First Impressions of Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless trail cameras come and go. I was intrigued when I heard about the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera, a mid-sized offering from Covert Scouting Cameras promising rapid trigger speeds, cellular connectivity, and high-resolution image and video capture at a surprisingly affordable price point. Could this budget-friendly camera truly deliver the performance and reliability needed for serious scouting?
I needed a reliable camera to monitor a remote section of my hunting property known for nocturnal activity. Security concerns were also a factor, prompting my search for a discreet, cellular-enabled camera. The cellular capability and rapid trigger speed advertised for the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera seemed to directly address these concerns.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was of a compact and well-built unit. The dark brown housing blended nicely with the surrounding environment. The Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera felt substantial without being overly bulky, a crucial factor for concealing it effectively.
Compared to my older Browning trail camera and a friend’s Moultrie unit, the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera felt more streamlined and less plasticky. While the other cameras felt slightly more robust, the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera‘s smaller size and integrated cellular functionality were strong selling points. I chose this camera over others because of its combination of price, cellular capabilities, and compact design.
My initial excitement was tempered with a dose of skepticism. The price seemed almost too good to be true. I was eager to get it into the field and see if the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera to the Test
First Use Experience
I deployed the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera in a dense wooded area bordering a known deer trail on my property. The area is characterized by variable light conditions and frequent rain. Setup was straightforward using the QR code and mobile app, a welcome change from some of the more cumbersome camera setups I’ve dealt with.
The camera performed admirably, triggering quickly (.3 seconds) and capturing clear images even in low light conditions. I did notice that in heavy rain, the lens would occasionally become obscured, resulting in some blurry images. However, the rapid trigger speed ensured that I still captured the subject in most cases. The settings screen, at 1.5″, was sufficient for making adjustments in the field, though a larger screen would have been appreciated.
There were no major issues during the first few weeks of use. The cellular transmission worked flawlessly, sending preview images directly to my phone. I was pleasantly surprised by the image quality for a camera in this price range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera has proven to be a reliable scouting tool. The dark brown color has held up nicely. The camera has survived several heavy rainstorms and temperature fluctuations without any noticeable degradation in performance.
There are some minor signs of wear and tear on the housing, mainly superficial scratches from branches. However, the camera’s internal components seem unaffected. The battery life, while not exceptional, is reasonable considering the cellular transmission. I’ve found that using rechargeable AA batteries is a cost-effective solution. Cleaning the lens regularly is crucial to maintaining image quality, especially in dusty or wet environments.
Compared to my previous non-cellular trail camera, the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera offers a significant advantage in terms of remote monitoring. The ability to receive images directly on my phone allows me to quickly assess activity without having to physically visit the camera location. It definitely outperforms my older camera in terms of convenience and real-time information.
Breaking Down the Features of Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera
Specifications
- Resolution: 20 MP allows for capturing detailed images that can be zoomed in on for closer inspection. This is especially useful for identifying specific animals or observing small details in their behavior.
- Trigger Speed: The .3 second trigger speed is crucial for capturing fast-moving animals before they leave the frame. This minimizes missed opportunities and ensures more centered subjects.
- Flash Type: The No Glow Flash ensures the camera remains undetectable to animals and potential intruders. It provides illumination without alerting the subject, preserving their natural behavior.
- Flash Range: A 100-foot flash range provides ample illumination for nighttime images and videos. This ensures that subjects are clearly visible even at a distance.
- Detection Range: An 80-foot detection range allows the camera to trigger on subjects from a distance, maximizing coverage area. This increases the likelihood of capturing images of elusive animals.
- Cellular Connectivity: 4G LTE provides fast and reliable cellular transmission of images to the Covert Web Portal and mobile app. This enables remote monitoring and reduces the need for frequent site visits.
- Image Capture: The Maximum Silence image capture eliminates noise during image capture. It prevents spooking animals or alerting potential intruders.
- SD Card Support: Up to 32GB SD card support allows for storing a large number of high-resolution images and videos. This reduces the frequency of SD card replacements.
- Video Resolution: The 1080p video recording capability allows you to capture high-definition video footage of wildlife activity. This provides richer insights than still images alone.
- Battery Type/Quantity: The use of 12 AA batteries provides ample power for extended operation in the field. This minimizes the need for frequent battery replacements.
- Warranty: A 2-year warranty provides peace of mind and protection against defects. This demonstrates the Manufacturer, Covert Scouting Cameras confidence in the product’s reliability.
- Dimensions: The camera’s height is 3 in, the width is 5.5 in and the length is 4.5 in. These relatively small dimensions allow it to be concealed effectively in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera performs its core function of capturing and transmitting images effectively. The image quality is surprisingly good for a camera in this price range, and the trigger speed is consistently fast.
However, the battery life could be improved, especially when cellular transmission is enabled. Overall, the camera meets my expectations for a budget-friendly cellular trail camera.
Design & Ergonomics
The Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera features a compact and functional design. The dark brown housing blends well with natural environments.
The user interface is relatively straightforward, although the small screen can be a bit challenging to navigate in bright sunlight. The QR code setup is a welcome addition.
Durability & Maintenance
The camera’s housing appears to be reasonably durable, although it is not completely waterproof. Regular cleaning of the lens and periodic battery replacement are the main maintenance requirements.
With proper care, the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera should last for several years of reliable service. The 2 Year warranty certainly contributes to feeling comfortable with the longevity of this purchase.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera comes with a standard mounting strap. External power sources can be connected to extend battery life.
While there are limited customization options specific to this model, it is compatible with standard SD cards and external battery packs. Aftermarket security boxes are also available to protect the camera from theft or damage.
Pros and Cons of Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera
Pros
- .3 second Trigger Speed: Fast trigger speed ensures minimal missed opportunities, capturing even quick-moving subjects effectively.
- Affordable Cellular: Provides cellular connectivity at a budget-friendly price point, enabling remote monitoring without breaking the bank.
- No Glow Flash: No Glow Flash ensures the camera remains undetectable, ideal for sensitive wildlife or security applications.
- Compact Design: Compact size allows for easy concealment and deployment in various environments.
- Easy Setup: QR Code Set-up simplifies the initial setup process.
Cons
- Battery Life: Battery life can be short, especially with frequent cellular transmissions.
- Small Screen: The 1.5″ screen is small and can be difficult to read in bright sunlight.
Who Should Buy Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera?
- Perfect for: Hunters seeking to monitor game activity remotely, landowners needing basic security surveillance, and nature enthusiasts wanting to capture wildlife photos and videos without frequent site visits. The Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera is also great for remote properties, where it’s impractical to visit the camera frequently.
- Who should skip this product? Those requiring professional-grade image quality, extreme durability in harsh environments, or extended battery life without external power. If you need a camera to withstand extreme weather condistions this may not be for you.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? High-capacity SD card, rechargeable AA batteries, and a security box for theft prevention.
Conclusion on Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera
The Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera offers a compelling combination of features and affordability. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a basic cellular trail camera without breaking the bank.
The price is certainly justified by the camera’s performance and functionality. It provides good image quality, fast trigger speeds, and reliable cellular transmission at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.
I would personally recommend the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera to anyone looking for an entry-level cellular trail camera. It’s a great value for the money and a useful tool for remote scouting and surveillance. Take control of your scouting, buy the Covert Scouting Cameras WC20 Covert Camera today!