The Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting, for me, isn’t just a sport; it’s an intricate dance of strategy, patience, and understanding the subtle language of the wild. I’ve spent years honing my skills, and a crucial part of that is deploying the right decoys to tell the right story to that wary old tom. Enter the Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber: a decoy designed to mimic a hen in a relaxed, breeding posture, a sight few gobblers can resist.
For seasons I struggled with a collection of hard-plastic decoys that looked more like bowling pins than actual turkeys. They were cumbersome, unrealistic in their posture, and honestly, I think they spooked more birds than they attracted. That’s why I sought a decoy that screamed realism and offered versatility in setup; the Avian X decoy promised both.
My first impression upon unboxing was overwhelmingly positive. The Dura-Rubber material felt incredibly lifelike, pliable, and much quieter than my old hard plastic decoys. The multi-color paint job was impressively detailed, capturing the subtle hues and variations of a real hen’s plumage.
I considered other laydown hen decoys from brands like Montana Decoy and Primos, but the Avian X stood out for its perceived durability and more realistic 3D molded form. I wanted a decoy that could withstand the rigors of the hunt and still look convincing after multiple seasons. This one seemed like it would last longer than the material decoys, and look more realistic than the cheap plastic ones.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Could a decoy really be that much more effective than what I was already using? Only the spring woods would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test with the Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber was on a crisp morning in central Missouri. I set it up in a small clearing near a well-worn game trail, positioning it as though she were receptive to a nearby gobbler.
The weather cooperated, with a slight breeze adding subtle movement to the decoy. Within an hour, a longbeard responded to my calls and cautiously approached the setup. His focus was immediately drawn to the laydown hen, and he strutted and puffed, putting on a show that ended with him in my freezer.
The decoy proved easy to position, even on uneven terrain. I was initially concerned about its low profile, but it was surprisingly visible, even in moderate cover. I found that the more natural pose kept the toms attention, and the Dura-Rubber material helped reduce shine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After two full turkey seasons, the Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber has become a staple in my decoy arsenal. The Dura-Rubber material has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or fading. A few minor scratches are present, but they only add to the decoy’s realism.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or mud. I store it in a dedicated decoy bag to protect it from damage during transport. Compared to my experiences with cheaper decoys that quickly deteriorated, this one feels like a long-term investment. I have taken other decoys out of the bag to find cracks, faded paint, or even complete breakage.
Breaking Down the Features of Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber
Specifications
The Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber is specifically designed to mimic a hen turkey in a breeding posture. It is constructed of Dura-Rubber, which is a durable and flexible material designed to withstand harsh conditions. This also reduces the shiny, unnatural look of cheaper plastic decoys.
The multi-color paint scheme accurately replicates the plumage of a real hen turkey, including subtle variations in color and feather patterns. The laydown design presents a compelling breeding invitation to gobblers. It also doubles as a realistic dusting hen decoy.
Performance & Functionality
The Avian X decoy performs exceptionally well at attracting gobblers. Its lifelike appearance and posture create a believable scenario that triggers a territorial or breeding response in toms. The Dura-Rubber material helps to eliminate unnatural shine, making it more convincing even in direct sunlight.
The only minor weakness I’ve found is that the low profile can make it difficult to spot from a distance in thick cover. However, this can be mitigated by carefully selecting the setup location. The decoy far exceeds my expectations in terms of realism and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Dura-Rubber construction gives the decoy a realistic weight and feel. This also makes the decoy quieter during transport, reducing the risk of spooking birds while approaching your hunting location. The pose is incredibly realistic, effectively communicating the intention of a receptive hen.
The decoy is easy to deploy and requires no assembly. It’s lightweight and easy to carry. There is virtually no learning curve involved in using this decoy.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dura-Rubber material is incredibly durable. It has withstood multiple seasons of use in various weather conditions without showing significant wear. Maintenance is minimal; a simple cleaning after each hunt is sufficient. The decoy appears to be built to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber doesn’t come with many accessories. It is designed to be used as a standalone decoy or in conjunction with other decoys. Pairing it with the Avian X LCD Quarter-Strut Jake creates a highly effective breeding scene.
The decoy is compatible with most standard decoy stakes. You can use aftermarket stakes to further customize the setup and ensure secure placement on any terrain. There are no hard points, or specific features that would limit you to Avian X products.
Pros and Cons of Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber
Pros
- Incredibly realistic appearance and posture due to the detailed paint job and Dura-Rubber construction.
- Durable Dura-Rubber material withstands harsh weather and repeated use.
- Easy to deploy and transport, making it a convenient addition to any turkey hunter’s gear.
- Highly effective at attracting gobblers, increasing your chances of success.
- Versatile; can be used as a breeding hen or a dusting hen decoy.
Cons
- Lower profile can make it difficult to spot from a distance in thick cover.
- Pricier than some cheaper hard plastic decoys, but the added durability and realism make it worth the investment.
Who Should Buy Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber?
This decoy is perfect for serious turkey hunters who want to increase their success rates. It is especially useful for those hunting pressured birds or in areas where realism is key. Hunters looking for a durable, long-lasting decoy that can withstand the rigors of the hunt will find this product invaluable.
Beginner hunters may also find this decoy beneficial due to its ease of use and effectiveness. Someone who is unwilling to invest in quality gear should skip this product. Hunters who prioritize quantity over quality might also be better off with a less expensive option.
A must-have accessory is a quality decoy bag to protect the Dura-Rubber material during transport. Consider adding the Avian X LCD Quarter-Strut Jake for a more dynamic and compelling setup.
Conclusion on Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber
The Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber is an exceptional decoy that delivers on its promise of realism and durability. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the investment is well worth it for serious turkey hunters. Its effectiveness at attracting gobblers, combined with its long-lasting construction, makes it a valuable addition to any decoy spread.
The price is justified considering the quality of materials and the increased chances of success. I would wholeheartedly recommend this decoy to any turkey hunter looking to improve their odds in the field. If you want to fool even the wariest toms, then pick up the Avian X AVX-AVX8011 LCD Laydown Hen Turkey Species Multi Color Dura-Rubber and get ready for some action!