The Buck Rage Plus Made a Bold First Impression
The Buck Rage Plus from Flextone arrives promising an advanced deer calling experience, mimicking a full spectrum of whitetail sounds with the simple push of a button. At a price point of $12.99, it begs the question: can such an affordable device truly deliver on its promise of a “buck-stopping killer wheeze?”
My quest for the perfect deer call has been a long and sometimes frustrating one. Countless hours spent in the woods, attempting to coax in wary bucks with various calls, have instilled a deep appreciation for the tools that work and a healthy skepticism for those that don’t. I needed a versatile call, something easy to use, and capable of producing realistic whitetail vocalizations to enhance my hunting success.
Upon unboxing the Buck Rage Plus, my initial impression was surprisingly positive. The compact design felt comfortable in my hand, and the single-button operation seemed intuitive. It was lightweight and constructed of what appeared to be durable plastic, ready for the rigors of the field.
Compared to diaphragm calls which require considerable practice, and even more expensive electronic calls, the Buck Rage Plus seemed a simplified solution. Cheaper calls often sound synthetic, and the more costly electronic versions can be bulky and require battery management. I was cautiously optimistic that the Buck Rage Plus might strike a good balance between affordability, ease of use, and effectiveness.
I was certainly excited to put it to the test, although history has taught me that first impressions can be deceiving. The low price made it accessible, but also stirred some doubt about the sound quality and longevity of the product. Only real-world testing would reveal its true potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Rage Plus to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Buck Rage Plus occurred during the pre-rut phase in the Appalachian foothills of western Pennsylvania. The crisp autumn air carried the scent of fallen leaves, and the woods were alive with activity as deer prepared for the coming breeding season.
I positioned myself along a well-worn deer trail overlooking a thicket of scrub brush and began experimenting with the call. The single-button operation made it incredibly easy to switch between different vocalizations. However, mastering the appropriate cadence and volume took some initial experimentation. After a few minutes, I felt comfortable enough to start calling seriously. The call produced a range of sounds including grunts, bleats, and the advertised killer wheeze.
The initial results were promising. Within twenty minutes, I spotted a young buck cautiously approaching my location. While the deer didn’t come within shooting range, it clearly reacted to the call and investigated the sound. This initial interaction gave me confidence in the Buck Rage Plus‘s ability to attract attention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Buck Rage Plus during various hunts, I’ve developed a clearer understanding of its strengths and limitations. It’s remained a constant companion on morning and evening sits, exposed to fluctuating temperatures and damp conditions.
The Buck Rage Plus held up well despite the repeated use and exposure to the elements. The plastic construction proved to be more durable than initially anticipated. The sound quality remained consistent and the single-button operation continued to function flawlessly. Cleaning was also surprisingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth was sufficient to remove any dirt or debris.
Compared to some of the more complex diaphragm calls I’ve used in the past, the Buck Rage Plus offers a level of convenience and ease of use that’s hard to beat. While it may not offer the same level of nuance as a skillfully manipulated diaphragm call, it provides a consistent and reliable way to produce a range of whitetail vocalizations. For a beginning hunter, or someone looking for a simplified calling solution, it’s a significant upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Buck Rage Plus
Specifications
- Type: Push-button deer call. This simple design allows even novice hunters to create realistic deer sounds.
- Sounds: Mimics all whitetail sounds with the push of a button. Including a super-effective, buck-stopping killer wheeze.
- Manufacturer: Flextone. This manufacturer specializes in game calls and hunting accessories.
- Price: $12.99. This low price point makes the Buck Rage Plus an accessible option for hunters on a budget.
- Operation: Single-button. This simplicity makes the call easy to use.
These specifications matter because they highlight the focus on simplicity and affordability. The single-button operation removes the learning curve associated with more complex calls. The promise of mimicking all whitetail sounds, including the killer wheeze, suggests versatility in various hunting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Buck Rage Plus performs admirably for its price point. The range of sounds it produces are convincing enough to attract deer, as evidenced by my initial field test. The killer wheeze, in particular, seems to be quite effective at piquing the curiosity of mature bucks.
While the sound quality may not be identical to a live deer, it’s certainly good enough to fool deer at a distance. The limitations arise in close encounters where a more nuanced call might be required. The single-button design is a strength for ease of use, but also a weakness in terms of controlling the subtleties of each vocalization.
Overall, the Buck Rage Plus meets expectations for an entry-level deer call. It’s effective, easy to use, and reliable. Its best attribute is its ability to get deer interested enough to investigate.
Design & Ergonomics
The Buck Rage Plus features a compact and lightweight design. The plastic construction feels durable enough to withstand normal hunting conditions. It fits comfortably in the hand, making it easy to operate even while wearing gloves.
The single-button operation is intuitive and requires minimal practice. Even someone completely new to deer calling should be able to produce convincing sounds within a few minutes. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Buck Rage Plus is reasonably durable. While the plastic construction may not be as robust as some higher-end calls, it’s proven to be sufficient for regular use. I anticipate it lasting for several seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick cleaning after each hunt. A damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to remove any dirt or moisture. The simplicity of the design means there are few parts that can break or malfunction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Buck Rage Plus is a self-contained unit and does not offer any customization options. It doesn’t include accessories other than the call itself. Due to its simple, single-function design, it is not compatible with after-market customizations.
Pros and Cons of Buck Rage Plus
Pros
- Affordable Price: At only $12.99, it’s accessible to almost any hunter.
- Easy to Use: The single-button operation makes it incredibly simple, even for beginners.
- Versatile Sounds: Mimics a range of whitetail vocalizations, including the killer wheeze.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry in a pocket or pack.
- Durable Construction: The plastic build is reasonably rugged for field use.
Cons
- Limited Nuance: The single-button design lacks the subtlety of more advanced calls.
- Sound Quality: While effective, the sound quality isn’t as realistic as higher-end calls.
Who Should Buy Buck Rage Plus?
The Buck Rage Plus is perfect for:
- Beginner hunters looking for an easy-to-use deer call.
- Experienced hunters seeking a simple and reliable backup call.
- Hunters on a budget who need an affordable calling solution.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced hunters who prefer the nuance and control of diaphragm calls.
- Hunters who demand the absolute highest sound quality.
A lanyard would be a useful must-have accessory, allowing the call to be easily accessible around the neck.
Conclusion on Buck Rage Plus
The Buck Rage Plus from Flextone is a surprisingly effective deer call for its modest price. It delivers on its promise of versatility and ease of use. It provides an affordable and accessible entry point into the world of deer calling.
The $12.99 price is more than justified by its performance and functionality. It’s a valuable tool for any hunter looking to enhance their chances of success in the field.
I would definitely recommend the Buck Rage Plus to beginner and budget-conscious hunters. It’s a reliable and effective call that won’t break the bank. If you are looking to add some deer-calling capability to your arsenal, this is an excellent and affordable option. Grab a Buck Rage Plus and get out in the woods!
