HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT Review

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT Made a Bold First Impression

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT promised to be the answer to my trail camera woes. I was tired of flimsy, easily-moved mounts that resulted in blurry, off-center images or, worse, cameras pointed directly at the ground. The HME name carries a certain weight in the hunting community, so I was hoping for something reliable.

For years, I’ve struggled to find the perfect mounting solution. Trees aren’t always in the right spot, and securing cameras to branches often leads to swaying footage. Other ground mounts I’ve tried were easily knocked over by wind or curious critters.

Unboxing the HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT, my initial reaction was positive. It felt sturdier than other ground mounts I’d used, and the metal construction seemed promising. It definitely felt more robust than the plastic stakes I’d been relying on.

I’d considered a competing mount from Stealth Cam and another from Moultrie, both offering similar ground-based solutions. However, the HME mount seemed to offer a more secure and adjustable design at a comparable price. The others felt a bit too flimsy for my liking.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It certainly looked the part of a reliable trail camera mount, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. I hoped it would finally provide the stability and adjustability I needed to capture the best possible images.

Real-World Testing: Putting HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT in a wooded area behind my property, a known deer crossing. The ground was relatively soft, which made driving the stake into the earth fairly easy. I wanted to see how it would hold up against typical woodland conditions.

The first few days were relatively calm, weather-wise. The mount held steady, and the camera captured some decent footage of deer passing through. However, a few days later, we had a fairly strong windstorm roll through.

To my dismay, I found the camera knocked slightly off-kilter after the storm. While the mount itself hadn’t fallen over, the camera’s position had shifted. This suggested that while the mount was stable, the camera attachment point might need some improvement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use in varying conditions, the HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT has proven to be mostly reliable. It holds its position better than previous ground mounts I’ve used. However, it’s not impervious to strong winds or determined wildlife.

I’ve noticed some minor surface rust developing on the metal stake. While this isn’t a major concern yet, it does raise questions about long-term durability. I’ve started applying a light coat of oil to prevent further corrosion.

Maintenance has been simple – mostly just wiping down the mount to remove dirt and mud. However, the need to periodically check and adjust the camera’s position after inclement weather is a bit of a drawback. Ultimately, it’s an improvement over my previous experiences, but it’s not without its flaws.

Breaking Down the Features of HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT

Specifications

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT is designed to securely hold a trail camera at ground level. It features a sturdy metal stake that drives into the ground for stability. This is a welcome departure from flimsier plastic alternatives.

The mount includes a standard 1/4″-20 threaded bolt compatible with most trail cameras. It also allows for some degree of camera angle adjustment. The price is listed at $18.49.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the mount’s stability and compatibility. A solid stake ensures the camera stays put. The standard thread guarantees it will work with nearly any camera.

Performance & Functionality

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT performs its primary function reasonably well. It holds the camera in place and allows for ground-level shots. The adjustable head is helpful for fine-tuning the camera’s angle.

However, the adjustment mechanism could be more robust. It sometimes slips, especially when the camera is subjected to wind or movement. A locking mechanism would greatly improve this.

While it generally meets expectations for a budget-friendly ground mount, it’s not a perfect solution. The stability and adjustability could be improved. It will require occasional adjustment, especially after bad weather.

Design & Ergonomics

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT features a simple, functional design. It is made from powder-coated metal, providing reasonable durability. The weight is manageable, making it easy to carry in a hunting pack.

The installation process is straightforward: simply drive the stake into the ground and attach the camera. The adjustment mechanism is easy to use, but, as mentioned before, it can be prone to slipping. Overall, the design is practical, but some improvements could enhance its ergonomics.

Durability & Maintenance

The metal construction suggests reasonable durability, but the surface rust I’ve observed is a concern. Regular cleaning and oiling are necessary to prevent corrosion. The mount should last for several seasons with proper care.

Maintenance is relatively simple – just wipe it down and apply some oil occasionally. However, the need for rust prevention adds an extra step to the upkeep routine. Regular checks are also needed to ensure the camera is still aligned correctly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the mount itself. The 1/4″-20 threaded bolt means it’s compatible with many third-party accessories. You could use different camera mounting brackets for enhanced adjustability.

Aftermarket security boxes designed for trail cameras can also be attached to the mount. These provide additional protection against theft and damage. While the HME mount is fairly basic, its compatibility with standard accessories allows for some degree of customization.

Pros and Cons of HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT

Who Should Buy HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT?

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT is perfect for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts who want a simple, affordable ground-level mounting solution. It’s also suitable for those who need to deploy trail cameras in areas where trees are scarce or unsuitable for mounting. This mount is best suited for those who don’t mind making occasional adjustments.

Hunters who require absolute stability or plan to deploy cameras in extremely harsh environments should skip this product. They should instead invest in a more robust, weather-resistant mounting system. Likewise, anyone who needs a mount that requires zero maintenance should also look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory would be a small bottle of gun oil for rust prevention. Also, consider a more robust camera mounting bracket to enhance stability and prevent slippage. Finally, a small level can help ensure the camera is perfectly aligned.

Conclusion on HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT

The HME TRAIL CAMERA HOLDER GRND MOUNT offers a decent value proposition for its price. It provides a stable, ground-level mounting option for trail cameras. It’s a step up from cheaper plastic stakes, but it’s not without its limitations.

For $18.49, it’s a reasonably good investment for casual users who need a basic ground mount. However, its susceptibility to rust and its occasionally slipping adjustment mechanism prevent it from being a top-tier product.

I would recommend it to hunters on a budget who understand its limitations. However, I would also advise them to consider investing in a rust-preventative and a more robust camera bracket. Overall, it’s a functional product that gets the job done, but with a few caveats. If you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful mount, this could be for you!