Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler Review

The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler Made a Bold First Impression

Let’s be honest, in the world of coolers, the market is saturated. But Calcutta aims to stand out with the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler, promising extreme ice retention and a host of unique features. I was looking for a cooler that could withstand the rigors of extended backcountry fishing trips, something tougher than the average big-box store offering.

The lure of a roto-molded build, ANCHORLOK latch design, and, quite frankly, the novelty of the FLOODLIGHT LED drain plug were enough to pique my interest. Pulling it from the box, the sheer size of the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler is immediately apparent. It feels incredibly solid and well-built, a clear step above the Coleman and Igloo coolers I’ve used for years.

I considered the Yeti Tundra 105 and the RTIC 110, both respected names. Ultimately, the Renegade’s unique features, like the drain plug light, and its competitive price point swayed me. First impressions? I’m impressed with the apparent build quality and eager to see if it lives up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test involved a three-day fishing trip on the Deschutes River in Oregon. Ambient temperatures fluctuated between 50°F at night and 85°F during the day, a fairly demanding test. The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler sat baking in the sun for much of the day, yet performed admirably.

Ease of use was straightforward: load it up, latch it down. I found the rope handles with oversized grips comfortable, even when the cooler was fully loaded. My only initial issue was remembering to turn off the drain plug light; a minor annoyance, but a design tweak could easily fix this.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a hunting trip and numerous camping weekends, the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scuff marks, but the Toughskin roto-molded construction shows no signs of significant wear or cracking. Cleaning is simple, a quick rinse with a hose does the trick.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper coolers, the ice retention is significantly better. Where I used to replenish ice daily, the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler kept ice frozen for up to three days in similar conditions. The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler consistently outperforms my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler

Specifications

• Construction: Toughskin roto molded polyethylene.. Roto-molding provides exceptional durability and consistent wall thickness for superior insulation.

• Latches: ANCHORLOK latch design.. These latches provide a secure, airtight seal for optimal ice retention.

• Handles: EZ-LIFT rope handles with oversized grips. These are comfortable and make carrying a heavy cooler easier.

• Drain Plug: FLOODLIGHT 100 Lumen white LED drain plug light. This is a unique and surprisingly useful feature for nighttime use.

• Lid Design: FREEZSEAL lid design. This ensures a tight seal to maximize ice retention.

• Feet: GUARD non-skid feet. These prevent the cooler from sliding around in your truck bed or on a boat deck.

• Hinge: DURAHINGE stainless steel lid hinge. This provides long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the cooler’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The roto-molded construction and secure latches are essential for ice retention, while the comfortable handles and non-skid feet enhance usability. The thoughtful design contributes to a premium user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler excels at its primary job: keeping things cold for extended periods. The ice retention is truly impressive, especially compared to standard coolers. The ANCHORLOK latches create a tight seal, minimizing air leaks.

One minor weakness is the drain plug light; it’s a great idea, but the on/off switch could be more intuitive. Overall, the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler exceeds expectations in terms of ice retention and overall performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The Toughskin roto-molded polyethylene is incredibly durable, and the hardware feels solid and well-made. The weight is substantial when empty, but manageable.

There’s virtually no learning curve. Using this cooler is as straightforward as any other, but with enhanced features and performance.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust construction, the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler should last for many years with proper care. The DURAHINGE stainless steel lid hinge is a particularly durable component. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple rinse with soap and water is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler includes the integrated FLOODLIGHT LED drain plug as its standout accessory. There aren’t any specific Calcutta branded customization options. However, the tie-down slots allow for secure mounting in vehicles or on boats.

The tie-down slots are compatible with standard cooler tie-down straps. You can easily add aftermarket accessories like cooler dividers or baskets.

Pros and Cons of Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler

Who Should Buy Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler?

The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler is perfect for serious outdoorsmen: hunters, pro anglers, and campers who need reliable ice retention for extended trips. It’s also a good choice for anyone who frequently hosts outdoor gatherings and needs a durable, high-capacity cooler.

Those who primarily need a cooler for short trips or who are on a tight budget might find the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler overkill. A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality cooler tie-down straps to secure the cooler in a vehicle or boat.

Conclusion on Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler

The Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler is a well-built, high-performing cooler that delivers on its promise of extreme ice retention. While the $358.99 price tag might seem steep, the durability and features justify the cost for those who need a reliable cooler for demanding outdoor activities.

I would absolutely recommend the Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler to anyone looking for a premium cooler that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors. If you’re tired of constantly replenishing ice and want a cooler that will last for years, this is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your cooling game and get yourself a Calcutta CCG2-100 Renegade Cooler today!