The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage Made a Bold First Impression
Coyote hunting is a game of deception, and the right call can be the difference between a successful hunt and a wasted day. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage, a call promising realistic coyote vocalizations for long-distance attraction. The Flextone brand has a reputation for producing effective game calls, and at a price point of $12.99, this one seemed like a low-risk, high-reward addition to my predator hunting arsenal.
For years, I’ve struggled with calls that sounded artificial or lacked the volume to reach distant coyotes. I needed a call that could cut through the wind and mimic the subtle nuances of coyote language. Unboxing the Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage, my initial impression was positive; the soft, flexible barrel felt good in hand and suggested potential for realistic sound manipulation.
Compared to some of my older, rigid-bodied calls like the Primos Turbo Dogg or the Johnny Stewart Preymaster, the Flextone’s flexible design stood out. I chose this over a diaphragm call because I wanted something louder and easier to master quickly. My first impression was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism – could this simple design really deliver the goods?
Real-World Testing: Putting Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage was during a late-season coyote hunt in the high plains of Wyoming. The conditions were challenging – biting winds and dry, crackling sagebrush. I set up on a ridge overlooking a vast expanse of open country, perfect for testing the call’s long-distance capabilities.
The call performed admirably in the wind, producing a loud, clear howl that carried well across the landscape. It took a few minutes to get the hang of manipulating the flexible barrel, but I quickly learned how to create convincing yips, barks, and howls. After about 20 minutes of calling, a lone coyote emerged from a distant coulee, confirming the Flextone’s effectiveness.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage has held up surprisingly well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes.
Compared to other calls I’ve used in the past, the Flextone stands out for its ease of use and realistic sound production. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, proving to be a reliable and effective tool in my coyote hunting pursuits. The flexible barrel remains pliable, and the sound quality hasn’t diminished over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage
Specifications
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage is a coyote howler designed for long-distance calling and locating. Its key feature is the soft, flexible barrel, which allows the user to control volume and back pressure. This control enables the creation of natural-sounding yips, barks, and howls.
The call’s construction ensures it remains silent when it comes into contact with a gun or bow, eliminating unwanted noise during crucial moments. This is an important design, as a clanging call can spook wary predators. The call is constructed of a durable, weather-resistant polymer.
Performance & Functionality
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage excels at projecting realistic coyote vocalizations over long distances. The flexible barrel allows for subtle variations in tone and volume, making it easy to mimic different coyote sounds. Its strength is its ability to generate loud, clear howls, perfect for locating distant animals or initiating a response.
The call is easy to use, even for beginners, but mastering the nuances of sound manipulation requires practice. One potential weakness is its limited range of sounds – it’s primarily a howler, not a multi-call. However, it more than meets expectations for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage boasts a simple, functional design. The soft, flexible barrel is comfortable to hold and easy to manipulate. Its light weight makes it easy to carry in a pocket or pack.
The call is very user-friendly; minimal instruction is needed. There’s a slight learning curve to producing the most realistic sounds, but it’s easy to get the basics down quickly. The design promotes ease of use in the field, even with gloved hands.
Durability & Maintenance
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage is built to last, made from durable polymer materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting. The flexible barrel is surprisingly resilient, showing no signs of cracking or tearing after extended use. Maintenance is minimal – simply wipe it clean after each use.
With proper care, this call should provide years of reliable service. The simplicity of the design also makes it less prone to failure. It is a no-nonsense, durable tool built for demanding hunting conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage doesn’t come with any additional accessories, nor are there specific customization options. Its strength lies in its simplicity and focused functionality. Its compatibility with other Flextone products could be seen as a customization option.
While it lacks accessories, the call’s effectiveness on its own is what makes it a worthwhile purchase. Its standalone performance eliminates the need for add-ons. A lanyard to keep it readily accessible is a suggested accessory for most hunters.
Pros and Cons of Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage
Pros
- Realistic Coyote Sounds: The flexible barrel allows for nuanced and convincing coyote vocalizations.
- Long Distance Calling: Projects loud, clear howls that carry well across open country.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of hunting in harsh conditions.
- Easy to Use: Simple design with a short learning curve.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for money.
Cons
- Limited Sound Variety: Primarily a howler, not a multi-call.
- No Accessories Included: Lanyard not included.
Who Should Buy Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage?
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage is perfect for coyote hunters of all skill levels, especially those seeking an affordable and effective long-distance calling tool. It is also a great choice for beginners looking to learn the art of coyote calling without breaking the bank. Experienced hunters will appreciate its realistic sound production and durable construction.
This product is not ideal for hunters who require a multi-call capable of producing a wide variety of sounds beyond basic coyote howls. If you’re looking for electronic calling with pre-programmed sequences, this isn’t it. A must-have accessory is a lanyard to keep the call readily accessible while in the field.
Conclusion on Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage
The Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage is an excellent value for its price, delivering realistic coyote vocalizations and long-distance calling capabilities in a durable and easy-to-use package. The price is absolutely justified given the call’s performance and construction.
I would personally recommend this call to anyone looking to improve their coyote hunting success. It’s a simple, effective tool that delivers results. Invest in a Flextone FLX-FLXPD001 Coyote Rage today and experience the thrill of calling in wary predators.