If you want bigger bucks and a healthier deer herd, supplemental feeding with a gravity feeder is one of the smartest investments you can make on your property. Unlike timed spin feeders that blast corn in short bursts, gravity feeders let deer eat on their own schedule, which mirrors natural grazing behavior and reduces stress. After testing and researching the best gravity feeders for deer, our team found that the right feeder can make a real difference in antler growth, herd health, and how often mature bucks visit your area.
The challenge is sorting through dozens of options, from budget bag feeders that strap to a tree to heavy-duty roto-molded hoppers that hold 250 pounds of protein pellets. We spent weeks comparing capacity, durability, varmint resistance, and real-world performance to narrow this list down to seven feeders that actually deliver results. Every pick here has been vetted through customer reviews, forum discussions, and hands-on specifications.
Whether you manage 50 acres or 5,000, run a single feeder or a dozen, this guide covers the best gravity feeders for deer across every budget and setup style. We will walk through our top picks, break down what makes each one stand out, and finish with a buying guide to help you match the right feeder to your specific situation.
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Banks Outdoors Feed Bank 150lb
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Moultrie 250lb Gravity Feeder
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Boss Buck 200lb Gravity Feeder
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On Time Buckeye 200lb Feeder
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American Hunter 30-Gal Hopper
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Wildgame Innovations Treehugger
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Boss Buck 3-Port Feeder Head
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150lb Capacity
Single 4x4 Post Mount
42-Inch Feed Height
Weatherproof Construction
25 lbs Weight
After looking at more gravity deer feeders than I care to count, the Banks Outdoors Feed Bank earns our top spot for one big reason: the single-post design. Most tripods have three legs sticking out at eye level for a buck, which is exactly how antlers get damaged. Banks solved this by mounting the entire hopper on a single 4x4 post, eliminating anything a buck can tangle his rack in. That alone makes it the smartest choice if antler growth and safety are priorities on your property.
The 150-pound capacity strikes a nice balance between size and practicality. It holds enough protein pellets or corn to last a small herd about two to three weeks without a refill, but it is not so massive that you need a truck-mounted winch to fill it. The large watertight lid makes loading feed straightforward, and the sealed design keeps moisture out even during heavy rain. I have seen user reports from properties in East Texas and the Midwest where the feed stayed bone-dry for months.
The adjustable feeding ports let you control the flow rate based on what you are feeding. Protein pellets flow differently than whole corn, so having that adjustment matters. At 42 inches off the ground, the feeding height is right in the sweet spot for adult deer. Fawns can still reach, and mature bucks do not have to crouch awkwardly. Users across several hunting forums consistently mention that deer found this feeder faster than others they had tried.
The 4.7-star average across 417 reviews tells the real story. People who have run this feeder for multiple seasons report minimal wear, no cracking, and reliable feed flow. The biggest complaint is that you need to supply your own 4x4 post, which adds a small extra step and cost to the setup.
Mounting the Feed Bank is straightforward if you have basic tools. Set your 4x4 post in concrete at least two feet deep for stability, especially in softer soils. Position the feeder in an area with good deer traffic, ideally near a travel corridor or bedding area edge. Most users recommend letting the post cure for 24 to 48 hours before attaching the hopper. The whole process takes about an hour once the post is set.
For the best results, face the feeding ports away from prevailing winds. This keeps rain from blowing into the feed troughs. If squirrels are a problem on your property, consider wrapping the post with sheet metal about three feet up to create a simple barrier. Several long-term users swear by this trick and report a significant drop in feed loss.
The Feed Bank holds up well across multiple seasons thanks to its weatherproof polyethylene construction. The UV-resistant material does not become brittle in the sun like cheaper plastics. The only maintenance most owners perform is an annual cleaning of the feed ports and a check of the lid seal. One user on a hunting forum reported running the same Banks Outdoors feeder for over five years in coastal South Carolina with zero structural issues.
The most common wear point is the feed port connections, where some users noticed slight separation after three or more years of heavy use. A simple bead of silicone sealant around the port joints during your annual maintenance is an easy preventative fix that extends the life of the feeder significantly.
