Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy Review

First Thoughts on the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy isn’t just another piece of plastic molded to resemble a turkey. It’s a meticulously crafted tool designed to elicit aggressive responses from dominant Toms. Dave Smith Decoys has built a reputation for realism and durability, and this strutter decoy promises to continue that legacy. This decoy is priced at $201.99

My quest for a consistently effective decoy led me to the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy. I needed a decoy that could withstand aggressive pecking, remain lifelike in varied conditions, and ultimately, bring more Toms into range. Cheap, flimsy decoys simply weren’t cutting it anymore; I was looking for a confidence-inspiring piece of gear.

Unboxing the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy revealed a level of quality I immediately appreciated. The A.C.E. resin has a substantial feel, and the sculpted details are impressive. It’s clear this isn’t a mass-produced, throwaway item.

Compared to cheaper, collapsible decoys, the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy sacrifices portability for realism and durability. The Flambeau Masters Series Strutting Turkey offers a similar pose but lacks the robust construction and self-sealing body. I ultimately chose the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy because of its proven track record and the promise of long-term performance.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this decoy live up to the hype and justify its premium price? I was eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy was on a late-season hunt in the Appalachian foothills. The terrain was rugged, and the weather was unpredictable. I set the decoy up in a small clearing near a known strutting zone, using the included motion stake.

Despite a light rain and gusty winds, the decoy held its position admirably. The A.C.E. resin proved its worth when a particularly aggressive Tom attacked the decoy, leaving only minor, self-sealing marks. The Tom came in hot and fast.

The decoy was relatively easy to set up, though attaching my own tail fan took a few minutes to get right using the provided tools. I did not experience the level of realism with the cheaper models.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy has become a staple in my turkey hunting arsenal. It has survived numerous hunts in various conditions, from early morning frost to scorching midday sun. It simply works.

The decoy shows minimal signs of wear and tear. Some slight scuffing is visible, but the self-sealing resin has prevented any significant damage. The lifelike paint job is remarkably durable, resisting fading and chipping.

Cleaning the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper decoys that cracked or faded after a season, the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy has significantly outperformed expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy

Specifications

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy boasts the following key specifications:

• Material: A.C.E. Resin – This specialized resin is designed to withstand impacts and even gunshots, self-sealing to prevent further damage. It provides exceptional durability and realism.
• Design: Lifelike Strutter Pose – Mimics a mature Tom in full display, provoking aggressive responses from other Toms. This pose is highly effective in attracting dominant birds.
• Tail Fan and Wings: Accepts real tail fans and wings (not included) – Allows for customization and added realism, enabling conversion from jake to tom. This feature enhances the decoy’s effectiveness in different hunting scenarios.
• Included Accessories: Comes complete with tools to attach your own tail fan and wings, a carry bag, and a motion stake. The included accessories provide everything needed for immediate use in the field.
• Durability: Weatherproof and Ultra Durable – Tested to withstand repeated attacks from aggressive birds and harsh weather conditions. This ensures the decoy can withstand the rigors of hunting in various environments.

These specifications are crucial for optimal performance. The A.C.E. resin ensures the decoy can endure aggressive attacks and harsh conditions, while the realistic design and customizable tail fan and wings significantly increase its effectiveness in attracting Toms.

Performance & Functionality

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy excels in its primary function: attracting dominant Toms. Its lifelike appearance and aggressive posture consistently provoke reactions from other turkeys, drawing them into shooting range. Toms simply cannot resist taking their shot!

The decoy’s strengths lie in its realism and durability. However, the need to acquire and attach a real tail fan and wings could be seen as a minor inconvenience. It would be nice to include a decoy fan for out-of-the-box hunting.

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy exceeds expectations in terms of durability and realism. It instills confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of hunting.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy is exceptional. The A.C.E. resin feels substantial and durable. The sculpting is remarkably lifelike.

The decoy is relatively easy to handle and deploy. The carry bag is a welcome addition. The motion stake provides subtle movement. There’s a slight learning curve to attaching the tail fan and wings, but the included tools make the process manageable.

Durability & Maintenance

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy is built to last for many seasons. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the attacks of aggressive birds and exposure to harsh weather. It is the most durable I have encountered.

Maintaining the decoy is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The self-sealing resin minimizes the need for repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy comes with the following accessories:

• Tools for attaching tail fan and wings
• Carry bag
• Motion stake

The primary customization option is the ability to attach a real tail fan and wings. This allows hunters to tailor the decoy’s appearance to match local turkey populations and hunting conditions. There is no mention of compatibility with after-market accessories.

Pros and Cons of Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy

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Who Should Buy Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy?

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy is perfect for serious turkey hunters who demand the highest level of realism and durability. This decoy is for someone who wants a confidence-inspiring tool that will consistently attract Toms in various hunting scenarios. This is a lifetime item.

Hunters on a tight budget or those who prioritize portability over realism might want to consider other options. Those not willing to acquire and attach a real tail fan and wings should explore alternatives with included fans.

A quality pair of hunting gloves can help with setup and handling in cold weather. Consider adding scent attractants to further enhance the decoy’s appeal.

Conclusion on Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy

The Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy is a premium product that lives up to its reputation. Its realism, durability, and proven effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment for serious turkey hunters. It is not the cheapest option.

The price is justified by the decoy’s long-term performance and its ability to consistently attract dominant Toms. It is hard to find a better option on the market.

I would highly recommend the Dave Smith Decoy Strutter Decoy to any hunter seeking a top-tier decoy that will enhance their turkey hunting success. Invest in confidence. Upgrade your hunt today!

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