Let’s Dive into Kishels Mock Scrape Kit
The rut. That magical time of year when whitetail bucks throw caution to the wind in pursuit of does. Every hunter dreams of those close encounters, and Kishels Mock Scrape Kit promises to help make that dream a reality. Kishels has created a kit designed to mimic the sights, smells, and signals that bucks use to communicate during breeding season.
I’ve spent years trying different scent strategies, from doe estrus to dominant buck urine, with varying degrees of success. My biggest frustration was the fleeting nature of these scents; they evaporated quickly, especially in windy or warm conditions, leaving my mock scrapes ineffective. I was looking for a long-lasting, reliable system to keep bucks interested.
Upon receiving the Kishels Mock Scrape Kit, I was immediately impressed by the simplicity of the packaging. It wasn’t flashy, but it conveyed a sense of practicality. My initial thought was, “Let’s see if this stuff smells as good to the deer as it does… well, not good to me, but… potent.”
There are countless deer lures on the market, from single-scent bottles to elaborate scent dispersal systems. Compared to Wildlife Research Center’s Scrape Fix or Tink’s #69 Doe-In-Rut Buck Lure, which focus on a single attractant, Kishels aims to create a complete olfactory illusion. I chose Kishels Mock Scrape Kit because of its promise of long-lasting effectiveness and its multi-gland approach.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The scents, while strong, didn’t smell overly artificial. I was eager to get out into the woods and see if the Kishels Mock Scrape Kit could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kishels Mock Scrape Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kishels Mock Scrape Kit in a heavily wooded area known for significant deer activity, setting up two mock scrapes approximately 100 yards apart. The first scrape was placed near a well-used deer trail, and the second was near a known bedding area. I applied the scents as directed, taking care to minimize my own scent in the area.
The weather during the initial testing period was varied, ranging from cool and damp to warm and windy. In all conditions, the scent seemed to hold its own. The ease of use was remarkable; a simple spray application made setting up the mock scrapes quick and straightforward.
The initial monitoring revealed a promising level of interest from deer. Within 48 hours, both scrapes showed signs of visitation, with fresh tracks and disturbed earth around the licking branches. This initial activity was encouraging, surpassing my expectations for a freshly established mock scrape.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Kishels Mock Scrape Kit continued to perform admirably. Both mock scrapes remained active, with consistent signs of deer visitation. Despite periods of heavy rain and fluctuating temperatures, the scent seemed to persist.
The durability of the scent is a major selling point. It noticeably outlasted other scent products I’ve used in the past. Maintenance was minimal, requiring only occasional refreshing of the scent every 7-10 days.
Compared to previous experiences with other scent attractants, the Kishels Mock Scrape Kit has delivered more consistent and prolonged deer activity. It outperformed single-scent lures by creating a more realistic and compelling olfactory environment. The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Kishels Mock Scrape Kit
Specifications
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit uses a blend of pre-orbital, tarsal, and interdigital gland scents, designed to mimic the natural communication signals of whitetail bucks. The kit features unlimited shelf life and a low evaporation rate. This low evaporation rate ensures long-lasting effectiveness, reportedly working 24 hours a day.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The gland-specific scents provide a comprehensive olfactory profile that mimics a real buck scrape, increasing its attractiveness. The unlimited shelf life eliminates the worry of product spoilage, ensuring that the kit is always ready for use. And the low evaporation rate means less frequent applications, saving time and scent.
Performance & Functionality
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit performs exceptionally well in attracting bucks to mock scrapes. The combination of scents creates a realistic and compelling signal, drawing deer in to investigate. The kit is simple to use, requiring only a quick spray application to the licking branch and ground.
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit’s strength lies in its ability to maintain scent effectiveness over extended periods. A potential weakness could be its effectiveness in areas with extremely high deer densities where competition for attention is intense. The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit features a practical and straightforward design. The scent comes in a spray bottle, allowing for easy and precise application. The scent itself is a dark liquid with a strong, musky odor.
The kit is exceptionally user-friendly, with no complicated setup or special equipment required. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The scent’s long-lasting formula contributes to the overall durability of the Kishels Mock Scrape Kit. The product’s shelf life ensures it will be ready to use when needed. Minimal maintenance is required, with only occasional reapplication needed every 7-10 days depending on weather conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit does not come with additional accessories. Its primary function is scent creation, so customization typically involves the placement and creation of the mock scrape itself. You can customize the area by adding trail cameras to monitor activity, or additional visual attractants like flags or reflectors.
The product is designed to work in conjunction with existing hunting strategies, such as trail cameras and tree stands. There are no specific accessories from other brands that are required for optimal performance. The key is to integrate the scent into a well-planned hunting setup.
Pros and Cons of Kishels Mock Scrape Kit
Pros
- Extended Scent Life: Outlasts traditional lures, remaining effective for days.
- Realistic Scent Profile: Combines pre-orbital, tarsal, and interdigital gland scents for enhanced realism.
- Easy to Use: Simple spray application for quick and convenient setup.
- Unlimited Shelf Life: Eliminates the worry of product spoilage, ensuring it’s always ready for use.
- Effective Attractant: Consistently draws deer in to investigate mock scrapes.
Cons
- Strong Odor: The scent is quite potent, which may be off-putting to some hunters.
- Area Specificity: May be less effective in areas with extremely high deer densities.
Who Should Buy Kishels Mock Scrape Kit?
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit is perfect for hunters looking to improve their chances during the rut by creating realistic and long-lasting mock scrapes. It’s also ideal for hunters who are tired of scents that evaporate quickly, requiring constant reapplication.
Hunters in areas with moderate to low deer densities, where attracting attention is key, will benefit the most. Those who prefer scent products with a milder odor or hunt in areas with extremely high deer densities might want to explore other options. A trail camera is a must-have accessory for monitoring activity at mock scrapes created with this kit.
Conclusion on Kishels Mock Scrape Kit
The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit is a reliable and effective tool for attracting bucks during the rut. Its long-lasting scent, realistic gland blend, and ease of use make it a standout product in the crowded deer lure market. The Kishels Mock Scrape Kit is an excellent value.
The price of $19.89 is more than justified given the kit’s performance and longevity. I would absolutely recommend this product to fellow hunters looking to create effective mock scrapes and increase their chances of success. Set up your mock scrapes, monitor the activity, and get ready for some action.
