Are you tired of lying in wait all day for your prey to come into your field of vision, only to have them see you and take off in the other direction, spoiling your chances of making the shot?
If so then it’s time for you to try hunting from a layout blind, which lets you lie on the ground undetected, waiting for the perfect opportunity.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Layout Blinds
- OUR TOP PICK: ALPS OutdoorZ Layout Blind
- RUNNER-UP: Avery KillerWeed Layout Blind
- BEST TANGLEFREE MODEL: Tanglefree Flight Series Layout Blind
Comparison of the Best Layout Blinds
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What is a Layout Blind?
A layout blind is essentially a small, very low to the ground one-man tent-like structure that serves to keep you, the hunter, hidden and undetected by your prey. All layout blinds come in a variety of camo patterns and colors. Patterns vary from working in crop fields to woody patterns that work well in almost any environment.
Using layout blinds is also a way to provide comfort, allowing you to focus more on the animals that you are hunting. Instead of lying on the cold, uncomfortable ground trying to make sure that you are unseen, you can sit inside your blind watching, without being observed and staying dry and focused on your prey.
How Do I Choose a New Layout Blind?
When you plan a hunting trip, you have to make a lot of decisions, such as the hunting spot, the gear to carry, the spot to shoot from, etc. But no decision is more daunting than choosing the right layout blind for yourself. With a huge range of varying models available on the market, making the right choice for yourself is a tough task. Here are some aspects to consider while choosing a new layout blind.
Size
Manufacturers have introduced units in varying sizes. They are designed to suit the physical makeup of most hunters. When you head out to purchase a new layout blind for yourself, be sure to pick up a size that is more in tune with your physique.
Portability
Ease of mobility and storage is a huge concern when buying a new layout blind these days. Waterfowl hunting is usually conducted in open fields or near ponds. These spots have a lack of transportation, so hunters have to carry their blinds over long distances. It is better to invest in a model that is portable and lightweight.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing is a concern for hunters who hunt in wet conditions. The market offers a number of waterproof layout blinds. Some are completely waterproof, while others have a waterproof base to keep out standing water.
Camouflage Pattern
Layout blinds come in a number of colors and camouflage patterns. When choosing a new layout blind for yourself, be sure to buy a color or camouflage pattern that goes with the surroundings of your hunting spot.
Avery Power Hunter
Can You Really Find a Layout Blind That's Affordable?
Layout blinds come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Although they all serve the same purpose, they come at different price ranges. Some are expensive high-end models, while others are directed towards budget-minded people.
Our brains are conditioned to judge different things according to their price. Many of us would believe that having the costlier of the two means better chances of success. Truthfully, it is not really the layout blind that determines your success. It’s actually your skill.
You can invest in a more affordable option and be more successful if you have the right amount of skill. So, yes, you can get good layout blinds at an affordable price. But your success is more dependent on your skill rather than your layout blind.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Assembled Dimensions: The actual dimensions of the blind when fully set up.
- Weight: The carrying weight of the blind measured in pounds.
- Materials: The materials of the blind walls and support frame.
- Color: The main color(s) of the blind.
- Additional Storage: Whether there are any additional storage compartments or pockets on the blind.
- Waterproof? Whether the blind contains any waterproofing qualities.
Review of the Best Layout Blinds
Now that you know what you should be looking for in the best layout blind for your uses, it is time to look through a list of some of the best layout blinds on the market.
Best Overall and Best Zero Gravity Layout Blind:
ALPS OutdoorZ Layout Blind
PROS
CONS
Review
This model is one of the best and easiest to use that there is on the market. With the entire blind folding up to the size of a backpack with straps for easy transport, it is certainly one of the most convenient to move around.
Once you find where you want to set up, it is easy to unfold and have it quickly ready for use. The built-in chair stays off the ground, keeping you dry and making it easy to see what you are looking for. It has no floor so that it is easy to keep clean and place your blind anywhere without worrying about ripping the floor fabric.
