First Thoughts on the Buck Collector Plus
The Buck Collector Plus from Flextone promises a one-stop solution for deer vocalizations. This call aims to mimic every sound a deer makes, from buck roars to fawn bleats, all in a single, packable unit. I was intrigued by the claim that this one call could replace my entire collection, a tempting prospect for simplifying my hunting pack.
I’ve carried multiple calls for years, each specializing in a specific sound. Managing them in the field is a hassle, fumbling through them when the crucial moment arrives. The promise of a single, versatile call like the Buck Collector Plus was the solution I was looking for.
Unboxing the Buck Collector Plus, I immediately noticed its soft, pliable construction. The material felt comfortable to hold, and I could see how it would easily conform to the shape of my pack without cracking. Initial handling suggests decent build quality for its price point. It looks like it will hold up well in the elements.
I was considering the Primos Buck Roar and the Illusion Systems Extinguisher Deer Call before settling on the Buck Collector Plus. The Primos is known for its realistic roar, but lacks fawn sounds, while the Extinguisher is versatile but bulky. The Buck Collector Plus seemed to offer a good balance of versatility and portability.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could a single call really replicate the nuances of all those different vocalizations convincingly? Only field testing would tell. However, the innovative design and promise of simplicity definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Collector Plus to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Buck Collector Plus during an early-season bow hunt in the Pennsylvania woods. The weather was cool and damp, a typical October morning, and I was positioned near a known deer crossing. I used the Buck Collector Plus to deliver a series of doe bleats and a soft buck grunt.
The soft body allowed for easy manipulation, creating different tones with subtle pressure changes. The True-Touch buttons were also easy to locate and use while wearing gloves. Initially, I struggled to get the higher-pitched fawn bawl sound just right, but with a little practice, I improved.
After about an hour, a young buck responded to my bleats, cautiously approaching my stand. While I didn’t take a shot that day, the fact that the Buck Collector Plus elicited a response on its first outing was encouraging. There were no noticeable issues after the first hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Buck Collector Plus continues to perform reliably. I’ve used it in both wet and dry conditions, and the soft body material has held up well. There are no signs of cracking or degradation, despite being repeatedly folded and stuffed into my pack.
Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water and a wipe down is all it takes. The Buck Collector Plus hasn’t required any special maintenance. I do note that the sound quality is very slightly affected if it becomes extremely wet.
Compared to my previous collection of calls, the Buck Collector Plus is a clear winner in terms of convenience and portability. While it might not perfectly replicate the sound of a dedicated, specialized call, its versatility more than makes up for any minor shortcomings. It is definitely an improvement to my gear setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Buck Collector Plus
Specifications
- The Buck Collector Plus produces all known deer vocalizations. It covers a wide range, from deep buck grunts to high-pitched fawn bleats.
- It features a soft, flexible body for easy sound manipulation. The soft body also allows it to fold in your pack.
- It uses True-Touch buttons for doe and fawn sounds. These buttons are designed for easy use even with gloved hands.
- The call also produces wheeze sounds. This adds another layer of realism to your calling sequences.
- The price is $14.99. The low price point makes it an accessible option for any hunter.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the call’s versatility and ease of use. The ability to produce multiple vocalizations from a single call is invaluable in the field. The soft body and True-Touch buttons ensure that the call is easy to use in any conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Buck Collector Plus performs admirably in its primary function: attracting deer. The range of vocalizations it produces is impressive, and with practice, you can create convincing and realistic calls. The sound quality is good overall, though some might find it slightly less “crisp” than dedicated calls.
The main strength of the Buck Collector Plus is its versatility. The weakness is that it is more challenging to learn how to use properly compared to single sound calls. It meets my expectations as a general-purpose deer call and is worth the small investment of time to become proficient at using it.
Design & Ergonomics
The Buck Collector Plus has a well-thought-out design, prioritizing ease of use and portability. The soft body is comfortable to hold and manipulate. It is a compact size which will easily fit in a pocket.
The call has a short learning curve, but with practice, it becomes intuitive. The True-Touch buttons are easy to locate and operate, even with gloved hands. Overall, the design is practical and functional.
Durability & Maintenance
The Buck Collector Plus is constructed from durable materials that should withstand regular use. The soft body is resistant to cracking and breaking. A simple rinse with water and a wipe down is all that is needed to keep it clean.
With proper care, the Buck Collector Plus should last for several seasons. The materials are relatively inexpensive to replace.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Buck Collector Plus does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. The design is intended to be a self-contained, all-in-one solution.
It does not require any special accessories to function.
Pros and Cons of Buck Collector Plus
Pros
- Versatile: Produces all known deer vocalizations, including buck roars, doe bleats, and fawn bawls.
- Portable: Soft and flexible body allows for easy packing.
- Easy to Use: True-Touch buttons are simple to operate, even with gloves.
- Affordable: Priced at only $14.99, it’s a budget-friendly option.
- Realistic Sounds: Produces convincing deer vocalizations when used correctly.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires practice to master all the different sounds.
- Sound Quality: Might not be as “crisp” as dedicated, specialized calls.
Who Should Buy Buck Collector Plus?
The Buck Collector Plus is perfect for hunters who want a versatile and portable deer call without breaking the bank. It is also a good option for beginner hunters who don’t want to invest in a full set of specialized calls. It is great for hunters who hunt in areas where deer communication varies.
Hunters who demand the absolute highest fidelity in their deer calls or those who prefer the simplicity of single-sound calls might want to skip this product. Those hunters may not want to take the time required to master using the Buck Collector Plus. Also hunters who hunt in one area that has limited sounds may want to skip it.
There are no must-have accessories or modifications for the Buck Collector Plus.
Conclusion on Buck Collector Plus
The Buck Collector Plus is a solid, versatile, and affordable deer call that delivers on its promise of producing a wide range of vocalizations. While it might require some practice to master, its convenience and portability make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s gear. It is a great call for the price.
The price is definitely justified, considering its versatility and ease of use. I would personally recommend it to any hunter looking for a general-purpose deer call. It will meet their needs and perform well.
Pick up the Buck Collector Plus today and simplify your hunting setup! You will be ready for any situation in the field.