DIY Deer Feeder: Build Your Own Deer Feeder with Key Deer Feeder Parts from Native Outdoors

Creating your own deer feeder from scratch can be an excellent project for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts looking to enhance their property's wildlife management strategy. With premium deer feeder parts available from Native Outdoors, you can construct a professional-quality deer feeder that's both cost-effective and customized to your specific needs. This guide will walk you through selecting the right deer feeder parts and assembling your own reliable feeding system.

Why Build a Custom Deer Feeder?

Before gathering your deer feeder parts, consider these advantages of building your own deer feeder:

• Cost efficiency compared to pre-assembled deer feeders
• Customization options to match your specific property and deer feeding strategy
• Quality control over every deer feeder part
• Easier maintenance when you understand how each deer feeder part functions
• Personal satisfaction from building your own wildlife management tool

Essential Deer Feeder Parts You'll Need

Native Outdoors offers critical deer feeder parts to build a professional-quality system:

The Foundation: Deer Feeder Kits

Start with a complete deer feeder kit as your foundation. Native Outdoors offers several options:

• All Seasons Deer Feeder Kits - Our most popular 12v feeder kits
• Foreverlast 12v Spin Feeder Kit - Our most economical 12v deer feeder kit
• Spintech Deer Feeder Kits - Specialized for feeding deer while shutting off the feed to coons and varmint when not feeding.

Critical Deer Feeder Accessories

Complete your deer feeder with these essential deer feeder parts:

1. Deer Feeder Barrel Band: The Barrel Bands clamp to the side of your 55 gal barrel (without making holes), and have leg studs to slide your feeder legs on.
2. Solar Panel for Sustained Power: Consider adding a deer feeder solar panel to your feeder to keep the battery charged, reducing down time.
3. Deer Feeder Varmint Protection: Safeguard your investment with a Boss Buck Varmint Cage to prevent raccoons and other pests from damaging your deer feeder parts.
4. Deer Feeder Lids and Funnels: Add a lid to your 55 gallon barrel, and if you want better corn flow, also add a funnel to your barrel.

Step-by-Step Deer Feeder Construction Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Deer Feeder Container

A 55 Gallon Metal Barrel is the most popular and can be found on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.

Step 2: Install the Deer Feeder Mechanism

1. Find the middle of the bottom of your 55 gallon barrel and mark it.
2. Cut an appropriate-sized hole for your selected deer feeder kit, usually 2 inches, and most feeder kits come with a template.
3. Mount the deer feeder timer and motor assembly according to manufacturer instructions

Step 3: Deer Feeder Power Setup

1. Install your deer feeder battery inside the motor box, most feeder kits do not include a battery.
2. Mount the deer feeder solar panel where it will receive maximum sunlight, in the USA that would be pointing South.
3. Connect the deer feeder wiring according to the manufacturer's instructions
4. Test the deer feeder system to ensure proper function

Step 4: Add Deer Feeder Protective Features

1. Install the varmint cage around your deer feeder mechanism
2. Consider adding a deer feeder rain shield to protect feed during wet weather
3. If bears are present in your area, add appropriate deer feeder reinforcements or protective measures

Step 5: Deer Feeder Mounting and Placement

1. Decide whether your deer feeder will be post-mounted, tree-mounted, or freestanding
2. Use appropriate deer feeder mounting brackets and hardware for secure installation
3. Consider the feeding area and ensure proper clearance for deer to access the feed

Deer Feeder Maintenance Tips

Once built, ensure your deer feeder's longevity with these maintenance practices:

1. Regular Testing: Check deer feeder timer functionality monthly
2. Battery Maintenance: Monitor deer feeder battery levels and clean solar panels regularly
3. Feed Quality: Use only quality deer feed and check regularly for moisture or mold
4. Seasonal Adjustments: Modify deer feeder schedules based on seasonal deer behavior
5. Physical Inspection: Check for damage to deer feeder parts from weather or animals

Deer Feeder Customization Options

The beauty of building your own deer feeder is customization. Consider these deer feeder enhancements:

• Add a game camera mount to monitor deer activity at your feeder
• Install multiple deer feeder ports for greater coverage
• Add a gravity-fed protein supplement system alongside your timed corn deer feeder
• Paint your deer feeder in camouflage patterns to blend with surroundings

Conclusion

Building your own deer feeder using quality deer feeder parts from Native Outdoors allows you to create a customized feeding system perfectly suited to your property and hunting strategy. Not only will you save money compared to pre-manufactured deer feeders, but you'll also gain the satisfaction of creating a functional wildlife management tool with your own hands.

By selecting the right deer feeder parts and following proper assembly techniques, your DIY deer feeder can provide years of reliable service, helping you maintain a healthy deer population and improve your hunting opportunities.