks, as the windows sit fairly low to the ground.

Pros and Cons of Ameristep Doghouse Run & Gun Spring Steel Blind Mossy Oak Break-Up Country 300 Durashell Plus 60″ High 60″ Long