The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag Made a Bold First Impression
For a seasoned waterfowl hunter like myself, the decoy spread is everything. Getting those ducks committed requires a realistic setup, and that means hauling a substantial number of decoys, often across muddy fields and through thick brush. After years of struggling with flimsy, ill-fitting bags that ripped at the seams and bruised my legs, I was on the hunt for a better solution, leading me to the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag.
My quest was simple: a durable, comfortable, and reasonably priced decoy bag that could handle the rigors of the hunt. Tired of constantly repairing torn bags or enduring the pain of straps digging into my shoulders, I was searching for a product built for the long haul. The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag promised reinforcement in key areas and a design that sat higher on the back, immediately piquing my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag felt surprisingly robust for its price point. The mesh felt thicker and more durable than the bargain-bin bags I’d used in the past, and the reinforced stitching around the seams inspired confidence. The shoulder straps, while simple, appeared to be positioned thoughtfully, suggesting they might actually deliver on the promise of comfortable carry.
Compared to my previous decoy bags, the Rig ‘Em Right option immediately stood out for its apparent quality. I had been using a generic mesh bag from a big-box store and an old military surplus duffel bag, neither of which were designed for this task. The generic bag always seemed on the verge of splitting, while the duffel bag was bulky and unwieldy. The Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag seemed like a Goldilocks solution: not too flimsy, not too bulky, but just right.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The bag seemed well-made for the price, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. I was eager to load it up with decoys and see if it could withstand the demands of a real duck hunt.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag was a late-season hunt on a flooded timber impoundment. The conditions were typical for that time of year: cold, wet, and muddy. I loaded the bag with a dozen magnum mallard decoys, roughly the advertised capacity, and set off for the blind.
The immediate difference compared to my old bags was noticeable. The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag sat higher on my back, as promised, which significantly reduced the amount of bouncing against my legs as I walked. The shoulder straps, while not heavily padded, distributed the weight reasonably well, and I didn’t experience the usual digging and chafing. Getting the decoys to the blind was less of a chore than it had been in the past.
Initially, I was concerned about the durability of the mesh, but it held up surprisingly well to the sharp edges of the decoy keels and the abrasion against the brush. There were no rips or tears after that first use, which was a promising sign. No unexpected issues surfaced after that initial use, and the bag seemed to perform as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from early-season teal hunts in dry fields to late-season mallard hunts in freezing rain. The bag has consistently performed well.
The durability has been particularly impressive. Despite being subjected to mud, water, and constant abrasion, the mesh shows only minor signs of wear. The reinforced stitching has held up perfectly, and there are no signs of impending failure. Maintenance is also simple, with the mesh easily rinsing clean with a garden hose.
Compared to my previous decoy-hauling experiences, the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is a significant improvement. It’s more comfortable, more durable, and more convenient to use than any other bag I’ve owned. I wouldn’t say it’s the perfect decoy bag (more on that later), but it’s certainly a solid performer for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag
Specifications
The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is a purpose-built bag designed for hauling waterfowl decoys. It features:
- Cinch Top: A simple drawstring closure that keeps the decoys securely inside the bag.
- Dimensions: Laying flat, the bag measures 35″ long x 30″ wide, providing ample space for a sizable decoy spread.
- Capacity: The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is designed to hold approximately 12-18 magnum mallard decoys.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the bag’s usability and performance. The cinch top ensures that decoys don’t spill out during transport, while the size and capacity dictate how many decoys can be comfortably carried. The Manufacturer, Rig ‘Em Right, designed the bag with practical duck hunting in mind.
Performance & Functionality
The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag performs its primary job of hauling decoys effectively. The capacity is accurate, and the cinch top works well to secure the load. The higher-sitting design is a definite plus, reducing leg fatigue during long walks.
The bag’s main strength lies in its simplicity and durability. There are no fancy features or complex designs to fail. The mesh construction allows for good drainage, preventing water from pooling inside the bag and adding unnecessary weight. A slight weakness is the shoulder straps; while adequate, more padding would enhance comfort, especially when carrying a full load over long distances.
The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag meets expectations for a basic, no-frills decoy bag. It gets the job done without any major issues.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is functional and straightforward. The mesh material is lightweight and allows for breathability, which is important for preventing mildew and odors.
The bag feels reasonably comfortable to carry, although the lack of padding in the shoulder straps can become noticeable after a while. The cinch top is easy to operate, and the overall build quality seems solid for the price. There’s no real learning curve; it’s a simple bag that anyone can use immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag should last for several seasons with proper care. The reinforced stitching and durable mesh are designed to withstand the rigors of duck hunting.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply rinsing the bag with water after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and prevent the buildup of mud and debris. I would avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as these could potentially damage the mesh.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is a fairly basic piece of gear, and it doesn’t come with any specific accessories. There are no dedicated customization options, either.
However, the bag can be easily paired with other accessories, such as carabiners for attaching extra gear or a small waterproof bag for storing personal items. Given the low price point, I wasn’t expecting much in the way of extras, and the bag performs its core function well enough without them.
Pros and Cons of Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag
Pros
- Durable Mesh Construction: The thick, reinforced mesh is designed to withstand the abuse of regular use.
- Comfortable Carry: Sits higher on the back than traditional bags, reducing leg fatigue.
- Cinch Top Closure: Keeps decoys secure during transport.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money.
- Lightweight and Breathable: Prevents mildew and odors.
Cons
- Lacks padding in the shoulder straps for carrying heavy loads comfortably for long distances.
- No additional pockets or compartments for storing small items.
Who Should Buy Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag?
The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is perfect for waterfowl hunters who need a durable, affordable, and functional decoy bag. It’s ideal for those who prioritize practicality over bells and whistles. This bag is also great for hunters who often walk long distances to their hunting spots, as the higher-riding design helps to minimize leg fatigue.
Hunters who require a bag with heavy padding, multiple compartments, or advanced features should probably skip this product and look for a more premium option. Those who only hunt a few times a year might also find a cheaper alternative sufficient.
A must-have accessory would be some sort of shoulder strap padding. While the existing straps are adequate, adding extra padding would significantly improve comfort, especially when carrying a full load.
Conclusion on Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag
The Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag is a solid, no-frills decoy bag that delivers on its promises. It’s durable, functional, and reasonably priced, making it an excellent value for the money.
The price of $20.49 is absolutely justified for the quality and performance you get. This bag punches well above its weight class.
I would definitely recommend the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag to any waterfowl hunter looking for a reliable and affordable way to haul their decoys. If you’re tired of flimsy bags that fall apart after a season or two, this bag is a worthwhile investment. Ditch that old potato sack and upgrade to the Rig ‘Em Right Top Dog Mesh Decoy Bag – your back (and your decoys) will thank you.