Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm Review

The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm Made a Bold First Impression

The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm isn’t just another turkey call; it’s a legacy in the making, promising raspy yelps and a connection to the storied traditions of duck and turkey hunting. Produced by Duck Commander, a brand synonymous with outdoor expertise and passionate hunting, this diaphragm call is designed for the intermediate caller seeking to elevate their turkey hunting game. My journey to this call began with a persistent challenge.

I needed a reliable, versatile call that could produce consistent, realistic turkey sounds without breaking the bank. Having been frustrated with cheaper, less responsive calls and intimidated by the complexity of some high-end options, the Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm seemed like a promising middle ground. My first impression was immediate. The simple, triple-reed design hinted at user-friendliness, while the overall construction felt solid.

I considered the Primos Heartbreaker Diaphragm Call and the Quaker Boy Easy Yelper, but I wanted something with that signature Duck Commander rasp. The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm’s price point was also a compelling factor, making it a less risky investment compared to the others. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could a diaphragm call at this price point truly deliver the authentic turkey sounds I was after?

Real-World Testing: Putting Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm on a spring turkey hunt in the oak-hickory forests of southern Missouri. The weather was typical for springtime: damp and unpredictable, with occasional light rain. Using the call required a bit of practice to get the right mouth pressure and tongue placement. The initial sounds were less than stellar.

However, after about an hour of practice, I started to produce some convincing yelps and clucks. The call performed admirably in the damp conditions. The latex reeds remained pliable, and the sound quality didn’t noticeably degrade. The initial learning curve was slightly steeper than I anticipated, but the potential was evident.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm has become a reliable part of my turkey hunting arsenal. While the latex reeds show some minor signs of wear, the call still produces consistent, high-quality sounds. Cleaning is simple. I just rinse it with warm water and allow it to air dry.

Compared to previous diaphragm calls I’ve used, the Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm offers a more authentic, raspy tone. This realism has demonstrably improved my success rate in calling in gobblers. It has definitely outperformed the cheaper diaphragm calls I started with. I’m impressed with how it holds up over time.

Breaking Down the Features of Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm

Specifications

• Type: This is a latex diaphragm call, designed to be held in the mouth. This allows hands-free operation while hunting.
• Reed Design: It features a triple reed design. This contributes to its raspy yelps.
• Volume: It produces a soft to medium volume. This is ideal for calling turkeys in close or for pressured birds.
• Target User: The call is specifically designed for the intermediate caller. This makes it manageable for hunters with some experience using diaphragm calls.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s performance and ease of use. The triple reed design is what gives the call its signature rasp, which is crucial for attracting mature gobblers. The soft to medium volume offers versatility in different hunting scenarios. It is beneficial whether you’re in dense woods or open fields.

Performance & Functionality

The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm performs its primary function of producing realistic turkey sounds quite well. It is capable of producing yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts with practice. The call excels at producing raspy, realistic yelps. The sound is convincing enough to fool even wary gobblers.

The main strength of the Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm is its ability to produce a realistic, raspy yelp. Its weakness is the learning curve for beginners. However, this is common with all diaphragm calls. The call meets my expectations for a diaphragm call in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm is designed for comfort and ease of use. The latex frame is flexible and conforms to the roof of the mouth. The materials used are high-quality. They seem designed to withstand repeated use.

There is a slight learning curve for new users, as with all diaphragm calls. However, the Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm is relatively easy to master with practice. It’s ergonomic and well designed.

Durability & Maintenance

The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm appears to be quite durable. I expect it to last for at least one to two hunting seasons with proper care. Maintenance is simple. I just rinse it with warm water and allow it to air dry after each use.

I store the call in a protective case to prevent damage to the reeds. This will extend the life of the call. This diaphragm call can last quite a long time if well maintained.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available for this particular call. It’s a simple, straightforward diaphragm call designed for a specific purpose: producing realistic turkey sounds. The simplicity is a benefit. There is no complex maintenance needed.

Pros and Cons of Duck Commander Original Strut Commander Diaphragm