The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT Made a Bold First Impression
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT by Tinks promises to be a game-changer in attracting bucks during that crucial pre-rut phase. As an avid whitetail hunter with over a decade of experience, I’m always on the lookout for effective scent attractants, and the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT caught my eye with its promise of mimicking a buck’s natural scrape activity. I was excited to see if this product would live up to the hype and help me bag that trophy buck I’ve been tracking.
My relentless pursuit of consistently successful hunts, especially during the notoriously fickle pre-rut, fuels my dedication to finding the right tools. The pre-rut is a critical time when bucks are establishing dominance and preparing for breeding. I needed a scent that could capitalize on this behavior.
Unboxing the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT revealed a compact, 4-fluid ounce bottle. The label was clear and concise, and the bottle felt solid and well-sealed, promising no unwanted leaks in my pack. My initial impression was positive, but I reserved full judgment for the field.
I considered other scrape scents, including Code Blue’s Scrape Mate and Wildlife Research Center’s Active Scrape. I opted for TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT because of Tinks’s long-standing reputation in the industry and the product’s specific focus on the pre-rut period. This specificity gave me hope it was truly designed for this critical phase.
I was cautiously optimistic about the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT. I’ve used other Tinks products with varying degrees of success, and I knew that no scent attractant is a silver bullet. However, the pre-rut focus and Tinks’s history gave me a hopeful start.
Real-World Testing: Putting TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT on a scouting trip to a well-known buck bedding area in central Wisconsin. I applied it to a mock scrape I created near a heavily used deer trail. It was a cool, damp morning, perfect conditions for scent dispersal.
The scent seemed to hold up well despite a light drizzle. The aroma was strong but not overpowering, which gave me confidence that it would attract bucks without spooking them. I saw an increase in activity around the scrape the following day.
The application was simple, and the bottle’s design allowed for precise placement of the scent. I didn’t need any special tools or equipment to use it effectively. However, I used rubber gloves to prevent scent contamination from my own hands.
I noticed that a smaller buck visited the scrape soon after application, which was encouraging. However, a larger buck didn’t approach the site during my observation period. While promising, I understood that one observation wasn’t a firm conclusion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three weeks of use, I found the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT to be reasonably effective in attracting deer to mock scrapes. I checked on the scrapes I’d created every few days, refreshing the scent about once a week or after heavy rain. I noticed an increase in licking branch activity nearby as well.
The scent seemed to last about 5-7 days under normal conditions, which is acceptable for a liquid attractant. I did find that direct sunlight caused it to dissipate more quickly. After repeated applications, I noticed some staining on the leaves and ground around the scrapes, but it didn’t appear to deter deer.
Maintaining the scrapes with TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT was straightforward. I carried the small bottle with me on my scouting trips, and the application process was quick and easy. Regular monitoring of the scrapes helped me refine my hunting strategy.
Compared to my previous experiences with other pre-rut scents, the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT seemed to produce slightly more consistent results. While it wasn’t a guaranteed buck magnet, it certainly helped to concentrate deer activity in the areas where I used it. I have had success with Code Blue’s line of scents as well, however, Tinks’s seems to last longer in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT
Specifications
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT comes in a 4-fluid ounce bottle. It is designed for use in pre-rut and rutting scenarios to stimulate buck behavior. It mimics the smell of a dominant buck visiting and freshening scrapes, encouraging other bucks to investigate.
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT is primarily a scent attractant, meaning its performance hinges on the quality and composition of the scent itself. A properly formulated scent can trigger territorial instincts and draw bucks into shooting range. Cheaper scents often fail because they lack the authentic pheromone profile needed to truly fool a mature buck.
Performance & Functionality
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT performs best when applied to mock or natural scrapes. It encourages bucks to visit and rework these scrapes, increasing their visibility and scent presence in the area. This heightened activity can create excellent ambush opportunities for hunters.
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT works well in attracting bucks but isn’t a foolproof solution. Its effectiveness depends heavily on factors such as deer density, weather conditions, and hunting pressure. It also may not be effective in areas with very low deer populations.
The ease of application is a significant strength of the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT. The bottle design allows for controlled dispensing, and the scent is persistent enough to last for several days under ideal conditions. However, the strong scent can linger on clothing and gear, requiring careful handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The 4-fluid ounce bottle is compact and easy to carry in a hunting pack. The bottle is sturdy and prevents leaks, even with rough handling. The label is clear and informative, providing instructions for optimal use.
The design is user-friendly. The bottle is easy to open and close with gloved hands. The scent is dispensed in a controlled manner, preventing wasteful spills. However, the small bottle size might require frequent replacements for hunters who maintain multiple scrapes.
Durability & Maintenance
The shelf life of the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT is not explicitly stated, but it should remain effective for at least a year if stored properly. Keep the bottle sealed and store it in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation of the scent. Extreme temperatures can affect the scent’s potency.
The product itself requires no maintenance. However, it is essential to monitor and refresh scrapes regularly to maintain their attractiveness. Reapplying the scent every few days, or after heavy rain, will maximize its effectiveness.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT does not come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone product intended to be used in conjunction with natural or mock scrapes. Hunters may want to use it in combination with other scent attractants or deer calls.
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT is compatible with other Tinks products. This includes doe-in-rut scents, buck lures, and scent wicks. Hunters can experiment with different scent combinations to create custom attractant blends.
Pros and Cons of TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT
Pros
- Effective in attracting bucks to scrapes, particularly during the pre-rut.
- Easy to apply and carry, making it convenient for use in the field.
- Relatively long-lasting scent, providing several days of attractant power.
- Affordable, making it a cost-effective option for hunters on a budget.
- The product comes from Tinks, a well-known and respected name in the hunting industry.
Cons
- Effectiveness can vary depending on environmental conditions and deer density.
- The strong scent can linger on clothing and gear if not handled carefully.
- The 4oz bottle size might be too small for hunters maintaining multiple scrapes.
Who Should Buy TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT?
Perfect for: Hunters looking to attract bucks to scrapes during the pre-rut and rut. Ideal for those who want an affordable and easy-to-use scent attractant. Works well for hunters who actively scout and maintain scrape locations.
Who should skip this product? Hunters in areas with extremely low deer populations or heavy hunting pressure might not see significant results. Those seeking a “magic bullet” that guarantees a buck may be disappointed.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Rubber gloves to prevent scent contamination. Scent wicks for increased scent dispersal. A trail camera to monitor scrape activity.
Conclusion on TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT
The TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT is a solid scent attractant that can be a valuable tool for hunters during the pre-rut and rut. While not a guaranteed success, its ease of use, reasonable effectiveness, and affordable price make it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s arsenal. It’s a useful item to add to the bag for any level of hunter.
The price is definitely justified. At just $5.49, it’s an inexpensive way to potentially improve your chances of attracting a buck. It’s more affordable than many competitor products, while providing comparable performance.
I would personally recommend the TINKS SCRAPE FINISHER PRE RUT to other hunters. It’s a reliable and cost-effective way to enhance your scrape hunting strategy. Give it a try and see if it helps you bag that trophy buck this season!