ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call Review

Let’s Talk About ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call

The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call positions itself as a professional-grade electronic caller for serious predator hunters. Developed by ICOtec, it promises durability, high-quality sound, impressive volume, and long-range remote control, all packaged at a competitive price point. I’ve spent years relying on my own calling techniques and experimenting with various electronic callers, so I was eager to see how the Night Stalker + PLUS stacks up against the competition and whether it truly delivers on its promises.

My primary need was a reliable caller with a diverse sound library and effective range for attracting predators in challenging terrains. My old caller was failing and outdated. The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS seemed like the perfect solution.

Unboxing the Night Stalker + PLUS, my first impression was positive. The caller and remote felt rugged, designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. The weight felt balanced, and the materials seemed durable, giving me confidence in its build quality.

Compared to my aging Primos Turbo Dogg and a friend’s Foxpro Shockwave, the ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS appealed to me because of its ease of use. Its focus on essential features, like the ability to download sounds easily and its long remote range, were compelling. It also seemed less bulky than the Foxpro.

My initial excitement was tempered by the user reviews discussing the limited “good” sounds and the battery demands. The combination of potential and reported shortcomings piqued my interest and motivated me to rigorously test this unit.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on a private ranch in West Texas, known for its dense mesquite thickets and challenging predator hunting. I tested the ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS during both daylight and nighttime scenarios, focusing on coyote and bobcat calls. Performance was tested during mild temperatures and wind conditions.

The remote control proved to have an impressive range, easily reaching beyond 200 yards without line of sight, a significant advantage in the undulating terrain. The volume was more than adequate, cutting through the wind and attracting attention from distant predators. The unit proved very easy to use, requiring minimal time to get familiar with it, even while wearing gloves.

The most immediate issue was with the factory sound library. While the number of sounds was high, many were irrelevant, like moose or alligator calls, as highlighted in user reviews. The pre-loaded coyote and bobcat sounds were less convincing than those I typically use, requiring immediate custom sound downloads.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS has proven to be a dependable tool, though not without its quirks. The unit has stood up well to the rigors of frequent transport and exposure to the elements. There are no signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning is straightforward; a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Battery consumption remains a concern. I strongly recommend investing in the ICOtec C4 lithium rechargeable battery pack for the caller and the TNT kit for the remote, which drastically reduces the cost and hassle of replacing batteries.

Compared to my previous caller, the Night Stalker + PLUS offers a more user-friendly experience and superior remote range. The ability to download custom sounds easily is a massive plus, though the need to do so to get a usable library is a drawback.

Breaking Down the Features of ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call

Specifications

• The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call boasts an industry-leading 300-yard no-line-of-sight remote range. This is critical for setting up ambushes in varied terrain without being seen.
• It includes Bluetooth connectivity up to 100 yards, allowing for convenient control from smartphones or tablets. This offers a useful alternative if you prefer using an app interface.
• The unit is advertised as having amazingly crystal clear sound quality and it delivered clear audio.
• The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS can store up to 2,000 sound files on a removable SD card. This ensures plenty of space for customized sound libraries.
• It is capable of playing 16, 24, and 32-bit .wav files, providing flexibility in sound file selection.
• The Night Stalker + PLUS unit delivers tremendous volume at over 130 dB. This ensures sound travels far and effectively, even in windy conditions.
• The caller requires 10 AA batteries, not included, but ICOtec recommends its C4 lithium rechargeable battery. The remote needs 4 AA batteries, also not included.
• The remote display has day and night display options.

These specifications are significant because they contribute to the overall effectiveness and usability of the caller. The long range, high volume, and sound quality ensure that predators can hear and respond to the calls, while the storage capacity and battery options provide flexibility and convenience.

Performance & Functionality

The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call performs its core function of attracting predators effectively. Its long range and loud volume are significant assets in open country.

The weak point remains the factory sound library. The user must invest time and money in building a custom library for their specific needs. Despite this caveat, the ease of downloading and managing sounds is a significant strength.

It mostly exceeds expectations, provided that the user is willing to invest in custom sounds and rechargeable batteries.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The materials used feel durable and capable of withstanding the elements. The remote fits comfortably in hand, and the large display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.

The user interface is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons and a straightforward menu system. The lack of backlighting on the remote buttons can be a minor inconvenience in total darkness.

Durability & Maintenance

The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS appears to be built to last. After weeks of use, there are no signs of wear and tear. The unit is relatively easy to maintain; simply wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth after each use.

I expect it to withstand years of use with proper care. The battery compartments appear well-sealed, reducing the risk of water damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The package includes USB and remote sync cables, facilitating easy sound downloads and updates. The unit is tripod mountable, providing stability in windy conditions.

Beyond the included accessories, the primary customization option is the sound library. The ability to download and store thousands of custom sounds allows users to tailor the caller to their specific hunting needs and geographic location. ICOtec recommends their Animal Audio smartphone app for accessing high-quality sound libraries.

Pros and Cons of ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call?

The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call is perfect for experienced predator hunters who require long range and high volume. It’s well-suited for those who are willing to invest time and effort in building a custom sound library.

Those who prefer a ready-to-use caller with a diverse and high-quality factory sound library should skip this product. Also, hunters unwilling to invest in rechargeable batteries may find the cost of operation prohibitive.

Must-have accessories include the ICOtec C4 lithium rechargeable battery pack for the caller, the TNT rechargeable AA battery kit for the remote, and a high-capacity SD card for storing custom sounds.

Conclusion on ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call

The ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS Predator Call offers a compelling blend of performance, durability, and ease of use. While the factory sound library is a significant drawback, the unit’s exceptional remote range, high volume output, and easy sound downloading make it a worthwhile investment for serious predator hunters.

The price is justified, considering the unit’s capabilities and build quality. The user must be prepared to invest in custom sounds and rechargeable batteries to maximize its potential.

I would personally recommend the ICOtec Night Stalker + PLUS to experienced predator hunters seeking a long-range, high-volume caller with customizable sound options. Download those custom sounds, charge those batteries, and get ready to call in some predators!