First Impressions of DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
As a waterfowl hunter for over a decade, I’ve seen countless iterations of decoy rigging systems. The constant search for a system that is durable, easy to use, and can withstand the rigors of marsh hunting has led me to try everything from traditional parachute cord to heavy-duty mono-filament. When I first encountered the DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, I was immediately intrigued by the promise of a steel wire construction, something I hadn’t seen before in a complete package. The anticipation was high; could this be the answer to my frustrations with tangling, fraying, and ultimately, failing decoy rigs?
I had been struggling with braided nylon rigs that, while strong initially, would quickly absorb water and freeze in colder conditions, making decoy deployment a frustrating task. The DRAKE rig’s claim of a black-coated steel wire suggested a solution to these problems, offering both durability and weather resistance. This promised to solve a key issue in my waterfowl setup.
Upon receiving the package, my initial impression was of robust construction. The black coating on the steel wire felt smooth and substantial, and the carabiner seemed heavy-duty enough to handle multiple decoys. The metal cable crimps appeared secure and well-attached. Compared to similar products like Avery’s GHG Weighted Texas Rig or Cabela’s Multi-Strand Decoy Cord, the DRAKE set immediately stood out due to its unique wire construction. I chose the DRAKE set because I was specifically looking for something that would resist tangling and offer superior durability in harsh conditions.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The innovative use of steel wire was exciting, but I was also aware that a great idea doesn’t always translate into real-world performance. Only time and a few hunts would tell if the DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, could truly live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, was during an early teal season hunt in a shallow, muddy marsh. I deployed about half a dozen decoys rigged with the DRAKE system. Setting up in the pre-dawn darkness, the ease of use was immediately apparent: the 72″ length was perfect for the water depth, and the carabiner made quick work of attaching the decoy.
The conditions were typical for early season: warm, humid, and with a fair amount of submerged vegetation. Even in the low light, the black coated steel wire was easy to handle, and I didn’t experience any of the tangling issues that plagued my previous rigs. After the hunt, reeling the decoys back in was similarly painless. I was pleasantly surprised by the lack of snags or resistance, even when pulling through thick weeds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, has held up remarkably well. The black coating on the steel wire shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to mud, ice, and repeated use. I’ve noticed a slight bit of the coating wearing off near the crimps after heavy use.
Maintenance has been incredibly simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each hunt is usually all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with fabric or nylon rigs, the DRAKE set is a significant improvement in terms of durability and ease of care. The wire’s resistance to tangling, even in windy conditions, has saved me considerable time and frustration in the field. It definitely outperforms the cheaper decoy cords I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
Specifications
The DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, boasts several key specifications. These features contribute to its overall performance and utility in the field.
- Material: Constructed from steel wire with a black coating. This provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance compared to traditional materials like nylon or monofilament.
- Length: Each rig is 72 inches long. This length is ideal for a variety of water depths commonly encountered in waterfowl hunting.
- Components: Includes one carabiner per rig for easy decoy attachment. It also includes metal cable crimps attached to each coated steel wire cable for secure connections.
- Weight: The set weighs 6 oz. The overall weight of the package is relatively light, making it easy to transport a large number of rigs.
- Quantity: Comes in a 12-pack. This is convenient for rigging an entire spread of decoys.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and longevity of the rigging system. The steel wire ensures durability in harsh conditions, while the black coating provides corrosion resistance. The 72-inch length offers versatility for varying water depths.
Performance & Functionality
The DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, performs its job exceptionally well. The primary function of a decoy rig is to securely anchor a decoy and prevent tangling, and this system excels in both areas.
- The steel wire is incredibly strong, providing a reliable connection between the decoy and the anchor. There’s very little stretch or give, even when pulling decoys through thick cover.
- The black coating helps to prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring that the rigs remain functional even after prolonged exposure to water and mud. I haven’t noticed any significant rust or degradation, even after leaving them submerged for extended periods.
- The included carabiner makes decoy attachment and removal quick and easy. This is a major time-saver when setting up or breaking down a spread.
The system’s main strength is its resistance to tangling. This is particularly noticeable when deploying or retrieving decoys in windy conditions. The one area that could be improved is the crimps; while they are secure, they can occasionally snag on vegetation. Overall, it definitely meets my expectations for a durable and reliable decoy rigging system.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is simple yet effective. The steel wire is flexible enough to handle easily but rigid enough to resist tangling.
- The black coating not only provides protection but also makes the rigs less visible underwater. This is a subtle but important detail for waterfowl hunting.
- The overall build quality is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-made, and the crimps are securely attached.
- The carabiner is easy to operate, even with gloved hands. Its size and shape are well-suited for attaching to decoy keels.
The system is very user-friendly. There’s no learning curve, and it’s easy to set up and use right out of the package. The light weight is also a plus, making it easy to carry multiple rigs without adding significant bulk.
Durability & Maintenance
The DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is built to last. The steel wire and black coating provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. I expect these rigs to last for many seasons of hunting.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick rinse with fresh water after each hunt is usually all that’s needed. If the crimps start to show signs of wear, they can be easily replaced with standard cable crimping tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, comes with everything you need to get started. The included carabiners are a convenient addition, and there’s really no need for any additional accessories.
- While the system is designed to work with standard decoy anchors, you could easily customize it by adding heavier weights or different types of clips. The steel wire is compatible with most aftermarket accessories.
- You can also customize the length of the rigs by cutting the steel wire and re-crimping the ends. This allows you to tailor the rigs to specific water depths.
The versatility of the steel wire construction makes it easy to adapt the system to your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The steel wire construction and black coating ensure long-lasting performance, even in harsh conditions.
- Tangle-Free Performance: The rigid yet flexible steel wire prevents tangling, saving time and frustration in the field.
- Easy to Use: The included carabiner makes decoy attachment and removal quick and simple.
- Minimal Maintenance: A quick rinse with fresh water is usually all that’s needed to keep the rigs in good condition.
- Versatile: The 72-inch length is suitable for a variety of water depths, and the steel wire is compatible with aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- Potential for Snagging: The crimps can occasionally snag on vegetation. This can be minimized by carefully positioning the crimps during setup.
- Higher Initial Cost: Compared to traditional nylon or monofilament rigs, the DRAKE set has a higher initial cost. However, the increased durability and performance justify the investment.
Who Should Buy DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire,?
The DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand durability, reliability, and tangle-free performance. It’s also a great choice for hunters who frequently hunt in harsh conditions, such as muddy marshes or icy waters.
Hunters on a tight budget or those who only hunt occasionally might find the higher initial cost prohibitive. Someone who prefers to use traditional rigging materials like parachute cord might not appreciate the unique qualities of the steel wire construction.
A must-have accessory would be a good set of cable crimping tools for any potential repairs or customizations. Also, consider using heavier decoy weights if hunting in areas with strong currents.
Conclusion on DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire,
The DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, is a well-designed and highly effective decoy rigging system. The innovative use of steel wire provides exceptional durability and tangle-free performance, making it a valuable asset for any serious waterfowl hunter.
While the initial cost is higher than traditional rigs, the increased lifespan and hassle-free operation more than justify the investment. The value proposition is strong, especially for hunters who frequently encounter challenging conditions.
I would absolutely recommend the DRAKE DA9000072006 Texas Rig Package Set 72″ Black Coated Steel Wire, to anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting decoy rigging solution. If you’re tired of dealing with tangled, frayed, and unreliable decoy cords, give the DRAKE set a try. You won’t be disappointed! Invest in quality; invest in DRAKE.