First Impressions of Strut Commander Button Pusher Call
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve tested countless calls, from diaphragm to slate, seeking that perfect turkey yelp. The Strut Commander Button Pusher Call caught my eye with its promise of ease of use and handcrafted quality at a reasonable price of $42.49. I was intrigued by the simplicity of the design and the Manufacturer’s claim of passionate craftsmanship.
I was searching for a compact, reliable call that could produce realistic turkey sounds without requiring extensive practice. Diaphragm calls can be tricky to master, and slate calls sometimes lack the volume needed to cut through wind. I’ve had some success with box calls in the past, but their size can be prohibitive, so the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call offered an interesting middle ground.
Upon receiving the call, I was immediately struck by its compact size and solid feel. The wood felt smooth and well-finished, hinting at the handcrafted quality touted in the description. It was notably smaller than other box calls I’ve used, which gave it an immediate advantage in terms of portability.
While I haven’t had a chance to use the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call in the field yet, I have used similar push-button calls from other brands, like Primos and Quaker Boy. The Strut Commander felt noticeably more substantial in my hand than the Primos version, and the button action seemed smoother than the Quaker Boy call I own. My initial thought was that the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call might deliver better sound quality.
I was cautiously optimistic after unboxing it. I’m always a little skeptical of “easy-to-use” claims, but the construction and design seemed promising. I was eager to see if the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call could deliver on its promises during my upcoming spring turkey season.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Button Pusher Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test with the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call was during a scouting trip in preparation for turkey season. I tested it in a hardwood bottomland, using it to mimic yelps and clucks in hopes of locating a gobbler. The area had some wind, but nothing too extreme.
The call was relatively easy to use right out of the box. The push button design allowed for consistent sound production, although I did need to adjust my hand position slightly to find the sweet spot for the best tone. The sound carried reasonably well, but I noticed that the tone was a bit higher pitched than I expected.
I didn’t have any immediate problems with the call, although I did find that my hand started to cramp up after prolonged use. The small size, while convenient for carrying, made it a little less comfortable to hold for extended periods. The higher pitch of the call might require me to adjust my calling strategy, as it seemed less effective at eliciting a response from distant birds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season, using the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call several times a week, I have a better understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The call held up surprisingly well to the rigors of the hunt. There were no visible signs of wear and tear on the wood, and the button mechanism continued to function smoothly.
Cleaning was simple; I just wiped it down with a dry cloth after each use. I did notice that the sound quality seemed to change slightly depending on the humidity. On damp mornings, the call sounded a bit muffled, but this was easily remedied by keeping it in a waterproof pouch when not in use.
In comparison to other calls I’ve used, the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call is a solid performer, especially for its price point. It’s not as versatile as a diaphragm call, nor does it possess the deep, resonant tones of a high-end slate call. However, for ease of use and portability, it’s a valuable tool to have in my turkey vest, especially as a backup call.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Button Pusher Call
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Strut Commander.
- Additional Features: No (As per product description).
- Length: 8 inches. This length contributes to the overall resonance and sound quality of the call.
- Height: 1.5 inches. The low profile design makes it easy to conceal in your hand while calling.
- Weight: 0.19 lb. This lightweight design is a plus for hunters who prioritize mobility and pack light.
- Width: 5 inches. This is wide enough to generate resonating sounds.
These specifications highlight the call’s design as a compact and lightweight option. The dimensions suggest a focus on portability without sacrificing sound quality entirely.
Performance & Functionality
The Strut Commander Button Pusher Call is designed to produce yelps, clucks, and purrs with minimal effort. The button mechanism allows for consistent sound production, making it ideal for beginners. While the tone is somewhat high-pitched, it can still be effective at attracting turkeys, especially in close-range situations.
The call’s primary strength is its ease of use. The simple push-button design eliminates the learning curve associated with more complex calls. A weakness is its limited tonal range; experienced callers may find it lacking in versatility. It does meet expectations for hunters who need a simple, reliable call for basic turkey sounds.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strut Commander Button Pusher Call features a straightforward design with a focus on functionality. The wooden construction feels solid and durable, and the smooth finish makes it comfortable to hold.
The ergonomic design is user-friendly, although the small size can be a drawback for those with larger hands. The absence of a dedicated grip or handle might require some experimentation to find the most comfortable and effective hand position.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strut Commander Button Pusher Call appears to be built to last, thanks to its solid wood construction and simple mechanism. With proper care, it should withstand years of use in the field.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth. Avoiding excessive moisture and storing the call in a dry place will help prevent warping or damage to the wood.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product description indicates that there are no included accessories or customization options for the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call. Its simplicity is a key feature, focusing on core functionality rather than modularity.
Due to its basic design, it’s unlikely to be compatible with aftermarket accessories designed for more complex calls. The lack of customization options may disappoint some users, but others may appreciate the simplicity and straightforwardness of the call.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Button Pusher Call
Pros
- Ease of Use: The simple push-button design makes it ideal for beginners and those who prefer a straightforward calling method.
- Portability: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry in a turkey vest or pocket.
- Durable Construction: The solid wood construction ensures longevity and withstands the rigors of hunting.
- Affordable Price: At $42.49, it offers good value for the money, making it accessible to a wide range of hunters.
- Consistent Sound Production: The button mechanism allows for consistent and reliable sound generation.
Cons
- Limited Tonal Range: The call produces a somewhat high-pitched sound, lacking the versatility of more complex calls.
- Ergonomics: The small size can be uncomfortable for extended use, especially for those with larger hands.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Button Pusher Call?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters who are beginners or prefer a simple, easy-to-use call. This is also a good option for experienced hunters looking for a reliable backup call.
Who should skip this product? Experienced callers who require a wide range of tones and advanced calling techniques. If you prefer diaphragm, slate, or elaborate box calls, this might not be for you.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A lanyard for easy carrying and a small waterproof pouch to protect the call from moisture. No modifications are necessary, as the call is designed for simplicity and ease of use.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Button Pusher Call
The Strut Commander Button Pusher Call is a solid option for hunters seeking an easy-to-use and portable turkey call. While it lacks the tonal versatility of more advanced calls, its simplicity and reliability make it a valuable tool for beginners and experienced hunters alike.
The price is definitely justified, considering its durable construction and ease of use. It’s a great value for those who don’t want to spend a fortune on a high-end call.
I would personally recommend the Strut Commander Button Pusher Call to anyone looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable turkey call. It’s a great addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal, especially as a backup or for introducing new hunters to the sport. Give it a try and get ready to call in that gobbler!