Montana Decoy Eichler Elk Review

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk Made a Bold First Impression

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk isn’t just another piece of hunting gear; it’s an investment in a more immersive and successful hunt. Offered by Montana Decoy, known for their innovative and realistic designs, this elk decoy promises to bring the thrill of the chase closer than ever. It’s designed with portability and realism in mind, aimed at attracting even the most wary bull elk.

What led me to the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk? Years of elk hunting have taught me that getting close enough for a clean shot is the biggest challenge. I was seeking a lightweight, realistic decoy that could fool even the most seasoned bulls during archery season. Unboxing the decoy, I was immediately struck by the quality of the print and the lightweight design. It felt durable yet easily packable – a critical balance for backcountry hunts.

I had been considering the Primos Scarface Elk decoy and the Heads Up Decoy Elk, but the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk’s packability and reputation for realism swayed me. The Primos option seemed bulkier, and while Heads Up Decoy offers maneuverability, I was prioritizing a more traditional stationary setup. My first impression was excitement. It felt like I was holding a tool that could genuinely change the game.

Real-World Testing: Putting Montana Decoy Eichler Elk to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test occurred during the peak of the rut in the high country of Montana. I positioned the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk in a meadow, partially concealed by some aspen trees, mimicking a bull raking his antlers. The weather was typical for the area – cool and crisp with a slight breeze.

The decoy proved surprisingly easy to set up. It deployed quickly, and the included support poles provided adequate stability even in the moderate wind. Within an hour, a mature 6×6 bull responded to my calls and approached the decoy cautiously. He circled downwind, clearly trying to get a better read, but the decoy held his attention just long enough for me to draw my bow undetected and make a clean shot. No issues were encountered during that first hunt, and I felt confident enough to put it through more tests.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk has proven its worth time and time again. The print has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of fading despite exposure to sun, rain, and snow. It’s still incredibly lightweight and easy to pack.

The decoy’s durability has exceeded my expectations. The support poles are still in great shape. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each hunt keeps it clean. Compared to previous, less realistic decoys I’ve used, the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is in a different class. It draws elk in closer and holds their attention longer, resulting in more shot opportunities.

Breaking Down the Features of Montana Decoy Eichler Elk

Specifications

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is built with the mobile hunter in mind, emphasizing packability and ease of use. Its key specs include:

• Weight: A mere 3.2 pounds, making it easy to carry on long hikes. This is crucial for hunters who cover significant ground.

• Material: Constructed from a high-quality, photo-realistic fabric that’s both durable and weather-resistant. This material ensures longevity and realistic appearance in various conditions.

• Dimensions: When folded, it packs down to a compact size, easily fitting into a backpack. This allows for effortless transport.

• Support System: Includes lightweight, collapsible support poles for quick and easy setup. The poles provide stability in varied terrain.

These specifications are vital because they address the core needs of elk hunters: a lightweight, durable, and realistic decoy that can be deployed quickly in the field. The lightweight design ensures hunters can remain mobile, while the realistic print maximizes its effectiveness in attracting elk.

Performance & Functionality

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk excels in its ability to attract elk, particularly during the rut. Its photo-realistic design and strategically placed support poles create a convincing visual presence.

• Strengths: Realistic appearance, lightweight design, easy setup, and effective at drawing in elk. These attributes contribute to a successful hunting experience.

• Weaknesses: The included support poles could be more robust for extremely windy conditions. An improved pole design would provide greater stability.

Overall, the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk meets and even exceeds expectations. Its ease of use and effectiveness in the field make it an invaluable tool for any serious elk hunter.

Design & Ergonomics

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk showcases a well-thought-out design focused on practicality and realism. The photo-realistic print captures the intricate details of a mature bull elk, fooling even wary animals.

The lightweight material makes it comfortable to carry, while the collapsible support poles ensure a quick and hassle-free setup. There’s virtually no learning curve; even novice hunters can use it effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

Built to withstand the rigors of the backcountry, the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is designed for longevity. The high-quality fabric resists tearing and fading, ensuring years of use.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. This ease of maintenance is essential for hunters who prioritize spending time in the field, not cleaning gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk comes standard with collapsible support poles. These poles allow for immediate use out of the box.

While there are no direct customization options, the decoy is compatible with various aftermarket support systems. Hunters can experiment with different stake designs to improve stability in extreme weather.

Pros and Cons of Montana Decoy Eichler Elk

• Lightweight and Packable: Easy to carry on long hikes, making it ideal for backcountry hunts. Its portability sets it apart from bulkier decoys.

• Easy Setup: The collapsible support poles allow for quick and hassle-free deployment. Time saved during setup translates to more time hunting.

• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of the backcountry, ensuring years of reliable use. Its durability makes it a worthwhile investment.

• Increased Success Rate: Draws elk in closer, holding their attention long enough for a shot opportunity. The increased shot opportunities can lead to a more fulfilling hunting experience.

• No Built-in Scent Applicator: While not essential, a built-in scent applicator would enhance the decoy’s realism. Scent can add another layer of deception.

Who Should Buy Montana Decoy Eichler Elk?

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is perfect for:

• Archery elk hunters seeking to improve their shot opportunities.
• Backcountry hunters who prioritize lightweight and packable gear.
• Hunters looking for a realistic and effective elk decoy.

Who should skip this product?

• Hunters primarily focused on rifle hunting at long distances.
• Individuals hunting in areas with extremely high winds and no cover.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Stronger support poles for windy conditions.
• Elk scent attractant.

Conclusion on Montana Decoy Eichler Elk

The Montana Decoy Eichler Elk is a game-changer for serious elk hunters. Its realistic design, lightweight construction, and ease of use make it an invaluable tool in the field.

The price of $92.99 is more than justified, considering the increased shot opportunities and overall hunting experience it provides. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any hunter looking to improve their elk hunting success. If you’re tired of long shots and want to bring the thrill of the chase closer than ever, invest in the Montana Decoy Eichler Elk and experience the difference.