First Impressions of DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
Waterfowl hunting requires a blend of strategy, patience, and the right gear, and one crucial element often overlooked is the decoy rigging. After years of struggling with tangled lines and cumbersome setups, I was eager to find a solution that would streamline my decoy deployment and retrieval. The DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, promised exactly that: a durable, tangle-free, and efficient rigging system.
My journey towards this product stemmed from countless frustrating mornings spent untangling traditional decoy cords in freezing temperatures, losing precious hunting time. I needed a robust solution that could withstand harsh conditions and repetitive use while minimizing setup time. This Drake set immediately caught my attention with its promise of black coated steel wire, which sounded significantly more durable than the typical nylon or monofilament options I’d used before.
Unboxing the DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, revealed a neat package of twelve pre-assembled rigs. The black coating on the steel wire gave them a stealthy, professional appearance, and the overall construction felt solid and well-made. The carabiner and metal cable crimps looked robust, promising a secure connection to my decoys and weights.
Compared to my previous rigs, which consisted of a tangled mess of nylon cord and makeshift weights, the Drake set felt like a significant upgrade. I had considered individual components from brands like Avery and Cabela’s, but the Drake package offered a more convenient and potentially more cost-effective solution. I chose this set because it seemed to offer a balance of durability, convenience, and a reasonable price point.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The quality seemed evident, but I was eager to see how they would perform in real-world conditions, especially in muddy, shallow waters where my previous rigs had consistently failed. The promise of tangle-free deployment was particularly appealing after countless frustrating experiences.
Real-World Testing: Putting DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, came during an early-season teal hunt in a shallow flooded field. I deployed the decoys in a typical spread, aiming to create a natural-looking landing zone for incoming birds. The water was murky and shallow, about 2-3 feet deep in most areas, with a soft, muddy bottom.
The immediate advantage was the ease of deployment. The Texas rigs slipped off the Tanglefree Pro Series Decoy winder without any tangling, a welcome change from my previous experiences. The black coated steel wire moved smoothly through the water, and the carabiner made attaching the decoy a breeze.
The conditions were relatively mild, with a slight breeze and clear skies, but even in these favorable conditions, the superiority of the steel wire was evident. My old nylon rigs would have already been showing signs of abrasion from the muddy bottom, but the Drake rigs appeared unaffected. There were no surprises, just a smooth, efficient setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of waterfowl hunting, the DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, has proven to be a reliable and durable asset. I’ve used them in various conditions, from frigid, ice-covered waters to muddy, shallow marshes.
The rigs have held up remarkably well with minimal wear and tear. The black coating on the steel wire has resisted abrasion and corrosion, even after repeated exposure to saltwater and mud. Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each hunt is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous experiences with nylon and monofilament rigs, the Drake set is a clear winner. The steel wire is significantly more durable and tangle-resistant, and the overall construction is much more robust. They have consistently outperformed my expectations, reducing setup time and minimizing frustration in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
Specifications
The DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, consists of twelve individual Texas rigs, each featuring 60 inches of black coated steel wire. The set includes one carabiner per rig, allowing for easy attachment to the decoy. Metal cable crimps are securely attached to each coated steel wire cable to secure the weight.
Each rig weighs approximately 6 ounces, and the entire package weighs around 4.5 pounds. The Manufacturer of this set is DRAKE. The steel construction ensures strength and durability, while the black coating offers corrosion resistance and stealth.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is to securely anchor decoys in various water depths and conditions. The 60-inch length is suitable for most shallow to moderately deep water situations. The steel wire’s resistance to tangling significantly improves the speed and ease of decoy deployment and retrieval.
The rigs perform exceptionally well in muddy and vegetated environments, where traditional cords tend to snag and tangle. While the steel wire is strong, it’s important to use appropriate weights to avoid excessive stress on the crimps. Overall, the Drake set meets and exceeds expectations for durability and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is simple and functional. The black coating provides a low-profile appearance, minimizing visibility to waterfowl. The carabiner allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment of decoys.
The build quality is excellent, with robust materials and secure crimps. There’s virtually no learning curve; the rigs are ready to use straight out of the package.
Durability & Maintenance
The DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is designed for long-term durability. The steel wire and black coating provide excellent resistance to abrasion, corrosion, and UV damage. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a simple rinse with fresh water after use.
With proper care, these rigs should last for many hunting seasons. Replacement of the carabiners may be necessary over time, but the steel wire itself is highly durable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is primarily designed for use with standard decoy weights, which are not included in the package. Various weight options are available, ranging from 4-ounce to 12-ounce depending on the water depth and current. The carabiners are compatible with most standard decoy attachment points.
While the rigs themselves are not highly customizable, users can easily adjust the length of the wire by re-crimping it with appropriate tools. Some hunters may choose to replace the carabiners with heavier-duty options for added security, although this hasn’t been necessary in my experience.
Pros and Cons of DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The black coated steel wire withstands harsh conditions and resists abrasion and corrosion.
- Tangle-Free Performance: The rigid wire minimizes tangling, making deployment and retrieval quick and easy.
- Easy to Use: The carabiner attachment simplifies decoy setup.
- Low Profile: The black coating reduces visibility to waterfowl.
- Time-Saving: Streamlined setup and retrieval increase hunting efficiency.
Cons
- Steel wire is stiff, and can be harder to coil for storage, compared to nylon.
- Heavier than traditional nylon or monofilament rigs.
Who Should Buy DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire,?
The DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who value durability, efficiency, and tangle-free performance. It’s an excellent choice for hunting in muddy, vegetated, or shallow-water environments. This set is ideal for hunters who are tired of dealing with tangled cords and want a reliable rigging system that will last for many seasons.
Hunters who primarily hunt in very deep water may find the 60-inch length limiting and may require longer rigs. Those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else might prefer traditional nylon or monofilament options, although they will sacrifice durability. A must-have accessory is a set of appropriate decoy weights, typically ranging from 4-ounce to 12-ounce, depending on the hunting conditions.
Conclusion on DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
The DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, offers a significant upgrade over traditional decoy rigging systems. The combination of durable steel wire, tangle-free performance, and easy-to-use design makes it a worthwhile investment for serious waterfowl hunters. At a price of $59.99, the value proposition is strong, considering the time saved and frustration avoided.
I would personally highly recommend this product to anyone looking to improve their decoy setup and hunting efficiency. The Drake Texas Rigs have become an essential part of my waterfowl hunting gear, and I’m confident they will provide many seasons of reliable service. If you’re tired of tangled cords and want a durable, efficient rigging system, the DRAKE DA9000060006 Texas Rig Package Set 60″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is the solution you’ve been looking for!