Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit Review

What I Found Using the Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit

My personal need for a reliable and automated feeding system for wildlife on my property had become pressing. Deer populations have been steadily increasing, and manually scattering feed daily was becoming an unsustainable chore, especially with my demanding work schedule. I needed a robust solution that could handle the task consistently. The Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit from Boss Buck caught my eye with its promise of converting existing gravity feeders into automated units. Initial impressions suggested a functional design, but the materials didn’t immediately scream “heavy-duty.” My previous experiences with similar automated feeders have ranged from robust to downright flimsy, so I approached this conversion kit with a healthy dose of cautious optimism. It’s a critical piece of equipment for managing wildlife attractants, and I was keen to see if it lived up to its advertised capabilities.

This unit promised a significant upgrade over my current manual scattering method, offering convenience and consistent feeding schedules. I had briefly considered other universal conversion kits, but the integration with Boss Buck’s own gravity feeder line seemed like a potential advantage. My first interaction with the kit revealed a somewhat basic construction, which left me wondering about its long-term resilience in the elements. Still, the idea of automated feeding was compelling enough to warrant further investigation and testing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit on a Boss Buck non-Typical 350 series feeder. The testing environment was my private hunting property, where I aimed to attract and sustain local deer populations. My initial setup involved mounting the kit, connecting the battery, and configuring the timer. The process was relatively straightforward, though the flimsy housing of the control unit did raise some immediate concerns.

The swing door slinger performed its primary function of dispersing feed, but the range and consistency felt somewhat limited compared to other feeders I’ve used. I tested it under varied conditions, including sunny days and periods of light rain, and it continued to function. However, the plastic casing of the timer and control unit felt quite exposed to the elements. The intuitiveness of the digital timer was decent, requiring only a short period to understand its basic functions.

One surprise was the perceived weakness of the motor when dispensing heavier feed like corn. It spun, yes, as indicated by the user feedback, but it didn’t feel as powerful as I had hoped. The wing bolts for attachment were a nice touch, allowing for relatively quick detachment from the feeder itself.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks, the Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit became a consistent part of my property management routine. It successfully converted my gravity feeder into an automated system, reducing the frequency of my visits. The primary function of dispersing feed was met, though I noticed the feed pattern could be a bit inconsistent depending on the type and volume of feed.

Durability, however, remained a point of concern. The plastic housing of the control box showed some minor scuffing from handling, and I was constantly mindful of its potential vulnerability to harsher weather. While it held up without catastrophic failure, the materials didn’t inspire the same confidence as metal or more robust polymer alternatives I’ve encountered.

Maintenance was generally easy; the slinger mechanism could be wiped down, and the timer housing required minimal attention beyond ensuring the battery was charged. Compared to some of the more premium 12-volt feeders I’ve owned, this unit certainly felt like a more budget-oriented option in terms of construction. The motor, in particular, seemed less robust than those found in higher-priced models, suggesting a shorter lifespan under heavy or continuous use.

Breaking Down the Features of Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit

Specifications

The Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit operates on a 12-volt system, a standard that provides ample power for its intended function. It features a BIG 12-volt Automotive Blower Motor, which is a key component for dispensing feed. The kit includes a swing door slinger made of heavy duty 5 steel, designed to spread the feed.

A crucial element is the steel mounting plate and conversion funnel, which facilitate attachment to various Boss Buck feeders. The control unit is housed in a steel control box with a dedicated timer holder, designed to keep the Simple Set Timer, Digital upright. Knockouts are provided for solar panel integration, supporting either a Boss Buck box mount solar panel or a traditional barrel-mounted solar panel. It’s important to note that the 12v 7ah Battery and solar panels are sold separately. The wing bolts for attachment are #6-20 mm, offering a quick release mechanism. The kit is designed to convert Boss Buck gravity feeders, specifically the non-Typical 350, 600 or 1200 series feeders, as well as BB gravity lower units and drop tubes.

These specifications are important because they outline the core functionality and compatibility of the unit. The 12-volt system is common and readily available for battery and solar charging. The steel construction for the mounting plate and control box offers some durability, though the plastic timer housing is a weaker point. The swing door slinger is the workhorse, and its steel construction is a positive. The compatibility with specific Boss Buck models is vital for potential buyers. The separate purchase of battery and solar panels is a common cost consideration that adds to the overall investment.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit is to convert a gravity feeder into an automated spin feeder, and it achieves this goal. The Simple Set Timer, Digital allows for programmable feeding times and durations, which is a significant convenience. The 12-volt Automotive Blower Motor drives the slinger, and while it does spin, its torque and power can feel lacking, especially when dispensing heavier feeds like corn or protein pellets.

