Let’s Dive into iHunt Ultimate Game Call
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call by iHunt, in partnership with Ruger, represents a modern approach to game calling. It uses smartphone technology to bring an expansive library of animal sounds to the field. As someone with over a decade of experience in the outdoor and tactical gear realm, I’ve seen countless electronic game calls come and go, but the iHunt Ultimate Game Call‘s app integration piqued my interest.
I was looking for a versatile and easily customizable game call system. Traditional calls can be bulky, limited in sound options, and cumbersome to operate in the heat of the moment.
Upon unboxing, the iHunt Ultimate Game Call speaker itself felt surprisingly lightweight yet robust. The rubberized base and adjustable handle added a touch of practicality, giving me the impression it could withstand the rigors of the hunt. Compared to dedicated, remote-controlled units from Foxpro or Primos, this seemed more streamlined. I chose the iHunt Ultimate Game Call for its potential sound library and ease of playlist creation. My initial excitement stemmed from the possibilities of using my phone to create complex and realistic calling sequences.
Real-World Testing: Putting iHunt Ultimate Game Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test occurred during a coyote hunting trip in the high plains of eastern Colorado. The wind was gusting, and the temperature hovered just above freezing, a challenging environment for any electronic device. Connecting the speaker to my phone via Bluetooth was straightforward, although I did need to consult the instructions to ensure the app was properly paired. The iHunt Ultimate Game Call performed admirably, projecting clear and loud coyote vocalizations across the open landscape.
The initial setup and playlist selection using the app proved intuitive, even with gloved hands. After about two hours of intermittent use, the speaker continued to operate without issues, though battery life became a concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across multiple hunting trips, the iHunt Ultimate Game Call has proven to be a reliable companion. The speaker has been exposed to light rain and dusty conditions without any noticeable degradation in performance. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with diaphragm calls and older cassette-based electronic callers, the iHunt Ultimate Game Call offers unparalleled convenience and flexibility. The vast sound library and the ability to create custom playlists make it a significant upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of iHunt Ultimate Game Call
Specifications
- Manufacturer: iHunt
- Call Type: Electronic. This provides a wider range of sounds and greater control compared to traditional mouth calls.
- Battery Type: C. This common battery size offers a good balance between power and availability.
- Battery Quantity: 4. Requires four C batteries for operation, which aren’t included.
- Bluetooth Speaker: Pairs with the iHunt app up to 50 yards away. This allows remote control of the calls from a safe distance.
- Sound Library: Access to nearly 600 sounds from 47 species via the iHunt by Ruger app. This extensive library allows for highly customized calling sequences.
- Sound Output: Up to 115db. The loud output ensures calls are heard over long distances and in windy conditions.
These specifications highlight the iHunt Ultimate Game Call‘s focus on technology and customization. The Bluetooth connectivity and extensive sound library provide a level of control and versatility that traditional calls simply can’t match.
Performance & Functionality
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call excels in its primary function: attracting game. The sound quality is generally excellent, with realistic animal vocalizations that have proven effective in drawing in predators and other game. The ability to adjust volume levels for individual sounds within a playlist is a standout feature. It allows you to create a more dynamic and believable soundscape, simulating animals moving closer or farther away.
The app, while generally user-friendly, can occasionally be buggy. Also, it requires internet service for initial app download and updates, something to keep in mind if you hunt in remote areas.
Design & Ergonomics
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call features a simple, functional design. The adjustable handle provides a comfortable grip, and the rubberized base ensures stability on uneven terrain. The push-button on/off switch is easy to operate, even with gloves.
The unit itself is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry in a pack. However, the plastic construction feels somewhat less robust than more expensive, dedicated electronic callers.
Durability & Maintenance
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call appears to be reasonably durable for its price point. The water-resistant design offers some protection against the elements, but it’s not fully waterproof. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
While it seems durable enough for typical hunting conditions, I’d avoid subjecting it to excessive abuse or extreme temperatures. The all-plastic enclosure may not withstand heavy impacts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call comes with a loop for attaching a strap or wire, allowing it to be hung from a tree for improved sound projection. The primary customization option is within the app itself. You can create an unlimited number of custom playlists and adjust individual sound volumes.
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call is designed to work seamlessly with the iHunt by Ruger app. Therefore, it doesn’t offer compatibility with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of iHunt Ultimate Game Call
Pros
- Access to a vast library of nearly 600 sounds from 47 species via the iHunt by Ruger app.
- Bluetooth connectivity allows remote control from up to 50 yards away.
- Playlist feature is easy to use and allows for complex, realistic calling sequences.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to dedicated electronic game calls.
- The iHunt Ultimate Game Call delivers impressive sound output (up to 115db) for its size.
Cons
- Requires the iHunt by Ruger app, which needs initial internet access and can occasionally be buggy.
- Plastic construction feels less durable than more expensive units.
- Battery life can be limited; consider carrying spare batteries.
Who Should Buy iHunt Ultimate Game Call?
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call is perfect for hunters who are looking for a versatile, affordable, and customizable game calling system. It’s particularly well-suited for predator hunters. This includes those who appreciate the convenience of using their smartphone to control their calls.
This product might not be ideal for hunters who require a rugged, waterproof, and ultra-reliable calling system for extreme conditions. Also, hunters who prefer a dedicated remote control rather than relying on a smartphone app may find other options more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a good set of rechargeable C batteries and a portable charger. Also, ensuring your smartphone is fully charged before heading out is critical for controlling the speaker and accessing the sound library.
Conclusion on iHunt Ultimate Game Call
The iHunt Ultimate Game Call offers an innovative approach to game calling by leveraging smartphone technology. While it has some limitations in terms of durability and app reliability, the extensive sound library, Bluetooth connectivity, and customizable playlists make it a compelling option for many hunters.
At its price point of $59.49, the iHunt Ultimate Game Call represents a solid value proposition. It delivers a level of functionality and customization that rivals more expensive, dedicated electronic callers.
I would personally recommend the iHunt Ultimate Game Call to hunters looking for a versatile and affordable game calling system. Give it a try and experience the future of electronic game calling. Download the Ruger iHunt app today!