Review
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Intro
The Cabela's Outfitter Gen 4 48MP Black IR Trail Camera Combo is engineered for wildlife observation and scouting. This trail camera is equipped with a swift trigger mechanism, activating in 0.4 seconds for still images and 0.5 seconds for video capture, complemented by a recovery rate of 2 seconds. It boasts a high-resolution capacity, taking pictures at 48 megapixels and offering video recording in 4K (10fps), 1080p HD, and 720p HD options.
The camera features a discreet nighttime illumination system using 48 no-glow LED lights for its Black IR flash. This system is effective up to a distance of 90 feet and is designed to capture detailed images without disturbing the wildlife. A 2-inch color LCD screen is integrated for easy setup and image review.
A key feature of this camera is its Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor, which is finely tuned to reduce unnecessary activations, thereby saving battery power and memory card space. The camera includes versatile shooting modes such as Multi-Shot, capturing up to six images per trigger, and a time-lapse function for a comprehensive view of animal movements.
The build of the camera includes a durable 1/4"-20 brass tripod mount with a Dead Stop function for stable setup. The package combo has a 6-foot nylon strap with buckle, a 32GB SD card, and 8 AA batteries for operation. Additionally, the camera supports Python cable lock for added security.
This model also features an 8MP native sensor capable of 4K video recording but is limited to only ten frames per second. The Outfitter GEN 4 game camera is designed for prolonged use in the field and can operate for up to one year, making it a reliable option for extended wildlife monitoring.
Pros
- Invisible Illumination
- Good Battery Life
- Memory Card & Batteries Included
- Trigger Accuracy
- Easy Setup
Cons
- Limited Detection Range
- Slow Trigger
- Narrow Field of View
- Mediocre Nighttime Images
- Poor Security
Camera Setup
Setting up the Cabela's Outfitter Gen 4 is straightforward and mirrors the process established by its predecessor in the Outfitter camera series. The camera features a two-inch screen that offers excellent visibility and contrast, remaining clear and legible even in bright, sunny conditions. The buttons on the camera are sizeable, distinctly marked, and well-spaced, facilitating effortless operation. In terms of configuration, the Outfitter Gen 4 presents an intuitive menu consistent with the standard setup options found in most trail cameras, ensuring a user-friendly experience for novice and experienced trail camera users.
Camera Ratings
Detection Range: 10/20
The Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors of the two cameras we evaluated exhibited comparable performance, with the trigger range typically not exceeding 40 to 50 feet. Additionally, we observed that the majority of trigger events tended to occur when the subject was positioned nearer to the central field of view of the cameras.
Speed: 5/10
As noted in the Detection Range rating above, the trigger sensor of the camera has a notably narrow angle. This characteristic likely contributes to the perceived sluggishness of the camera's trigger response, as the subject needs to be closer to the center of the image to activate the camera. Additionally, the camera's response speed is consistent in both picture and video modes, showing almost identical performance across these different operational settings.
Accuracy: 9/10
The Gen 4 Cabela's Outfitter trail camera demonstrates exceptional accuracy, with a notably low incidence of false triggers. This reliability is maintained even under challenging conditions, such as high temperatures and windy environments.
Battery Life: 8/10
The camera operates on eight AA batteries, with a set of Energizer brand batteries provided in the package. Given that the camera utilizes an invisible illumination system, which typically requires more power, and the fact that the included alkaline batteries generally have a shorter lifespan than lithium batteries in cold conditions, it is noteworthy that the provided battery set sustained the camera throughout the winter in extremely cold, high-altitude conditions.
Daylight Images: 8/10
camera sensor is respectable. Photographs and videos display noteworthy sharpness, proper color saturation, and minimal digital noise. Interestingly, still images captured at the camera's native resolution of 3264 × 2448 pixels adhere to a more square-like 4x3 aspect ratio rather than the widescreen 16:9 format.
