Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed Review

The Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed Made a Bold First Impression

Trail cameras have become indispensable tools for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and even those simply curious about what transpires in their backyard after dark. I’ve relied on them for years to scout locations, monitor game patterns, and even catch the occasional mischievous critter raiding my bird feeders. So, when the opportunity arose to test the Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed, I jumped at the chance. Its blend of affordability and features like an 18MP camera and a low-glow IR flash promised to be a solid performer.

I needed a reliable camera for a new hunting spot I was scouting, one that wouldn’t break the bank but still delivered decent image quality. The Bushnell name carries weight, and the promise of easy concealment due to its slim design intrigued me. I’ve used Bushnell binoculars for years, and their ruggedness has always impressed me.

Unboxing the SpotOn revealed a compact unit, clad in a realistic tree bark camouflage. The initial feel was solid, though the plastic casing felt lighter than some of my more premium cameras. The build quality seemed adequate for the price point, with no obvious gaps or flimsy components.

Compared to my older Moultrie A-30i and a Browning Recon Force Elite HP5, the Bushnell SpotOn felt noticeably smaller and lighter. I ultimately chose the SpotOn for its combination of decent resolution, low-glow IR, and a price that wouldn’t make me wince if it happened to grow legs in the woods. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of cautious optimism. It looked good on paper, but the real test would be in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed to the Test

First Use Experience

I deployed the Bushnell SpotOn on a heavily trafficked deer trail near a creek bed on my property. This area provides a consistent stream of wildlife activity, making it an ideal testing ground. I wanted to see how it performed in capturing images of deer, turkey, and other animals in their natural habitat. The conditions were fairly typical for late summer, with warm days, cool nights, and occasional rain showers.

The camera performed admirably in these varied conditions, capturing crisp daytime images and reasonably clear nighttime photos. The ease of use was a definite plus; I was able to set it up and configure the settings in just a few minutes, thanks to the straightforward menu system. The 0.7 second trigger speed seemed accurate, as it managed to capture animals moving at a moderate pace.

However, I did encounter a minor issue on the first night. The camera seemed overly sensitive to movement caused by swaying branches, resulting in a few dozen blank photos. I quickly adjusted the PIR sensitivity to low, which resolved the problem.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous operation, the Bushnell SpotOn has proven to be a reliable performer. The camera has held up well against the elements, with no signs of water damage or fogging. The camouflage pattern has effectively concealed the camera from prying eyes, as evidenced by the lack of human interference.

The camera’s battery life, powered by 8 AA batteries (included), has been surprisingly good. After three weeks of continuous use, the batteries are still showing a healthy charge level. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

Compared to my previous experiences with other trail cameras, the SpotOn strikes a good balance between performance and affordability. It doesn’t offer all the bells and whistles of my more expensive Browning, but it delivers reliable results at a fraction of the cost. The image quality, while not exceptional, is certainly adequate for scouting purposes.

Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed

Specifications

• 18 MP Images: This provides a good level of detail for identifying animals and observing their behavior. It allows for cropping and zooming without significant loss of image quality.
• 720P HD Video: While not the highest resolution available, 720p HD is sufficient for capturing clear video footage of wildlife. It is an acceptable feature for basic monitoring.
• 0.7 Second Trigger Speed: This is crucial for capturing animals that move quickly through the camera’s field of view. A faster trigger speed ensures less missed opportunities.
• PIR Motion Sensor with 60′ Range: This determines how far away the camera can detect motion and trigger image capture. A 60-foot range is adequate for most woodland settings.
• 50′ Low Glow IR Illumination: This provides nighttime illumination for capturing images without spooking animals with a bright flash. The “low glow” aspect aims to minimize disturbance.
• 8 AA Batteries (included): This is a standard power source for trail cameras, offering a decent balance of cost and battery life. Battery life can vary depending on settings and usage.
• 1/4-20 Socket FDR Use with Deluxe Tree Bracket: This allows for easy mounting on trees or other surfaces using standard tripod mounts. The compatibility increases mounting options.
• Master Lock Python Compatible: This provides a security measure to prevent theft of the camera. Using a Python lock adds an extra layer of protection.
• Weatherproof and Rugged: This ensures the camera can withstand various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Weatherproofing is crucial for outdoor use.
• SD Card Slot up to 32GB (card not included): This provides ample storage for images and videos captured by the camera. Ensure to purchase an SD card separately for use.

Performance & Functionality

The Bushnell SpotOn performs its primary function – capturing images of wildlife – reliably and effectively. The 18MP image quality provides sufficient detail for identifying animals and observing their behavior. The trigger speed is generally fast enough to capture animals moving at a moderate pace, although occasionally, I did miss a few shots of particularly speedy critters.

The camera’s strengths lie in its ease of use, reliable performance, and affordable price. Its main weakness is the slightly lower image quality compared to more expensive models. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly trail camera.

Design & Ergonomics

The SpotOn features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to deploy and conceal. The tree bark camouflage blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The camera feels reasonably durable, although the plastic casing doesn’t inspire the same level of confidence as some of my more rugged cameras.

The menu system is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for beginners. There’s minimal learning curve involved in setting up and configuring the camera.

Durability & Maintenance

The camera’s weatherproof and rugged construction should provide reasonable longevity, provided it’s not subjected to excessive abuse. Maintaining the camera is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Regular battery replacements and SD card management are also essential.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bushnell SpotOn comes with basic mounting straps, but the 1/4-20 socket allows for use with a wide range of aftermarket mounts and brackets. The camera is also compatible with Master Lock Python cables for added security. While there are no specific “customization” options, the ability to use third-party mounts and security cables provides a degree of personalization.

Pros and Cons of Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed

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Who Should Buy Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed?

The Bushnell SpotOn is perfect for hunters on a budget, wildlife enthusiasts seeking a reliable entry-level camera, or anyone needing basic security monitoring of their property. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize affordability and ease of use over top-of-the-line image quality and advanced features.

Those seeking professional-grade image quality or advanced features like cellular connectivity should skip this product and consider a higher-end model. A must-have accessory is a high-quality SD card.

Conclusion on Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed

The Bushnell SpotOn Tree Bark Camo WM Low Glow 18MP Boxed offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a reliable and affordable trail camera. While it may not boast the cutting-edge features or exceptional image quality of premium models, it delivers dependable performance and ease of use at a price that won’t break the bank.

The price is absolutely justified. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a solid entry-level trail camera. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly trail camera that gets the job done without fuss, give the Bushnell SpotOn a try. You might be pleasantly surprised.

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