First Thoughts on the Dying Rabbit
The Dying Rabbit call, manufactured by an unspecified entity, is a simple but intriguing piece of gear designed to mimic the distress sounds of a rabbit. For a mere $7.49, it promises to be a coaxer and long-distance call, all in one flexible package. My initial reaction is cautiously optimistic; a successful predator call can be an invaluable tool, and I’m always eager to find effective, affordable options.
For years, I’ve relied on a mix of electronic calls and mouth calls, but I’ve been searching for something simpler and more compact to carry as a backup or for quick setups where fiddling with batteries and settings is undesirable. The Dying Rabbit seems to fit that niche perfectly.
Upon receiving the Dying Rabbit, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. It’s essentially a flexible tube, designed to be squeezed at one end to produce a variety of sounds. The material feels like a soft, durable plastic, and the build quality seems adequate for its intended purpose. It is lightweight and easily fits into a pocket, a stark contrast to some of my bulkier electronic options. Comparing it to a traditional open-reed mouth call, the Dying Rabbit promises a different approach – less reliant on precise mouth control and more focused on simple manipulation. Compared to a diaphragm call, there’s no need to use your mouth to produce the sounds which can be great when its freezing cold and difficult to operate in cold conditions.
My first impression was a mix of curiosity and hope. I was excited to see if such a simple design could genuinely replicate the sounds needed to attract predators. However, I also had a healthy dose of skepticism; at this price point, performance is not always guaranteed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dying Rabbit to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Dying Rabbit to a local area known for its coyote population. The area consists of a mix of open fields and wooded patches, offering diverse terrain for testing the call in different scenarios. The weather was cool and dry, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for sound to travel. I began by experimenting with different squeezing techniques, trying to replicate the pleading sounds described in the product details.
The initial sounds were rough, needing some adjustments to produce the right tone. After about 15 minutes of practice, I started to get a feel for the call, achieving a reasonably convincing distress sound. I set up in a concealed position near a field edge and began calling, using a mix of short, quiet whines and longer, more urgent cries. I did need to focus to get a convincing sound out of it. There were no immediate responses, but after about 20 minutes, I spotted movement in the distance – a coyote cautiously approaching from downwind.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Dying Rabbit on various hunts, I’ve gained a better understanding of its strengths and limitations. It has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being tossed into my pack and exposed to different weather conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water is usually sufficient. The simple design also means there’s nothing to actually break.
Compared to my electronic calls, the Dying Rabbit requires more user input and finesse. But it can be a very powerful tool when used correctly. During one particularly successful outing, I used the Dying Rabbit to coax a fox out of thick cover, something I hadn’t been able to achieve with other calls. However, it does require more focus and attention to produce a good sound than an electronic call.
Breaking Down the Features of Dying Rabbit
Specifications
- The Dying Rabbit, model number FG-PRED-00002, is a flexible predator call designed to mimic the distress sounds of a rabbit. Its flexible design is its key feature, allowing for varying degrees of inflection and natural-sounding pleas.
- The call is intended to be used as both a coaxer for close-range work and a long-distance call for attracting predators from afar. The user controls the volume and tone by squeezing the end of the call.
Performance & Functionality
The Dying Rabbit performs reasonably well, considering its simplicity. It takes practice to master the different sounds, but once learned it can produce a convincing range of distress calls. The ability to modulate the volume from a quiet whine to a loud cry is valuable, allowing adaptation to different hunting situations.
Its main strength lies in its portability and ease of use – no batteries required, and it can be deployed quickly in any situation. However, its weakness is the reliance on user skill; an inconsistent or poorly executed call will likely be ineffective. It meets expectations for a call in this price range, providing a simple and reliable option for predator hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Dying Rabbit’s design is extremely basic. The focus is purely on functionality. Its lightweight and compact size make it easy to carry, and the flexible material allows for a comfortable grip.
There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone can pick it up and start experimenting, though mastering the sounds will take time.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dying Rabbit is made from a durable plastic material that is likely to withstand regular use and exposure to the elements. Its simple design means there are no moving parts to break or wear out, ensuring a long lifespan. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dying Rabbit comes with no accessories, and customization options are non-existent. Its beauty lies in its simplicity; there’s nothing to add or modify. Its design is universal. No need to worry about compatibilities with other brands.
Pros and Cons of Dying Rabbit
Pros
- Simple and easy to use, requiring minimal setup.
- Extremely affordable at only $7.49.
- Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry as a backup.
- Durable construction ensures longevity.
- Versatile, functioning as both a coaxer and long-distance call.
Cons
- Requires practice to master the different sounds.
- Sound quality is highly dependent on user skill.
Who Should Buy Dying Rabbit?
The Dying Rabbit is perfect for hunters seeking an affordable, lightweight, and reliable backup call. It’s also great for beginners who want to learn the basics of predator calling without investing in expensive electronic equipment. Experienced hunters can also appreciate its simplicity and portability for quick setups or as a secondary call.
Those who rely solely on electronic calls and prefer a hands-free experience may want to skip this product. If you are unable to invest the time required to master the call it would also be best to skip this item. A hunter unwilling to practice with the tool won’t find it useful.
Must-have modifications are not possible with the Dying Rabbit. However, having a good understanding of predator behavior and effective calling techniques will greatly enhance its effectiveness.
Conclusion on Dying Rabbit
The Dying Rabbit is a surprisingly effective and affordable predator call. While it requires practice and user skill, it offers a simple and reliable option for attracting predators in various hunting scenarios. The low price point makes it an excellent value, and its durability ensures it will last for years to come.
The price is absolutely justified; for $7.49, you get a versatile and durable tool that can significantly enhance your hunting success.
I would definitely recommend the Dying Rabbit to anyone looking for an affordable and effective predator call, especially as a backup or for beginners. Give it a try and you might be surprised by how such a simple tool can bring results.