When the 2022 ATA returned after a year hiatus, Xenek was proud to showcase their latest ground blind in their lineup, the Sniper. The Sniper ground blind combines several high-end features in a lightweight blind with a very appealing price-point that will please both long-time hunters and beginners.
Xenek’s Sniper ground blind revamps the traditional cyclops-style single window that you see on Xenek’s Ascent blind for multiple, smaller, adjustable openings. These adjustable openings are perfect for creating precise shot windows while minimizing game-spooking scent and light exposure. Strategically placed one-way, see-through panels improve visibility between openings to prepare for the shot opportunity.
On top of this, Xenek has also reduced the weight by 16% making this blind substantially lighter than even their wildly-successful Ascent blind. In addition to reducing the weight they were also able to shave down the price by $100, as well. The Sniper, like their Ascent, is covered by their lifetime hub and rod warranty.
The Sniper hosts many of great features that we’ve come to love with the Ascent, such as the ten attachment points for Xenek’s add ons, brush loops, and the black polyurethane internal coating. However, this model comes with a carry bag instead of the backpack you get with the Ascent model. The backpack does fit the newer Sniper, and can be purchased separately if needed.
In addition to these blinds, there were several newer add ons that folks may find useful. Brand-new for this year was their reimagined center-hub pole support. This would not be a necessity for most folks who are packing the blind in-and-out. However, it can keep the roof supported for proper water shedding even under extreme snow and ice if you leave the blind deployed in the elements for extended periods of time as we do. This pole works universally with all Xenek and other brand blinds.
When you aren’t using the center-hub support, the other add-on that caught my eye was the bow hanger. It’s so incredibly compact and lightweight you’d never know it’s in the pack. Having used numerous bow-stands in the past I’ve always had to attach items to my bow, take up valuable floor-space in the blind, while also exposing my cam and string to the ground. Even those with a near Mathews bow utilizing the Engage limb legs may want this accessory.
The Sniper ground blind seems named and built exactly for gun-hunters who need ultimate concealment and precise shot windows. That said, the adjustable vertical windows can be useful for archers who may have a larger range of shot distances, or varying vertical shot angles due to terrain. Not to mention, the lighter weight would make it ideal for carrying longer distances or over more rugged terrain.
For you fellow self-filmer’s: While this blind does not feature the self-healing pass-through slots for your tripod legs which we’ve grown to love, the massive 72″x72″ hub-to-hub gives plenty of room for multiple hunters and filming equipment. The spacious interior and the 22% smaller price tag makes this blind a good fit for both veteran hunters and beginners, alike.
If you’d like to get your hands on this blind, or any of Xenek’s blinds and accessories, you can purchase them here.
Xenek Sniper Ground Blind:
Xenek Universal Support Post:
Xenek Ground Blind Bow Hanger:
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