The Avian-X Topflight Open Made a Bold First Impression
Ducks. Specifically, mallards. As a seasoned waterfowl hunter, I’ve seen countless decoy spreads over the years, some impressive, others… not so much. That’s why I was immediately intrigued by the Avian-X Topflight Open Water Mallard Ducks 6Pk. Avian-X has a reputation for hyper-realistic decoys, and I needed a spread that could convince even the wariest late-season birds.
My old decoys were showing their age; faded paint, a few cracked bodies, and generally lacking the “wow” factor needed to pull in pressured ducks. I was looking for increased realism and durability. After researching several options, including Flambeau Storm Front 2 Mallards and GHG Pro-Grade Mallards, the Avian-X Topflight Open ducks stood out due to their intricate feather detail and lifelike postures. The price point of $94.49 seemed reasonable considering the potential return of a successful hunt.
Unboxing the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys was a treat. The paint jobs were incredibly detailed, with subtle variations in color and texture that mimicked real mallards. The plastic felt robust, not flimsy like some cheaper decoys I’ve handled. I was excited to get them on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Avian-X Topflight Open** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys was on a grey, blustery morning on the Columbia River. The wind was whipping, and visibility was limited, challenging conditions to say the least. The 6-pack includes two swimmer drakes, adding critical motion to the spread.
Even in the choppy water, the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys held their own. They didn’t spin wildly like some lighter decoys, and the detailed paint job remained visible even with the spray. A pair of mallards locked onto the spread almost immediately, a testament to the decoys’ effectiveness. The ease of deployment was also impressive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting in diverse conditions, from frigid flooded timber to open water on the coast, the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys have proven their worth. The paint has held up surprisingly well, with only minor scuffs from being tossed in and out of the boat. A little touch up paint will keep them looking great for seasons to come.
Cleaning is simple. A quick rinse with freshwater removes mud and debris. Compared to my old decoys, which faded and cracked after a few seasons, the Avian-X Topflight Open models are significantly more durable. They easily outperform the cheaper options I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of **Avian-X Topflight Open**
Specifications
The Avian-X Topflight Open Water Mallard Ducks 6Pk consists of:
- Realistic Postures: Two swimmer drakes are included.
- Detailed Paint Scheme: Intricate feather detail and lifelike coloration.
- Durable Construction: Made from tough, flexible plastic.
These specifications contribute directly to the decoy’s effectiveness. The realistic postures and detailed paint scheme create a convincing illusion for incoming ducks. Durable construction ensures that the decoys can withstand the rigors of hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Avian-X Topflight Open decoys perform exceptionally well. Their hyper-realistic appearance and durable construction make them a valuable addition to any waterfowl hunter’s arsenal. They consistently attract ducks, even in pressured areas.
While the 6-pack is a good starting point, a larger spread would undoubtedly be even more effective. Adding a few more packs would really ramp up the pulling power. Overall, the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys meet and exceed my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys is excellent. The plastic is tough and flexible, able to withstand being thrown around in the boat and exposed to harsh weather conditions. The decoys are lightweight enough to carry easily.
The design is user-friendly, with simple rigging points and a stable keel design. There is no learning curve. They are ready to hunt straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Avian-X Topflight Open decoys are built to last. The durable plastic and high-quality paint job resist fading and cracking, even after repeated use. A bit of preventative maintenance, like rinsing off mud and storing them properly, ensures a long lifespan.
Repairing minor damage is also relatively easy. Small cracks can be fixed with plastic epoxy. With proper care, these decoys should last for many seasons.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Avian-X Topflight Open Water Mallard Ducks 6Pk does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard rigging points. However, hunters can easily customize their spread by adding different types of weights, rigging systems, and decoy anchors. The ability to mix and match with other brands is a huge plus.
Adding a jerk string to create more realistic movement is a great way to enhance their effectiveness. Painting minor touch ups will keep them looking new.
Pros and Cons of **Avian-X Topflight Open**
Pros
- Hyper-realistic paint job: Convincingly mimics real mallards.
- Durable construction: Withstands harsh hunting conditions.
- Lifelike postures: Adds realism to the decoy spread.
- Effective in attracting ducks: Consistently pulls in birds.
- Easy to deploy and maintain: User-friendly design.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than some other decoy options.
- Size of pack: A larger spread may be needed for optimal effectiveness.
Who Should Buy **Avian-X Topflight Open**?
The Avian-X Topflight Open Water Mallard Ducks 6Pk is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand realism and durability. Hunters who regularly hunt pressured areas or experience adverse weather will especially appreciate these decoys. These decoys are also great for people looking to upgrade their existing spread and bag more birds.
Hunters on a very tight budget or those who only hunt occasionally might find cheaper options more appealing. Someone who is just getting started with waterfowl hunting might want to consider starting with a smaller and less expensive set before investing in these higher-end decoys.
A jerk string or other motion device is a must-have accessory to get the most out of these decoys. An improved rigging system will keep them in place on windy days.
Conclusion on **Avian-X Topflight Open**
Overall, the Avian-X Topflight Open Water Mallard Ducks 6Pk is an excellent investment for serious waterfowl hunters. Their realism, durability, and effectiveness make them a valuable addition to any decoy spread. The $94.49 price tag is justified by the quality and performance of these decoys.
I would definitely recommend the Avian-X Topflight Open decoys to anyone looking to upgrade their spread and bag more birds. Don’t settle for less; invest in quality and see the difference it makes in the field. Get yours today and experience the Avian-X advantage!
