Mallard machine

[yankee]

I have one but have always run it on the compact 12v battery. How long can I run one using a full sized trolling motor battery? Can I get several morning hunts on a charge assuming it is used intermittently?
Don't use a boat so trying to decide whether it worth the change to large battery, which has to be hauled on a cart or sled.

[billyho]

I've used both. Big battery is bulky, heavy, and gets in my way. Mine held a charge for 5-6 hunts then I had to haul the thing out to put on battery charger. I just switched back to the small rechargeable batteries. I take 2 in my bag. Heavy? Yes but still not as heavy as the other. Just my 2 cents

[yankee]

thanks--that is exactly where I am. Either take a big deep cycle in and out every few hunts, or carry 2 of the compact batteries each hunt.

[GET-N-RITE]

Batteries are heavy. We leave a generator in the blind when the batteries get low we just charge them back up.

[teul2]

[GET-N-RITE]

I don't know if is all true but its will hold a few people. I guess when you have a sign that says bench warming area, and you have more bench space than walmart. Its a pretty big blind.

If I had to drag all the crap that is in our blind to a public, or private place. It would take 42 pack mules, a water buffalo, and 4 boats. It would look like the Oregon trail, but with hunters.

[duramax]

You can get a cheap solar recharge kit. You could hook up your deep cycle to it, and it will keep it charged. It would be like putting it on a trickle charge when you leave. They are cheap for what you'd want.

Something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Instapark%C2%AE-Black-Mono-crystalline-Charge-Controller/dp/B005LR9IOG/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1410794896&sr=8-21&keywords=solar+battery+charger

[yankee]

duramax-do you think that would bring a deep cycle back to near full charge in 2-3 days? I read the reviews and it seems like it will in sunny weather, something we do not see much of here in yankee land in duck season. good idea, if that would charge it up, it is easier than hauling a battery...

[billyho]

That's the best idea I've heard in a long time! I'm gonna try it

[duramax]

[yankee]

thanks, I'm going to give it a try