Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow Review

The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow Made a Bold First Impression

The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow isn’t your average piece of hunting gear; it’s a statement. At $88.99, it promises to transform the way you approach elk hunting, offering a unique and potentially game-changing edge. It’s manufactured by Montana Decoy, a company known for their innovative and realistic hunting decoys.

I’ve spent years trying to outsmart elk, experimenting with calls, scents, and traditional camouflage. I was looking for something different, something that could truly disrupt their natural behavior and draw them in close. The Big Red Moo Cow seemed like it could be that something.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the decoy’s size. It’s substantial, but surprisingly lightweight, a definite plus for packing into the backcountry. The material feels durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of the elk woods. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this seemingly outlandish decoy actually work?

Compared to traditional elk decoys, which often mimic bulls or smaller cows, the Big Red Moo Cow takes a completely different approach. It presents an image that’s both familiar and unexpected. Instead of blending in, it stands out, creating curiosity and potentially lulling elk into a false sense of security. This departure from the norm is what drew me to it, hoping to disrupt the elk’s wariness. I picked this over others because I wanted to try a bold strategy.

My initial reaction was a mixture of excitement and skepticism. The concept is intriguing, but I needed to see it in action to truly believe in its effectiveness. It was clear that the Big Red Moo Cow was going to be a test of both the decoy’s design and my own hunting strategy.

Real-World Testing: Putting Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow took place in the high country of Montana during the early archery season. The area was a mix of open meadows and dense timber, prime elk habitat. I set up the decoy in a meadow, positioning it to be visible from a distance but also near a potential escape route if needed.

The conditions were fairly mild, with a slight breeze and clear skies. Setting up the decoy was surprisingly simple, requiring only a few minutes. The realistic appearance, even from a distance, was immediately apparent. The ease of use was a pleasant surprise.

After a few hours, a small herd of elk appeared on the edge of the meadow, and their reaction to the Big Red Moo Cow was fascinating. They initially approached with caution, circling downwind to get a better scent. However, their curiosity seemed to outweigh their fear, and they gradually moved closer, eventually feeding within 50 yards of the decoy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow has proven to be remarkably durable. It has weathered several rainstorms and a few encounters with thick brush without showing any significant signs of wear and tear. The paint has held up well, and the folding mechanism remains sturdy and reliable. The durability is commendable.

Cleaning is also simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and mud. The decoy folds down easily for transport, making it convenient to pack in and out of the field. It is relatively easy to clean.

Compared to my previous experiences with traditional elk decoys, the Big Red Moo Cow has offered a noticeable advantage in attracting elk. While it’s not a guaranteed success, it has consistently piqued their interest and drawn them in closer than traditional decoys. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow

Specifications

• The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow is designed to mimic the appearance of a mature cow elk. This can help attract elk by presenting a non-threatening visual.
• The decoy is constructed from a lightweight, yet durable, fabric material. This provides both portability and resilience in the field.
• It features a folding design for easy transport and storage. This makes it convenient to pack in and out of the hunting area.
• The decoy utilizes photo-realistic imagery for enhanced realism. This helps convince elk that it’s a real animal.
• The decoy is priced at $88.99, making it a relatively affordable option for elk hunters. It’s reasonably priced.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the decoy’s effectiveness and user-friendliness. The lightweight design and folding mechanism make it practical for backcountry hunts. The realistic imagery and cow elk mimicry increase the chances of attracting elk.

Performance & Functionality

The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow performs admirably in its intended role. It effectively attracts elk, especially curious younger animals, and can hold their attention long enough for a hunter to get into position for a shot. It is generally reliable.

Its strength lies in its ability to create curiosity and disrupt the elk’s natural wariness. The weakness is that older, more experienced bulls may be more cautious and less likely to approach. It meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The materials used are durable and lightweight. It packs down small, yet is realistic in size when deployed.

The design is user-friendly. The setup is quick and easy, even in challenging terrain. There is no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Big Red Moo Cow is designed to withstand the rigors of the hunt. The durable fabric and sturdy folding mechanism ensure it will last for multiple seasons with proper care. It should last for a long time.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. Cleaning it easy.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow doesn’t come with a lot of accessories. It’s primarily a standalone product.

While there are no specific “customization options” in the traditional sense, you can add scent attractants to the decoy to further enhance its appeal. You can also experiment with different placement strategies to maximize its effectiveness in various terrains and hunting scenarios. It is compatible with aftermarket scent attractants.

Pros and Cons of Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow

Who Should Buy Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow?

The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow is perfect for elk hunters, especially those who are looking for a lightweight and effective decoy option. It is also well-suited for hunters who are new to using decoys, as it is easy to set up and use. It is great for hunters.

Those who should skip this product are hunters who primarily target mature, wary bulls in heavily hunted areas. Those elk may be more likely to recognize the decoy as a potential threat.

A must-have accessory is a good quality elk scent attractant. This will help to further enhance the decoy’s appeal and draw elk in closer.

Conclusion on Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow

The Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow is a well-designed and effective elk decoy that offers a unique approach to attracting elk. Its lightweight construction, realistic appearance, and ease of use make it a valuable tool for any elk hunter. The decoy is a valuable tool.

The price of $88.99 is justified by its performance and durability. The price is fair.

I would definitely recommend the Montana Decoy Big Red Moo Cow to anyone looking to improve their elk hunting success. Give it a try and see the difference it can make! It is recommended.