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Great Portable Blind for Photographers
I've owned several different portable blinds and they've all been a compromise. I just got a new one and have found it much better than previous ones I've owned so I wanted to pass the information along to you...The Guide Gear Pro Series Pop-up Blind sold by Sportsman's Guide for a mere $50 is a great solution for an easy to move and even easier to set up blind. Despite folding into a very manageable size it expands to 5' x 5' and is a nominal 5'8" high (realistically think of it as 5' high). It is light enough that I can set up my tripod, camera and chair and then simply lift the blind over them if I don't feel like bending over to put everything in the blind after it is set up. It has a nice large opening in the front and you have some flexibility on opening large windows or just screens on the side. The back features a large door which makes it relatively easy to get in and out.
The blind comes with stakes and tie-downs which you'll need if there is any wind and the 14 pound blind will be quick to blow away otherwise. The material seems quite rugged and the blind well made, although since I've only had it for a few weeks time will tell.
There were two not so great reviews on Amazon which lead me to make two other points. First, one person said they couldn't get it re-packed. It is a little bit of a leap of faith. Basically it works like those spring loaded windshield protectors. You sort of twist it around and the two sprung loops turn into each other. There is a large diagram but it still takes a little fiddling the first time. The second review said that some of the zippers on the blind they got weren't functioning. I didn't have that problem but I think Sportsman's Guide (who sells the blind direct or through Amazon) would likely be more than happy to replace a defective one.
If you need a portable blind (it is 14 pounds, so it isn't a substitute for a tiny "hat blind" if you need something for backpacking) that sets up quickly at a good price, check this one out. If you decide to get this blind or if you have other favorite blinds or photo accessories, let us know!--David
- David Cardinal's blog
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Comments
UK photographers
Pity they wont sell these hides to UK photographers. If anyone over there knows how I could buy one I would be interested to know.
Great Portable Blind for Photographers
I have owned one of these blinds/hides for a couple or more years, used it so often I had to have it repaired. I have used the old traditional hides/blinds since the 60's but noticed that wildlife take to this round shape much more readily than the frankly unnatural old box shape.
As for folding them and packing them back into the bag, I treat this as a comedy minute, every time. It's like wrestling with an anaconda but it's fine when you get used to it. One of the funniest moments I had was when I went to pick the repaired hide/blind up from being repaired. A young lady said here's the repaired hide (unfolded) and then she handed me the bag and laughingly said it is supposed to fit into this. I took hold of the hide and this time it folded onto its three rings easily and so I popped it into the bag. I hope you can imagine the look on her face !
This hide is too good to gripe about getting used to folding it and getting it in the bag, if you are a serious photographer you will simply get on with it. If mine ever gets too ragged I will send for a new one PDQ.
Colin--Great that you have
Colin--Great that you have had long term success with the blind. I look forward to having mine as long!--David
Saving room in the blind
When I'm in the sort of roomy blinds we get to use in Texas I enjoy the full size chairs. But when in a smaller portable blind (or when everything has to fit in my truck) then I use a small "camo" folding chair made by Ameristep. They're only $20 from Amazon or Sportsman's Guide so they won't break the bank.
--David Cardinal Cardinal Photo