Let’s Dive into Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck is an attractant designed to draw in mature bucks during the crucial hunting seasons. Manufactured by Wildlife Research Center, a company known for its scent-based hunting products, this product combines premium buck urine with tarsal gland secretions and a territorial musk. It promises to stimulate aggression and curiosity in bucks, making them more likely to investigate the source. What sets it apart is its purported effectiveness from early fall through the rut, offering consistent performance across varying stages of the whitetail’s breeding cycle.
I was looking for a reliable and versatile scent attractant that could be used throughout the entire deer season. Many scents I’ve tried are only effective during a specific phase of the rut. I needed something that could work in the pre-rut, during peak rut, and even post-rut scenarios.
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck comes in a standard scent bottle, well-sealed to prevent leakage. The initial impression upon opening the bottle is a strong, pungent odor – a mixture of urine and musk, which is exactly what you’d expect. It’s a far cry from a pleasant aroma, but its authenticity is immediately apparent, suggesting a potent attractant. It also includes two Key-Wicks, which are scent dispersal tools.
I have used other buck urines before, as well as scent combinations, but this one stood out due to the inclusion of the tarsal gland smell. I have had success with using actual tarsal glands in the past. Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck seemed like a safer and more readily available alternative.
I was cautiously optimistic. The smell alone was promising, but I know from experience that a strong scent doesn’t always translate to effective results in the field. I wanted to see how it performed in real hunting situations and whether it could genuinely lure in mature bucks.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck was during an early October scouting trip, preparing for the upcoming archery season. I set up a mock scrape near a heavily used deer trail, using the Golden Buck on the overhanging branch and on the ground. I then hung a Key-Wick in the tree above, soaked in the scent. The area was a mix of hardwoods and thickets, a known bedding area for bucks.
The conditions were cool and damp, with a light drizzle throughout the day. These are ideal conditions for scent dispersal. I checked the scrape the following day and found clear signs that deer had visited the area overnight. There were fresh tracks and droppings around the scrape, and the ground was disturbed. I did not actually harvest a deer that day, but had positive trail camera pictures on the scrape from that night.
The application was straightforward, and the Key-Wicks made scent dispersal easy to control. It did require careful handling due to the strong odor, but overall, the initial use was promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck for an entire hunting season (early October through late December), I can confidently say it held up well. The scent remained potent throughout the duration. The Key-Wicks are a great addition, as they are easily used in a variety of scenarios.
The bottle held up well to being transported in my hunting pack. There was no noticeable wear and tear on the bottle itself, and the cap remained secure. The urine did change color somewhat, becoming slightly darker. I believe this is a result of changes in temperature.
Maintenance was minimal. I simply ensured the cap was tightly sealed after each use and stored the bottle in a cool, dark place. I previously used a similar scent from a different manufacturer, and the Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck outperformed it in terms of attracting deer during the pre-rut and rut phases. It seemed to hold their attention longer and elicit more active responses.
Breaking Down the Features of Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck
Specifications
Type: Buck Urine with Tarsal Smell and Territorial Must. This blend is designed to mimic the scent of a dominant buck intruding on another’s territory.
Target: Mature Bucks. It is formulated to stimulate aggression and territorial behavior.
Effectiveness: Early Fall Through the Rut. This suggests it can be used across a wide range of the hunting season.
Application: Includes two Key-Wicks. These are scent dispersal tools that help control the scent.
Price: $10.99. This makes it a very affordable scent attractant option.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the product’s effectiveness in attracting bucks. The combination of urine, tarsal gland scent, and musk creates a complex and realistic scent profile that appeals to a buck’s territorial instincts. It’s critical for the Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck to effectively mimic this scent profile. The Key-Wicks make it easier to disperse the scent in a controlled manner.
Performance & Functionality
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck performs its job well, attracting bucks during various stages of the rut. It seems most effective in drawing bucks to mock scrapes. I have experienced deer coming in from downwind to investigate, indicating the scent travels effectively.
The scent is strong and long-lasting. One potential weakness is that the scent can be overpowering if used in excessive amounts. The product does meet and often exceeds expectations, especially for its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The product comes in a standard scent bottle, which is practical and easy to handle. The bottle is lightweight, and the cap is secure. The Key-Wicks are a simple but effective design, making them easy to saturate with scent and hang in strategic locations.
The bottle is user-friendly and easy to apply. The strong scent does require some care in handling to avoid getting it on clothing.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck should last for at least one hunting season if properly stored. The bottle itself is durable enough to withstand normal handling in the field.
Maintenance is minimal. Keep the cap tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product comes with two Key-Wicks, which are the primary accessories included. While there are no specific “customization” options, the user can control the amount of scent used. Furthermore, you can combine it with other scents to create a custom attractant blend.
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck is compatible with any standard scent dispersal device. This includes scent drags, cotton swabs, or even natural materials like leaves and branches.
Pros and Cons of Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck
Pros
- Effective Attractant: Delivers results by drawing in bucks, especially during the rut.
- Versatile Use: Can be used from early fall through the entire rut.
- Affordable Price: At $10.99, it’s a budget-friendly option for hunters.
- Easy Application: The included Key-Wicks make scent dispersal simple and controlled.
- Realistic Scent: The combination of urine, tarsal gland smell, and musk creates an authentic attractant.
Cons
- The scent can be overpowering if overused.
- Limited customization options beyond scent dispersal methods.
Who Should Buy Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck?
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck is perfect for budget-conscious hunters looking for a reliable and versatile scent attractant. It is especially suitable for those targeting mature bucks during the rut and pre-rut periods. Hunters who appreciate the convenience of Key-Wicks for scent dispersal will also find this product appealing.
Hunters who prefer scent-free hunting methods or those sensitive to strong odors should skip this product. Those looking for highly customizable scent options might also want to explore alternatives.
Must-have accessories include a scent-proof container for transport. Gloves for application are recommended to avoid getting the scent on your hands.
Conclusion on Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck
The Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck offers excellent value for its price. It is an effective attractant that delivers results in the field. The combination of buck urine, tarsal gland scent, and musk creates a realistic scent profile that appeals to mature bucks.
The price is definitely justified given its effectiveness and versatility. It performs as advertised and provides an affordable option for hunters looking to improve their success during the deer season.
I would personally recommend the Wildlife Research Center Golden Buck to any hunter seeking a reliable and budget-friendly scent attractant. It’s a valuable tool for drawing in mature bucks and enhancing your hunting experience. Give it a try and see the results for yourself!