In terms of video capabilities, the camera is capable of recording at 60 frames per second (FPS) in 720p resolution, 30 FPS at 1080p, and 10 FPS at 4K resolution. It's noteworthy that the 4K recording is likely attained through software interpolation, a process that artificially enhances the resolution.
However, at this interpolated 4K setting, the camera achieves a frame rate of only 10 FPS, which is significantly lower than the industry standard of 30 FPS for 4K video quality. This limitation is an important consideration when evaluating the camera's performance in high-resolution video recording.
Lowlight Images: 7/10
captured by the G4 trail camera are of very good quality, exhibiting only a slightly increased level of ISO noise. This minor increase in grain is well within acceptable limits, especially considering the camera's price range. Overall, the image quality in low-light conditions is commendable and aligns with the expectations for a trail camera in this category.
Night Images: 5/10
When assessing trail cameras featuring 940nm invisible flash illumination, such as the Black Light Outfitter G4, it is anticipated that the images will be notably darker compared to those from "low-glow" cameras that use 850nm bulbs. This is a common trade-off: choosing between more visible, potentially disruptive illumination and a more discreet, "stealthy" approach to lighting.
Despite the Outfitter G4 being equipped with 48 LEDs, which is above average for such cameras, it's noteworthy that the nighttime images it produces are still relatively dark and often suffer from focus issues in picture mode. In contrast, the camera performs significantly better in capturing nighttime videos, where the flash illumination appears to be more evenly distributed across the field of view, enhancing video clarity and detail. Nighttime pictures and videos are both captured in black & white.
Design: 12/20
The Gen 4 model is slightly smaller than its predecessor, the Gen 3, yet it remains on the larger side in terms of trail camera designs.
Similar to the G3 model, the G4 Outfitter camera is available with two types of infrared illumination: an invisible flash, known as Black IR, and a low-glow IR option. In our selection, we chose the Black IR version, which is consistent with our preference for this feature whenever the manufacturer offers it.
The Cabela's Outfitter G4 shares several design similarities with many Browning trail cameras.
These similarities include the layout of the screen and buttons, the design of the removable battery tray at the bottom, and even the non-lockable latch on the door.
Speaking of security, while the camera can be secured with a standard-size Python cable lock, it lacks a lockable mechanism for the front latch, which provides access to the camera settings and the memory card.
This lack of a secure latch led to a disappointing experience for us, as one of our memory cards was stolen while scouting a relatively remote area.
It was disheartening to return after several weeks only to find the battery tray removed and placed on the top of the camera and the memory slot empty.
Given that we did not anticipate much human traffic in that area during the winter, we had not secured the camera with the cable lock, which we usually employ.
Fortunately, the camera itself was not stolen, only the memory card.
However, this incident highlights the necessity of a security box, especially when using the camera on public land.
While Cabela's may not offer a proprietary security box for this model, third-party options might be available.
To mitigate this security issue, we have since relocated our cameras to areas less accessible to potential human interference, though our previous misjudgment in this regard makes us cautious.
Verdict: 64/100
The Cabela's Outfitter Gen 4 trail camera is a device that strikes a balance between some admirable features and notable limitations.
At its core, the camera is designed for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers who value specific functionalities in their wildlife monitoring equipment.
Starting with its strengths, the Outfitter Gen 4 Black IR model showcases an invisible illumination feature through its Black IR flash.
This discreet and effective mechanism stands out for its ability to monitor wildlife without causing disturbance, a critical factor for authentic wildlife photography and observation.
Another aspect where this camera shines is in its battery life.
Equipped with eight AA Energizer batteries, the camera demonstrates impressive endurance, particularly noteworthy given the harsh winter conditions it can withstand.
This robust performance is a significant advantage for long-term deployments in remote areas.
The ease of setup is another strong suit of the Gen 4 model. The user-friendly interface, marked by a clear 2-inch screen and well-spaced buttons, makes the setup process intuitive and straightforward.
