The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting is a religion in my family, passed down through generations like a prized 12-gauge. So, when I stumbled upon the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry call, curiosity and tradition collided. Could this seemingly simple call, from Strut Commander, really enhance my spring hunt?
I’ve been using diaphragm calls for years, comfortable with their nuances and practiced in their sounds. I needed something that could offer a fresh perspective, a different sound to entice those wary toms. The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry promised a unique tone, a sweet cherry hen sound that could be the edge I needed. Compared to my tried-and-true slate calls and the various diaphragm calls I’ve accumulated, the single-reed design intrigued me. I was looking for a compact and easy-to-use call that wouldn’t require constant adjustment and could produce consistently realistic hen sounds, especially in close quarters where subtle sounds matter most.
The packaging was simple, no frills. Taking the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry out of the package, the first thing I noticed was its compact size. It felt solid, well-constructed, and the material felt durable enough to withstand the rigors of the field. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. This was a different approach than what I was used to, but I was eager to see if the sound lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Sweet Cherry to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry was during a scouting trip a few weeks before the season opened. I ventured into a familiar hardwood bottom, hoping to locate some roosting areas. The morning was crisp, with a light mist hanging in the air. I used the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry sporadically, mixing it with locator calls to see if I could get any responses.
The sound was definitely unique. The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry produced a higher-pitched, sweeter yelp than my diaphragm calls. The ease of use was immediately apparent. Unlike diaphragm calls, which require significant practice to master, the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry produced realistic hen sounds with minimal effort. I got a few gobbles in response to my calling, but no birds showed themselves.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry has become a permanent fixture in my turkey vest. It consistently produces realistic hen sounds, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The call held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to rain, mud, and the general abuse that comes with turkey hunting.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down after each hunt is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with other calls, the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry has exceeded my expectations in terms of both ease of use and reliability. It’s become my go-to call for close-range scenarios where a subtle, realistic sound is essential.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Sweet Cherry
Specifications
The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry is a compact and lightweight turkey call designed for ease of use and realistic sound reproduction. Its key specifications include:
- Single-Reed Design: This allows for easy operation and consistent sound. It simplifies the learning curve, making it accessible to hunters of all skill levels.
- Compact Size: The call is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry in a vest or pocket. This is crucial for mobile hunters who need to travel light and stay agile.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of the field. This ensures longevity and reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Sweet Cherry Tone: Produces a unique, high-pitched hen sound that can entice wary toms. This offers a different sound profile compared to other calls, potentially attracting turkeys that are call-shy.
These specifications contribute to the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry’s overall performance. The single-reed design makes it easy to use, while the compact size and durable construction make it a reliable tool in the field. The “Sweet Cherry” tone provides a unique sound that can be effective in attracting turkeys.
Performance & Functionality
The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry excels at producing realistic hen sounds with minimal effort. Its strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. You can consistently deliver convincing yelps, clucks, and purrs with very little practice.
However, it lacks the versatility of more complex diaphragm calls. The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry is not designed for producing a wide range of vocalizations. For complex calling sequences, a diaphragm or slate call might be a better choice. Despite this limitation, the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry meets expectations as a reliable and easy-to-use call for producing basic hen sounds.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry boasts a simple yet effective design. Its compact size makes it comfortable to hold and easy to operate. The lightweight construction adds to its user-friendliness, allowing for extended use without fatigue.
There is virtually no learning curve. Anyone can pick up the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry and start producing realistic hen sounds within minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable construction of the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry ensures that it will last for many seasons. The materials used are resistant to wear and tear. Simple maintenance is key to longevity.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry is a standalone call and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Given its straightforward design, there are limited customization options available. You can’t adjust the reed or modify the call’s sound in any significant way.
However, the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry is designed to complement other calls in your arsenal. It works well in conjunction with diaphragm calls or slate calls. There are no specific compatibility issues with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Sweet Cherry
Pros
- Easy to use, even for beginners.
- Produces realistic hen sounds consistently.
- Compact and lightweight for easy carry.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Unique “Sweet Cherry” tone can attract wary toms.
Cons
- Lacks the versatility of more complex calls.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Sweet Cherry?
The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry is perfect for beginner turkey hunters. It’s also ideal for experienced hunters who want a simple, reliable call for producing basic hen sounds. It’s great for close-range calling situations where subtlety is key.
Hunters looking for a single call to do it all should skip this product. Those who prefer complex calling sequences or require a wide range of vocalizations might find the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry too limiting. A lanyard to keep the call readily available is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Sweet Cherry
The Strut Commander Sweet Cherry is a worthwhile addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. It’s especially beneficial to beginners or those seeking a simple, reliable call. Its ease of use and realistic sound production make it a valuable tool in the field.
The price is justified given its durability and effectiveness. I would personally recommend the Strut Commander Sweet Cherry to anyone looking for an easy-to-use and effective turkey call. So, grab a Strut Commander Sweet Cherry, head out into the woods, and let the sweet sound of success lead you to that trophy tom!