First Look: Down & Out Panel Blind

by
posted on January 6, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
down-and-out-blind-main.jpg
Ground blinds offer arguably the highest level of concealment possible when hunting eye-level with your quarry, but setup and teardown can be quite the hassle, particularly if your favorite spot is miles from you truck or camp. Hawk is looking to make this process a thing of the past, with the Down & Out XL ground blind. With its patented BlindFold technology, not only can this blind be set up in less than five minutes and torn down in one, it is built to withstand snow and harsh weather, meaning it can be left in place all season.

Dimensioning out at 96-inches in diameter and 78-inches tall at its peak, the Down & Out XL draws its weatherproofing from the 600-denier No-Shine Cordura fabric that makes up each of its six foldable panels. Each panel is secured to a powder-coated aluminum frame, and five of them include a 13X25" vertical window, and a 23X14" horizontal window with built-in gun rails to accommodate 360-degree shooting with vertical bows, crossbows and guns. All windows are additionally comprised of an inside fabric with a silent elastic cord/clip system, and outer camouflage shoot-through mesh windows with quiet magnetic closures. The door panel is also sealed magnetically, measuring 48x60" for easy access and wheelchair accessibility. 

The entire assembly can be constructed without tools (to include the roof struts, which are hefty enough to support a load of snow). All-steel stakes bind the structure to the ground, though the blind is compatible with Muddy Deluxe 5- and 10-ft towers for elevated use. The blind is additionally compatible with the Down & Out Custom Accessory Hanger, so gear can be kept off the floor. 

The blind's total weight is around 81 pounds, all of which can be packed up and carried in the included case. For more information, please visit downandoutblinds.com

Latest

Lede250th Anniversary Cases
Lede250th Anniversary Cases

First Look: Eylar X Brownells 250th Anniversary Rifle and Pistol Cases

Eylar has launched its 250th Anniversary rifle case and pistol case, created in partnership with Brownells to celebrate America's 250th anniversary in 2026. Featuring patriotic artwork, tan hard-shell construction and purpose-built foam interiors, the commemorative cases offer firearm owners a distinctive way to protect and transport their gear while honoring a major milestone in American history.

Says Me: ‘Rocky Mountain Harry’ Lies Within Us All

I have always been intrigued by what possibly could lie beyond the next hill. I suppose that is a primary reason I am a hunter. Surely hunters everywhere share this sentiment. Surely Harry Yount did. That’s him above.

Hardware Review: Spandau RL Bolt Action

Based in Knoxville, Tenn., SDS Arms works with manufacturers worldwide to develop and import some of the finest firearms, many tailored to specific needs. Its latest is the RL bolt-action rifle, manufactured by Spandau. Emulating the famous bolt action of yesteryear, this rifle is capable straight out of the box, and it is compatible with nearly any aftermarket part that fits the Remington Model 700.

Divide Gun Company Launches MTN Lite Ti Suppressor

Divide Gun Company has announced the MTN Lite Ti Suppressor, delivering lightweight sound suppression to backcountry hunters and long-range shooting enthusiasts.

Cartridge Legacies: The .375 H&H Magnum Family Tree

The latest in our mini-series on famous cartridges and the chamberings they spawned. Let's take a look at .375 H&H Magnum!

New for 2026: KJI K-Series Tripods

KJI has launched an all-new K-Series tripod lineup. Replacing the original K-700 and K-800 tripods, the new K-Series represents a complete modernization of KJI's shooting support platform, offering a broader, stronger and more adaptable family of tripods built for hunting, long-range shooting, competition, photography and professional field use.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.