TrailMAC Game Scouting Camera

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the TrailMAC and some of the other cheaper digital cameras?

The TrailMAC uses current technology. Each year we interface the latest digital camera bringing you new features and technologies along the way. The Cheaper models are using an out of date, poor quality, Chinese technology known as CMOS Imaging. CMOS technology is so inadequate that not a singe digital camera manufacture (Olympus, Sony, Fuji, Nikon, etc) uses it for digital photography.

Why should I buy the TrailMAC opposed to the many other game cameras on the market?

That's simple! besides being the lowest cost game camera on the market, we also offer the most unique features of any camera on the market. Our systems are geared to taking high quality photo's of game in the most reliable fashion available to date. In addition, factory authorized service centers provide our camera interface, ready to plug into our housing. This means you are able to receive repair service (if needed) beyond one to two years. No other game scouting company out there office this!

How high off the ground should I place the TrailMAC?

We recommend mounting the camera at approximately 4 - 4.5 feet, about hip high.

How cold can it be outside for the TrailMAC to operate properly?

The electronics are designed to operate in any condition. We've tested the TrailMAC in 57 countries around the world and have one rule of thumb... if there is vegetation such as a tree or bush, the TrailMAC system can handle that climate!

Can you hear the camera take a picture when the housing is closed?

No. Our cameras are absolutely quiet and undetectable by game and people. Some of our customers use the TrailMAC for vandalism detection so it is critical that the criminal not know they are being photographed.

Does the camera flash scare the deer when it takes a picture at night?

No and yes... normal camera flashes will not alert game. However, we recommend using longer time delays on heavily used trails. Mount the TrailMAC system left or right of feed stations and bait piles. This way a photo is taken when the animal either enters or leaves, but not while they eat. We find that one photo taken per event does not alter deer activity.

How can I keep my TrailMAC from being stolen?

If you are mounting the TrailMAC system in an area that has a lot of foot traffic then we recommend you lock the system to a tree with the TrailMAC Locking Bracket. There is still no guarantee and only you can be the judge of its security.

Why buy a digital game camera vs. a 35mm game camera?

The decision is based on cost. You'll save money in the long run with the TrailMAC Digital. Its battery lasts twice as long as the competition and has twice as many features. We guarantee the camera battery life will outlast the highest memory card the camera can accept. Additional accessories may be required.

How can you say lowest cost? I've seen less expensive!

Yes, that is true, a lower initial cost. But the operational costs of those systems will put you in the poor house. Our TrailMAC 35mm systems cost about 0.70 cents per week to operate in battery costs. Our digital models will run you about half a cent per photo!

Is there a way to prevent the camera from detecting squirrels and other small game?

Yes and no... the PIR motion sensors will not accurately distinguish between animal size. To counter this, alterations can be made within the design of the overall circuitry. However, one rule of thumb will apply to all circuits which attempt to do this and it is as follows: If the design blinds the sensor to smaller animals it may, on occasion, not detect larger animals as well. Our circuit is designed to detect all warm blooded animals which pass through the TrailMAC's detection zone. The best way to prevent it from taking pictures of squirrels and raccoons is to make sure it is high enough off the ground to "look over" these smaller animals. Our new Sur Shot Mode detects all animals but only takes pictures of animals which are essentially "hanging out" in front of the camera. Since squirrels and raccoons are almost always hustling around, it ignores them but takes a picture of the deer which stop to feed. If this mode is activated over a scrape, it would only take pictures of bucks which actually stop to work the scrape. Imagine getting a whole roll of film of nothing but bucks!!