Stinger

Maybe your bug zapper needs aren’t that demanding, or perhaps running a power cable to the right spot on your deck to an insect control device isn’t feasible.

Everybody wants to cut the cord for the sake of convenience, but only certain people should. For people that enjoy hosting backyard gatherings often, a bug zapper that protects the entire yard is a must. Many of us don’t need that and can improvise with Citronella torches when special occasions arise. If it’s that one spot you spend the most time at that matters, your deck or stone patio, for this purpose the Stinger by Kaz is ideal.

The Stinger covers 625 sq. ft., which is approximately 25×25 ft. It’s a modest specification, but if it’s all you need and the idea of battery power appeals to you, it might be worth the tradeoff. On full charge it runs 3.5 hours. This also limits its applications. It will protect you and company while sitting outside for an after-work brew, but you’ll want another product for an outdoor blast.

The unit charges and operates while plugged-in. In a pinch you won’t be out of luck if you run out of battery power as long as electrical outlet is nearby. Recharging time is three hours. The status light is red while charging and it switches to red when it’s ready.

A bug zapper is a fairly simple electronic device. It isn’t a rocket ship folks. For that reason it’s surprising that so few companies can churn out a decent zapper. To get it out there from the start, a good portion of Stinger bug zappers are destined for the scrap heap. Although the UVB45 isn’t among the worst mosquito killers out there (that stuff is shockingly shoddy), picking one up a risky endeavour.

The UVB45 has a sleek, futuristic look. This stems from the fact that most zappers currently on the market were designed in 80s. The grill is curved while we are used to seeing straight grills and boxy designs. Unfortunately the build is plasticky and not particularly tough.

A 40-watt black light is employed to attract pests. Stinger claims it attracts 40% more insects than a conventional light. It releases a smell similar to that of a mammal via the Octenol lure. People are often wowed by the lights on bug zappers, not realizing the importance of scent. The UVB45 does a good job of attracting mosquitos.

Since this is a recent design it has some pretty advanced electronics inside. A built-in sensor detects the amount of light outside allowing the unit to turn off during the day (when mosquitos aren’t a threat), and turn on at night.

The Stinger UVB45 covers 1 acre of land admirably as advertised. On an especially humid night it pulled in 20-30 mosquitos, plus a few moths when I tested it. They also offer the UV801S which covers 1 ½ acre and the FP15 which covers ½ an acre.