The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack Made a Bold First Impression
The world of turkey hunting calls can feel overwhelming. So many options promise to bring in that boss tom, but few deliver genuine value. I was immediately intrigued by the Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack. Strut Commander promises a variety of sounds at a price that’s almost too good to be true, so I had to put these diaphragm calls to the test.
My journey to this product started with frustration. My go-to diaphragm call was damaged, and I needed a backup, or preferably a set, that offered tonal versatility without breaking the bank. I wanted something that could replicate a range of hen sounds for different stages of the hunt. The price point and the “Made in the USA” claim sealed the deal for me.
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack arrived in simple packaging. My initial impression was that these were basic, no-frills calls, but they felt sturdy enough for their price. Holding them, the tape was neatly applied and the latex appeared properly stretched across the frame. Compared to higher-end calls I’ve used, like those from Primos or Woodhaven Custom Calls, the Strut Commander lacks the finesse and premium materials. However, those premium calls are significantly more expensive.
I chose the Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack because of its value proposition. I needed a functional set of calls for under $7, while other diaphragm call two-packs are 3-4 times as much. At this price, I was prepared for them to be disposable, but hoping they’d surprise me. My first impression was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I field-tested the Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack on a spring turkey hunt in central Missouri. The weather was cool and damp, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. I used the calls in several different setups, trying to mimic different hen vocalizations to draw in a gobbler.
The calls took a bit of practice to get used to. The latex felt stiffer than my preferred calls, requiring more air pressure and diaphragm control to produce realistic sounds. I managed to create yelps, clucks, and purrs, but the quality wasn’t as crisp or consistent as with my higher-end calls. After some adjustments to my mouth positioning and air flow, I was able to get more consistent sounds. I did manage to call in a jake, but he hung up just out of range; I can’t fault the call for that!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack has held up surprisingly well. The latex has retained its shape, and the tape hasn’t started to peel. I did notice a slight degradation in sound quality after being exposed to moisture repeatedly.
Durability has been better than expected. There are no visible signs of damage. The calls are relatively easy to clean. Just rinsing them with water and letting them air dry after each use has kept them in good working order.
Compared to my previous experiences with other budget calls, the Strut Commander performs better and lasts longer. I’ve had other inexpensive calls fall apart after only a couple of hunts, but these have continued to function adequately. They’re not going to replace my custom calls, but they’re a reliable backup for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack
Specifications
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack consists of two diaphragm turkey calls. Each call uses a thin latex reed stretched across a frame. One call features a single reed cut. The other has a double reed cut, offering different tones and ranges. Both calls are designed for mouth operation.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sounds you can create and the realism you can achieve. A single reed is typically easier for beginners and produces a cleaner, higher-pitched sound. A double reed offers more rasp and can mimic older, more dominant hens.
Performance & Functionality
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack does its job adequately. The calls produce turkey vocalizations that can attract birds. The single reed is easier to use and produces clear yelps. The double reed call requires more practice. It offers a raspier sound that can be effective in certain situations.
The strengths of this pack lie in its affordability and the basic functionality it provides. A weakness is the consistency and clarity of the sounds compared to higher-end calls. The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack meets expectations for a budget call, offering usable sounds at a low price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The materials are basic, but the calls are lightweight and comfortable enough to hold in your mouth. The shape is fairly standard for a diaphragm call. The tape is applied securely.
These calls are not particularly user-friendly for complete beginners. Some practice and experimentation are required to produce consistent sounds. The stiffer latex also requires more mouth pressure. An experienced caller will likely adapt to these calls quickly. A novice may be frustrated initially.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack is designed for basic durability. I expect them to last at least a season with proper care. Maintenance is simple. Rinsing with water and air drying after use will extend their lifespan.
Repairing these calls isn’t really an option. If the latex tears or the tape peels, it’s more cost-effective to replace the call. At this price point, they are essentially disposable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options. These are basic, ready-to-use diaphragm calls. Due to the nature of the product, there’s no real market for aftermarket accessories or modifications.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack
Pros
- Incredibly affordable, making it a great entry-level option or backup set.
- Offers two different reed cuts for tonal variety.
- Made in the USA, supporting domestic manufacturing.
- Relatively durable for the price point, lasting longer than some other budget calls.
- Functional and capable of producing a range of turkey vocalizations.
Cons
- Sound quality is not as crisp or realistic as higher-end calls.
- Stiffer latex requires more air pressure and diaphragm control.
- No customization options or included accessories.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack?
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack is perfect for beginner turkey hunters who are just learning to use diaphragm calls. It’s also a good option for experienced hunters looking for an inexpensive backup set. It’s a very basic pack for budget-conscious hunters who don’t want to spend a lot of money on calls.
This product should be skipped by experienced turkey hunters who demand the highest quality sound and performance from their calls. Hunters who prefer custom-made or higher-end diaphragm calls will likely be disappointed. Those who prioritize realistic and nuanced turkey vocalizations over affordability should look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories are a call case and a method for keeping the calls dry while hunting. A small container with desiccant packets can help extend their lifespan.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack
The Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack is a decent budget option for turkey hunters. It offers usable sounds at a remarkably low price. While it doesn’t match the performance of higher-end calls, it provides a functional and affordable alternative.
The price is definitely justified. For less than $7, you get two diaphragm calls that can help you attract turkeys. I would recommend it to beginner hunters or those needing a reliable backup.
Ultimately, the Strut Commander Boss Hen Pack is a testament to the fact that you don’t always need to break the bank to enjoy the thrill of the hunt. Grab a pack, practice your calling, and get out there this spring!