The Flextone OL’ Bushy Made a Bold First Impression
Wild hog hunting is a passion bordering on obsession for me, and I’ve spent years refining my techniques and gear. The cacophony of the sounder, the thrill of the stalk, and the satisfaction of a successful hunt are unparalleled. That’s why I was intrigued by the Flextone OL’ Bushy, a hog call promising to trigger maternal instincts in sows and attract both boars and piglets.
My hog hunting strategy had always relied on a mix of scouting, baiting, and opportunistic ambushes. I was looking for a call that could add another dimension to my approach, especially in areas with thick cover where visual spotting is difficult. The Flextone OL’ Bushy’s promise of replicating realistic wild hog sounds seemed like the perfect tool to lure wary hogs into range.
Upon receiving the Flextone OL’ Bushy, I immediately noted its compact design and lightweight construction. It felt durable enough to withstand the rigors of the hunt, yet small enough to easily fit into a pocket or pack. Compared to diaphragm calls I’ve used in the past, the Flextone OL’ Bushy seemed much simpler and more user-friendly. It seemed more appealing than complex electronic calls, which can be bulky and require batteries.
I also considered calls from Primos and Knight & Hale, but the Flextone OL’ Bushy’s specific focus on triggering maternal instincts caught my attention. Given its affordability, I decided it was worth trying. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the call seemed well-made, and I was eager to see if it could live up to its claims in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Flextone OL’ Bushy to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Flextone OL’ Bushy came during a weekend hog hunt on a friend’s property in Central Texas. The area was a mix of dense brush, open pasture, and hardwood creek bottoms, providing diverse habitat for hogs. I chose a location near a known bedding area, hoping to attract a sounder from the thick cover.
The weather was mild and dry, ideal for hunting, but the wind was swirling, which can make calling challenging. Initially, I started with soft grunts and squeals, mimicking the sounds of piglets to attract a sow. After about 30 minutes, I switched to louder, more aggressive calls, hoping to pique the interest of a boar. The Flextone OL’ Bushy was easy to use; I could quickly modulate the sounds by varying my breath and hand pressure.
After about an hour of calling, I was rewarded with the sound of rustling in the brush. A large, dark-colored sow emerged, followed by several piglets. The sow was clearly agitated, and she began circling, trying to locate the source of the sounds. She quickly led her piglets to my location and was clearly on high alert.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Flextone OL’ Bushy on various hog hunts, I’ve become impressed with its effectiveness and durability. The call has held up well to the wear and tear of being carried in my pack and used in different weather conditions. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water and allowing it to air dry.
Compared to other calls I’ve used, the Flextone OL’ Bushy has proven to be a reliable tool for attracting hogs. While not every calling session has resulted in immediate success, I’ve consistently observed hogs responding to the call, whether it’s sows with piglets or solitary boars. I was initially skeptical of its effectiveness, but after weeks of use, I am convinced of its value.
Breaking Down the Features of Flextone OL’ Bushy
Specifications
The Flextone OL’ Bushy is a molded plastic hog call designed to produce a range of realistic hog vocalizations. Its primary function is to mimic the sounds of wild hogs to attract other hogs, including sows, boars, and piglets. The call is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use in the field.
The specific dimensions and weight are not provided by the manufacturer, but it is roughly 4-5 inches in length and weighs only a few ounces. This compact design is important because it allows hunters to carry the call discreetly and deploy it quickly when needed. The molded plastic construction is durable and weather-resistant, making it suitable for use in various hunting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Flextone OL’ Bushy excels at producing a wide range of hog sounds, including grunts, squeals, and breeding calls. The call’s ability to mimic the maternal instincts of sows is a key strength, as it can effectively lure sows with piglets into range. Its overall performance meets expectations, and it is a valuable addition to any hog hunter’s arsenal. It also attracts boars looking to breed.
While the call is relatively easy to use, mastering the different sounds requires practice. Some hunters may find it challenging to produce realistic sounds consistently, especially in windy conditions. The call is durable and reliable, but it could benefit from a lanyard attachment point for added convenience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Flextone OL’ Bushy’s molded plastic construction is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The call’s compact size makes it easy to manipulate and produce different sounds. The build quality is adequate for the price point, but the plastic material may not be as durable as more expensive calls.
The call’s design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls that allow hunters to quickly switch between different sounds. However, some users may find the lack of a grip texture to be a minor inconvenience, especially in wet conditions. A textured surface could enhance grip and improve control.
Durability & Maintenance
The Flextone OL’ Bushy is designed to withstand the rigors of the hunt, thanks to its durable plastic construction. With proper care, the call should last for several seasons. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water and allowing it to air dry.
Hunters should avoid exposing the call to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the plastic material. Regularly inspecting the call for cracks or damage is recommended. Proper storage in a dry, cool place will help prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flextone OL’ Bushy does not come with any specific accessories, but hunters can easily attach a lanyard for convenient carrying. There are no officially supported customization options, but some users may choose to modify the call by adding grip tape or painting it with camouflage patterns. It’s a fairly straightforward product.
Pros and Cons of Flextone OL’ Bushy
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to hunters of all budgets.
- Realistic hog sounds effectively attract sows, boars, and piglets.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy carry and use in the field.
- Durable plastic construction withstands the rigors of hunting.
- Easy to use, even for beginner hog hunters.
Cons
- Lacks a lanyard attachment point, requiring a separate purchase or DIY solution.
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as more expensive calls.
Who Should Buy Flextone OL’ Bushy?
The Flextone OL’ Bushy is perfect for hog hunters of all experience levels who are looking for an affordable and effective call. It is particularly well-suited for hunters targeting sows with piglets, as it effectively triggers maternal instincts. Beginner hunters will appreciate its ease of use, while experienced hunters will value its reliability and versatility.
Hunters who prefer premium, high-end calls with advanced features may want to skip this product. Also, those hunting in areas with extremely high hunting pressure where hogs may be call-shy may find this less effective. A must-have accessory would be a simple lanyard to keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on Flextone OL’ Bushy
The Flextone OL’ Bushy is a valuable tool for any hog hunter looking to enhance their calling capabilities. At a price of $14.49, the price is certainly justified. The call’s realistic hog sounds, compact design, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Flextone OL’ Bushy to any hog hunter seeking an affordable and effective call. It’s an excellent way to improve your success rate in the field. Gear up, get out there, and experience the thrill of the hog hunt with the Flextone OL’ Bushy!