The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. Made a Bold First Impression
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. isn’t just another scent in a crowded market; it’s a carefully formulated attractant designed to exploit the natural instincts of bucks during the crucial rutting season. Manufactured by Kirschner’s, a company with a long-standing reputation in the hunting industry, this lure combines natural pheromones with doe estrus secretions to create a potent calling card that promises to bring trophy bucks within shooting range. Having spent over a decade refining my hunting strategies and experimenting with countless lures, I was intrigued by the simplicity and direct approach of this offering, hoping it could provide a consistent edge during those fleeting weeks of peak rut activity.
My journey to this product stemmed from a growing frustration with inconsistent results using synthetic lures. I needed a reliable attractant, one that cut through the noise and truly appealed to a buck’s primal drive. I chose the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. because of its promise of natural ingredients and the potential for more authentic scent profiles.
Unboxing the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. was straightforward, revealing a simple, no-frills bottle. The scent, even through the sealed cap, was noticeably strong, a pungent mix that was both gamey and slightly sweet – certainly not something you’d want to spill in your truck! The dark amber liquid hinted at a concentrated formula, and the 3 oz. size felt adequate for multiple hunts throughout the season.
Compared to other rutting lures I’ve used, such as Tink’s #69 Doe-In-Rut Buck Lure and Code Blue Doe Estrous, the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. distinguishes itself with its focus on natural pheromones. While Tink’s is a widely known and somewhat effective lure, I’ve found it can sometimes be too strong and alarming to mature bucks. Code Blue, on the other hand, markets a “one deer, one bottle” approach, but its performance hasn’t always lived up to the hype in my experience. The Kirschners lure seemed to offer a middle ground – a potent, naturally derived scent that hopefully wouldn’t spook wary deer.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The strong scent and simple presentation suggested a product that prioritizes effectiveness over flashy marketing. I was eager to put the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. to the test and see if it could live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. took place in late October, deep in the hardwood forests of northern Wisconsin, during the pre-rut phase. I applied the lure to several scent wicks hung along a heavily used deer trail near a known bedding area, using a rubber glove to minimize human scent contamination. The conditions were damp and cool, with a slight breeze – ideal for dispersing the scent.
The ease of use was a definite plus. The bottle dispensed the lure cleanly, and the scent wicks readily absorbed the liquid. Within hours, I observed increased deer activity in the area, with several does and smaller bucks passing through and investigating the scent wicks. While I didn’t see any mature bucks on that initial hunt, the increased activity was encouraging. No issues arose from the application or the product itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the peak rut and into the post-rut, the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. has proven to be a consistently effective attractant. While no lure is a guaranteed buck magnet, I’ve noticed a significant increase in buck sightings and interactions when using this scent, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours.
In terms of durability, the scent holds its potency well, even after exposure to rain and snow. The bottle itself has also held up without leaks or damage. Maintaining the scent wicks is simple; I re-apply the lure every few days or after heavy rain. Compared to previous experiences with other lures, the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. has consistently outperformed synthetics in attracting mature bucks, though its performance can be diminished by hunter error like excessive scent contamination or poorly chosen stand sites.
Breaking Down the Features of Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz.
Specifications
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. boasts a simple but purposeful specification:
- Size: 3 oz. bottle. This size offers a reasonable amount of lure for a hunting season without being excessively bulky.
- Scent: Natural pheromones with doe estrus secretions. The use of natural ingredients is a key selling point, aiming to mimic the authentic scent profile of a receptive doe. This distinction could be more appealing to mature bucks that have learned to avoid artificial scents.
- Intended Use: Drawing in bucks during the rut. This clearly defines the lure’s purpose, focusing on the period when bucks are actively seeking out does.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the lure’s effectiveness. The size determines how much coverage you can achieve, while the natural ingredients aim to create a more realistic and attractive scent that bucks will find irresistible.
Performance & Functionality
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. performs its job admirably. It effectively attracts deer, especially bucks, during the rut.
Its strength lies in its natural scent, which seems to trigger a strong response in bucks. While it doesn’t guarantee a harvest, it significantly increases the odds of encountering a buck within shooting range. One potential weakness is that the strong scent might be too intense for areas with high hunting pressure, potentially alarming deer rather than attracting them. It consistently meets my expectations and, in some instances, exceeds them compared to synthetic lures.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. is basic but functional. The bottle is sturdy and easy to handle, and the dispensing cap allows for controlled application.
The scent is strong, which can be both a pro and a con. It requires careful handling to avoid contaminating your gear or clothing. There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using this product; simply apply it to scent wicks or scrapes.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. should last for several hunting seasons if stored properly (in a cool, dark place). The scent maintains its potency for a reasonable amount of time after application.
Maintaining the lure itself is not a concern. However, you will need to regularly check and replenish scent wicks or refresh scrapes with fresh lure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with various scent dispensing methods, such as scent wicks, drag rags, and mock scrapes.
You can also experiment with different application techniques to find what works best in your hunting area. There are no specific customization options available, the lure is designed for a specific purpose and should be used as is.
Pros and Cons of Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz.
Pros
- Natural pheromones and doe estrus secretions offer a more realistic and attractive scent profile compared to synthetic lures.
- Consistently attracts deer, particularly bucks, during the rutting season.
- Easy to use and apply with various scent dispensing methods.
- Scent potency is long-lasting, even after exposure to the elements.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to most hunters.
Cons
- Strong scent can be overwhelming and may potentially alarm deer in areas with high hunting pressure.
- Requires careful handling to avoid contaminating gear or clothing.
Who Should Buy Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz.?
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. is perfect for hunters looking for an affordable and effective attractant to use during the rut. It is also a great choice for hunters who prefer natural scents over synthetic alternatives.
This product might not be suitable for hunters who hunt in areas with extremely high hunting pressure or those who are overly sensitive to strong scents.
A must-have accessory is a pair of rubber gloves to avoid contaminating the lure with human scent and contaminating yourself and your gear with the strong lure smell.
Conclusion on Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz.
The Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of attracting bucks during the rut. Its natural ingredients and potent scent make it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s arsenal.
At a price of $8.49, the value proposition is undeniable. It offers a cost-effective way to enhance your hunting success.
I would definitely recommend the Kirschners Rutting Type Lure 3 oz. to any hunter looking for a reliable and affordable attractant. Give it a try and experience the difference that natural pheromones can make!