250lb Hopper Capacity
Triple Funnel Feed System
Tripod Base
65x65x74 Inches
37 lbs Weight
Battery-Free
The Moultrie 250lb Gravity Deer Feeder takes the capacity crown in our lineup, and that matters if you are feeding a larger herd or simply cannot get to your property every week. At 250 pounds of feed capacity, this hopper can sustain a solid group of deer for three to four weeks between refills depending on herd size. For landowners managing remote properties, that alone is worth the investment.
What sets this Moultrie apart from other large-capacity feeders is the triple funnel feed system. Most gravity feeders have a single funnel point that can create dead zones where feed piles up and stops flowing. The triple funnel design ensures that protein pellets, corn, or mixed feed moves smoothly to all three feeding ports without bridging or clogging. Users consistently report reliable flow even with smaller protein pellets that tend to jam in cheaper feeders.
The battery-free operation is another big advantage. No batteries means no dead cells in the middle of hunting season, no motor failures, and no unexpected trips to the property for repairs. The gravity system just works, feeding deer around the clock without any mechanical parts that can break. The weather-resistant UV-protected plastic holds up well under sun exposure, and the twist-on lid makes filling relatively easy once you are up the ladder.
Speaking of ladders, the 74-inch height of the feeder means you will need one to fill it. That is the most common complaint from users, and it is a valid one if you are hauling feed in bulk. The tripod base is stable on uneven ground, and at 37 pounds total weight, the feeder is manageable to position by yourself before loading it with feed.
Assembly is straightforward with most users reporting about 30 to 45 minutes from box to fully operational. The tripod legs bolt on with basic hand tools, and the hopper secures to the leg assembly with the included hardware. The Quick-Lock adapter compatibility is a nice bonus if you already own other Moultrie feeder components, as you can swap parts between units.
One pro tip from experienced users: assemble the feeder near where you plan to place it. Once loaded with 250 pounds of feed, you are not moving it without emptying it first. Position it on relatively flat ground and make sure the legs are firmly seated to prevent settling over time.
The triple funnel system handles a wide variety of feed types well. Whole corn, protein pellets, soybeans, and mixed feeds all flow smoothly through the feeding ports. Users report that even textured feeds with a mix of pellet sizes do not cause the jamming issues common with single-funnel gravity feeders. This flexibility makes it one of the best gravity feeders for deer if you like to rotate feed types throughout the year.
For protein pellet feeding specifically, which tends to be the most challenging feed type for gravity systems, the Moultrie performs above average. The ports are sized to accommodate standard deer pellets without clogging, and the consistent flow means deer get steady access to supplemental nutrition.
200lb Capacity
Adjustable 3-Way Flow
Roto-Molded Design
75-Inch Galvanized Legs
10-Inch Feed Ports
Boss Buck has been a household name in the deer feeder world for nearly two decades, and their 200-pound gravity feeder shows why. The roto-molded construction produces a hopper that is essentially one solid piece of plastic with no seams to fail. This manufacturing process is the same one used to build whitewater kayaks, so durability is baked in from the start. If you want a feeder that can sit in the elements for years without cracking, warping, or leaking, this is the benchmark.
The adjustable 3-way flow control is one of the best features on any gravity feeder we looked at. A simple baffle system lets you dial in the feed flow rate for corn, pellets, or mixed feed. When you are running protein pellets that are smaller and flow faster, you can restrict the openings. When you switch to whole corn, you can open them up. That flexibility is something most competing feeders lack, and it gives you precise control over how fast your feed disappears.
The 10-inch feed ports sit at a 10-degree angle, which is designed to match the natural feeding posture of deer. The 4-inch interior diameter openings are sized perfectly for a deer muzzle without being so large that feed spills out or varmints have easy access. Users across multiple forums report that mature bucks, including nocturnal trophy-class deer, regularly visit Boss Buck feeders, likely because the silent operation does not spook them like spin casters do.
The main drawbacks are related to the leg system. Several users reported that the galvanized legs can sink into soft ground when the hopper is loaded with 200 pounds of feed. Some owners solve this by placing flat pavers or treated wood blocks under the feet. There are also scattered reports of missing hardware in the package, so it is worth checking all parts before heading to the field.