Bottom Line
The ALPS OutdoorZ is a great choice for anyone who is looking to use a layout blind for waterfowl hunting. Easy to set up and transport in almost any location, it is extremely durable and versatile.
Made to blend in naturally with its surroundings, it has flared sides to make for a gradual slope to connect with the ground. The flared sides also allow you to store more equipment that you might need on your trip.
The only drawback to this one is that you have to securely stake the sides down so that it doesn’t blow around in the wind. However, this is a small price to pay for the overall great quality and ease of use that this blind provides.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
9'10" x 7'5"
Weight:
23.5 lbs
Material(s):
Polyester
Color:
Realtree MAX-5
Additional Storage:
2 side gear pockets
Waterproof?
No
Runner-up:
Avery KillerWeed Layout Blind
PROS
CONS
Review
This is a very realistic blind concealer that is made to last through many seasons and keep you hidden from your quarry. Made from synthetic raffia grass and dyed to match natural vegetation, it provides excellent general concealment; you can pick which camouflage you want, depending on where you are going to be using it at.
Easier to layout on top than natural vegetation that you will find around, this concealer will last you many seasons; it is rot and mildew resistant as well as extremely durable and waterproof, all while giving you the best opportunities to take a shot.
This extra cover kit can cover one full-size blind to improve concealment or it can cover two mid-sized blinds. If you are out hunting with a partner and both of you need to be concealed this is the one cover that you need.
Bottom Line
The Avery KillerWeed is an excellent choice for someone looking to spruce up their current blind and improve their chances at getting the best shot possible. It is made of synthetic raffia grass that is dyed to authentically blend in with natural vegetation. You should have no problem setting up you blind and having a successful hunting trip. The cover is extremely durable, being waterproof and resistant to rot and mildew.
The only downside to keep in mind is that you should still rip up some real vegetation to mix on top to add authenticity, but this really isn’t a hard thing to do. So if you are looking to add some extra camouflage to your blind this is what you are looking for.
Product Specs
Weight:
2 lbs
Material(s):
Synthetic raffia grass
Color:
All Terrain, Grain, Harvest, Faded, Winter
Waterproof?
Yes
Best TangleFree Model:
Tanglefree Flight Series Layout Blind
PROS
CONS
Review
This model is designed to work great for people who are looking to shoot birds that are flying overhead. With an adjustable backrest to change the angle of your seat to allow for good positioning and extra ammo storage pouches inside, this is a great option for someone who won’t be leaving for a while after they get in.
This is also built to last with a durable, corrosion resistant strong aluminum frame and tear-resistant camo fabric material. This blind is perfect for you and all your gear and equipment to comfortably fit in and wait for the opportune moment to take a shot.
Bottom Line
The TangleFree Flight is an excellent choice for someone who is looking to aim mostly for airborne birds rather than those that are on the ground. With a sturdy frame and tear resistant camo fabric, this blind blends into its environment when looking down from above.
However, if you are looking more to aim at birds that are coming in to land or are already grounded, this option is a little more conspicuous then you would probably want because of its boxy shape. While this boxy shape allows for more storage room inside and a comfortable, adjusting seat, it is not a very low-profile design. Overall, this is a great model as long as you are looking to aim high into the sky.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
84" x 37" x 17"
Weight:
19 lbs
Material(s):
Aluminum frame and 600D Polyester tear resistant fabric
Color:
Camo
Additional Storage:
2 shell pouches
Waterproof?
Yes
Best Snow Cover:
ALPS OutdoorZ Delta Waterfowl Zero-Gravity Snow Cover
PROS
CONS
Review
This blind cover is one of the best snow covers on the market. Some of the aspects that make it the best is that it doesn’t reflect UV rays onto the surrounding area, making it much easier to see instead of having to squint through all the glare coming off your cover.
It also has stubble straps all over it to hold vegetation onto the blind for added camouflage without making it look obvious. This cover is also only about 7lbs, making it easy to transport with you and your other gear without adding too much weight and hassle.
