Premier 1 Poultry Grit and Oyster Shell Feeder - 6 Lb. Review (2026)

Who this feeder suits

This is Premier 1's grit and oyster shell feeder, a 6 pound capacity unit from a well known livestock and poultry supply company. It fits keepers who want to offer grit and crushed oyster shell on a free choice basis, letting hens eat as much or as little as they need rather than mixing it directly into feed. The two separate compartments mean grit for digestion and oyster shell for eggshell strength stay apart, which matters since laying hens need oyster shell while young or non laying birds generally do not. It suits small to medium backyard flocks well, since the 6 pound capacity covers weeks of typical free choice consumption without needing constant refilling, though larger flocks may go through it faster and want a bigger unit.

Build and how the two compartments work

The feeder is made of heavy duty red plastic with a conical shape, a removable lid for filling, and a built in divider that keeps grit and oyster shell in separate sides rather than mixing together. The removable lid protects the contents from rain and debris when closed, and the feeder includes a built in handle so it can be hung rather than only used free standing on the ground. Because it holds two different supplements at once, it saves keepers from running two separate feeders, and the conical shape is meant to let supplement settle toward the bottom access points as hens peck through what is available. The 6 pound total capacity is split across both compartments rather than each side holding the full amount.

Using it day to day in the coop or run

Setting it up is simple: fill each compartment through the removable lid, then either hang the feeder from its built in handle or set it on a stable, level surface where hens will not easily knock it over. Because it can sit free standing, keepers without a good hanging point still have the option to use it on the ground, though a stable base matters more in that case since an unsteady feeder tipped over spills both supplements at once. Over time, open access compartments can gather dust, bedding material, or moisture if placed in an exposed spot, so checking and topping off periodically, and occasionally wiping it out, helps keep the contents usable. Refilling is infrequent given the 6 pound capacity and typical free choice consumption rates.

How it compares with newer metal feeders

Compared with the newer 2 pack heavy duty metal feeder with an anti-tip reinforced rod, this Premier 1 unit is simpler and made of plastic rather than metal, which keeps it lighter but less resistant to determined pecking or tipping over time. Against the 4.5 pound dual metal hanging combo with drain holes, the Premier 1 feeder holds slightly more total supplement at 6 pounds but lacks dedicated drainage, so keepers in wetter climates need to watch for moisture buildup more closely than with a feeder built with drain holes. Keepers wanting a tip resistant, purpose built metal option may prefer those newer designs, while those wanting an established brand with a simple, proven plastic design will find this a reliable pick.

Verdict and who might want a different feeder

This feeder is a solid, no frills choice for keepers who want a trusted brand and a straightforward two compartment design for offering grit and oyster shell free choice. It works well hung or free standing, and the 6 pound capacity suits small to medium flocks without frequent refilling. Keepers in wet climates without a covered spot to place it, or those whose flocks are prone to knocking feeders over, may get better results from a metal feeder with drainage holes or a stronger anti-tip design. For most backyard setups with a stable spot to hang or place it, though, this feeder does the job reliably.

Frequently asked questions