Bagging a record buck takes more than luck—it takes preparation, strategy, and consistency. One of the simplest yet most effective tools in your hunting arsenal is the gravity deer feeder. By delivering feed naturally and consistently, these feeders attract and retain deer in your area, improving your chances of landing that trophy buck this season.
What Is a Gravity Deer Feeder?
A gravity deer feeder is a passive feeding system that uses gravity to dispense feed (typically corn, protein pellets, or custom blends) into a trough or chute. Unlike spin feeders or timed units, gravity feeders operate silently, providing a steady, natural flow of food that deer can access anytime.
Why Gravity Feeders Work for Trophy Bucks
Silent Operation
Older, wiser bucks are wary of sudden noises. Gravity feeders operate without motors or timers, eliminating the sounds that can spook mature deer.
Constant Access
Rather than being restricted to specific times, deer can feed whenever they feel comfortable—day or night—making your area a consistent food source.
Supports Antler Growth
When used during the off-season, gravity feeders can deliver high-protein feed blends that promote body mass and antler development, giving you bigger bucks to pursue in the fall.
Encourages Patterning
Trophy bucks that return regularly to feed become easier to scout, track, and target. Use trail cameras to identify and monitor high-potential visitors to your feeder.
Strategic Placement Tips
- Place Near Bedding Areas
Mature bucks prefer to travel short distances in daylight. Install your gravity feeder within 100–200 yards of known bedding areas. - Use Natural Cover
Blend your feeder with brush or tree cover so it doesn’t look out of place. Bucks feel safer in concealed environments. - Control Human Scent
Minimize visits and use scent-blocking techniques when refilling your feeder to avoid alerting cautious deer. - Pair with a Camera
Install a trail cam to document feeding times, dominant bucks, and travel patterns—crucial intel for planning your hunt.
Gravity Feeder Features to Look For
- Weather-Resistant Materials – Keeps feed dry and fresh
- Varmint-Proof Design – Prevents raccoons or squirrels from wasting feed
- Large Hopper Capacity – Reduces refill frequency (usually 200–600 lbs)
- Adjustable Flow – Controls how fast feed is dispensed
- Sturdy Legs or Tree-Mount Options – Ensures long-term durability in all terrains
When to Start Feeding
Begin feeding in late winter or early spring to help bucks recover from the rut and grow healthy antlers. Continue into the fall to keep them coming back.
WILDGAME INNOVATIONS Treehugger 100 lb Trubark HD Camo Gravity Bag Feeder Durable Lightweight Weatherproof Game Feeder for Hunting
- SIMPLE FEEDING SOLUTION - Attract and pattern deer and other game with the Wildgame Innovations Treehugger gravity bag feeder. This is a low-maintenance feeding solution for hunting that sets the dinner table all on its own
- QUIET OPERATION - The Wildgame Innovations Treehugger gravity deer feeder with up to 100lb capacity naturally replenishes feed as game consumes it; With a hoof-licking-good food source overflowing all over the ground, deer will be sure to find it
- VERSATILE USE - You can fill this hunting game feeder with just about whatever feed you want: corn, attractants, protein, mineral, or a combination. Choose feed based on what your hungry game will like best, and not worry about clogs or hang-ups
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION - Made from long-lasting weatherproof PVC material, this gravity feeder with roll-top sealed closure attaches to any tree in under 5 minutes; Simply loop the integrated straps around a tree trunk and secure with the heavy-duty buckle
- EASY TRANSPORTATION - Quick setup and a lightweight design make this deer feeder perfect for backwoods or swamps. Use this simple, streamlined game feeder to test a potential feeding site and move it as often as you like until you find the right spot
Moultrie Gravity Deer Feeder - Tripod Game Feeder - Easy Conversion Adapter - Protein Pellet Ready - Rugged No-Power Setup for Deer Management
- Top performing and affordable
- Tested and used by hunters
- Used by both professionals and outdoor enthusiasts
- Item Package Dimension: 24.75L x 24.5W x 18.75H inches
- Item Package Weight - 31.25 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - WILDLIFE FEEDER
BOSS BUCK 200 LB Deer Feeder/Hunting Durable Lightweight Plastic UV Protected Windproof Waterproof Gravity Feed System with Protein 3 Feed Tubes Head
BOSS BUCK
200 LB Deer Feeder/Hunting Durable Lightweight Plastic UV Protected Windproof Waterproof Gravity Feed System
- Durable 200 Lb Capacity: Holds up to 200 lbs of non-salt-based feed like corn and protein pellets, perfect for attracting and feeding your deer herd and other wildlife.
- Adjustable 3-Way Flow Control: Easily adjust the feed flow with the 3-way inner sleeve to accommodate different feed types and sizes, making it an effective attractant for wildlife.
- Weatherproof Design: Tough, roto-molded plastic barrel and galvanized metal hardware withstand outdoor elements and prevent condensation buildup, ensuring long-lasting use in all conditions.
- Slow-Feed Ports: 10-inch feeder ports with 10-degree angle and 1-inch overhang promote slow, controlled feeding to prevent waste and allow more wildlife to feed comfortably over time.
- Tripod Gravity System: Sturdy 75-inch tripod legs provide stability and easy access for wildlife, while the 3-inch-deep hatch lid deters critters and helps maintain feed security.
REDNEK Rednek Outdoors T-Post Gravity Feeder
- Constructed from heavy-duty, all-weather polyethylene for durability.
- 80-lb. capacity; 4 x 5" feed mouth makes it easy for deer to consume feed;
- Easy-to-remove cover for quick filling; Includes hardware and mounting bolts;
- Concave back and grooves for ratchet straps (not included) allow for easy mounting to the tree.
- Height to bottom of feeding tube is adjustable from 34 to 60 inches.
American Hunter WF 30gal Nesting Hopper w/Gravity Feeder, Black, One Size, AH-225GRAV
- 30gal Nesting Hopper w/ Gravity Feeder hopper
On Time T-Post Gravity Feeder, 80 lb. Capacity
- Designed without moving parts of batteries to replace
- Easy to use right out of the box
- Features a UV-resistant polyethylene design
- Covered downspout to protect from inclement weather
- Can be mounted multiple ways with the steel bracket
FAQs – Gravity Deer Feeders
What is a gravity deer feeder?
A gravity deer feeder uses gravity to dispense feed continuously without the need for batteries, timers, or motors. It’s a quiet, low-maintenance way to attract and nourish deer.
What kind of feed should I use in a gravity feeder?
Corn, protein pellets, or custom deer feed blends work best. High-protein feed is especially useful during the off-season for antler growth and herd health.
Are gravity deer feeders better than spin feeders?
Gravity feeders are quieter and more natural, making them ideal for attracting mature bucks that avoid noisy, mechanical feeders. Spin feeders, however, offer controlled feeding times.
When should I start using a gravity feeder?
Start in late winter or early spring to help bucks recover from the rut and begin antler growth. Maintaining a protein feeder throughout the year encourages regular visits.
Will a gravity feeder attract other animals?
Yes. Raccoons, squirrels, and hogs may try to access the feed. Choose a feeder with varmint-resistant features like baffles, height, or enclosed designs.
Final Thoughts
If you're serious about hunting and dream of getting that record buck, a gravity deer feeder can tip the odds in your favor. It builds consistency, supports healthy herds, and helps you establish a core hunting zone. When paired with smart scouting and strategic placement, it’s one of the most effective tools a hunter can use.
This season, let gravity work for you—and maybe you’ll be the one holding that record-setting rack. Order today!
