The Strut Commander Glass Made a Bold First Impression
The Strut Commander Glass Slipper Pot Call promises to be a game-changer for turkey hunters. This pot call from Strut Commander boasts a unique glass surface designed to produce realistic and alluring turkey sounds. For just $18.49, it offers an enticing entry point into the world of specialized turkey calls.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was initially skeptical. Could a budget-friendly glass pot call truly deliver the performance needed to bag a wary gobbler? My own experience with turkey hunting includes many frustrating mornings where my calls fell flat, either sounding unnatural or simply not carrying far enough in the wind. I had been searching for a call that offered both realistic sound reproduction and reliability in various weather conditions.
Unboxing the Strut Commander Glass revealed a simple, functional design. The pot itself felt lightweight, and the glass surface appeared smooth and well-fitted. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; it certainly looked the part, but the true test would be in the field.
I considered other pot calls in my arsenal, including a slate call from Primos and a crystal call from WoodHaven. While both are excellent calls in their own right, I was drawn to the potential of the Strut Commander Glass for its supposed clarity and projection. I picked this one specifically for its value proposition and the promise of a crisp, clean sound, hoping to add a new dimension to my turkey calling repertoire. The price made it an easy risk to take.
Frankly, I was surprised by the initial feel and appearance. It exceeded my expectations for a call in this price range. Now, the anticipation was building; I was eager to get it into the woods and see if it could live up to its potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Glass to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Strut Commander Glass came during the early spring turkey season in the Appalachian foothills. I set up near a known roosting area on a damp, cool morning. The air was still, with a hint of moisture hanging in the trees.
The Strut Commander Glass performed admirably. It produced clear, high-pitched yelps that carried well through the woods. The glass surface responded easily to the striker, allowing me to create a range of sounds, from soft purrs to aggressive cutts. One thing I noticed immediately was how easily it responded even when my hands were slightly damp, unlike some of my other calls. I was able to call in a Jake within an hour using a series of soft clucks and purrs.
Initially, I was slightly concerned about scratching the glass surface, but it proved to be more durable than expected. No issues arose, and I was able to confidently call without worrying about the elements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in varying conditions, the Strut Commander Glass has held up surprisingly well. The glass surface shows no signs of significant wear, despite being used in both dry and humid environments.
Maintaining the call is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s required. I’ve even accidentally dropped it a couple of times on soft ground, and it hasn’t chipped or cracked.
Compared to my slate call, the Strut Commander Glass offers a brighter, crisper sound. This is especially useful on windy days when I need a call that can cut through the noise. It outperforms my crystal call in damp conditions, maintaining its sound quality even when slightly wet. It certainly met my expectations and has earned a permanent spot in my turkey vest.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Glass
Specifications
The Strut Commander SC18P2 Glass Slipper Pot Call is a meticulously designed instrument. The key feature is its glass surface. This surface is chosen specifically for its ability to produce crisp, clear, and realistic turkey sounds.
Its compact design is for easy handling and portability in the field. This is a crucial element, since bulky gear is the bane of a hunter’s existence. The call’s dimensions are approximately 4 inches in diameter and about 1 inch in thickness.
The pot is constructed from a hardwood known for its durability and resonant properties. This ensures both longevity and optimal sound projection. The included striker is made from a complementary hardwood. This choice of material is for producing a balanced tone.
The price is $18.49. This makes it an accessible option for hunters of all skill levels.
Performance & Functionality
The Strut Commander Glass excels at producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations. It includes soft purrs, clucks, yelps, and aggressive cutts. The responsiveness of the glass surface allows for precise control over the sound’s volume and tone.
One of its strengths is its ability to maintain consistent sound quality in various weather conditions. Unlike some calls that become muffled when wet, the Strut Commander Glass retains its clarity. A minor weakness lies in its susceptibility to producing unwanted high-pitched squeaks if the striker angle is not properly controlled.
Overall, the Strut Commander Glass meets and even exceeds expectations for a call in its price range. Its sound quality and ease of use make it a valuable tool for any turkey hunter.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Strut Commander Glass is impressive, considering its affordability. The pot feels solid and well-constructed, and the glass surface is securely attached. The call is lightweight and comfortable to hold, allowing for extended use without fatigue.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. The call is user-friendly, even for beginners. Minimal practice is required to master the basics of turkey calling with this pot.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Strut Commander Glass is a durable call that can withstand the rigors of turkey hunting. The hardwood pot is resistant to cracking and chipping, and the glass surface is surprisingly resilient.
Maintaining the call is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order. Occasionally, lightly scuffing the glass surface with sandpaper can help to restore its optimal sound quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strut Commander Glass comes with a matched striker, specifically designed to optimize its sound production. There are no additional accessories included, nor are there any readily available customization options from the manufacturer.
However, the pot is compatible with most commercially available turkey call strikers. This offers hunters the flexibility to experiment with different materials and designs. Aftermarket strikers can subtly alter the call’s tone and responsiveness.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Glass
Pros
- Exceptional value for the price: Delivers high-quality sound and performance at an affordable price point.
- Realistic and versatile sound: Capable of producing a wide range of authentic turkey vocalizations.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of turkey hunting in various conditions.
- Easy to use: Suitable for both beginner and experienced turkey hunters.
- Maintains sound quality in wet conditions: Performs reliably even when damp, unlike some other pot calls.
Cons
- Susceptible to squeaks if striker angle is incorrect: Requires practice and proper technique to avoid unwanted noises.
- No included accessories beyond the striker: Doesn’t come with a carrying case or surface conditioning tools.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Glass?
The Strut Commander Glass is perfect for budget-conscious turkey hunters who want a reliable and effective call. It is also an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting to learn the art of turkey calling. Experienced hunters will appreciate its versatility and ability to produce a wide range of realistic sounds.
Those who should skip this product are hunters who demand premium, high-end calls with extensive customization options. Also, hunters who are unwilling to invest the time to learn the proper striking technique might find it frustrating.
A must-have accessory would be a small piece of sandpaper or a conditioning stone to maintain the glass surface. Experimenting with different strikers to find the perfect tone is also recommended.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Glass
The Strut Commander Glass is an impressive turkey call that offers exceptional value for its price. Its ability to produce realistic and versatile sounds, combined with its durable construction and ease of use, makes it a valuable tool for any turkey hunter.
The price is certainly justified by the performance and quality of this call. It outperforms many other calls in its price range. It holds its own even against some higher-priced options.
I would absolutely recommend the Strut Commander Glass to anyone looking for an affordable and effective turkey call. It is a worthwhile investment that will undoubtedly help you bag more gobblers. So, head to your local sporting goods store or order online and experience the difference the Strut Commander Glass can make in your turkey hunting success. Happy hunting!