Testing the Stealth Cam QS20 and QS18 V2

Trail cameras have become widely used over the past few decades. They are an invaluable tool for security, wildlife research and hunting. Stealth Cam is an American company based out of Grand Prairie in Texas. They have been in business for over two decades, earning a solid reputation with their trail cameras. Two of their units available through TSA Outdoors are the QS20 and the QS18 V2.

They look similar and are quite compact in size given that each run on 8xAA batteries. Each unit features integrated energy efficiency for long field life. The model 18 is defined by a maximum image size of 18 megapixels (MP) and the 20 offers a maximum image size of 20 MP. Both also offer video and are infrared capable for night use. The accompanying table compares the specifications for both trail cameras.

A pleasing feature is Stealth Cam’s QSET mode selection. This allows for fast field set-up without having to go through all the programmable options. The trail cameras both come with mounting straps, however I have got into the habit of mounting my trail cams with cord, cable-ties or thin galvo wire. Purely because they provide greater flexibility and easier mounting. Whatever you choose, in areas where there are cattle, be sure to fix your trail cams at head height, unless you want a few thousand close-up cattle selfies. Another thing is to point your trail cam mostly north, or south, to avoid being flared-out by low angle sunshine during those times when animals are on the move.

The Stealth Cam units arrived at an ideal time. The weather was getting colder but it was rather dry after a period of little rain and a few frosts. The extensive state forests bordering our and the neighbouring farms suddenly delivered an influx of feral animals seeking greener pastures. There were deer in numbers and several pigs.

Unfortunately, wild dogs also appeared and immediately began targeting the easier prey presented by all the new calves. There was ample sign and the odd fleeting glimpse of these unwanted interlopers. The trail cams quickly provided good images of what animals were active on the grazing lands and when to target them.

The controls on both units are simple and intuitive. The preset modes will suit most folk but you can also choose specific settings, if you want. I had both units mounted and switched on within minutes. They sat out in the paddock in what turned into a series of frosts and unseasonal rain showers, which caused no issues whatsoever.

Stealth Cam products are available at a wide range of gun and specialty shops, with both the QS20 and QS18 V2 well-priced.

Get in touch with TSA via tsaoutdoors.com.au or visit stealthcam.com for more details.