First Impressions of Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0
The Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 promises to be a compact and comprehensive solution for turkey hunters, providing essential tools for call maintenance and concealment. From the Strut Commander brand, this kit aims to address often-overlooked necessities in the field, ensuring optimal call performance and effective camouflage. For a mere $9.95, it seems like a no-brainer for anyone serious about chasing longbeards.
I stumbled upon this kit while searching for a better way to maintain my calls in the field. I was tired of carrying bulky individual items. I hoped this kit would streamline my setup and ensure I always had the essentials at hand.
Upon receiving the Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0, I was immediately impressed by its compact size and thoughtful organization. The kit felt durable, and all the components seemed to be of good quality. It’s a far cry from some of the thrown-together “essentials” kits I’ve seen.
While several other kits exist, often bundled with new calls themselves, many focus solely on the call and not on general concealment or maintenance. This kit stands out because it offers all-in-one solution for a low price, prompting me to choose it over purchasing items separately. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of convenience and having everything I needed within easy reach.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 during the opening weekend of turkey season in the oak-hickory forests of Missouri. The weather was variable, with morning dew and afternoon humidity, providing a good test for the face paint and call conditioning tools. The face paint applied smoothly, and the call conditioning stick quickly revived the rasp on my favorite pot call.
The kit proved to be incredibly easy to use. Even with gloved hands, accessing and using the tools was straightforward. There were no initial issues, and I felt more confident knowing I could quickly address any call-related problems in the field.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 for the entire spring turkey season, it has proven to be a reliable companion. The face paint tube still has plenty left, and the conditioning stick shows minimal wear. There has been some wear on the chalk from being rubbed when in use.
The face paint has shown no signs of drying out and still applies smoothly. The kit is easy to wipe clean of mud or debris, showing its resilience. This kit exceeded my expectations by providing a consistent and dependable solution for call maintenance and concealment throughout the season.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Strut Commander
- Additional Features: No
- Weight: 0.21 oz
- Length: 8 in
- Height: 1.5 in
- Width: 5 in
These specifications highlight the kit’s portability and lightweight design. At only 0.21 ounces, the weight is almost negligible. Its dimensions ensure it can easily fit into a vest pocket without adding bulk.
Performance & Functionality
The Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 performs its intended job admirably. It maintains call quality, provides effective concealment, and offers convenience in the field. The chalk stick is particularly effective at restoring the friction on box calls, while the conditioning stick enhances the sound of pot calls.
The strengths lie in its simplicity and practicality. The weakness is the size of the face paint stick. It would be nice if there were a bigger quantity of paint. The kit meets expectations by providing a well-thought-out solution for common turkey hunting needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 features a simple and functional design. The individual components are easy to handle and use, even with gloves. The small size of the kit makes it convenient to carry without adding unnecessary bulk.
The kit is very user-friendly. There is no learning curve. The layout is intuitive, making it easy to access the necessary tools quickly.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple design, the Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 is likely to last for several seasons with proper care. The components are made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of the field.
The kit requires minimal maintenance. Wiping the components clean after use and storing them in a dry place will ensure their longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes face paint, a chalk stick, and a call conditioning stick. There are no additional accessories or customization options directly associated with the kit itself. The kit is designed to be a standalone solution, focusing on essential maintenance and concealment needs.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight: Easily fits in a vest pocket without adding bulk.
- Comprehensive: Includes essential tools for call maintenance and concealment.
- Affordable: Priced at only $9.95, offering excellent value.
- User-Friendly: Simple and intuitive design, no learning curve.
- Durable: Components made from quality materials for long-lasting use.
Cons
- Limited Face Paint: The tube of face paint could be larger.
- No Case Included: A small carrying case would improve organization.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0?
This kit is perfect for turkey hunters of all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, the Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 provides essential tools for call maintenance and concealment, ensuring a successful hunt. It’s especially beneficial for those who value convenience and having a compact, all-in-one solution.
Those who strictly hunt from blinds and rarely call might not find this kit necessary. Hunters who prefer specialized, high-end call maintenance tools might also find this kit too basic for their needs.
A small, zippered pouch would be a great addition to keep the components organized within the vest.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0
The Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 is an excellent value for any turkey hunter looking for a compact and comprehensive solution for call maintenance and concealment. The price is more than justified by the convenience and functionality it offers.
I would definitely recommend this kit to any turkey hunter looking to streamline their gear and ensure they have the essentials at hand. For just $9.95, the Strut Commander Ready Kit 2.0 is a no-brainer addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. Don’t head to the woods without it!