First Thoughts on the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100
The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 is a digital game caller designed to bring the sounds of the wild right to your fingertips. Coming from Western Rivers, a brand known for its affordable hunting electronics, it boasts the capability to store 100 sounds and features a 4″ Reflex Loudspeaker. At a price point of $76.99, it sits in a competitive market, promising value and functionality for both seasoned and novice hunters.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent years relying on the effectiveness of quality calls to bring game within range. My old reliable diaphragm call was finally giving out, and I needed a reliable, portable alternative that didn’t rely on my breath control. I was searching for a user-friendly electronic caller that wouldn’t break the bank, but still offered a decent range of sounds and a powerful enough speaker.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 felt surprisingly lightweight, primarily due to its plastic construction. The build quality appeared adequate for its intended use, although the plastic casing didn’t immediately inspire confidence in its long-term durability in harsh environments.
Compared to other digital callers I’ve used, like the Primos Alpha Dogg or the Foxpro Shockwave (which are significantly more expensive), the Mantis Pro 100 obviously lacks the advanced features and robust construction. However, those models also come with a hefty price tag. My primary goal was affordability and basic functionality. The MP100 Mantis Pro 100 seemed to offer a good balance.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The lightweight design is a plus for portability, but the long-term durability remains to be seen. Only real-world testing would determine if the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 could deliver on its promise of bringing game closer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 during a coyote hunting trip in the high desert of eastern Oregon. The conditions were dry, dusty, and the temperature hovered around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I set up the caller about 50 yards from my position, nestled amongst some sagebrush.
The unit was easy to operate right out of the box, requiring minimal setup. The controls are straightforward, and I was able to quickly navigate through the pre-loaded sounds. Initially, the sound quality was decent, and the speaker projected the calls adequately across the open terrain.
However, after about an hour of use, I noticed the speaker started to distort slightly at higher volumes. Also, the lightweight construction made it susceptible to tipping over in even a slight breeze. This required constant readjustment to maintain optimal sound projection.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, primarily during weekend hunting trips, the Mantis Pro 100 showed some signs of wear. The plastic casing accumulated minor scratches and scuffs, despite my best efforts to protect it. While it continued to function, the speaker distortion became more pronounced at higher volumes, especially when playing deeper, guttural calls.
Cleaning the unit is relatively simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior. However, the battery compartment latch feels flimsy. It raises concerns about its longevity if frequently opened and closed for battery changes.
Compared to more ruggedized callers I’ve used in the past, the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 is definitely less durable. But given the price difference, it’s an understandable trade-off. While it hasn’t completely disappointed, I’m not confident it will withstand years of heavy use in harsh conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100
Specifications
- The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 boasts a 4″ Reflex Loudspeaker, designed for clear sound projection. This is crucial for attracting game from a distance.
- It offers a 32MB memory capacity, allowing users to store a reasonable number of sounds. Sufficient memory is essential for varied hunting scenarios.
- The caller can store up to 100 permanent sounds, providing a diverse library for different species and hunting conditions. Having ample sound options is critical for adapting to different game and environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 performs adequately in attracting game within a reasonable range. The pre-loaded sounds are fairly realistic, and the volume is sufficient for most situations, although distortion occurs at the higher end. The caller’s ease of use is a significant strength, requiring minimal setup and offering straightforward navigation.
However, the speaker distortion at higher volumes is a notable weakness. The plastic construction also makes it feel less robust compared to higher-end models. It meets expectations for its price point, but doesn’t exceed them in any particular area.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mantis Pro 100 is constructed primarily of lightweight plastic, which contributes to its portability. The compact design makes it easy to carry in a pack. The controls are logically laid out and easily accessible, even with gloved hands.
The unit is reasonably user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The display is clear and easy to read. However, the lightweight construction can make it feel less stable, especially in windy conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its plastic construction, the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100‘s long-term durability is questionable. While it should withstand light to moderate use, it’s unlikely to survive repeated exposure to harsh conditions. The unit requires minimal maintenance. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 does not come with a wide array of accessories. It focuses on core functionality. Users can load custom sounds onto the device via a USB connection to a computer.
The lack of compatibility with external speakers or other accessories limits customization. However, for users seeking a basic, self-contained unit, this may not be a significant drawback.
Pros and Cons of Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners and budget-conscious hunters.
- Lightweight and portable design for easy carrying in the field.
- Simple and user-friendly interface allows for quick setup and operation.
- Large sound storage capacity (100 sounds) provides a diverse range of options.
- Decent sound quality and volume are adequate for attracting game within a reasonable range (at lower volumes).
Cons
- Plastic construction raises concerns about long-term durability.
- Speaker distortion at higher volumes can negatively impact sound quality.
- Limited customization options restrict the ability to expand functionality.
Who Should Buy Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100?
The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, beginners venturing into electronic game calling, and those seeking a lightweight and portable option. It’s also suitable for occasional hunters who don’t require advanced features or extreme durability.
Hunters who require ruggedized equipment for frequent use in harsh conditions or those who demand the highest sound quality and advanced features should skip this product. Individuals seeking extensive customization options or compatibility with external accessories should also consider other alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a durable carrying case to protect the plastic housing during transport. Investing in high-quality batteries can also optimize performance and ensure longer battery life.
Conclusion on Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100
The Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 offers a good value proposition for hunters seeking an affordable and portable electronic game caller. Its lightweight design, user-friendly interface, and large sound storage capacity make it a decent option for beginners and casual users. However, the plastic construction and speaker distortion at higher volumes are limitations to consider.
The price is generally justified for the features offered, placing it in a sweet spot for those prioritizing affordability over premium features.
I would cautiously recommend the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 to hunters who understand its limitations and prioritize budget and portability. It’s a solid entry-level caller. If you’re looking for a reliable, no-frills game caller that won’t break the bank, give the Western Rivers MP100 Mantis Pro 100 a shot. You might just be surprised at how effective it can be.