Bottom Line
The ALPS OutdoorZ Delta Waterfowl Zero-Gravity Snow Cover is an excellent quality option that works very well to keep you concealed from birds flying or resting in snowy areas. The stubble straps allow you to add vegetation for a realistic look and the lack of UV ray reflection will make it much easier for you to see what you are trying to shoot.
The only possible drawback to this snow cover is that it was designed specifically to fit only on the Delta Waterfowl Zero-Gravity and because of this, it won’t fit smoothly on any other model. However, if you have the ALPS OutdoorZ Delta Waterfowl Zero-Gravity model then this is the only snow cover blind to even consider because of its many great features and perfect fit.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
43" x 26" x 8"
Weight:
7 lbs
Material(s):
Polyester
Color:
White
Best Waterproof Model:
ALPS OutdoorZ Legend Realtree MAX-5
PROS
CONS
Review
If you are looking for a unit to keep you and all your equipment dry and protected from the elements, then this is the option for you. Built with waterproof tarpaulin floors to keep water out and your gear dry and protected, this blind is made to last and work well for years.
Its zero-gravity chair keeps you off the ground so that you also are dry and stay comfortable while watching for your prey. This blind makes taking your shot very easy as well, with doors that have easily accessed handles to let you open them quickly.
Bottom Line
The ALPS OutdoorZ Legend Realtree MAX-5 is a great choice for you if you are tired of having your gear get wet and ruined sitting on the ground waiting for an opportunity to shoot to come around. Its waterproof floor and comfortable padded chair will keep both you and your equipment dry and in good shape throughout the day.
This will also give you easy access to a good shot when it comes along with its easily opened doors that have well-placed handles to make opening the blind easy. The only downside is that this blind does weigh 25 lbs and some people may not want to carry around the extra weight, but if that doesn’t bother you then this blind is a great quality option for you.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
33" x 90" x 5"
Weight:
25 lbs
Material(s):
Polyester
Color:
Realtree Max 5
Additional Storage:
Rear storage
Waterproof?
Yes
Best Duck Hunting Layout Blind:
Guide Gear Waterfowl Layout Hunting Blind
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who have recently invested in this unit report it to be a very functional product. They say that it has a durable and high-quality construction. They like it for its portability as it folds neatly in half for convenient carrying. The waterproofing is the cherry on top that makes it a versatile unit. Users have been able to use it in a variety of hunting conditions.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a very versatile and functional product. It is lightweight and portable, making it very easy to carry on long hikes. It folds into half and sits nicely on your back with a sturdy carrying strap. It has quality construction with high-quality components and heavy-duty double stitching to keep it from tearing. The waterproof fabric and base effectively save it from water damage, making it a very suitable layout blind for varying situations.
Bottom Line
If you are a serious waterfowl hunter who is looking to up his game with a reliable layout blind, then this is the right one for you. It is completely water-resistant with a solid and lightweight construction. It is very easy to carry around and store when not in use. The variety of camouflage patterns and colors also gives you the freedom to choose.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
38" x 28" x 6.12"
Weight:
25 lbs
Material(s):
Steel frame and polyester fabric
Color:
Mossy Oak Shadow Grass
Waterproof?
Yes
Best Avery Power Hunter Layout Blind:
Avery Power Hunter
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers report that it is an excellent low profile blind. They say that it is very easy and quick to set up and tear down, which saves them a lot of precious time. The face cover is a bonus feature for many because it helps keep them out of sight of the target while allowing them to keep an eye on it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us for being an amazing layout blind. At only 11 pounds, it is one of the lightest ones that you can buy. It offers a lot of portability by folding down into a backpack form with two sturdy straps to carry it on your back. The all-aluminum frame is quite solid. It has a mesh flip top that allows unobstructed calling along with a mesh rear window for a better field of view.
