The Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long Made a Bold First Impression
The world of turkey hunting is a game of inches, and concealment is king. That’s why when I stumbled upon the Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long, I was immediately intrigued by its low profile and promises of superior concealment. Its dimensions hinted at a highly specialized tool, designed for specific scenarios rather than all-purpose use.
My usual haunts are heavily pressured public lands where turkeys are wary and quick to disappear at the slightest hint of danger. I needed something that would virtually disappear into the landscape, something that screamed, “safe space,” to a gobbler strutting his stuff. This blind’s low profile was the initial draw, promising to blend into the often sparse vegetation of early spring.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was its compact size. At 27″ high, it’s significantly shorter than most blinds, which immediately raises questions about comfort but also excites the prospect of enhanced concealability. The Mossy Oak Obsession camouflage pattern looks remarkably effective, a complex mix of branches, leaves, and shadows designed to mimic the turkey’s natural environment. The material feels durable enough, although at this price point, I wasn’t expecting bombproof construction.
Compared to my larger, more traditional pop-up blinds from Primos and Rhino Blinds, the Ameristep Jakehouse feels like a completely different beast. Those offer more room and versatility, but this seems designed for a hyper-specific task. I chose the Ameristep because its diminutive size promised unmatched concealment in areas where larger blinds would stick out like a sore thumb. I was eager to see if this gamble would pay off.
Initially, I was a little hesitant about the low profile. However, the potential for superior concealment outweighed my concerns about headroom. I left the unboxing process feeling cautiously optimistic, eager to get the Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long into the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Ameristep Jakehouse was on a crisp spring morning in a hardwood bottom known for its thick underbrush and scattered turkey activity. I nestled the blind against the base of a fallen oak, utilizing the natural cover to further break up its outline. Setting it up was surprisingly quick, even in the semi-darkness, with the stakes easily anchoring the blind to the ground.
The low profile proved to be a significant advantage. From a distance, the blind virtually disappeared, blending seamlessly into the surrounding vegetation. Inside, the viewing ports, though small, offered adequate visibility without compromising concealment. I did find myself hunching over more than usual, a compromise I was willing to make for the enhanced camouflage.
One minor issue arose after about an hour: condensation started to form on the inside of the blind. This wasn’t unexpected given the cool morning air, but it’s something to consider in humid environments. Otherwise, the first use was a success; I observed several hens feeding within 20 yards, completely oblivious to my presence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Ameristep Jakehouse has held up reasonably well, though its limitations are becoming clearer. The fabric shows no signs of tearing or fading, a testament to its basic durability. However, the stakes are starting to bend from repeated use in rocky soil, a common issue with budget-friendly blinds.
Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and debris. The camouflage pattern continues to impress, consistently providing excellent concealment in a variety of terrains. My previous experiences with larger blinds often resulted in turkeys circling wide or becoming visibly wary; the Ameristep Jakehouse significantly reduced this effect.
Compared to my heavier, more robust blinds, the Ameristep clearly sacrifices comfort and space for portability and concealment. It’s a specialized tool, excelling in situations where minimal visibility is paramount. For run-and-gun turkey hunting or tight spots where a larger blind won’t fit, it’s a definite upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long
Specifications
The Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long is designed for maximum concealment in tight spaces. Its dimensions are the key to its unique purpose.
- Height: 27 inches. This low profile is its defining feature, allowing it to virtually disappear in sparse cover.
- Length: 96 inches. This provides ample horizontal space for one or two hunters to sit comfortably.
- Camouflage: Mossy Oak Obsession. This pattern is specifically designed to mimic the natural environment of wild turkeys.
- Material: Durable fabric construction. Offers basic protection from the elements and resists tearing.
- ZS3 Technology: Claims to enhance concealment. The specifics of this technology aren’t readily apparent, but the camo is effective.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the blind’s effectiveness in the field. The low height and effective camouflage are its primary strengths, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the environment and fool even the wariest of turkeys. The length provides enough room to maneuver, despite the limited height.
Performance & Functionality
The Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long performs admirably in its intended role: providing maximum concealment. Turkeys consistently approached the blind without hesitation, a testament to its effectiveness.
Its greatest strength is its low visibility. However, its primary weakness is its limited headroom; taller hunters may find it uncomfortable for extended periods. It meets expectations for concealment but falls short in terms of overall comfort and space.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price. The materials are lightweight and easy to transport. The low height, while a boon for concealment, inevitably compromises user comfort.
It’s relatively user-friendly. The setup is quick and straightforward. The viewing ports offer decent visibility, though their small size can feel restrictive.
Durability & Maintenance
With reasonable care, the Ameristep Jakehouse should last several seasons. The fabric is reasonably durable. The stakes, however, may need replacement after prolonged use in tough terrain.
Cleaning is easy. A damp cloth is usually sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals, which could damage the camouflage pattern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ameristep Jakehouse comes with basic stakes for securing it to the ground. There are limited customization options due to its minimalist design.
Adding aftermarket seating is a good idea for improved comfort. The blind is compatible with most standard tent stakes for enhanced stability. While it doesn’t explicitly offer compatibility with accessories from other brands, generic tent stakes and seating solutions will generally work.
Pros and Cons of Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long
Pros
- Superior Concealment: The low profile and Mossy Oak Obsession camouflage make it virtually invisible.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry and set up in the field.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for hunters on a budget.
- Effective for Run-and-Gun Hunting: Ideal for quickly setting up in different locations.
- Durable Fabric: Resists tearing and fading with normal use.
Cons
- Limited Headroom: Can be uncomfortable for taller hunters.
- Basic Stakes: May bend or break in rocky soil.
- Limited Space: Not ideal for multiple hunters or extended stays.
Who Should Buy Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters who prioritize concealment over comfort, especially those hunting on pressured public lands. Also ideal for hunters with physical limitations that require a low profile setup, and those who prefer a minimalist, run-and-gun approach.
Who should skip this product? Taller hunters, those who require ample space for multiple hunters or gear, and individuals seeking a luxurious, all-day hunting experience.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A comfortable low-profile seat, upgraded tent stakes, and a small camouflage net to further blend the blind into its surroundings.
Conclusion on Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long
The Ameristep Jakehouse Turkey Blind Mossy Oak Obsession ZS3 27″ High 96″ Long is a specialized tool that excels in its niche. It’s not the most comfortable or spacious blind on the market, but it offers unmatched concealment at an affordable price.
The price is absolutely justified for what it offers. It’s a great value for hunters who understand its limitations and appreciate its strengths.
I would definitely recommend it to turkey hunters seeking a low-profile, highly concealable blind for pressured areas. If you’re willing to sacrifice some comfort for superior camouflage, the Ameristep Jakehouse is a worthy addition to your hunting arsenal. Get yours today and disappear into the woods!