The 3-way flow control uses internal baffles that you adjust by repositioning a plate inside the feed head. For protein pellets, most users recommend a partially open setting to prevent excessive flow. For whole corn, a wider opening works best. The adjustment takes about two minutes with a screwdriver. If you are switching feed types seasonally, plan to check and readjust the flow rate each time you change what is in the hopper.
One thing to keep in mind is that flow rate also affects how much feed varmints can access. A tighter flow setting means raccoons and squirrels get less even if they reach the ports. Many long-term Boss Buck owners run the tightest setting that still provides adequate feed for deer, which is a simple but effective strategy for reducing waste.
The 75-inch galvanized legs provide a tall feeding height that works well for adult deer, but they do require relatively level ground for stability. On sloped terrain, the feeder can develop a lean over time as the legs settle unevenly. The fix is simple: dig small level pads for each leg foot before setting the feeder in place. Adding concrete pavers under each foot is even better and takes about ten extra minutes during setup.
For extremely uneven ground, some owners build a small platform from treated lumber to create a level base. This adds stability and makes the feeder less prone to tipping when deer bump it during feeding. The roto-molded hopper is tough enough to survive a tip-over without damage, but keeping it upright saves your feed.
200lb Capacity
Durable Polyethylene
Metal Legs
Freestanding Design
27.5 lbs
19x18.5x33.25 In
The On Time Buckeye Gravity Feeder is proof that a straightforward design executed well beats a complex one done poorly. This 200-pound capacity feeder uses durable polyethylene for the hopper and sturdy metal legs for the base, a combination that has earned a solid 4.5-star rating from 145 reviewers. It is not flashy, but it does exactly what a gravity feeder should do: hold feed, keep it dry, and let deer eat when they want.
The polyethylene hopper is the same type of material used in agricultural storage tanks, which means it handles UV exposure and temperature swings without becoming brittle. The metal legs are a genuine upgrade over plastic tripod designs because they do not flex or bend when the hopper is fully loaded. Several users noted that the Buckeye felt more stable than other feeders they had tried, especially in windy conditions.
Where this feeder really shines is moisture protection. The lid design does an excellent job of keeping rain out, and multiple users in humid climates specifically mentioned that their corn stayed dry for weeks. That matters because wet feed not only spoils but can actually make deer sick, which defeats the whole purpose of supplemental feeding. The gravity flow is consistent and reliable, with no motor or moving parts to fail mid-season.
The main downsides are minor but worth knowing. Assembly requires two people because the hopper needs to be held level while the legs are attached. Some users also recommend drilling a few small drainage holes in the feed trough area as an extra precaution against moisture buildup. The hopper also has a slight plastic smell when new, so airing it out for a day or two before first use is a good idea.
Plan on about 45 minutes of assembly time with two people. The metal legs bolt to the hopper base using standard hand tools, and the instructions are clear enough that most people will not need to reference them more than once. Make sure to tighten all bolts securely before filling, because the weight of 200 pounds of feed will stress loose connections. Bring a socket wrench and a Phillips screwdriver to the field and you will have everything you need.
One smart approach is to assemble the feeder near your truck or trailer and then walk it to the final location before loading it with feed. At 27.5 pounds empty, it is easy for one person to carry. Once loaded, you are committed to that spot until the feed runs low.
The polyethylene construction handles weather exceptionally well across all four seasons. In freezing temperatures, the material does not crack or become brittle. In direct summer sun, the UV-stabilized plastic holds up without fading or warping. Users in northern states report that snow and ice accumulation on the hopper does not affect feed flow, and the lid seal stays tight even after freeze-thaw cycles. The metal legs are treated to resist rust, though owners in extremely humid or coastal areas may want to spray them with a rust-preventative coating for extra protection.
30-Gallon Capacity
Adjustable Height
Freestanding
Rust Resistant
24 lbs
Battery Powered Option
The American Hunter 30-Gallon Nesting Hopper is a great choice if you want a mid-size feeder that is easy to handle without sacrificing build quality. The 30-gallon hopper holds roughly 180 pounds of feed, which is enough for most small to mid-size properties without requiring heavy lifting to fill. The nesting design means the hopper fits compactly inside the legs for shipping and storage, then expands to full height during assembly.
The standout feature here is the adjustable height. Not every property has the same deer population, and not every feeder location needs the same feeding height. Being able to raise or lower the feeding ports gives you flexibility that fixed-height feeders simply do not offer. If you are feeding in an area where fawns need lower access, you can drop it down. For mature buck territory, raise it up to the standard 40-plus-inch range.
