First Impressions of Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent promises a simple yet effective solution to a pervasive problem for wildlife enthusiasts: those pesky critters that raid feeders intended for deer, turkey, or other game. Moultrie, a trusted name in the hunting and wildlife management space, offers these PVC caps to prevent squirrels and raccoons from easily climbing feeder legs. At a price of $37.99, they aim to provide a humane and cost-effective alternative to traps or other harmful deterrents.
My ongoing battle with a particularly brazen raccoon family that treats my deer feeder like an all-you-can-eat buffet led me to seek out a reliable solution. I’d tried greasing the legs (messy!), and even rigged up a makeshift electric fence (ineffective and potentially harmful). The promise of a simple, spinning barrier seemed like the answer I’d been searching for.
Upon unboxing, the Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent impressed me with its solid, durable construction. The PVC caps are thick and feel like they can withstand some abuse. The included hardware – mounting brackets, adapters for both round and square legs, and self-tapping screws – gave me confidence that installation would be straightforward.
I considered a couple of other options before settling on the Moultrie product. One was a similar, but cheaper, offering from a lesser-known brand. However, the reviews were mixed regarding the quality of the materials and the effectiveness of the spinning action. Another option involved a more elaborate cage system around the entire feeder, but that seemed like overkill and would have been significantly more expensive. The Moultrie design seemed like the perfect balance of simplicity, durability, and affordability.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a solution that might actually work, but also skeptical about whether a simple PVC cap could truly outsmart the agile and persistent varmints that frequent my property. It felt like a practical, well-designed solution, but the real test would come in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent on my existing tripod feeder in a wooded area frequented by deer, turkey, and, unfortunately, raccoons. Installation was relatively simple. The provided adapters allowed for a snug fit on my feeder’s round legs. The self-tapping screws made quick work of securing the mounting brackets.
The first night after installation was a tense waiting game. I set up a trail camera to monitor the feeder and eagerly reviewed the footage the next morning. To my delight, the raccoons were indeed thwarted! They attempted to climb the feeder legs, but the spinning action of the PVC caps prevented them from gaining purchase. They slipped and slid, eventually giving up in frustration.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent has continued to perform admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The PVC caps have held up well despite exposure to the elements and repeated attempts by the local varmint population to breach the defenses.
Maintenance has been minimal. I occasionally wipe down the caps to remove any accumulated dirt or debris. This ensures the spinning action remains smooth and effective. Compared to my previous attempts at varmint control, this product has been a game-changer. It requires almost no effort to maintain and has proven to be significantly more effective.
Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent
Specifications
- Set of 3 PVC Caps: The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent includes three individual PVC caps designed to be installed on the legs of a tripod feeder. This ensures comprehensive protection against climbing varmints.
- 4″ Schedule 40 or Class 200 PVC Pipe Compatibility: The caps are designed to work with readily available 4″ PVC pipes (not included). This allows users to easily customize the length of the deterrent.
- Mounting Hardware Included: The package includes mounting brackets, square and round leg adapters, and self-tapping screws. This simplifies the installation process on a variety of feeder leg types.
- Universal Compatibility: The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent is designed to work with all Moultrie tripod feeder legs and most other feeder brands. This ensures a wide range of users can benefit from the product.
- Spinning Deterrent Action: The PVC caps are designed to spin when an animal attempts to climb them. This creates an unstable surface that prevents the animal from gaining purchase.
- Round and Square Leg Adapters: The kit includes adapters to fit both round (less than 1 3/8 inch) and square (less than 15/16 inch) feeder legs. This broadens the compatibility of the product.
Performance & Functionality
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent performs its intended function exceptionally well. The spinning action is surprisingly effective at deterring squirrels and raccoons. I’ve observed them repeatedly attempting to climb, only to be foiled by the rotating caps.
The product’s strength lies in its simplicity. There are no moving parts to break down or batteries to replace. Its main weakness is the reliance on the user to provide the 4″ PVC pipe.
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent meets and exceeds my expectations. It is a simple, effective, and humane solution to a common problem.
Design & Ergonomics
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent boasts a simple yet functional design. The black PVC caps are unobtrusive and blend in well with most feeder setups. The caps are lightweight, yet feel durable and well-constructed.
Installation is straightforward. The inclusion of adapters for both round and square legs makes the product user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent appears to be quite durable. The PVC material is resistant to weather and wear. Minimal maintenance is required, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning to ensure smooth spinning action.
With proper care, the Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent should last for many years. This represents a solid investment for anyone looking to protect their wildlife feeders.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent includes all necessary hardware for installation, but does require the user to purchase 4″ Schedule 40 or Class 200 PVC pipe. The length of the PVC pipe can be customized to suit individual needs and feeder heights.
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent is also compatible with some aftermarket lubricants to reduce friction and ensure smooth spinning. Some users may also choose to paint the PVC pipes to match their feeder.
Pros and Cons of Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent
Pros
- Effective varmint deterrent, preventing squirrels and raccoons from accessing feeder food.
- Simple and easy to install with included hardware and adapters.
- Durable PVC construction that withstands weather and wear.
- Humane solution that doesn’t harm animals.
- Compatible with most feeder brands and leg types.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of 4″ Schedule 40 or Class 200 PVC pipe.
- Effectiveness may decrease if the PVC pipes become excessively dirty or damaged.
Who Should Buy Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent?
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent is perfect for hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and property owners who want to protect their wildlife feeders from unwanted critters. Anyone who uses tripod feeders and struggles with squirrels, raccoons, or other climbing animals will find this product incredibly useful.
This product might not be ideal for users with feeders that have exceptionally thick or unusually shaped legs. Additionally, those who prefer immediate, “out-of-the-box” solutions might be slightly inconvenienced by the need to purchase PVC pipes separately. A can of PVC primer and cement for securing the PVC pipe into the caps will make this product even more effective and long lasting.
Conclusion on Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent
The Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent is a well-designed and effective solution for protecting wildlife feeders from climbing pests. It offers a humane and affordable alternative to harmful traps or messy deterrents. The price of $37.99 is justified by the product’s durability, ease of use, and, most importantly, its effectiveness in preventing varmints from stealing valuable feed.
I would absolutely recommend the Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent to anyone struggling with unwanted critters raiding their wildlife feeders. It’s a simple, yet ingenious solution that delivers on its promise. Say goodbye to those pesky raccoons and squirrels and start enjoying the benefits of a protected feeding station! Invest in the Moultrie Feeder Leg Varmint Deterrent today and reclaim your feeder for the intended wildlife.