Bottom Line
In all, this is one of the most recommended waterfowl layout blinds. Setting it up is easy and takes no time, which is good because in hunting, every second counts. The arched top design is great for calling the birds towards you while keeping you out of sight with the camo pattern and face cover.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
80" x 22”x 28”
Weight:
11 lbs
Material(s):
Aluminum frame and polymesh
Color:
Field Khaki, BuckBrush and KW-1
Best Low Profile Layout Blind:
ALPS OutdoorZ Zero-Gravity
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Hunters who have recently purchased and used this blind are very satisfied with its performance. They really like the stealth look that allows it to blend perfectly with the surroundings. It has a spacious and comfortable interior that facilitates users during the long hours of wait. The zipper at the back is a well-liked feature as it facilitates easy access to the storage pit.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Its design makes it stand out since it ensures you feel comfortable for the long hours of hunting. The high chair design effectively keeps you off the ground, protecting you from a number of ground elements. The fabric is heavy-duty and waterproof, so it will keep you safe from the harsh weather. The best part? It comes pre-assembled, so you only have to unfold it.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a great option for hunters who are looking to buy a good one for their next waterfowl hunting trip. Easy to transport and set up, this is a gear that can be used in a variety of circumstances. It is designed to blend nicely with its surroundings, so you are not noticed by your prey.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
118" x 89" x 17"
Weight:
23 lbs
Material(s):
Fabric
Color:
Realtree Max 5, Tan, Mossy Oak
Additional Storage:
Flared sides
Best Beavertail Layout Blind:
Beavertail 435 Sniper Deluxe Lay Out Blind
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers who have recently bought this layout blind report it as a durable and reliable product. They say that it is very lightweight and portable, making it one of the most convenient layout blinds. The backrest and the cushioned headrest not only make them feel comfortable but also provide an elevated field of vision to keep an eye on their surroundings.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This layout blind has a lot to offer. It is simple to set up and easy and convenient to store. The windproof polyester is equipped with a waterproof bottom to make it quite weatherproof. It has a backrest and a cushioned headrest to make you feel comfortable while you wait for your prey to come by. All in all, it is a product you should consider.
Bottom Line
If you are a fan of frameless layout blinds, this is one of the best ones. It has a simple yet functional design that greatly enhances your chances of success. The low profile offers better concealment by blending well with the surrounding. It is sturdy yet very lightweight, so you won’t have any difficulty in carrying it over long distances.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
84″ x 18″ x 13″
Weight:
9 lbs
Material(s):
600 Denier polyester
Color:
Realtree Max-4
Waterproof?
Yes
Best for the Money:
Ground Ghost Layout Blind
PROS
CONS
Review
If you are just looking for a simple, easy use yet effective layout blind, then this is the blind for you. Built from durable material in realistic Realtree camo, this resembles a sleeping bag that has a very sturdy backrest in it.
For setting up this blind, all you need to do is unroll it, add a little natural vegetation around it, and hop in. Then, you wait for your prey to come around and take the perfect shot. This is easy to transport; it can be rolled up and only weighs 8 lbs. Therefore, it is perfect for someone who is not looking to haul around a large amount of weight.
Bottom Line
The Ground Ghost is certainly one of the simplest blinds on the market, but don’t let that discourage you from it. Built to lay low on the ground and with some of the most realistic and durable camouflage material, this allows you to blend into your surroundings and make the most of any opportunity to take a clean shot.
Another great feature of this is the mesh window that can be adjusted from open to closed over your face so that you are completely covered and can still see everything that you need to. The only downside to it is that its simplistic design doesn’t leave space for extra storage of any additional equipment you might need on your hunt. However, this is still one of the best blinds on the market and will be perfect for you if you need something simple.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
80" x 25" x 15"
Weight:
8 lbs
Material(s):
600D polyester
Color:
Realtree Max 5
Additional Storage:
None
Waterproof?
Yes
Best by Final Approach:
Primos Final Approach X-2
PROS
CONS
Review
When looking for blinds to use in cold and wet conditions, this is definitely one of the best to consider. Durable and made with closed cell foam, this will keep you dry and warm on even some of the rainiest days and coldest hunting trips. Made to be easy for transport, this can be folded into a backpack-sized package for easy transport, has a built-in scabbard to hold your shotgun, and has flags while you are moving to your specific destination.