With 72 percent of reviews at five stars and a 4.4 overall rating, customer satisfaction is strong. Users praise the build quality and the straightforward assembly process. The rust-resistant finish on the metal components holds up well in typical field conditions, and the freestanding design means you do not need to dig post holes or find the right tree to get started.
The main issue is varmint access. The legs provide a climbing route for raccoons, and several users mentioned that coons figured out how to reach the feed tubes within days of setup. If raccoons are a problem on your property, plan to add some kind of barrier around the legs or consider a post-mounted option like the Banks Outdoors instead.
At approximately 180 pounds of feed capacity, this hopper requires refilling every two to three weeks for a typical herd of 8 to 12 deer on a free-choice feeding program. If you are running protein pellets through the summer months when consumption peaks, expect to refill closer to every 10 to 14 days. The top-fill design makes loading relatively easy, and the opening is large enough to pour directly from a standard 40-pound feed bag without a funnel.
For larger operations, some users run two or three of these feeders spaced across their property rather than investing in one massive unit. The lower individual cost makes this approach practical, and distributing feeding pressure across multiple locations can actually benefit herd patterns.
Since raccoons are the primary nuisance with this feeder, the most effective prevention is wrapping the legs with sheet metal or slick PVC pipe from ground level to about three feet high. This creates a surface raccoons cannot grip, which prevents them from climbing to the feed ports. Some users also apply a ring of grease to the legs as a temporary deterrent during peak raccoon activity. For squirrels, the feed port openings are small enough to limit access, but persistent squirrels may still find a way to nibble at the edges of the feed trough.
100lb Capacity
Tree Mount Design
PVC Material
Roll-Top Closure
2.19 lbs
Trubark HD Camo
The Wildgame Innovations Treehugger is the feeder that gets people started in supplemental deer feeding without breaking the bank. At its price point, you could buy three or four of these for the cost of one premium roto-molded hopper, which makes it incredibly popular with first-timers and budget-conscious landowners. The 1,167 customer reviews make it one of the most widely used gravity feeders on the market, so there is a massive amount of real-world data behind its 4.1-star rating.
This is a bag feeder, not a rigid hopper, and that is both its biggest strength and its biggest limitation. The PVC bag is completely weatherproof, rolls down to almost nothing for transport, and weighs just 2.19 pounds empty. You can carry three of these in a backpack along with your feed and set up a feeding station in minutes. The integrated strap system wraps around a tree and tightens in place without any tools. For hunters who use public land or move their setups seasonally, this portability is hard to beat.
Deer adapt to the Treehugger quickly, and the Trubark HD Camo pattern blends into most wooded environments without drawing attention. The roll-top sealed closure keeps rain out effectively, and the gravity feed ports at the bottom of the bag dispense feed steadily as long as the bag has weight pushing down on it. Users report that a full bag with 100 pounds of feed lasts about two weeks with moderate deer traffic.
The downsides are real, though. The plastic clips that secure the straps are the weakest point, and multiple users reported them breaking after a season or two. Squirrels and raccoons can and will chew through the PVC material to get at the feed, which is a problem with any fabric feeder. If you have a heavy varmint population, this feeder will require more defensive measures than a rigid hopper design. The straps can also work loose on smooth-barked trees over time.
Choose a tree that is at least 8 inches in diameter for the most secure mount. Wrap the straps at a height that puts the bottom feed ports about 36 to 42 inches off the ground, which is the sweet spot for adult deer. Cinch the straps as tight as possible and check them after the first week, because the bag will settle under the weight of the feed. Some users add a second set of ratchet straps for extra security, especially on smooth-barked trees like beech or birch.
Avoid mounting on dead trees or snags that could fall in a storm. Also, do not mount the bag directly against a branch or knot, since these create pressure points that can wear through the PVC over time. A smooth section of trunk is ideal.
The PVC material is genuinely waterproof, and the roll-top closure does an excellent job of keeping rain out when properly sealed. The main weather threat is UV degradation over time. In areas with intense sun exposure, the PVC can become brittle after two to three seasons. Users in southern states report that keeping the feeder in shaded areas extends its life significantly. If your Treehugger starts showing UV cracking, it is time to replace it, but at this price point, replacing it every couple of years is still far cheaper than buying a premium rigid feeder upfront.
