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

Sierra Matchking X Lede
Sierra Matchking X Lede

Hardware Review: Sierra MatchKing X

Sierra MatchKing bullets have been setting the accuracy standard for handloaders since the Truman administration. Now, they have redesigned their classic MatchKing bullet for hunting, with a softer lead core, tapered jacket and a skived nose to help it expand. They call the bullet the MatchKing X (MKX).

New for 2026: Lapua TRX Tipped

Lapua has expanded its True-Range Expanding (TRX) family of products to include several new ammunition offerings.

Bolt-Action Build: Model 2020 Muley

With the right tools and a bit of know-how, anyone can build a quality backcountry rifle in their own shop, and for a far sight less than a comparable rifle from a custom gun-builder. Follow along for exactly how to build a backcountry-capable rifle all your own, with your only trip to an FFL being the one necessary to get your receiver.

Range Review: Savage Arms' Revel DLX Takedown

This sharp-shooting rimfire lever action from Savage Arms splits neatly in half for easier transport and storage.

MDT Expands CRBN Line with 700 LA Compatibility

MDT has introduced its ultra-lightweight CRBN Rifle Stock lineup with a new inlet for the Remington 700 Long Action Right-Handed CIP configuration. The CRBN Rifle Stock is also available for the Remington 700 Short Action, giving shooters a lightweight carbon-fiber option across multiple action lengths.

Gear Review: Sitka Fanatic Hoodie and Bib

Need to stay warm in the cold or extreme cold and want something to last for many seasons? Enter the Fanatic lineup at Sitka.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.