55 Gallon DIY Deer Feeder

A DIY 55 gallon deer feeder is an ideal project if you want a deer attractant in your hunting area and you want to complete it on the cheap. This will enable you to configure the feeder to your requirements, and it is budget-friendly than bought feeders from the shops. Read on for everything you need to know in order to make your own 55-gallon deer feeder.

Why You Should Build Your Own 55-Gallon Deer Feeder?

Here are the benefits of building your own deer feeder:

1. Cost Savings: A homemade feeder can very easily be way cheaper than a feeder bought from the store.
2. Capacity: Filled a 55 gallon drum to accommodate more feed, which means less refilling and continuous deer food.
3. Customization: Some custom make their deer feeder according to their requirements like install the timer to throw the feed or make it lift up for simple access purpose.
4. Durability: Many DIY deer feeders are made from a durable material, such as metal, as opposed to some store-bought feeders which are made from plastic and tend to break, which means they will last you longer.
5. Self-Satisfaction: With the handcrafted feeders, you have total control over the end product which can make for a deeply satisfying experience.

Materials Required for Making a Deer Feeder

This feeder can be built using a scant few materials and common tools. Here’s the full list:

1. 55 Gallon Drum: The main housing unit for your feed. Choose a weather-resistant metal, or sturdy plastic.
2. Feeder Funnel – This part feeds the feed onto the feeder mechanism in a controlled manner for smooth feeding.
3. Legs or Stand: Use metal pipes or solid steel tubing to elevate the drum.
4. Feeding Mechanism: It could either be a timer mechanism, where you set the time on the feeder when the deers are expected to be present, or a gravity feed type.
5. Drill and Bolts : To attach parts such as the legs and funnel.
6. Weatherproof Lid: Provides protection for the feed from rain and other elements
7. Solar-Powered Timer : It will allow you to schedule your feedings (optional)

How to Create a 55-gallon Deer Feeder (Step By Step Directions)

1^st Step: Preparing The Drum

1. Wash/clean the drum: This will include scrubbing the drum down to remove any contaminants. Let it dry before adding any feed.
2. Make Drainage Holes: Make a few small drainage holes in the bottom of the drum to keep the barrel well-ventilated and moisture-free.

2^nd Step: Setting Up The Legs

1. Putting On The Legs: Place 3 or 4 metal pipes or steel tubes to act as legs. Tighten them evenly to secure the drum. They should be enough tall to lift the feeder from the ground, generally 3-4 feet high.
2. Stability Check: Ensure the legs are secured and stable enough to hold the weight of the filled drum.

3^rd Step: Install the Feeder Funnel and Mechanism.

1. Insert The Funnel: At the bottom of the drum, its time to insert a funnel to direct the feed properly.
2. Select the Feeding Mechanism: Install a gravity feeder (for uninterrupted feeding) or a timer-based feeder to control feeding times. If you are using a timer, connect the timer according to the manufacturer instructions.

4^th Step: Assembling the last steps and securing the top lid

1. Seal It Up: Cover the drum with a snug, waterproof lid to keep water and pests out of the drum. Also, it can be a lot easier to refill something with a safe lid.
2. Secure the Feeder: You may want to stake or anchor the feeder to keep it safe from the wind or inquisitive animals tipping it over.

Where Should You Place Your Deer Feeder: The Best Tips

The part that is obviously most critical is location. Here are some placement tips:

1. Location: When placing the feeder, base its location on deer movement patterns naturally drawn to it (deer trails or bedding areas).Place the feeder close to natural cover, meaning trees or bushes, because deer are more comfortable feeding in secluded areas.
2. Height: If you want a feeder to be high enough that allows deer to get it but also out of reach from smaller mammals. The perfect height is around 3-4 feet from the ground.

Safety and Maintenance Tips

1. Check Regularly: Make sure that your feeder is working well and refill it when necessary.
2. Secure the Feeder: To stop your feeder from bustling in the wind or larger animals tipping it over, ensure you fasten the feeder (and pole) firmly.
3. Stay Legal: Proficiency in local wildlife regulations should dictate how you hunt and whether or not you can feed or bait animals.

Also, we have written an article on deer feeder parts and its maintenance tips for your better understanding.

Conclusion

If you need to attract deer to your hunting area, then a 55-gallon DIY deer feeder is simple and inexpensive. With this guide, you will make a feeder that will last and is built for your particular needs. So, whether you are a veteran hunter or a first-timer on the project, this feeder system will pay off in many hunting seasons to come.