Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough Review

First Thoughts on the Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough

The Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough immediately caught my eye as a potential game-changer in supplemental feeding solutions. Moultrie has been a trusted name in the outdoor and wildlife management space for years, and their Ranch Series promises durability and practical design. This trough, designed for both farm animals and wildlife, boasts a solid metal construction, adjustable angles, and drain holes, promising a reliable and versatile feeding experience.

For years, I’ve struggled with flimsy plastic troughs that crack under pressure from larger animals or simply degrade under the harsh elements. I needed a robust feeding solution that could withstand the rigors of outdoor use, minimize feed waste, and provide flexibility in terms of placement and accessibility. The Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough seemed to address these concerns directly.

Upon unboxing, the trough felt substantial and well-built. The powder-coated finish gave it a professional look and suggested a resistance to rust and corrosion. It’s heavier than I expected, which is a good sign for stability, and the adjustment mechanism for the feeding angle felt solid. Compared to the lightweight, easily tipped-over plastic troughs I’ve used in the past, the Axis Trough felt like a significant upgrade. I considered other metal troughs from different brands, but the combination of Moultrie’s reputation, the adjustable angle feature, and the included drain holes ultimately swayed my decision. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the real-world performance would live up to the initial impressions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough on my small hobby farm, where I keep a few goats and chickens. I set it up in their enclosure, pairing it with a Moultrie gravity feeder for a consistent supply of feed. The first thing I noticed was how easily the animals adapted to the new trough.

The adjustable angle feature proved immediately useful, allowing me to position the trough at a comfortable height for both the goats and the chickens. After a light rain shower, I was also pleased to see the drain holes doing their job, preventing any water from pooling and spoiling the feed. There were no issues, and the animals seemed to appreciate the cleaner, drier food source.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, the Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough has held up remarkably well. There are no dents, cracks, or signs of rust despite being exposed to sun, rain, and the occasional goat trying to use it as a scratching post. Cleaning is a breeze, simply requiring a quick hose-down to remove any residual feed.

Compared to the previous plastic troughs I used, which typically lasted only a season or two before needing replacement, the Axis Trough appears to be a long-term investment. It’s a significant improvement in terms of durability and overall reliability. It easily outperforms any other trough I have ever used.

Breaking Down the Features of Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough

Specifications

• The Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough is constructed from solid metal, ensuring durability and longevity in outdoor environments. This sturdy build is crucial for withstanding the elements and the wear and tear of daily use by animals.

• It features a powder-coated finish that provides an extra layer of protection against rust and corrosion. This finish helps to maintain the trough’s appearance and structural integrity over time.

• The trough has a 5-gallon capacity, making it suitable for feeding small to medium-sized farm animals or wildlife. This capacity strikes a good balance between holding enough feed and being manageable in terms of weight and space.

• The Axis Trough includes adjustment holes that allow it to lock at four different angles. These angles provide flexibility in positioning the trough for various animal sizes and feeding preferences.

• It is designed to be paired with the Moultrie Ranch Series Auger Feeder for automated feeding. It is also compatible with Moultrie broadcast and gravity feeders for supplemental feeding strategies.

• Drain holes are incorporated into the design to prevent water from pooling and spoiling the feed. These holes help to keep the feed dry and fresh, reducing waste and promoting animal health.

Performance & Functionality

The Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and efficient feeding solution. Its sturdy construction and adjustable angles make it suitable for a wide range of animals, while the drain holes ensure the feed remains dry and palatable. The trough easily meets expectations and is highly functional.

The only potential weakness is that the 5-gallon capacity may be insufficient for larger herds or flocks, requiring more frequent refills. However, for most small to medium-sized operations, it strikes a good balance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Axis Trough’s design is simple yet effective. The solid metal construction provides a sense of durability, and the powder-coated finish adds a touch of sophistication. The adjustable angle mechanism is intuitive and easy to use.

While the trough itself is not particularly lightweight, its stable base and well-thought-out design make it easy to handle and position. There is no learning curve, and the design is very user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its solid metal construction and powder-coated finish, the Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning with a hose and occasional inspection for any signs of wear and tear should suffice. The design requires no special maintenance.

The trough’s robust build makes it resistant to damage from animals and the elements, ensuring long-term reliability. It is easy to maintain and repair if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough is primarily designed to be used as a standalone feeding solution or in conjunction with other Moultrie feeders. There are no specific accessories that come standard with the trough. However, its compatibility with the Moultrie Ranch Series Auger Feeder, as well as their broadcast and gravity feeders, provides ample customization options for automating and optimizing the feeding process.

The trough’s universal design also means it can be used with virtually any type of feed, from grains to pellets to mineral supplements. While there are no official accessories for other brands, its simple design ensures compatibility with many existing setups.

Pros and Cons of Moultrie Ranch Series Axis Trough