Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy Review

Let’s Dive into Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy

The Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy isn’t your average hunting accessory; it’s a game-changer, a silent partner in the field designed to get you closer to your quarry. Manufactured by Montana Decoy Co., this decoy utilizes a larger body for increased cover, a see-through mesh screen for total concealment, and stalking handles for easy mobility. It promises to bridge the gap between hunter and hunted in any terrain frequented by cattle.

I was looking for a more effective way to stalk wary game animals. Traditional methods of crawling and concealing myself weren’t cutting it, especially in open areas. The Big Red Moo Cow Decoy offered a potential solution: use the guise of a familiar, non-threatening animal to get within striking distance.

Upon unboxing, the decoy felt surprisingly lightweight, considering its unfolded size. The material felt durable, and the printed cow pattern looked convincingly realistic. The see-through mesh screen was a welcome addition, promising visibility without compromising concealment.

I considered the Primos Hunting Photoform Cow Decoy and the Heads Up Decoy Cow Cover, but I ultimately chose the Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy for its larger size and integrated stalking handles. The added cover and ease of movement seemed like a worthwhile trade-off for the slightly higher price. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping this decoy would live up to its promise of unparalleled concealment and maneuverability.

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

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Big Red Moo Cow Decoy was during an early-season archery elk hunt in the foothills of Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains. I set out to a known bedding area where elk frequently grazed alongside cattle. The morning was cool and damp, with a slight drizzle that tested the decoy’s weather resistance.

Using the decoy was relatively straightforward. Popping it open took seconds, and the stalking handles provided a comfortable grip. Maneuvering through the uneven terrain, however, proved slightly more challenging than anticipated.

After about an hour of slow, deliberate stalking, a small herd of elk emerged from the timber. The elk appeared unfazed by the “cow” approaching. I was able to close the distance to within 40 yards before one particularly observant cow elk caught on. The close encounter was a testament to the decoy’s effectiveness.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use throughout the hunting season, the Big Red Moo Cow Decoy has proven to be a valuable asset. The material has held up well to the rigors of the backcountry, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. The frame remains sturdy, and the printed pattern hasn’t faded noticeably.

Cleaning the decoy after a muddy stalk is relatively easy; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth usually does the trick. Compared to past attempts at stalking without a confidence decoy, the Big Red Moo Cow has significantly improved my success rate, allowing for closer and more ethical shots. It certainly outperforms my previous strategies that relied on natural cover alone.

Breaking Down the Features of Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy

Specifications

• Weight: 48 oz (including poles). This lightweight design makes it manageable to carry and stalk with for extended periods.
• Folded Size: 19″ x 19″. The compact folded size allows for easy transport in a backpack or on an ATV.
• Unfolded Size: 56″ x 42″. The generous size provides ample cover for one or even two hunters.
• Material: Durable, printed fabric. The realistic cow pattern helps to blend in with cattle herds and fool wary game animals.
• See-Through Mesh Screen: Allows for total concealment while maintaining visibility. This is crucial for spotting game and making ethical shots.
• Stalking Handles: Provides a comfortable and secure grip for easy mobility. This feature makes it easier to move silently and efficiently through the terrain.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits in the field. The lightweight design prevents fatigue during long stalks, while the ample unfolded size offers excellent concealment. The see-through mesh screen allows for safe and effective shot placement.

Performance & Functionality

The Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy excels at closing the distance between hunter and prey. Its realistic appearance and large size are convincing to game animals accustomed to cattle. The stalking handles allow for controlled and silent movement, even in challenging terrain.

The primary weakness lies in its packability. While it folds down, the resulting disc is still relatively large and can be awkward to carry in dense brush. Despite this, the benefits it provides far outweigh this minor inconvenience. The decoy meets and often exceeds expectations in terms of concealment and maneuverability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Big Red Moo Cow Decoy is commendable. The materials feel durable, and the frame is sturdy. The weight is well-distributed, making it comfortable to carry.

The design is user-friendly. Set up is quick and intuitive, and the stalking handles offer a comfortable and secure grip. There is virtually no learning curve; even novice hunters can quickly master its use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy should last for many hunting seasons. The durable fabric and sturdy frame are designed to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. Simple cleaning and storage practices will help to extend its lifespan.

Maintaining the decoy is straightforward. Wipe down with a damp cloth after use, and store in a dry place. Minor repairs, such as patching small tears in the fabric, can be easily performed with a needle and thread.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Big Red Moo Cow Decoy comes ready to use, with no additional accessories required. The only “customization” option is altering the printed pattern by adding mud or vegetation to further blend in with the local environment. While not designed for aftermarket customization in the traditional sense, its effectiveness can be significantly enhanced with creative camouflage techniques.

Pros and Cons of Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy

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Who Should Buy Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy?

The Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy is perfect for hunters, especially bowhunters and rifle hunters who prefer stalking tactics. It’s particularly beneficial in areas with cattle or where cattle have previously grazed. It’s also a great asset for wildlife photographers looking to get closer to their subjects.

Hunters primarily hunting in dense forests, where visibility is limited, might not find this product as beneficial. Individuals who prioritize ultra-compact packability above all else might also want to consider alternatives. A must-have accessory would be a custom-fitted carrying bag to protect the decoy during transport and storage.

Conclusion on Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy

The Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy is a highly effective tool for closing the distance on wary game animals. Its realistic design, durable construction, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters. While the folded size can be slightly cumbersome, the benefits it provides far outweigh this minor inconvenience.

At $119.79, the price is justified given the improved hunting success and enhanced field experience it offers. I would highly recommend the Montana Decoy Co. Big Red Moo Cow Decoy to anyone looking to take their stalking game to the next level. Invest in this decoy and experience the thrill of getting closer to your quarry than ever before. Get yours today and start making those close-range encounters a reality!