For winter use, the PVC remains flexible down to freezing temperatures, so you can run the Treehugger year-round in most climates. In extreme cold below 10 degrees Fahrenheit, the material stiffens but does not crack. Just be careful when handling it in those conditions, because the straps become less pliable and harder to tighten.
3 Feed Ports
10-Inch Port Size
4-Inch I.D. Openings
Internal Cone
4.07 lbs
Bolt-On Install
The Boss Buck 3-Port Replacement Feeder Head is not a standalone feeder, but it earns a spot on this list because it solves a common problem: upgrading or replacing the business end of your existing gravity setup. If you already own a Boss Buck hopper and the feed head is showing its age, or if you want to convert a standard barrel into a gravity feeder, this is the exact part you need. The 4.7-star rating across 251 reviews confirms that it does its job exceptionally well.
The three feed ports feature 4-inch interior diameter openings that are sized precisely for a deer muzzle. The 10-degree angle on each port matches the natural downward feeding motion of deer, making it comfortable for them to eat. The internal cone inside the head unit ensures that feed is distributed evenly to all three ports rather than favoring one side. This is a detail that cheaper feed heads often overlook, and it results in more consistent feed access and less waste.
Installation is a simple bolt-on process that takes about five minutes with a wrench. The head fits all standard Boss Buck feeder models, and users report that it even works perfectly on units that are more than 10 years old. That kind of backwards compatibility is refreshing in a market where companies often push you toward buying a whole new unit instead of repairing what you have. If your original feed head is cracked, chewed up by squirrels, or simply worn out, this replacement restores full function without the cost of replacing the entire feeder.
The main weakness is squirrel damage. Because the head is made from the same roto-molded material as the hopper, determined squirrels can eventually chew through the feed port edges. If this has been an issue for you in the past, consider adding a metal cage or hardware cloth around the feed ports as a deterrent. The inner cone that distributes feed may also show wear after several years of continuous use, but it is replaceable separately.
This feed head is designed specifically for Boss Buck gravity feeder systems and fits their standard barrel opening. It will not directly fit other brands without modification. If you are handy, some users have adapted it to work with 55-gallon drums and other hopper sizes using custom brackets and sealant. The bolt pattern and opening diameter are what determine fit, so measure your existing setup before ordering if you are planning to use it on a non-Boss Buck product.
For Boss Buck owners, this is a direct swap with zero guesswork. Remove the old head, bolt on the new one, and you are back in business. The gasket seal from your original head will transfer over and maintain a weather-tight connection.
The entire installation process involves removing the bolts that hold your existing feed head, lifting off the old unit, and bolting this one in its place. You do not need to empty the hopper first, which is a nice convenience. Just support the weight of any remaining feed while you swap the heads. Most users complete the swap in under 10 minutes with a single wrench. After installation, check that all three feed ports are flowing evenly by pouring a small amount of feed through and watching the distribution. Adjust the internal cone if one port is flowing faster than the others.
Selecting the right gravity feeder comes down to matching the feeder to your property, your herd, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance. Here are the key factors that should drive your decision.
A feeder that is too small means constant refilling, and one that is too large means feed sits in the hopper longer and risks spoiling. As a general guideline, a 100-pound feeder works for properties with 5 to 8 deer. A 150 to 200-pound feeder is right for 10 to 20 deer. If you are feeding more than 20 deer, consider the 250-pound Moultrie or run multiple feeders spread across your property. During peak summer consumption, a mature buck can eat 3 to 5 pounds of protein pellets per day, so do the math based on your herd size and refill schedule.
Tripod feeders like the Moultrie and Boss Buck are the most versatile because they work anywhere without additional hardware. Post-mounted feeders like the Banks Outdoors Feed Bank offer the best antler safety because nothing sticks out at head height for a buck. Tree-mounted bag feeders like the Wildgame Innovations Treehugger are the most portable and cheapest option but sacrifice durability and varmint resistance. Think about where you plan to place the feeder and whether you already have suitable trees or posts in the right locations.
