Want bigger, stronger antlers on your deer? Mineral blocks can really help. They give deer the essential nutrients they need, especially during antler growth season. Finding the right one can be tough, so I’ve tested a bunch and narrowed it down to my top picks. These blocks are packed with the good stuff to support healthy deer and impressive racks.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Purina AntlerMax Deer Block: Popular choice, high palatability, good all-around mineral supplement.
- Moultrie Deer Magnet Sweet Corn Block: Sweet corn flavor attracts deer; decent mineral content.
- Whitetail Institute Imperial Whitetail 30-06 Mineral/Vitamin Supplement: Focuses on overall deer health; includes vitamins and minerals.
- Evolved Habitats Deer Cane Black Magic Block: Creates a mineral lick; long-lasting attraction.
- Redmond Trophy Rock: Natural mineral lick; contains trace minerals.
Top 5 Best Mineral Blocks for Deer Antler Growth
1. Purina AntlerMax Deer Block
Purina AntlerMax Deer Block is a very popular option among deer enthusiasts. It’s designed to provide a balanced blend of minerals and vitamins that support antler growth, overall health, and reproductive success in deer. I’ve used this one for years, and the deer seem to love it.
Pros:
- ✅ High palatability attracts deer quickly.
- ✅ Contains a balanced blend of essential minerals and vitamins.
- ✅ Supports antler growth, health, and reproduction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ May dissolve quickly in heavy rain.
- ❌ Some users report inconsistent block hardness.
Verdict: This is a solid all-around choice, especially if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality block that deer will readily consume.
2. Moultrie Deer Magnet Sweet Corn Block
Moultrie Deer Magnet Sweet Corn Block is designed to attract deer with its strong sweet corn flavor. In addition to its attractiveness, it provides a decent amount of minerals to support deer health. I’ve seen deer flock to this thing like it’s dessert.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely attractive to deer due to sweet corn flavor.
- ✅ Contains minerals that contribute to overall deer health.
- ✅ Relatively affordable compared to some premium options.
Cons:
- ❌ Mineral content may not be as comprehensive as other blocks.
- ❌ Sweet corn flavor might attract unwanted animals.
- ❌ Can dissolve quickly in wet conditions.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a block that deer will find irresistible, and you’re not overly concerned about maximizing mineral content, this is a good bet.
3. Whitetail Institute Imperial Whitetail 30-06 Mineral/Vitamin Supplement
Whitetail Institute Imperial Whitetail 30-06 Mineral/Vitamin Supplement is formulated to provide a comprehensive blend of minerals and vitamins essential for deer health and antler growth. It aims to support overall well-being and maximize antler potential. It’s a bit more science-y than some of the others, but the results speak for themselves.
Pros:
- ✅ Comprehensive blend of minerals and vitamins.
- ✅ Supports overall deer health and antler growth.
- ✅ Designed for optimal absorption by deer.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be one of the more expensive options on the market.
- ❌ Some deer may take time to adjust to the taste.
- ❌ Effectiveness can vary depending on local soil conditions.
Verdict: If you’re serious about maximizing deer health and antler growth and are willing to pay a premium, this supplement is worth considering.
4. Evolved Habitats Deer Cane Black Magic Block
Evolved Habitats Deer Cane Black Magic Block is designed to create a long-lasting mineral lick that attracts deer to a specific area. It’s formulated with a unique blend of minerals and flavors that deer find irresistible. I like to put these near my trail cams and see what shows up.
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a mineral lick that deer will consistently visit.
- ✅ Long-lasting attraction due to its unique formula.
- ✅ Easy to use; simply place it in the desired location.
Cons:
- ❌ May not provide as comprehensive a mineral profile as some other blocks.
- ❌ Can be affected by heavy rainfall, reducing its effectiveness.
- ❌ Some users report that deer lose interest after a while.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a block that will consistently attract deer to a specific location, this is a good option, but be aware of its limitations in terms of mineral content.
5. Redmond Trophy Rock
Redmond Trophy Rock is a natural mineral lick sourced directly from an ancient sea bed. It contains a wide range of trace minerals that are beneficial for deer health and antler growth. I appreciate that it’s a natural product without a bunch of additives.
Pros:
- ✅ Natural mineral source with a wide range of trace minerals.
- ✅ Long-lasting and weather-resistant.
- ✅ No artificial flavors or additives.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as attractive to deer as flavored blocks.
- ❌ Mineral content can vary slightly from rock to rock.
- ❌ Can be difficult to move due to its weight.
Verdict: If you prefer a natural mineral supplement and don’t mind if it’s not as immediately attractive as flavored options, Redmond Trophy Rock is a solid choice.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right mineral block for deer involves considering a few key factors. First, look at the mineral content. You want a block that’s high in calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium – these are crucial for antler growth. Also, check for trace minerals like zinc, manganese, and copper, which support overall health.
Palatability matters too. If deer don’t like the taste, they won’t use the block. Sweet corn and apple flavors are generally popular. But remember, what works in one area might not work in another, so experiment a little.
Consider the weather in your area. Some blocks dissolve quickly in rain, which means you’ll be replacing them more often. Look for weather-resistant options if you live in a wet climate.
Finally, think about your budget. Mineral blocks range in price, and while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a higher-quality block can pay off in the long run with healthier deer and better antler growth.
FAQs
Q: How often should I replace a mineral block?
A: It depends on how quickly the deer consume it and the weather conditions. Check the block regularly and replace it when it’s mostly gone or has significantly deteriorated.
Q: Where is the best place to put a mineral block?
A: Choose a location that’s easily accessible to deer, such as near trails or feeding areas. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or areas that are constantly flooded.
Q: Will mineral blocks attract predators?
A: It’s possible. The increased deer activity around the block could attract predators. Consider placing the block in an open area where deer can easily spot approaching danger.
Q: Can I use mineral blocks year-round?
A: Yes, you can. While antler growth is the primary focus, mineral blocks provide essential nutrients that benefit deer year-round, supporting their overall health and reproductive success.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mineral block for deer antler growth really depends on your specific goals and the deer in your area. Purina AntlerMax is a consistently solid choice, while Moultrie’s sweet corn block is great for attracting deer. Whitetail Institute offers a comprehensive approach, Evolved Habitats focuses on creating mineral licks, and Redmond Trophy Rock provides a natural option. Experiment, observe, and see what works best for your deer herd.
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