First Thoughts on the Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack promises to be a game-changer in the duck hunting world. Higdon Outdoors has built a reputation for producing durable, realistic decoys, and this pack aims to enhance any spread with its feeding mallard design. The oversized, foam-filled bodies and UV painting process are immediately appealing.
I’ve spent countless hours trying to create the perfect decoy spread. I wanted to incorporate more realistic feeding postures to attract wary waterfowl. Upon receiving these decoys, I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype.
The decoys arrived in a sturdy box, well-protected and ready for deployment. The initial inspection revealed high-quality construction. The paint jobs were vibrant and detailed. The size definitely qualifies them as “magnum”. Compared to my older, standard-sized decoys from another brand, these were noticeably larger. My first thought was, “These are going to be visible!”
I considered cheaper alternatives, but opted for the Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack because of Higdon’s reputation for durability and realism. I was excited, yet cautiously optimistic, hoping they would add the needed realism to my spread. This, in turn, increases my success in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack was on a crisp, overcast morning on a local reservoir. I deployed them alongside my existing mallard decoys, focusing on creating a natural-looking feeding group near the edge of a flooded timber stand. The weighted keels made for a quick and easy set-up, even in the shallow water.
The wind was light, but the decoys moved convincingly, creating realistic ripples on the water’s surface. Ducks began circling the area within the first hour. They were seemingly drawn to the variety in body positions and the lifelike appearance of the Higdon decoys. The multi-color species design helped add to the overall look. A pair of mallards locked their wings and landed right in the middle of my spread. This provided me with a clean shot. There were no issues, and the decoys looked fantastic.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the duck season, the Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack continues to impress. The decoys have endured multiple hunts in various weather conditions. These conditions included rain, sleet, and even a light dusting of snow. The paint has not peeled or faded, a testament to Higdon’s proprietary UV painting process.
There are a few minor scuffs from being tossed in and out of the decoy bag. However, the foam filling has prevented any significant damage. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water removes mud and debris. Compared to my older decoys, which have faded and cracked over time, the Higdon decoys are holding up remarkably well. They have exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and realism.
Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack
Specifications
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. The pack includes two magnum mallard drake duck butts and two magnum mallard feeder decoys. The drake butt measures 11.5″ from tail to keel and 6″ wide, weighing 27.66 oz. The drake skimmer measures 19″ from beak to tail and 7.25″ wide, weighing 19.86 oz.
These decoys are oversized and foam-filled. This allows them to be highly visible and virtually bulletproof. Higdon’s proprietary UV painting process and XHD Hyper-Feathering carving techniques enhance realism. The weighted keel ensures quick and easy set-up. These specifications matter because they contribute to a realistic and durable decoy that will attract ducks and withstand the rigors of hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack performs exceptionally well in attracting waterfowl. The feeding posture and detailed paint job create a lifelike appearance that ducks find irresistible. The oversized bodies are highly visible, even in low-light conditions or from a distance.
The weighted keels ensure the decoys stay upright and move naturally in the water. The only minor issue is that the larger size can make them slightly more cumbersome to transport than standard-sized decoys. However, the added visibility and realism more than make up for this. The decoys have met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack is impressive. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant. The foam filling provides buoyancy and prevents the decoys from sinking if punctured. The weight is manageable.
The decoys are user-friendly. The weighted keels allow for easy deployment. There is no learning curve. They are ready to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack is built to last. The durable materials and foam filling ensure they can withstand the harsh conditions of duck hunting. The UV painting process prevents fading and peeling.
Maintenance is simple. A quick rinse with water after each use is all that’s needed. With proper care, these decoys should last for many seasons.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack comes as a complete set of four decoys, offering a variety of feeding postures. While there are no specific customization options directly offered by Higdon, hunters can personalize their decoy spread by adding additional decoys from Higdon’s extensive line. These decoys can be combined with other brands to create a unique and effective spread. The decoys are compatible with standard decoy cords and weights. This provides flexibility in rigging and deployment.
Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack
Pros
- The oversized magnum design provides excellent visibility, attracting ducks from greater distances.
- The detailed UV paint job and Hyper-Feathering carving create a realistic appearance that fools even wary birds.
- The durable construction and foam filling ensure the decoys can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough handling.
- The weighted keels make for quick and easy set-up in any water depth.
- These decoys are an official Ducks Unlimited Licensed Product. A percentage of your purchase will go toward wetland conservation.
Cons
- The larger size can make them slightly more cumbersome to transport than standard-sized decoys.
- At $49.99, they are more expensive than some basic decoys on the market.
Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack?
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack is perfect for serious duck hunters who are looking to improve their decoy spread. It is great for those who hunt in areas with high hunting pressure. Also, these are great for hunters who want a durable and realistic decoy that will last for many seasons.
Hunters who are just starting out or are on a tight budget may want to consider less expensive options. Also, those who primarily hunt in very small ponds or creeks where visibility isn’t a major concern might not need the magnum size.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality decoy bag to protect the decoys during transport and storage. Upgrading to heavier decoy line and weights may also be beneficial for hunting in areas with strong currents or winds.
Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack
The Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack is an excellent investment for any serious duck hunter. The realism, durability, and ease of use make them a valuable addition to any decoy spread.
The price is justified by the quality and performance. I would personally recommend them to anyone looking to improve their success in the field.
If you’re ready to take your duck hunting to the next level, add the Higdon Outdoors Magnum Feeder Mallards Species Multi Color 4 Pack to your arsenal. You won’t be disappointed.