Bottom Line
The Primos Final Approach X-2 is a great choice for you if you are going to be hunting in colder, wetter climates; built with closed cell foam to insulate you, this will keep you warm and dry while you wait for your prey to come along and present itself with an open shot. This also makes it easy for you to take your shot, as the double lid system is easy to open quickly and allows for the quickest shooting access for the perfect shot.
This blind can be a bit tricky to set up the first few times, but after a while, you will get the hang of it and not need to look at instructions; then you will be good to go in the field. Overall, this is a great option that will serve you well for many hunting seasons.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
84" x 26" x 14"
Weight:
11.99 lbs
Color:
Realtree Max-5 Camo
Additional Storage:
Holds up to four dozen silhouettes, built-in scabbard
Best by Cabelas:
Cabela’s Northern Flight Shadow-Free
PROS
CONS
Review
This is a great choice for you if you like to stay out hunting all day long and have to set up in a place that has open light, which causes shadows that can give you away. It reduces the effects of changing light in order to remain concealed throughout the day.
It provides easy access to more equipment through a zippered rear access so that you don’t have to have all your gear stuffed into it with you, which can make it uncomfortable and cluttered.
Bottom Line
The Cabela’s Northern Flight is an excellent choice for someone who stays out hunting all day long, as it reduces the change in shadows from the moving sun that could give away your position. It is also a great choice for someone who does long hours, thanks to the adjustable hammock seat with a headrest that keeps you off the ground and comfortable the whole day.
A small problem that can arise with this model are the wire frames of the mesh panels could reflect strong sunlight, but it is easy enough to cover those and remain hidden, so don’t let that discourage you from this high-quality model. This blind also has pin-less doors that open silently and quickly for easy shooting access so that you can take the opportune shot.
Product Specs
Assembled Dimensions:
97" x 42" x 18"
Weight:
16.5 lbs
Material(s):
Customizable wire-framed mesh panels
Pros and Cons of Layout Blinds
There is a divide amongst the most devoted waterfowl hunters regarding layout blinds. Some say that they are just fancy tools for something you can do easily for free while others rave about their usability. To give you a better idea, we have listed some pros and cons of layout blinds below.
Pros
Hunters need a place of concealment to keep out of the alert eyes of their prey. Layout blinds offer the perfect solution to this problem. Here are some of their advantages.
Concealment
If you are an avid hunter, you will know the importance of keeping out of sight. You don't want to alert the birds of your presence. You need them to come within your shooting range without realizing what’s going on. Layout blinds offer an ideal hiding space to conceal yourself.
Movability
Hunting ducks and geese involves hours of waiting. Anybody can become tired by lying in the same position for hours at a time. Using a layout blind provides you space to move around without alerting your prey of any suspicious activity.
Comfort
Layout blinds are designed to make your hunting experience convenient and comfortable. Different models come with different features that are aimed to make your waiting hour very comfortable.
Better View
Layout blinds offer better visibility. They are equipped with head and backrests to give you an elevation to keep an eye on your prey.
Shoot from a Layout Blind (Source)
Cons
While layout blinds are certainly deemed useful, there are also some cons associated with them. These include:
Noisiness
Many seasoned hunters argue that layout blinds are noisier than they are useful. They make a lot of noise even with the slightest movements like sitting up, picking up your gun, or pushing open the door.
Costly
Layout blinds come at a certain price. Using natural stimuli like twigs, branches, and grass is free of cost.
Types of Layout Blinds
A layout blind is a form of concealment that hunters use for hunting goose and ducks. It is a perfect tool to hide from the sight of your prey while enjoying the adventure of hunting. They are types of enclosures that you set up on the ground, go in, and hide as much as you can.
To better merge with the surroundings, layout blinds come in a variety of colors. There are also different types that you should know about before choosing one yourself. Here’s a detailed account of different types of layout blinds.
