First Impressions of Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack
As a seasoned waterfowl hunter, I’ve seen my fair share of decoys, from the utterly useless to the surprisingly effective. When Higdon Outdoors announced their APEX series, promising unmatched realism and durability, I was naturally skeptical. I was especially interested in the Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack given my experiences needing variety to sell the illusion of safety to wary late season geese. This 8-pack promised to deliver that crucial element of realism to my spread, and I was eager to put them to the test.
For years I’ve struggled to find decoys that could stand up to the abuse of transport, harsh weather, and the occasional clumsy buddy stepping on them. My hope was that these decoys would not only fool the geese, but also last more than a single season. I needed decoys that would hold their paint, not crack in the cold, and maintain a realistic posture, even after being tossed around in the back of my truck.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the attention to detail. The feathering on these decoys is genuinely impressive, almost photographic in its realism. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a durable construction, and the variety of head positions promised a dynamic and convincing spread. Compared to my older, less detailed decoys from a competitor (let’s call them “Brand X”), the Apex decoys are a clear upgrade in both realism and perceived quality. I’d previously considered another premium decoy set from “Brand Y”, but the price was significantly higher, and I wasn’t convinced their durability justified the extra cost.
Initially, I was excited by the level of detail and the potential for these decoys to enhance my hunting success. I was also cautiously optimistic about their durability, knowing that only time and real-world use would truly tell. If they lived up to Higdon Outdoors’s claims, they would be a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack was on a cold, blustery morning in late November. We were hunting a harvested cornfield known to hold late-season Canada geese. The wind was whipping, creating challenging conditions, but also providing ample opportunity to test the decoy’s movement.
The Apex stake system proved its worth immediately, allowing the decoys to move naturally in the wind, mimicking the behavior of real geese. The high-contrast paint scheme really popped against the drab background of the field, making them highly visible from a distance. We had a flock of five geese commit almost instantly, landing right in the middle of our spread.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hard use, the Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches on the paint, but nothing that detracts from their overall realism. The flexible body has proven to be incredibly durable, with no signs of cracking or breaking, despite being subjected to freezing temperatures and rough handling.
Maintenance is simple; a quick rinse with water after each hunt is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous decoys, which often required touch-up paint and careful storage, the Apex decoys are significantly easier to care for. They’ve outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and realism, making them a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack
Specifications
The Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack includes eight full-size goose decoys with varying head positions and postures. These decoys are specifically painted in “Blue” goose patterns, utilizing the high-contrast paint scheme. The decoys feature the Apex stake system for natural movement in the wind.
These specifications matter because they contribute directly to the decoy’s effectiveness. The variety of poses mimics a relaxed flock, while the high-contrast paint ensures visibility even in low-light conditions. The Apex stake system adds lifelike motion, further fooling wary geese.
Performance & Functionality
The Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack performs exceptionally well in the field. They are realistic, durable, and easy to deploy. They have consistently attracted geese, even in challenging hunting conditions.
The main strength of these decoys is their realism, which is a direct result of the detailed feathering and the variety of poses. One area for slight improvement would be the addition of a textured surface to further reduce glare. Overall, they exceed expectations and have significantly improved my hunting success.
Design & Ergonomics
The decoys boast a one-piece full-body design, simplifying setup and breakdown. They feature XHD Hyper Feathering, which enhances the individual feather details. The materials used are clearly high-quality, with a focus on durability.
These decoys are easy to handle and deploy, even with gloved hands. The intuitive stake system makes setup quick and effortless.
Durability & Maintenance
The Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack is built to last. The flexible body and durable paint hold up well to the rigors of hunting. Minimal maintenance is required, usually just a rinse with water.
With proper care, these decoys should last for many seasons, making them a worthwhile investment for serious waterfowl hunters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack comes with the Apex stake system for each decoy. You can also purchase the Apex Ring Base (sold separately) for use in frozen ground or to create a truly one-piece decoy. These are not necessary, but certainly helpful.
These decoys are compatible with a variety of aftermarket decoy bags and storage solutions. While not strictly “customization,” different stake lengths could further enhance their movement in specific wind conditions.
Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack
Pros
- Unmatched Realism: The XHD Hyper Feathering and detailed paint scheme create incredibly lifelike decoys.
- Durable Construction: The flexible body and high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Natural Movement: The Apex stake system allows the decoys to move naturally in the wind.
- Variety of Poses: The different head positions and postures create a more realistic spread.
- Easy to Use: The one-piece design and intuitive stake system make setup and breakdown a breeze.
Cons
- Paint Durability: While durable overall, the paint can scratch with heavy use.
- Price: These decoys are more expensive than entry-level options.
Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack?
These decoys are perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who prioritize realism and durability. They’re also ideal for hunters who frequently hunt in challenging conditions and need decoys that can withstand the elements. Any hunter who understands the benefit of realistic dekes will value these.
Hunters on a very tight budget might want to consider less expensive options. Similarly, if you only hunt waterfowl a few times a year, the investment in these premium decoys may not be justified.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality decoy bag for transport and storage. The Apex Ring Base is a worthwhile addition for hunting in frozen ground.
Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack
The Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack is a top-of-the-line decoy set that delivers on its promises of realism and durability. While they are an investment, the increased hunting success and long-lasting performance make them well worth the price. I can confidently say that these decoys have improved my hunts and will remain a staple in my spread for years to come.
I highly recommend the Higdon Outdoors APEX Full-Size Full-Body Variety Pack Decoy – 8 Pack to any serious waterfowl hunter looking to up their game. Invest in these decoys, get out there, and experience the difference for yourself.