Feed flow and distance control are also features, allowing for some adjustment in how the feed is dispersed. However, the effectiveness of this control can be somewhat limited by the motor’s strength and the slinger’s design. In terms of meeting expectations, it performs the basic task. It’s not a high-performance, long-distance broadcaster like some more expensive units, but it reliably disperses feed at a reasonable range. The main weakness lies in the motor’s power and the overall robustness of the control unit’s housing.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit prioritizes functionality over aesthetic appeal or extreme durability. The use of a steel mounting plate and steel control box is a good choice for structural integrity. The swing door slinger is a functional piece of hardware.

However, the plastic housing for the timer and other electronic components feels somewhat flimsy and less resilient than one might hope for outdoor equipment that will be exposed to the elements. The timer holder allowing the timer to stand upright is a practical ergonomic consideration. The wingbolts for attachment are a user-friendly design element, facilitating easier installation and removal. While it functions, the overall build quality of the plastic components gives an impression of being budget-conscious, which might be a concern for users expecting a long lifespan.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit appears to be a mixed bag. The steel components, such as the mounting plate and slinger, are likely to withstand the rigors of use. However, the plastic housing of the timer and control unit presents a potential point of failure. Over time, exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations could lead to cracking or degradation.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward. The slinger mechanism can be cleaned periodically to ensure smooth operation. The battery requires regular charging, and solar panel integration (if purchased) helps to mitigate this. One significant maintenance warning is the manufacturer’s explicit notice: “Using salt based feed materials/blends through a Boss Buck control system will void the parts warranty!” This is a critical piece of information, as salt-based minerals can indeed corrode metal components and electronics rapidly. For longevity, sticking to non-salt-based feeds like corn and protein is highly recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit itself is an accessory designed to enhance existing Boss Buck feeders. It doesn’t come with a plethora of additional accessories beyond the core conversion components. However, it is designed with integration in mind, featuring knockouts for solar panels.

It is compatible with a 12v 7ah Battery, which is a standard size for many such systems. The option to add either a Boss Buck box mount solar panel or a 12v Drum Mount Solar Panel provides a pathway to more sustainable and hands-off operation, though these are sold separately. Beyond solar integration, there aren’t extensive customization options for the kit itself. Its primary “customization” comes from its ability to convert existing feeders, and its compatibility with specific Boss Buck feeder models (non-Typical 350, 600, or 1200 series) is a key aspect of its intended use.

Pros and Cons of Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit

Who Should Buy Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit?

The Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit is best suited for individuals who already own compatible Boss Buck gravity feeders and are looking for a budget-friendly way to automate their feeding process. It’s ideal for property owners who need a reliable, albeit basic, feeding solution for wildlife management, such as attracting deer for observation or hunting. If you primarily use non-salt-based feeds like corn or protein pellets and are not expecting heavy-duty, professional-grade performance, this conversion kit could be a practical choice.

However, those who require extreme durability, a powerful motor for varied feed types, or a completely weatherproof control unit might want to consider more robust and potentially more expensive options. Users who plan to use salt-based mineral supplements should absolutely avoid this product to prevent warranty voidance and premature failure. For a more seamless experience, purchasing a compatible 12v 7ah Battery and a solar panel at the same time would be a wise investment to minimize ongoing battery maintenance.

Conclusion on Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit

The Boss Buck Auto Feed Kit offers a functional and relatively affordable path to automated wildlife feeding for existing Boss Buck gravity feeder owners. Its core strength lies in its ability to convert standard feeders, saving the cost of an entirely new automated unit, and the inclusion of a steel slinger is a definite plus. The digital timer provides useful programming capabilities, and the option for solar integration is a valuable addition for long-term use.

However, its Achilles’ heel is undoubtedly the perceived low quality of the plastic housing for the control unit and timer, which raises concerns about long-term durability and weather resistance. The motor, while functional, also seems to lack the power of higher-end models, which could be a limiting factor depending on the feed used. The value proposition is strong if you are already invested in the Boss Buck ecosystem and prioritize cost savings over rugged construction. I would recommend this kit to those who understand its limitations, primarily the housing durability and motor power, and who primarily use non-salt-based feeds. If those caveats are acceptable, it serves its purpose adequately.