Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S Review

The Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S Made a Bold First Impression

The Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S ground blind promises lightweight portability and easy setup for hunters on the move. From Hunters Specialties, a well-known name in hunting accessories, this blind boasts a durable spun-bonded polyester construction with dimensional cuts intended to enhance its camouflage effectiveness. At a price point of just under $20, it certainly piqued my interest as a potential grab-and-go solution for quick scouting trips and impromptu hunts.

I’d been looking for a lightweight option to supplement my larger, more permanent blinds. Dragging those behemoths around for scouting or short hunts was becoming tiresome, and I needed something I could easily toss in my pack. The claim of being “super light” and “collapsible” sealed the deal, as convenience is key when covering ground quickly.

Upon receiving the Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S, my first impression was mixed. The material felt surprisingly robust for the price, though definitely on the thinner side. Compared to heavier, more elaborate blinds like the Primos Double Bull or Ameristep Doghouse (which offer superior concealment but significantly less portability), the Hunters Specialties blind felt almost flimsy at first glance. The deciding factor was the promise of easy setup versus the substantial investment in cost and effort required by its competitors. There was a hint of excitement, coupled with a healthy dose of skepticism, about whether this budget-friendly option could actually deliver.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S was on a scouting trip for deer in early archery season. I set it up in a wooded area bordering a field, hoping to observe deer movement patterns. The weather was dry but slightly windy.

The setup, while not instant, was relatively quick. The five-pointed fiberglass poles felt a bit thin but managed to hold the blind’s shape. The wind did cause some flapping of the material, which was a bit concerning from a noise perspective. After spending a few hours inside, I noticed the dimensional cuts, designed to enhance camo, were not quite as effective as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intermittent use, the Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S has held up reasonably well, considering its budget-friendly price. The spun-bonded polyester shows minimal signs of wear and tear, though I’m careful when packing it away to avoid snags. Cleaning is simple—a quick wipe down with a damp cloth does the trick.

Compared to my experience with other blinds (more expensive pop-up models), the Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S doesn’t offer the same level of concealment or weather protection. However, it wins hands down in portability and speed of deployment. Its reliability is adequate for quick hunts in favorable weather conditions, but it’s not a blind I’d trust for extended stays in harsh environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S

Specifications

• Material: Durable spun-bonded polyester with dimensional cuts for camouflage. This offers a balance between weight and durability.
• Poles: Five-pointed fiberglass poles. These provide the structure for the blind.
• Weight: Super lightweight. A key selling point for portability.
• Portability: Collapsible design for easy transport. Designed for hunters on the move.
• Setup: Easy to set up. It allows for rapid deployment in the field.

The light weight and compact size are crucial, as this blind is designed to be carried long distances without adding significant bulk. The choice of spun-bonded polyester, while not as robust as heavier canvas, contributes significantly to the blind’s portability. The five-pointed fiberglass poles are adequate for creating a basic structure, although their durability may be a concern in high winds or rough handling.

Performance & Functionality

The Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S performs its primary job—providing a basic level of concealment—adequately, but not exceptionally. In dense foliage, the dimensional cuts help to break up the blind’s outline, but in open areas, its effectiveness is reduced. The blind’s greatest strength is its ease of use.

A key weakness is its lack of weather resistance; it offers little protection from rain or wind. It meets the basic expectations for a budget-friendly, ultra-portable ground blind, but it doesn’t exceed them in terms of concealment or durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is reasonable for the price. The lightweight materials prioritize portability over robustness. The overall design is simple and functional.

The blind is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Setting it up is straightforward, although securing it in windy conditions can be challenging.

Durability & Maintenance

With careful handling, the Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S should last for several seasons of light use. The spun-bonded polyester is prone to tearing if snagged on sharp objects, so caution is advised.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning off dirt and debris after each use. Repairs, if needed, would likely require patching the material or replacing the fiberglass poles.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S comes with the basic blind structure and fiberglass poles. There are no included accessories or customization options. Due to its simple design, adding accessories like shooting rests or additional camouflage would require DIY modifications.

It is unlikely to be directly compatible with accessories designed for more elaborate ground blinds, given its basic construction.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S

Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S?

Perfect for: Hunters on a tight budget, those needing an ultra-portable option for scouting or quick hunts, and beginners looking for an inexpensive way to try ground blind hunting. It’s also suitable for situations where weight and portability are paramount, such as backpack hunting or remote scouting trips.

Who should skip this product? Hunters seeking maximum concealment, weather protection, or long-term durability should invest in a higher-quality, more robust ground blind. Those hunting in open areas with minimal cover will find the concealment inadequate.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Stakes or tie-downs are essential for securing the blind in windy conditions. Additional camouflage netting can improve concealment in open areas.

Conclusion on Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S

The Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S ground blind is a no-frills, budget-friendly option that prioritizes portability and ease of use. Its low price point makes it an accessible entry point for hunters looking to experiment with ground blind hunting.

The value proposition is reasonable, given its ultra-lightweight design and quick setup. While it lacks the durability and weather resistance of more expensive models, its portability makes it a worthwhile addition to the gear of mobile hunters.

I would recommend the Hunters Specialties HS-100134 H.S to hunters who need an inexpensive, easy-to-carry blind for scouting or quick hunts in favorable weather conditions. It’s not a replacement for a high-end ground blind, but it serves its purpose as a grab-and-go concealment solution. If you’re on a budget and need something you can easily toss in your pack, give it a try.