Let’s Talk About Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen is a lifelike turkey decoy designed to lure in gobblers during hunting season. Made by Dave Smith Decoys, a company renowned for its incredibly realistic and durable decoys, this hen is posed in a natural feeding position to attract even the wariest toms. I was eager to see if it could truly improve my success rate this spring.
I’ve always struggled with getting those mature toms to commit. Other decoys have seemed too static, not creating a believable scene. Unboxing the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen, my initial impression was overwhelmingly positive; the attention to detail was immediately apparent.
I’ve previously used cheaper, inflatable decoys and a couple of hard plastic models from other manufacturers. While the inflatables were convenient, they lacked realism and durability. The hard plastic decoys were more durable, but their static poses never seemed quite convincing. The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen seemed a step above in terms of realism, hopefully translating to better results in the field.
My first impression was excitement. This decoy looked like it could actually make a difference. The texture, the pose, and the overall realism of the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen gave me a surge of confidence for the upcoming turkey season.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen during the opening weekend of turkey season in the rugged foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, with a persistent drizzle and cool temperatures hovering around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. I set the decoy in a small clearing near a well-used game trail, positioning it as though it was actively feeding.
The decoy performed admirably in the challenging conditions. The lifelike appearance wasn’t affected by the rain, and it maintained its realistic posture throughout the morning. No extra setup or prep needed, just take it out of the bag and place strategically.
Using the decoy felt surprisingly intuitive. I positioned it about 20 yards in front of my blind, ensuring it was visible from a distance. Within an hour, a mature tom appeared at the edge of the field and immediately focused on the Feeding Hen.
There weren’t any initial issues, but the tom circled the decoy warily for several minutes before eventually committing. This taught me that even with a realistic decoy, proper calling and positioning are essential.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of hunting in various terrains and weather conditions, the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen has proven to be remarkably durable. It has withstood everything from dense brush to muddy fields without showing significant signs of wear and tear. I am beyond impressed.
The decoy’s ACE resin construction has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and maintaining its shape. Even after being packed and transported multiple times, it still looks nearly new. I’m shocked.
Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove mud or dirt. The self-sealing feature of the resin appears to be working effectively, as no noticeable damage has occurred. This has saved me a ton of time and effort.
Compared to my previous experiences with less durable decoys, the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen is a clear winner. It not only outperforms them in terms of realism but also in its ability to withstand the rigors of hunting. This decoy is worth every penny.
Breaking Down the Features of Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen
Specifications
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen boasts several impressive specifications:
- Manufacturer: Dave Smith Decoys, known for their high-quality, realistic decoys. This pedigree alone suggests a superior product.
- Condition: New, ensuring you receive a pristine and undamaged decoy.
- Color: Black, mimicking the natural coloration of a hen turkey.
- Material: Sprayed version of A.C.E. resin, offering exceptional durability and self-sealing properties. This is a significant advantage over cheaper plastic decoys.
- Lightweight and Compact: Designed for easy transport and setup in the field. This allows for quick adjustments to your setup as needed.
- Quiet: Prevents unwanted noise that could spook turkeys. No squeaking or rattling parts to worry about.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the decoy’s effectiveness and longevity. The A.C.E. resin ensures that the decoy can withstand harsh conditions, while the realistic design and coloration make it highly attractive to turkeys. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver, contributing to a more enjoyable hunting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen excels at its primary job: attracting gobblers. Its realistic pose and coloration create a believable scene that can entice even the most cautious toms. I’ve witnessed firsthand how this decoy can turn a slow day into a successful hunt.
The decoy’s greatest strength is its realism. The attention to detail, from the feather texture to the lifelike posture, makes it incredibly convincing. However, it’s not a magic bullet; proper calling and setup are still crucial for success.
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen definitely meets expectations. It’s a well-designed, durable, and effective decoy that can significantly improve your chances of bagging a tom. I am ecstatic with this product.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen is exceptional. The A.C.E. resin feels solid and durable, and the decoy is well-balanced. The weight is manageable, making it easy to carry and position.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no assembly or special setup. You can simply unpack it and place it in your desired location. The lifelike pose and coloration require no adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen should last for many seasons with proper care. The A.C.E. resin is resistant to cracking, fading, and other forms of wear and tear. I would expect this to last for many many years.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The self-sealing properties of the resin help to prevent damage from scratches and impacts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as its primary function is to serve as a standalone decoy. However, it can be used in conjunction with other decoys to create a more complex and realistic scene.
The decoy is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as decoy stakes and carrying bags. These can enhance its stability and portability. Its simple design does not call for any more additions.
Pros and Cons of Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen
Pros
- Extremely Realistic: The lifelike pose, coloration, and texture make it highly effective at attracting gobblers.
- Durable Construction: The A.C.E. resin is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry and set up in the field.
- Minimal Maintenance: Requires only occasional cleaning.
- Quiet Operation: Prevents spooking turkeys with unwanted noise.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than some other turkey decoys on the market.
- Color: Only available in black
Who Should Buy Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen?
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen is perfect for serious turkey hunters who want to increase their chances of success. It’s also a great choice for those who value durability and realism in their hunting gear. This decoy is a winner.
Hunters on a tight budget or those who only hunt occasionally might want to consider a less expensive option. Also, hunters looking for customizable decoys may want to look elsewhere.
Consider investing in a quality decoy stake and carrying bag to protect and transport the decoy. You may also want to consider additional hen or jake decoys to create an even more convincing scene.
Conclusion on Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen
The Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen is an exceptional turkey decoy that delivers on its promise of realism and durability. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the superior quality and performance justify the investment. I couldn’t be happier with this decoy.
The value proposition is strong. This decoy is a game-changer for turkey hunters who are serious about success. I cannot emphasize enough how impressed I am.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen to any turkey hunter looking for a realistic and durable decoy. It’s a valuable tool that can significantly improve your chances of bagging a tom. Purchase the Dave Smith Decoys Feeding Hen today and experience the difference for yourself.