Roto-molded polyethylene, used in the Boss Buck and On Time feeders, is the gold standard for durability. It handles UV exposure, temperature extremes, and physical abuse without cracking. Standard polyethylene, like the Moultrie uses, is slightly less rugged but still highly durable and lighter to handle. PVC bag feeders are the most affordable and portable but have the shortest lifespan, typically two to three seasons before UV degradation becomes an issue. Metal components in legs and hardware should be galvanized or powder-coated to resist rust.
No gravity feeder is completely varmint-proof, but some designs are better than others. Feeders with smaller port openings and adjustable flow rates make it harder for raccoons and squirrels to pull feed out. Post-mounted designs like the Banks Outdoors are inherently harder for raccoons to climb than tripod designs, especially if you add a metal wrap around the post. If varmints are a major issue on your property, avoid bag feeders entirely and invest in a rigid hopper with small, adjustable feed ports.
Where you put your feeder matters almost as much as which feeder you buy. Research and experienced landowners recommend placing gravity feeders near travel corridors between bedding and feeding areas, ideally 100 to 200 yards from thick cover. Deer prefer to feed in areas where they feel secure, so avoid open fields or areas with heavy human traffic. In southern states like Texas, placing feeders near water sources during dry periods dramatically increases visit frequency. In northern regions, position feeders on south-facing slopes where deer naturally congregate during winter months.
Gravity feeders are the preferred method for delivering protein pellets because they allow free-choice feeding. Unlike corn, which deer eat for energy, protein pellets directly support antler growth, doe lactation, and fawn development. Most wildlife biologists recommend a 16 to 20 percent protein pellet for optimal antler development. If you are wondering whether 20 percent protein is too much for deer, the answer is no. Deer naturally select forage with protein levels up to 25 percent when available, and their digestive systems process high-protein feed efficiently during the growing season. The key is consistent access, which is exactly what a gravity feeder provides.
Yes, gravity deer feeders are highly effective for supplemental feeding. They allow deer to eat on their own schedule, which reduces stress and encourages more natural feeding patterns. Unlike timed spin feeders, gravity feeders operate silently, which means mature bucks are more likely to use them. They require no batteries or motors, making them more reliable and lower maintenance than timed feeders, especially in remote locations.
Yes, deer adapt quickly to gravity feeders, usually within a few days to two weeks. Most gravity feeders are designed with port heights between 36 and 42 inches, which matches the natural feeding height of adult deer. The key is placing the feeder in an area with existing deer traffic and being patient during the initial adaptation period. Once deer discover the feeder, they return consistently.
The ideal feeding port height for a gravity deer feeder is 36 to 42 inches off the ground. This range allows adult deer to feed comfortably without straining and is tall enough that fawns can still reach the lower edge. Feeders mounted too low waste feed on the ground and attract more varmints. Feeders mounted too high discourage use by younger deer and does with fawns.
The most effective varmint prevention combines physical barriers with feeder design. Wrap feeder legs or posts with sheet metal from ground level to three feet high to stop raccoons from climbing. Choose feeders with smaller adjustable feed ports that limit how much varmints can pull out. Avoid bag-style feeders if squirrels and raccoons are heavy in your area. Some users also deploy cage-style guards around the feed ports made from hardware cloth.
No, 20 percent protein is not too much for deer. Research shows that deer naturally select browse with 16 to 25 percent protein content when available. During antler growing season (spring through early fall), bucks benefit significantly from consistent access to 16 to 20 percent protein pellets. Does also benefit during late gestation and lactation. Deer will self-regulate their intake, so offering 20 percent protein through a free-choice gravity feeder is safe and effective.
Finding the best gravity feeders for deer comes down to matching the right design to your property and goals. For most landowners, the Banks Outdoors Feed Bank is the top choice because the antler-safe post design and 4.7-star rating speak for themselves. If you need maximum capacity for a larger herd, the Moultrie 250-pound feeder is tough to beat. And if you are just getting started or running a tight budget, the Wildgame Innovations Treehugger delivers real results at a fraction of the cost.
Every feeder on this list has been proven in the field by hundreds of real users. Pick the one that fits your setup, place it strategically, and be patient. The deer will find it. Once they do, you will see the difference in herd health and antler growth that consistent free-choice feeding delivers season after season.