Layout Blinds With Doors
This type of layout blinds come with a door or two. You open the hinged door, go inside and close it. Once a prey approaches, you can use your arms to push open the door to shoot at them. This type of layout blind gives you the advantage of a surprise element. You can comfortably observe the birds, and once they are within range, you can pop open the door and hunt them.
Layout Blinds With Frame
Also known as a field layout, this is the most popular type. It is equipped with metal or aluminum to hold it in shape. They co-function as mini tents where you can stay safe from external stimuli. They have a backrest that supports your back. It also provides you an elevation of 45 degrees and enables you to aim and shoot better.
Layout Blinds Without Frames
This type of layout blind looks more like a sleeping bag. It is a hit amongst hunters because of its ease of usage. You sneak inside, lie on your stomach, and wait. Once a duck or goose is close enough, you take aim and shoot. This is very portable and convenient to carry.
Chair Blinds
Resembling a reclining lawn chair, this kind comes with a large goose shell cover that you use to cover yourself. You can push the hinged cover open to aim and shoot at your target. You can pull the cover back on and await the next prey.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying a Layout Blind
Before you start looking over different brands and models of layout blinds to buy, you first need to learn what are some essential qualities of a truly great blind and why they are necessary.
Concealment
Obviously, it is of utmost importance that your blind can adequately blend into the environment that you are hunting in. There are many different patterns to choose from, so you can choose one that is extremely specific, if you will only be using it in one area, or you can choose a pattern that is more general and does a good job blending into most habitats, if you want to use it in many areas.
Lightweight and Portable
You want to find a model that is easy to pack up and carry around as well as being easy to set up. While being light enough to carry, your blind also needs to be made of a durable material that is hopefully water-resistant.
Versatile
If possible, try to find one that is versatile and can be used in many different environments, unless you are absolutely certain that you will only be using it in one specific environment.
How to Hide a Layout Blind
Now that you have looked through some of the best blinds on the market you need to think about how you will use yours and stay concealed from your prey.
Terrain
When you first get to the location that you are going to be hunting at look around for dips and rises in the land. You will want to try to put your blind against a rise or in a dip so that it doesn’t seem like an out of place form that the birds will be spooked by.
Cover
All are made from camouflage material and while you should try to get a pattern that matches where you will be the best make sure to still try to tear up some natural vegetation to pack onto your blind. If you have a synthetic blind cover be sure to mix in some natural vegetation to make it seem more realistic and matching the surrounding area.
Hopefully, these tips have helped and please make sure to refer to the video below for more information about hiding your layout blind.
Conclusion
Now, it is time for you to go out and find the best layout blind for your purposes. You have seen some of the best options on the market, what you should take into consideration when looking for a model and how best to hide one, so all that’s left is for you to get the perfect option for you.
People Also Ask
These days, we have to be very careful about the products we purchase. With scams happening left, right, and center, people are confused about who to trust. Hunting is a hobby people regularly indulge into with the layout blinds offering the perfect disguise for concealment.
Those who are new to this often become confused. They have a number of questions running around their heads that need answers before they can move ahead with their purchase. If you are one of those, here are answers to some of those confusing questions to help you out.
Are Layout Blinds Comfortable?
Comfort is the number one priority in a layout blind’s design. It is supposed to set up on uneven grounds and terrains. So, a hunter who resides inside it needs to feel comfortable so that he can focus. Being comfortable in your layout blind really increases your chances of success.
How Portable Are Layout Blinds?
Layout blinds available on today’s market are very lightweight and portable. They are constructed with materials that are high in quality but light in weight. This makes them super easy to carry around. Their easy setup requires only a few minutes, and you can also disassemble them without any difficulty.
Are Layout Blinds Waterproof?
Layout blinds are manufactured in a versatile range. There are many models to choose from. Some are designed for four-season use, while others are designed for specific hunting situations. Hence, some layout blinds are waterproof, and some are not. A water moccasin slip is manufactured for layout blinds that are not waterproof. You can slip it on the bottom to keep the standing water out.
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