The WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT Made a Bold First Impression
The WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT “Estrus” Scent isn’t just another bottle of deer lure; it’s a carefully crafted concoction promising to bring that buck of a lifetime within shooting range. As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve seen my fair share of gimmicks and game-changers in the world of hunting scents, and I approached this one with cautious optimism. With over a decade immersed in the tactical and outdoor gear industry, I’ve learned to separate marketing hype from genuine performance, and my initial interaction with this product was surprisingly promising, piquing my interest.
I decided to give the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT a try after experiencing a frustrating hunting season last year. The bucks were clearly present, based on trail camera footage, but they were hesitant to come into my usual stands. I needed an edge, a scent that would truly entice them and overcome their natural caution.
Upon receiving the 4oz bottle, I was immediately impressed by the packaging. The bottle felt substantial, and the labeling was clear and professional, a testament to the Wildlife Research brand’s commitment to quality. Compared to other generic scents I’ve used, this one felt like a premium product. Its initial aroma, even through the sealed bottle, hinted at a complex and natural blend, far removed from the overly synthetic smells often associated with cheaper lures. It initially smelled very promising.
I had been considering other estrus scents like Tink’s #69 Doe-P Estrus or Code Blue Standing Estrous, but I chose the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT due to the positive reputation of Wildlife Research and the specific claims about its unique formulation. This “unique formulation” sold me, and so I pulled the trigger (pun intended). My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price point was attractive, and the initial scent was encouraging, leaving me excited to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT took place during the early weeks of the rut in a heavily wooded area known for its mature buck population. I applied the scent to several scent wicks placed strategically around my stand, mimicking a natural scrape. I also applied a small amount to my boots to create a scent trail as I walked in. Conditions were cool and damp, with a slight breeze – ideal for carrying scent.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. A few drops on each wick and I was done; no muss, no fuss. The scent dispersed nicely in the air and didn’t have an overpowering, chemical-like smell. Within a couple of hours, I noticed increased deer activity in the area, including several does passing by my stand, seemingly drawn in by the scent. However, no bucks showed up that first day.
I experienced no immediate issues. The scent seemed to be doing its job in attracting deer.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT, I can confidently say that it’s a reliable addition to my hunting arsenal. The scent held up well in varying weather conditions, from light rain to frosty mornings. It did, however, seem to dissipate more quickly in warmer temperatures, requiring more frequent applications.
Durability isn’t a factor with a scent like this, but the bottle itself has proven to be sturdy and leak-proof. Maintenance is nonexistent, other than ensuring the cap is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation. This is a big plus.
Compared to previous estrus scents I’ve used, the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT seems to offer a more consistent and noticeable effect on deer behavior. While I can’t guarantee it will bring in a trophy buck every time, it noticeably increases the likelihood of attracting deer and keeping them interested in the area around my stand. In short, it outperforms previous scents.
Breaking Down the Features of WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT
Specifications
- Product Name: WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT Estrus” Scent. This highlights the specific type of scent: estrus.
- Manufacturer: Wildlife Research. This is a well-known and respected brand in the hunting industry.
- Size: 4oz Bottle. This is a standard size for hunting scents, offering a good balance of value and portability.
- Scent Type: Estrus (Doe in Heat). This scent is designed to mimic the natural scent of a doe in heat, attracting bucks during the rut.
- Intended Use: Deer Hunting. It’s specifically formulated for attracting whitetail and other deer species.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the scent’s effectiveness and ease of use. The Estrus scent, for example, is most effective during the rutting season when bucks are actively seeking does. The 4oz bottle provides enough scent for multiple hunts, while remaining easy to carry in a hunting pack.
Performance & Functionality
The WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT performs its job admirably, attracting deer and increasing their interest in the area around my stand. The scent is potent enough to carry in the wind but not so overpowering that it seems unnatural.
Its strengths lie in its realistic scent profile and ease of use. A few drops on a scent wick or drag rag are all it takes to create an effective attractant. One area for potential improvement might be the longevity of the scent in warmer temperatures, as it seems to dissipate more quickly under those conditions. But overall, it does meet expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT bottle is functional and practical. The bottle is made of durable plastic and the cap seals tightly to prevent leaks. It’s easy to handle and pour, even with gloved hands.
The bottle size is also ideal for carrying in a hunting pack without taking up too much space. The simple and effective design adds to the overall user experience. There is no learning curve to the bottle itself.
Durability & Maintenance
As a scent product, the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT doesn’t require any specific maintenance. The bottle is durable and should last for multiple seasons if stored properly, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
The shelf life of the scent itself will depend on storage conditions, but it should remain effective for at least a year if properly sealed. A good place to store it is in a shed, or even a refrigerator. The repair question is not applicable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT doesn’t come with any specific accessories. It is designed to be used in conjunction with scent wicks, drag rags, or other scent dispersal methods.
It’s compatible with virtually any scent accessory on the market, allowing hunters to customize their scent application strategy. Consider using scent wicks from Tink’s or Code Blue for optimal dispersal. You can mix it with other Wildlife Research scents, too.
Pros and Cons of WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT
Pros
- Potent and realistic estrus scent that effectively attracts deer.
- Easy to use and apply with various scent dispersal methods.
- Relatively affordable compared to other premium estrus scents.
- Long shelf life when stored properly.
- Proven track record with hunters.
Cons
- Scent may dissipate more quickly in warmer temperatures.
- Does not include any application accessories (wicks, drag rags, etc.).
Who Should Buy WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT?
The WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT is perfect for hunters looking to increase their chances of success during the rut. It’s particularly well-suited for whitetail deer hunters, but it can also be effective for attracting other deer species.
Hunters who rely heavily on scent attractants and are willing to experiment with different application methods will benefit most from this product. Hunters who prefer unscented hunting or are skeptical of scent attractants might want to skip this product.
Must-have accessories include scent wicks, drag rags, or a scent dripper to maximize the scent’s effectiveness. Camouflage clothing, appropriate footwear, and a reliable weapon are also essential for a successful hunt.
Conclusion on WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT
The WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT “Estrus” Scent is a reliable and effective tool for attracting deer during the rut. It delivers on its promise of creating a realistic and enticing scent profile that can significantly increase your chances of success in the field.
The price of $11.49 is more than justified, considering the quality of the scent and its proven effectiveness. I would absolutely recommend the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT to any deer hunter looking for an edge during the rutting season.
Give the WILDLIFE RESEARCH “#1 SELECT a try and experience the difference it can make in your next hunt! Invest in a bottle today and see for yourself how this quality product can enhance your hunting experience.