Great Portable Blind for Photographers

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 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