Testing the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder: What You Need to Know
For years, I’ve been wrestling with the common frustrations of wildlife feeders: clogs, moisture damage, and inconsistent dispensing. My search for a reliable solution led me to the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder, a unit promising to revolutionize how we handle deer attractants and feed. Manufactured by On Time Wildlife Feeders, this device boasts innovative frequency vibration technology designed to overcome the persistent issues that plague traditional feeders. My initial impression is one of rugged, no-nonsense construction, hinting at a durable unit ready for outdoor deployment. I briefly considered a more basic gravity-fed hopper, but the promise of consistent, jam-free dispensing swayed me towards this advanced option. My first reaction upon unboxing was a practical sense of anticipation, a feeling that this might finally be the answer to my feeding woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder to the Test
First Use Experience
I deployed the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder in a typical deer feeding area, a familiar spot on my property that’s seen its share of weather. The unit was mounted to a sturdy post, and I filled it with a popular bagged deer attractant blend, a mix known to be particularly prone to clumping. Initial setup was straightforward, requiring only basic tools to secure it.
Performance in the elements has been a key focus; it’s weathered light rain and significant morning dew without any apparent moisture ingress into the feeding mechanism. The unit proved remarkably intuitive to operate; the timer settings are clear and easy to adjust, and the vibration intensity dial offers fine-tuned control. My only initial surprise was the slight learning curve in dialing in the exact vibration and run time for optimal feed spread.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder continues to impress. It’s handled daily dispensing cycles flawlessly, even with a variety of feed types, including soy beans and protein pellets, which can be notoriously difficult.
Durability has been excellent; there are no visible signs of wear on the plastic housing, and the vibration mechanism remains as responsive as it was on day one. Maintenance is refreshingly simple: a quick rinse of the interior and exterior is usually sufficient to keep it in top condition. Compared to previous feeders I’ve owned, which often required frequent manual unclogging and component replacement, this model offers a significant step up in reliability and ease of care.
Breaking Down the Features of On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder
Specifications
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder comes with a generous 10-gallon capacity, which is ample for extended periods between refills, especially when you consider its efficient dispensing. The unit is constructed from durable plastic, designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Its black color offers a discreet appearance in natural environments.
One of the most compelling specifications is the use of frequency vibration technology, a patent-pending system that eschews traditional augers or gear mechanisms prone to jamming. This technology is designed to dispense a wide range of feeds, including most commercially available bagged deer attractants, rice bran, rice bran pellets, whole corn, cracked corn, deer protein pellets, and soy beans. The feeder allows for 1 to 6 feed times per day, with 1 to 30 second run times per cycle, providing significant control over dispensing. A rain skirt is also included, adding an extra layer of protection against the elements for the feed.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder excels. The frequency vibration technology effectively agitates the feed, ensuring a consistent and clog-free flow of material. This is particularly noteworthy given the variety of feed textures and sizes it can handle, from fine powders to larger pellets.
Its main strength lies in its unwavering reliability. Unlike gravity-fed or spin feeders that can struggle with moisture or static electricity, this unit consistently dispenses without fail. The adjustable feed tray further contributes to its versatility, allowing fine-tuning for different feed densities. The only minor area for potential improvement might be an even more granular control over the vibration intensity, though the current 25% setting, as recommended by user feedback, seems to strike a good balance.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder is focused on functionality and durability. The plastic construction feels robust, capable of enduring the bumps and scrapes of outdoor use. Its black finish is practical, blending into its surroundings.
The unit features a simple yet effective control panel for programming feed times and durations, making it accessible even for those less technologically inclined. The integrated rain skirt is a thoughtful addition, designed to protect the feeding aperture from direct rain and snow. The fact that it has only one 1″ moving part in the vibration mechanism is a testament to its simplified, problem-solving design.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder is built to last. The high-quality plastic material shows no signs of cracking or fading after consistent exposure to the elements. The absence of complex mechanical parts like augers or gears means there are fewer points of potential failure or wear and tear over time.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning to remove any residual feed or debris. The design facilitates easy access for cleaning, ensuring that upkeep doesn’t become a chore. Given its robust construction and simple operating mechanism, I anticipate this feeder will provide many seasons of reliable service without significant maintenance concerns.
Accessories and Customization Options
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder comes with a practical rain skirt as a standard accessory, which is crucial for protecting the feed mechanism. Beyond that, the primary “customization” comes through its adjustable settings: the 1 to 6 feed times per day and 1 to 30 second run times allow users to tailor dispensing schedules precisely.
The adjustable feed tray also serves as a form of customization, enabling users to optimize flow rates for different types of feed. While it doesn’t offer the broad range of accessory attachments seen on some other feeder types, its core functionality is designed to be highly adaptable through its built-in programming and dispensing mechanisms. The inclusion of a test feature is also a valuable addition, allowing for quick checks without waiting for a scheduled feed time.
Pros and Cons of On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder
Pros
- Innovative Frequency Vibration Technology: Effectively prevents clogging and moisture issues with various feed types.
- 10-Gallon Capacity: Offers substantial storage, reducing the frequency of refills.
- Versatile Feed Compatibility: Handles everything from bagged attractants to protein pellets and whole corn.
- Simple and Reliable Design: Features only one 1″ moving part, minimizing potential failure points.
- User-Friendly Programming: Easy to set 1 to 6 feed times per day and 1 to 30 second run times.
- Included Rain Skirt: Provides essential protection against the elements.
Cons
- Initial Tuning Required: User feedback suggests a slight learning curve to optimize vibration and run times for specific feeds.
- Plastic Construction: While durable, some users might prefer a metal housing for extreme conditions, though it’s generally robust.
Who Should Buy On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder?
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder is an ideal choice for deer hunters and wildlife enthusiasts who are tired of dealing with unreliable feeders. It’s particularly well-suited for those who use a variety of feed types, especially those prone to clumping or absorbing moisture. This unit is also perfect for individuals seeking a low-maintenance, set-it-and-forget-it solution for their feeding stations.
Those who should consider alternatives might be individuals operating in extremely harsh, high-impact environments where metal construction is paramount, or those who need a feeder with a significantly larger capacity than 10 gallons. For optimal use, I would recommend pairing it with a sturdy mounting bracket and ensuring the timer is set to utilize the test feature initially to fine-tune dispensing.
Conclusion on On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder
The On Time Wildlife Feeders Shakedown Feeder truly delivers on its promise of frustration-free feeding. Its frequency vibration technology is a game-changer, consistently dispensing a wide array of feeds without the common pitfalls of clogging or moisture damage. The 10-gallon capacity is practical, and the user-friendly programming makes it accessible for all users.
Considering its innovative technology, reliable performance, and straightforward design, the $186.99 price point represents excellent value for money. I would wholeheartedly recommend this feeder to any serious deer enthusiast looking for a dependable and efficient solution. If you’re ready to leave behind the days of jammed feeders and spoiled feed, this unit is a worthy investment.