This feature is especially beneficial for both novice users and experienced photographers who appreciate a hassle-free configuration.
Adding to the convenience is the inclusion of batteries and a memory card in the package, which provides immediate operability straight out of the box.
In terms of accuracy, the camera exhibits a low rate of false triggers, even in challenging environments, which is a testament to its reliable trigger mechanism.
Daytime image quality is also respectable. The camera produces sharp and well-saturated photographs and videos, although the aspect ratio in high-resolution photographs deviates from the standard, which might be a consideration for some users.
However, the camera does have its drawbacks.
One of the most significant is its limited detection range and slow trigger speed. The narrow PIR sensor angle restricts the detection range, potentially missing crucial wildlife moments, which can be a deal-breaker for serious wildlife photographers.
The slow trigger response further compounds this issue. Additionally, the camera's field of view is narrower than some of its counterparts, which could limit its effectiveness in capturing broader landscape scenes.
Nighttime performance is a mixed bag. While the camera excels in low-light conditions, its performance under complete darkness is hampered by darkness and focus issues.
Though the nighttime video quality fares better, the still image capture at night could be more reliable.
This inconsistency in performance could be a significant factor for those who primarily intend to use the camera for nocturnal wildlife monitoring.
A notable concern with the Gen 4 model is its lack of security features.
The absence of a lockable mechanism for the memory card and settings compartment is a critical downside, particularly for users who plan to use the camera on public land.
This vulnerability was highlighted in our experience, where a memory card was stolen from an unsecured camera, underscoring the need for enhanced security measures, such as a security box.
While Cabela's does not offer a proprietary security box for this model, users might need to consider third-party options for added security.
In summary, the Cabela's Outfitter Gen 4 trail camera is a competent device that offers a blend of positive features like good battery life, easy setup, and invisible illumination.
However, these benefits are balanced against limitations such as a limited detection range, slower trigger speed, and subpar security features.
The camera is best suited for users who prioritize specific features like discreet illumination and user-friendly operation and are willing to work within its detection range and security constraints.
Buying Options:
User Reviews
Specs
Official specs from the manufacturer.- Name:
- Cabela's Outfitter GEN 4 Black IR
- Manufacturer:
- Cabela's
- Model:
- 48MP BLACK IR Game Camera
- Model Year:
- 2020
- Series:
- Cabela's Outfitter
- Flash Type:
- No-Glow IR
- Max Pixels:
- 48
- Max Video:
- 4000p
- No. of Sensors:
- 1
- Detection Range:
- 80 ft
- Flash Range:
- 90 ft
- Field of View:
- 40 degrees
- Trigger Speed:
- 0.40 second
- Min Delay:
- 2 seconds
- Max Delay:
- 60 minutes
- Max Card Size:
- 512 GB
- Cellular/Mobile:
- No
- WiFi:
- No
- Bluetooth:
- No
- Live View:
- No
- MSRP:
- $99.99
- Warranty:
- 12 months
- Country of Origin:
- China
Questions & Answers
Memory Card Issues: The memory card might be full, not properly inserted, corrupted, or incompatible with the camera. Ensure the card is correctly inserted, has sufficient free space, and is formatted correctly for the camera. Try using a different memory card to see if the issue persists.
Camera Settings: Check the camera's settings to ensure it's set to capture photos or videos correctly. Sometimes, incorrect settings can prevent the camera from recording media.
Battery Power: Low battery power can sometimes cause the camera to fail to save files properly. Ensure that the batteries are fresh or fully charged.
Sensor/Motion Detection Issues: If the camera's sensors are not functioning correctly or are obstructed, it might not trigger the camera to take photos or videos despite the presence of deer.
Firmware Issues: Occasionally, glitches in the camera's firmware can cause recording issues. Check if there are any firmware updates available for your camera model.
If, after checking these potential issues, the problem persists, you may need to contact Cabela's customer support for further assistance or consider having the camera serviced or replaced.