First Thoughts on the Moultrie Feed Screen
The Moultrie Feed Screen, manufactured by Moultrie, is a seemingly simple yet crucial component for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your deer feeders. It’s a small investment, priced at $14.49, promising to prevent clogs and ensure consistent feed distribution. Is it just a cheap piece of plastic, or a truly valuable addition to my feeding system?
For years, I’ve relied on various feeder setups to attract wildlife, primarily deer, to my hunting grounds. I’ve dealt with everything from corn jamming to foreign objects disrupting the flow, costing me time, money, and even missed opportunities. After a particularly frustrating season battling a clogged feeder that attracted more squirrels than deer, I decided to give the Moultrie Feed Screen a try.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately underwhelmed by its simplicity. It’s a molded plastic screen; there’s not much else to it. Comparing it to DIY solutions I’ve considered (chicken wire, metal mesh), it seemed less robust, but perhaps the precisely engineered design would prove superior. It promised to be better than a complete feeder breakdown during prime hunting time.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. It didn’t scream high-quality, but for the price, if it solves the clogging issue, it’s worth its weight in gold. I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to the promise of hassle-free feeding.
Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie Feed Screen to the Test
First Use Experience
The first test came during a weekend scouting trip before deer season. I installed the Moultrie Feed Screen in my Moultrie feeder and filled it with corn. The location was a known deer hotspot with heavy squirrel activity. I wanted to see if it could withstand the abuse.
Initially, the feeder spun smoothly, distributing corn evenly. There were no immediate clogs or disruptions. The real test came with the elements. A light rain started, and I observed to see if the wet corn would cause issues. So far so good, I thought.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of continuous use, the Moultrie Feed Screen’s true performance became clear. The feeder ran consistently with minimal intervention. I noticed a significant reduction in clogs, especially compared to previous years without a screen. This meant fewer trips to the feeder for maintenance.
Durability proved to be acceptable, although not exceptional. The plastic showed some signs of wear, primarily minor scratches from constant corn movement. Cleaning was straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a brush removed any accumulated debris. It definitely outperformed my expectations, especially considering the minimal investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie Feed Screen
Specifications
The Moultrie Feed Screen is a molded plastic screen designed to fit inside Moultrie feeders. Its key function is to prevent large objects, debris, and clumps of feed from entering and clogging the feeder’s dispensing mechanism. It’s constructed from a durable, weather-resistant plastic.
The screen’s dimensions are specifically engineered to allow smaller feed particles to pass through while blocking larger obstructions. While seemingly basic, this precise design is crucial for reliable feeder operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Moultrie Feed Screen performs its core function admirably. It significantly reduces clogs and ensures consistent feed distribution. This results in less maintenance and a more reliable feeding schedule for wildlife.
A slight weakness is its plastic construction, which might be susceptible to cracking under extreme pressure or prolonged exposure to harsh weather. However, this is mitigated by its low cost and easy replacement. Overall, it far exceeds expectations for a simple, inexpensive accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The screen is lightweight and easily installed within the feeder. Its molded shape ensures a snug fit, preventing feed from bypassing the screen.
There is no learning curve involved; installation is intuitive and requires no tools. Its unobtrusive design doesn’t interfere with the feeder’s overall aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Moultrie Feed Screen offers reasonable durability for its price point. While the plastic isn’t indestructible, it’s sufficiently robust for typical feeder use. Regular cleaning with water and a brush will prolong its lifespan.
Replacement is simple and affordable, making maintenance a breeze. If cared for properly, it can last for multiple feeding seasons.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Moultrie Feed Screen is a standalone product with limited customization options. It’s designed to work specifically with compatible Moultrie feeders. There are no aftermarket accessories or modifications typically associated with it.
However, its compatibility with the Moultrie feeder system ensures seamless integration and reliable performance. Its simplicity is a virtue in this case, minimizing complexity and maximizing functionality.
Pros and Cons of Moultrie Feed Screen
Pros
- Significantly reduces feeder clogs, saving time and hassle.
- Ensures consistent feed distribution, attracting more wildlife.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools.
- Affordable and readily available, making it a low-risk investment.
- Extends the lifespan of the feeder’s dispensing mechanism.
Cons
- Plastic construction might not withstand extreme physical stress.
- Designed specifically for Moultrie feeders, limiting compatibility.
Who Should Buy Moultrie Feed Screen?
The Moultrie Feed Screen is perfect for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and property managers who use Moultrie feeders to attract and sustain deer and other animals. It’s an essential accessory for anyone seeking to minimize feeder maintenance and ensure consistent feed availability. Anyone looking to set up a deer lease will benefit from this.
Those who use non-Moultrie feeders or prefer constructing their own feeding systems might not find it useful. It’s also unnecessary for individuals who meticulously clean and maintain their feeders regularly, though it still offers an added layer of protection.
A must-have accessory is a spare Moultrie Feed Screen in case of damage or loss. A cleaning brush is also recommended for easy maintenance.
Conclusion on Moultrie Feed Screen
The Moultrie Feed Screen is a surprisingly effective and affordable accessory for Moultrie feeder owners. It’s a small investment that yields significant returns in terms of reduced maintenance and improved feeder reliability. For just $14.49, it’s a no brainer.
The price is more than justified by the time and effort it saves. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who values hassle-free feeding.
Don’t let a clogged feeder ruin your hunting season. Invest in a Moultrie Feed Screen and experience the peace of mind that comes with a consistently functioning feeder!