The Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles Made a Bold First Impression
The crisp autumn air bit at my exposed cheeks as I pulled the package from the mailbox. Inside, nestled among the packing peanuts, sat the Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles. I’d been searching for an edge, a secret weapon to tip the odds in my favor during the rut, and the promise of authentic Whitetail Doe urine with Estrus Secretions, enhanced with a “secret musk”, certainly piqued my interest.
I’ve spent over a decade chasing whitetails across varying terrains, from the dense forests of Pennsylvania to the sprawling fields of the Midwest. My quest for that trophy buck has led me to experiment with countless attractants, each promising the moon, yet often falling short in the critical moments. I was hoping this one would break the cycle.
Unboxing revealed two small, amber-colored glass bottles, each holding a single fluid ounce of the attractant. The dark glass suggested Wildlife Research was serious about protecting the integrity of their scent from sunlight degradation. The weight felt substantial, hinting at a concentrated formula.
I’ve used synthetic estrus scents before, and even tried some of the other Wildlife Research products. But I chose this particular combo because of the added “secret musk,” hoping it would provide that extra bit of allure to draw in those mature bucks. The other scents I’ve tested lacked that certain something that made them an absolute slam dunk.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the “secret musk” made a difference. I was also slightly concerned about the small bottle size but hoping a little goes a long way with this potent formula.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles on a crisp October morning in a well-traveled scrape line deep in the Pennsylvania woods. I applied a few drops to several existing scrapes, refreshed them, and added some to a scent drag that I pulled behind me as I walked to my stand. The day was cold, around 35 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze.
The scent was surprisingly subtle, a far cry from the overpowering chemical smell I’ve encountered with some synthetic attractants. The subtle aroma, combined with the natural scent of the forest floor, created a more realistic and inviting atmosphere. After being positioned in my stand for about two hours, a respectable eight-point buck cautiously approached the scrape line. He worked each scrape, nostrils flared, clearly intrigued by the scent. I ended up passing on the young buck in the hopes of finding something larger, but he certainly seemed interested.
I noticed no issues with the application, and the scent seemed to project well, even in the cool, breezy conditions. I was pleased with the immediate, positive reaction from the deer.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles continue to perform consistently well. I haven’t noticed any significant change in its effectiveness, even with repeated exposure to varying weather conditions. Rain, frost, and even a few days of surprisingly warm weather didn’t seem to diminish its drawing power.
The small amber bottles have held up well, and the scent hasn’t seemed to degrade over time. A little bit does go a long way, so the bottles will last the entire rutting season. Cleaning is not a concern since it is a scent, and there is no need to clean up anything after use.
The Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles outperform any synthetic attractants I’ve used in the past. The natural scent and the added “secret musk” seem to make a significant difference in attracting mature bucks.
Breaking Down the Features of Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles
Specifications
- Authentic Whitetail Doe Urine with Estrus Secretions: This ensures a natural and realistic scent that mimics the real thing, making it more appealing to bucks during the rut. This is arguably the most important factor in the product’s effectiveness.
- Two 1 FL OZ Amber Bottles: The small size is convenient for carrying, and the amber glass protects the scent from degradation caused by sunlight. This helps to preserve the scent’s potency for a longer period.
- “Secret Musk” Additive: This mysterious ingredient is intended to enhance the drawing power of the estrus scent. This is supposed to make it more appealing to trophy-class bucks.
Performance & Functionality
The Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles perform their job admirably: attracting bucks. The scent is effective in drawing deer to scrapes and scent trails. The scent itself is a strength, but the bottles are on the smaller side for extended hunts.
The product meets my expectations and seems to offer a definite edge during the rut. I believe this is due to the natural scent and the “secret musk” additive.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The amber glass bottles are practical and easy to handle. The weight is light, making them easy to carry in a hunting pack.
There is no learning curve; the product is ready to use out of the bottle. Just drip a few drops into existing scrapes or on a scent drag.
Durability & Maintenance
The scent itself will last for the duration of the rutting season if used sparingly. The bottles are durable enough to withstand being carried in a pack but are made of glass, so you will have to be cautious when handling them.
There is no maintenance or repair required. Just store the bottles in a cool, dark place when not in use.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no accessories that come with the product. You can combine the scent with other Wildlife Research products like scent drags or wicks.
The product is compatible with scent dispersal systems from other brands. You can even mix it in with your mock scrape formula.
Pros and Cons of Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles
Pros
- Authentic Whitetail Doe Urine with Estrus Secretions: This is the foundation of the scent’s effectiveness.
- Added “Secret Musk”: Provides a unique and alluring scent profile.
- Convenient Amber Bottles: Protects the scent and is easy to carry.
- Effective Attractant: Proven to draw in bucks, especially during the rut.
- Easy to Use: Ready to use straight from the bottle with no mixing required.
Cons
- Small Bottle Size: The 1 FL OZ bottles may not last an entire season for heavy users.
- Glass Bottles: Can be fragile and require careful handling.
Who Should Buy Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles?
Perfect for: Hunters who are looking for a natural and effective estrus scent to attract mature bucks during the rut. Those who hunt in areas with heavy deer populations will see the most benefit.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who prefer synthetic attractants or those who are on a very tight budget may want to consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A scent drag or scent wick can enhance the effectiveness of this attractant.
Conclusion on Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles
The Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles is a potent attractant that delivers on its promise. The authentic Whitetail Doe urine, coupled with the intriguing “secret musk,” creates a scent profile that is undeniably appealing to bucks during the rut. While the small bottle size and glass construction are minor drawbacks, the effectiveness of the product outweighs these concerns.
At $9.49, the price is justified, especially considering the potential for success it offers. I would personally recommend the Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles to any hunter seeking an edge during the rut.
If you’re serious about bagging that trophy buck this season, give the Wildlife Research #1 Select Estrus Combo 2 – 1 FL OZ Bottles a try. You might just find that it’s the secret weapon you’ve been looking for.