It took me a little searching but over the last year I was able to purchase an older Sportsman (plywood cabinet) in perfect working order for a very good price. I then converted it to electronic themostat. It has a bucket humidifier. The electronic thermostat holds temp dead on. I just glance at it once a day to make sure it is working.
A couple months ago I was able to purchase a used 6 Tray Sportsman Hatcher from a gentleman I sold some birds to. Also at a very good price. I added the bucket humidifier to it. It has a clear door and it also holds perfect temp and humidity.
One of the things I like about them is how steady the humidity stays. Even during a big hatch the hatcher will only go up a point or two.
I have less money in them combined than one new Sportsman. That includes the upgraded themostat and the humidifiers.
Keep your eyes open they are out there. I found both of mine by asking around and letting people know I was looking.
If I knew how nice the cabinet bators were to use I would have changed over years ago.
I have hatched hundreds of chicks in foam bators with good success, but it takes a lot more monitoring.
Ron
A couple months ago I was able to purchase a used 6 Tray Sportsman Hatcher from a gentleman I sold some birds to. Also at a very good price. I added the bucket humidifier to it. It has a clear door and it also holds perfect temp and humidity.
One of the things I like about them is how steady the humidity stays. Even during a big hatch the hatcher will only go up a point or two.
I have less money in them combined than one new Sportsman. That includes the upgraded themostat and the humidifiers.
Keep your eyes open they are out there. I found both of mine by asking around and letting people know I was looking.
If I knew how nice the cabinet bators were to use I would have changed over years ago.
I have hatched hundreds of chicks in foam bators with good success, but it takes a lot more monitoring.
Ron