The Strut Commander Death Row Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting season is more than just a pastime; it’s an annual ritual steeped in tradition, demanding patience, skill, and the right gear. Among the essential tools for any turkey hunter, a reliable set of mouth calls ranks high on the list. The Strut Commander Death Row pack promises precisely that: a trio of calls designed to lure in even the most wary gobblers.
I’ve been guiding turkey hunts and chasing longbeards for over a decade, so I know a thing or two about what makes a good call. My current go-to’s were starting to lose their edge, the reeds worn and the tones flat.
Upon receiving the Strut Commander Death Row, the immediate draw was the simplicity of the packaging. Three distinct calls, clearly labeled, in a no-nonsense blister pack. Compared to higher-end, single-call options with fancy cases, the Death Row presented itself as a pragmatic, budget-friendly choice. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. Could a $12.49 three-pack actually deliver the sound and performance I needed in the field? Only time would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Death Row to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to field-test the Strut Commander Death Row came during an early morning hunt in the Appalachian foothills. The air was crisp, the woods were waking up, and a distant gobble echoed through the hollow. I decided to start with the most raspy of the three calls, hoping to imitate an older hen.
The initial sound production took a little practice. Unlike some of my more broken-in calls, the Death Row required a bit more air pressure and diaphragm control. But after a few minutes of practice, I was producing some convincing yelps and clucks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across different terrains and weather conditions, the Strut Commander Death Row calls have proven surprisingly resilient. The reeds held their shape and tone reasonably well, even after getting wet from rain and morning dew. Cleaning them after each hunt is crucial.
Compared to my previous experience with similarly priced multi-packs, the Death Row pack definitely outperforms in terms of sound quality. However, the durability isn’t quite on par with my higher-end custom calls that can last multiple seasons with proper care. These calls require more frequent replacement but at this price point it is to be expected.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Death Row
Specifications
The Strut Commander Death Row pack consists of three individual turkey mouth calls designed for producing a variety of turkey vocalizations. Each call features a unique reed configuration to achieve different tones and pitches.
- Material: Thin latex reeds and a flexible frame.
- Construction: Each call is constructed using multiple layers of latex stretched across a horseshoe-shaped frame.
- Intended Use: Turkey hunting – specifically for attracting gobblers using various hen and gobbler sounds.
These specifications are crucial because the latex reed thickness and cut directly affect the call’s tone, raspiness, and ease of use. The flexible frame allows for comfortable placement in the mouth.
Performance & Functionality
The Strut Commander Death Row calls perform their primary function effectively: producing realistic turkey sounds. The different reed configurations offer a range of calls, from high-pitched kee-kees to deep, raspy yelps.
The strength lies in the variety offered within a single, affordable package. One weakness is the learning curve. Newcomers might need time to master each call’s nuances. Overall, they meet expectations for a budget-friendly multi-pack, providing sufficient sound quality to entice turkeys.
Design & Ergonomics
The Death Row calls are designed for ease of use and comfort in the mouth. The flexible frame contours to the roof of the mouth, minimizing discomfort during extended calling sequences.
The lightweight design ensures that the calls don’t interfere with speech or breathing. While functional, the design is utilitarian, prioritizing performance over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
While not as durable as high-end custom calls, the Strut Commander Death Row calls are reasonably durable for their price point. The reeds can withstand repeated use.
Proper maintenance involves rinsing the calls with clean water after each use and storing them in a dry, cool place. Regular cleaning prevents buildup of saliva and extends the lifespan of the reeds.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strut Commander Death Row pack doesn’t offer any specific accessories or customization options. The calls are intended to be used as-is, without modifications.
Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited, as mouth calls are typically not customizable like firearms or other tactical gear. Hunters may choose to pair the Death Row calls with other accessories like a call carrier or a lanyard for convenient access.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Death Row
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to novice hunters.
- Variety of tones allows for diverse calling strategies.
- Relatively easy to learn compared to some more complex mouth calls.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy carry in the field.
- Effective at producing realistic turkey sounds.
Cons
- Durability is lower compared to premium custom calls.
- Requires a learning curve to master each call’s nuances.
- Sound quality may not be on par with more expensive, single-reed calls.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Death Row?
The Strut Commander Death Row is perfect for beginner to intermediate turkey hunters seeking an affordable and versatile set of mouth calls. It is also ideal for experienced hunters who want a backup set or are willing to experiment with different sounds without investing in high-end custom calls.
Hunters who rely heavily on extremely precise and nuanced calling techniques or those seeking maximum durability might prefer to skip this product and invest in premium, single-reed mouth calls. A must-have accessory is a small case to keep the calls clean and protected in your vest.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Death Row
The Strut Commander Death Row offers a compelling value proposition for turkey hunters on a budget. While not the most durable or refined option on the market, its affordable price, versatile sound production, and ease of use make it a worthy addition to any hunter’s arsenal.
The $12.49 price is certainly justified given the three calls provided. I would definitely recommend it to those starting out or those looking for a budget-friendly backup. Give the Strut Commander Death Row a try this season, and you might just find yourself bagging that elusive gobbler you’ve been after.