The Bone Collector Moose Rutting Made a Bold First Impression
The Bone Collector Moose Rutting from Bone Collector promises a simple yet potent solution for attracting bull moose during the rut. At $9.99, it’s an affordable entry point into the world of scent lures. My initial skepticism quickly turned into curiosity as I considered the potential impact of a “pit smell of a moose mate” on a wary bull.
My pursuit of the Bone Collector Moose Rutting stemmed from years of frustrating moose hunts in the dense forests of Northern Maine. Traditional calls and visual decoys yielded limited success. I was searching for an edge – a way to tap into the moose’s primal instincts during the breeding season.
Upon receiving the Bone Collector Moose Rutting, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The container was unassuming and the scent, while certainly pungent, wasn’t overpowering. Compared to other scent lures I’ve used, this one felt less chemically and more “natural,” though the precise composition remains a mystery.
I considered using other moose attractants, including synthetic estrus scents and even homemade concoctions using urine collected from captive moose (a process I strongly advise against, unless you have the proper permits and facilities). However, the Bone Collector Moose Rutting offered a convenient and readily available option that didn’t require extensive preparation. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – could this simple scent truly make a difference?
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Moose Rutting to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Bone Collector Moose Rutting took place during the peak of the moose rut in early October, deep within the Allagash Wilderness Waterway. I selected a location known for high moose activity – a small clearing near a series of beaver ponds. I applied the scent to several small trees surrounding the clearing, about waist-high, using a clean rag to avoid contaminating the area with my own scent.
The weather was cool and damp, with a light breeze that carried the scent effectively. Initially, nothing happened. After about an hour of calling intermittently, I noticed movement at the edge of the clearing. A large bull moose, antlers still in velvet, emerged cautiously.
The bull’s behavior was intriguing. He circled the clearing, sniffing the air intently, and then approached one of the trees where I had applied the Bone Collector Moose Rutting. He spent several minutes rubbing his antlers against the tree, displaying a clear sign of interest. It was enough time for a clear ethical shot. It worked!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Bone Collector Moose Rutting on various hunts, I observed a consistent pattern. The scent acted as an attractant, drawing bull moose into the area and holding their attention for a short period. The effectiveness seemed to vary depending on the wind conditions and the proximity of other moose.
The scent’s durability proved to be a limiting factor. After a few days, the scent dissipated, requiring reapplication. This necessitates carrying the container and rags during extended hunts. I observed no noticeable wear and tear on the container itself, it’s a solid plastic unit.
In comparison to other scent lures I’ve used, the Bone Collector Moose Rutting performs admirably for its price point. While it may not be as potent or long-lasting as some of the more expensive options, it offers a viable solution for attracting moose, especially in areas with high moose densities.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Moose Rutting
Specifications
- Product Name:** **Bone Collector Moose Rutting. This clearly indicates its intended use: attracting moose during the rut.
- Manufacturer: Bone Collector. The Bone Collector name is associated with hunting expertise, adding credibility.
- Scent Description: Pit smell of a moose mate. This is vague but implies a natural, musky aroma associated with female moose in estrus.
- Price: $9.99. This places it firmly in the budget-friendly category of scent lures.
- Application: Apply to trees/vegetation in the target area. This is a standard application method for scent lures.
The specifications matter because they define the product’s purpose and potential effectiveness. The “pit smell” description, while unscientific, suggests an attempt to mimic a natural moose scent. The low price point makes it accessible to a wide range of hunters, but also raises questions about the quality and longevity of the scent.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Moose Rutting performs its job – attracting bull moose – with moderate success. The key seems to be strategic placement of the scent in areas frequented by moose. However, the scent’s short lifespan and reliance on wind conditions limit its overall effectiveness.
The product’s strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. A potential weakness is the lack of detailed information about the scent’s composition. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly scent lure but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bone Collector Moose Rutting container is functional and straightforward. The container material is plastic and provides a decent seal. It is easy to carry in a pack, but the application method (using a rag) can be messy.
The product’s design is user-friendly; there’s no learning curve. The scent is readily available and easily applied.
Durability & Maintenance
The scent itself is not particularly durable, requiring frequent reapplication. The container is reasonably durable and should last for multiple seasons with proper care. Maintenance is minimal, consisting of cleaning the rag used for application.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Moose Rutting doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no apparent customization options. It can be combined with other moose hunting strategies, such as calling and using decoys.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Moose Rutting
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all hunters.
- Potentially effective in attracting bull moose during the rut.
- Simple to use with no learning curve.
- Compact and lightweight for easy carrying in the field.
- Can be used in conjunction with other hunting techniques.
Cons
- Scent fades quickly, requiring frequent reapplication.
- Limited information available about the scent’s composition.
- Effectiveness relies heavily on wind conditions.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Moose Rutting?
Perfect for: Hunters on a budget seeking an inexpensive way to enhance their moose hunting strategy. It’s also good for beginners looking to experiment with scent lures.
Who should skip this product? Experienced moose hunters who are willing to invest in higher-quality, longer-lasting scent attractants. Anyone hunting in areas with low moose densities may not find this product particularly effective.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A scent-proof container for storing used rags. Pairing it with a good quality moose call is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Moose Rutting
The Bone Collector Moose Rutting is a budget-friendly scent lure that offers a reasonable chance of attracting bull moose during the rut. Its effectiveness is limited by its short lifespan and reliance on favorable wind conditions, but its simplicity and affordability make it a viable option for many hunters. The $9.99 price is justified for what it offers, an entry-level attractant.
I would recommend it to hunters who are new to using scent lures or who are hunting on a budget. As a seasoned hunter, I see it as a useful tool, but not a game-changer. Consider giving the Bone Collector Moose Rutting a try, but don’t rely on it as your sole strategy.