The Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned waterfowl hunter, I’ve seen my fair share of decoy bags, most of which are glorified burlap sacks with shoulder straps. But the Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber immediately stood out. This bag wasn’t just about hauling decoys; it seemed purpose-built for the die-hard waterfowler grinding it out on public land.
I needed a bag that could comfortably carry a significant decoy spread, plus my spinning wing decoy and shotgun, all while navigating muddy trails and pre-dawn darkness. My old bag was killing my back and leaving my shotgun vulnerable. The Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber promised a solution.
Unboxing it, I was impressed by the rugged construction and the intelligent design. The Gore Optifade Timber camo pattern is incredibly effective. The padded backrest and strategically placed straps screamed comfort and functionality.
Compared to my previous decoy bag and a similar offering from Avery Outdoors, the Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber won out due to its dedicated compartments and superior carrying system. The Avery bag lacked dedicated storage for my spinning wing decoy and the cheaper bag from Cabela’s offered zero back support. I was genuinely excited to put this bag through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber was a predawn slog through a flooded timber. I tested it in prime duck hunting conditions. The bag was loaded with two-dozen standard decoys, my spinning wing decoy (a MOJO Outdoors product) and my 12-gauge shotgun.
The padded backrest and waist belt made a world of difference. The weight was distributed evenly, and the bag didn’t bounce against my legs, even when wading through knee-deep water. The large gate-mouth opening made stuffing and removing decoys a breeze, even with gloved hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber has held up remarkably well. There are no rips, tears, or signs of significant wear. The stitching remains intact. The camo pattern has not faded.
Cleaning the bag is straightforward. A quick rinse with a hose removes mud and debris. It dries quickly. The bag has proven to be significantly more durable and comfortable than any decoy bag I’ve used previously, even other Rig ‘Em Right products.
Breaking Down the Features of Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber
Specifications
- Deluxe padded backrest: Offers superior comfort for long walks and reduces strain on your back. This is a game changer for public land hunters who often face significant distances.
- Padded shoulder straps and waist belt: Distributes weight evenly across your body for a more comfortable carry. This prevents fatigue and allows you to focus on the hunt.
- Compartment for spinning wing decoy poles: Keeps your poles organized and prevents them from tangling with your decoys. No more fumbling in the dark trying to find your poles.
- Compartment for your shotgun: Protects your shotgun from scratches and bumps while keeping it readily accessible. This is critical for safety and quick reaction times.
- Multiple cinch straps: Tighten your load for stability or reduce the volume of the bag when carrying fewer decoys. This versatility allows you to adapt to different hunting scenarios.
- Large gate mouth opening: Makes stuffing and removing decoys quick and easy, even with gloved hands. It is a great feature on cold mornings when dexterity is limited.
- Tough, durable construction: Ensures the bag can withstand years of abuse in harsh hunting conditions. This saves you money in the long run by preventing the need for frequent replacements.
- Holds approximately 18-24 decoys: Provides ample space for a typical decoy spread. This eliminates the need for multiple bags and streamlines your gear.
- Dimensions: 24x12x38″: Offers a good balance between capacity and maneuverability. The dimensions are large enough to hold a significant decoy load but not so large that it becomes unwieldy.
Performance & Functionality
The Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber excels at its primary function: carrying decoys comfortably and efficiently. The weight distribution is excellent. The dedicated compartments keep everything organized.
The only minor improvement I could suggest is a slightly larger shotgun compartment to accommodate shotguns with larger optics. However, this is a minor nitpick. Overall, the performance meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with heavy-duty materials and reinforced stitching. The Gore Optifade Timber camo is effective in a variety of environments. The padded components are comfortable, even after hours of wear.
The bag is designed with the user in mind, and there’s virtually no learning curve. It’s intuitive to load, carry, and access your gear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber is built to last. The durable construction and reinforced stitching ensure it can withstand years of abuse. Minimal maintenance is required; simply rinse it off after each hunt and allow it to air dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The bag doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, the cinch straps allow you to attach additional items such as blind material or tree straps. There are no dedicated customization options, but the modular design lends itself to some degree of personalization.
Pros and Cons of Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber
Pros
- Extremely comfortable carrying system: Padded backrest, shoulder straps, and waist belt significantly reduce fatigue.
- Dedicated compartments for spinning wing decoy and shotgun: Keeps your gear organized and protected.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand years of use in harsh conditions.
- Large capacity and gate-mouth opening: Makes loading and unloading decoys easy.
- Effective Gore Optifade Timber camo pattern: Provides excellent concealment.
Cons
- Shotgun compartment could be slightly larger for scoped shotguns.
- Price point may be higher than basic decoy bags.
Who Should Buy Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber?
This bag is perfect for:
- Public land waterfowl hunters who need to carry a significant amount of gear over long distances.
- Hunters who value comfort and organization.
- Anyone looking for a durable and reliable decoy bag that will last for years.
Who should skip this product?
- Hunters who only use a small number of decoys and don’t need a dedicated spinning wing decoy or shotgun compartment.
- Those on a very tight budget.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Consider adding a waterproof bag liner for extra protection in extremely wet conditions.
Conclusion on Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber
The Rig ‘Em Right Refuge Runner Decoy Bag Gore Optifade Timber is an investment in comfort, organization, and durability. While it may be pricier than basic decoy bags, the superior carrying system and dedicated compartments make it worth every penny. It is a top-tier piece of equipment that has noticeably improved my hunting experience.
The value proposition is strong. You are getting a high-quality product designed for the rigors of serious waterfowl hunting. I would wholeheartedly recommend this bag to any serious waterfowler looking to upgrade their gear. Get yours today and experience the difference!