Let’s Dive into Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy
The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a meticulously crafted tool designed to bring the majestic moose within calling distance. This updated version, born from direct feedback from experienced moose hunters and outfitters, boasts a darker body and a refined pose. Montana Decoy Co. understood that realism is paramount when trying to fool one of North America’s largest land mammals.
My pursuit of the perfect moose decoy began after several frustrating seasons of calling in bulls that hung up just out of sight. The problem? They needed a visual confirmation, something to lock onto and commit to. I’ve tried everything from waving branches to using old truck tires painted black (don’t ask), but nothing seemed to consistently seal the deal.
The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy arrived neatly packaged, its folded form surprisingly compact. Pulling it out of the box, I was immediately struck by the quality of the HD printed fabric and how lightweight it felt. At first glance, the build seemed robust enough to withstand the rigors of backcountry hunts.
Compared to other collapsible decoys I’ve used for deer and elk, the Moose II is significantly larger, but packs down much smaller than any rigid moose decoy. The key selling point for me was the portability combined with the realistic appearance, something my makeshift solutions could never offer. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to finally bring those hesitant bulls into range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to deploy the Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy came during an early September hunt in the rugged mountains of northern Maine. I found a promising wallow area and strategically placed the decoy about 60 yards away, ensuring it was visible from multiple directions. The setup was incredibly fast, taking mere seconds to unfold and stake it into the ground.
The weather was typical for that time of year: cool mornings, occasional drizzle, and persistent biting insects. Despite the dampness, the decoy’s fabric held up well, showing no signs of sagging or fading. I noticed that the darker body of the Moose II really stood out against the surrounding foliage, providing excellent contrast.
Using a combination of cow calls and antler raking, it took less than an hour before I heard the telltale grunts of an approaching bull. The bull closed the distance slowly and deliberately, fixing its gaze on the decoy. He circled cautiously, scent-checking the air, but remained focused on the Moose II, providing me with a clean shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting in various locations, the Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy has proven its worth. I’ve used it in everything from thick boreal forests to open meadows, and it has consistently performed well. The decoy has held up remarkably well to the abuse of being packed in and out of remote locations.
Aside from a few minor scuffs on the fabric, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. The folding mechanism is still as smooth and reliable as the day I bought it. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and mud.
Compared to previous attempts at using natural materials and homemade decoys, the Moose II is in a different league. It’s significantly more effective at drawing in bulls and far less time-consuming and cumbersome to transport. It has far exceeded my expectations for a collapsible decoy.
Breaking Down the Features of Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Montana Decoy Co., a brand known for its innovative and realistic decoy designs. Montana Decoy Co. has established a reputation for producing high-quality products that meet the demands of serious hunters.
- Quantity: 1. The package includes a single Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy.
- Condition: New. The decoy arrives in pristine, unused condition.
- Folded Size: 23×13 inches. This compact size makes it easy to transport the decoy in a backpack or on a boat.
- Realistic HD Printed Fabric. The high-definition print creates a lifelike appearance that is crucial for fooling wary moose. This printing contributes significantly to the decoy’s realism.
These specifications are significant because they highlight the decoy’s portability and realistic design. The compact folded size means it won’t weigh you down on long treks. The HD printed fabric is essential for creating a visual that convinces moose to approach.
Performance & Functionality
The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy excels at its primary function: attracting moose. The darker body and updated pose seem to be particularly effective at triggering a response from bulls, drawing them in close for a shot. I have also found success using it to hold the attention of wounded animals to prevent them from escaping into thick cover.
One of the decoy’s greatest strengths is its ease of use and rapid deployment. A minor weakness is that in very strong winds, the stakes can sometimes pull out of the ground, requiring adjustments. Overall, the decoy meets and often exceeds expectations, proving to be a valuable tool for moose hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy is impressive, especially considering its collapsible design. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring the decoy can withstand the rigors of the hunt. The decoy’s weight is negligible, making it easy to carry for extended periods.
The design is very user-friendly, requiring no complicated setup or assembly. It is simple to deploy and take down, even in challenging field conditions. There is virtually no learning curve, which is a welcome feature for hunters who want to focus on the hunt.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy should last for many seasons. The durable fabric and sturdy frame are designed to withstand the elements. Maintenance is minimal, usually only requiring a quick wipe down after use.
Repairs are likely possible with basic tools and materials, such as replacement stakes or fabric patches. The decoy is designed for longevity and ease of upkeep, making it a reliable companion on any moose hunt.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories. However, aftermarket ground stakes can be added for increased stability in windy conditions. The lifelike appearance of the Moose II Decoy makes it compatible with various calling techniques and hunting strategies, enhancing its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy
Pros
- Extremely portable due to its compact folded size, making it easy to carry into remote hunting locations.
- Realistic HD printed fabric and darker body provide a convincing visual that attracts moose effectively.
- Quick and easy setup allows for rapid deployment in the field, maximizing hunting time.
- Durable materials ensure the decoy can withstand the rigors of outdoor use and various weather conditions.
- Lightweight design minimizes the burden on hunters during long treks.
Cons
- May require stronger aftermarket stakes for use in very windy conditions.
- The fabric could be susceptible to punctures if not handled carefully in thick brush.
Who Should Buy Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy?
The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy is perfect for serious moose hunters who prioritize portability, realism, and ease of use. It is also well-suited for outfitters who guide clients in remote locations. Any hunter that seeks to increase the success rate of moose hunts by providing a visual aid to calls will benefit from the Moose II Decoy.
Hunters who primarily hunt in areas with extremely dense cover or who are unwilling to carry additional gear might find this product less appealing. While not essential, investing in heavier-duty ground stakes is highly recommended for hunters who frequently encounter windy conditions.
Conclusion on Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy
The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy is a game-changer for moose hunters. Its combination of portability, realism, and ease of use makes it an invaluable tool in the field. The Moose II Decoy provides a tangible advantage to hunters looking to improve their success rates.
The price of $129.99 is justified by the decoy’s performance and durability. The Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy is a worthwhile investment for any serious moose hunter. I wholeheartedly recommend the Montana Decoy Co. Moose II Decoy to anyone looking to improve their moose hunting strategy. Don’t leave for your next moose hunt without it!