Let’s Dive into Top Secret Barely Legal Deer
The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the rut is on. It’s the perfect time to be in the woods, and for many hunters, that means employing every advantage they can get. That’s where Top Secret Barely Legal Deer from, well, an unnamed manufacturer, enters the picture; a $9.99 bottle promising to turn those wary bucks into lovesick teenagers following your every move. I was initially skeptical but intrigued. Could something so simple really make a difference?
My quest for the ultimate edge in whitetail hunting has led me down many paths. From high-tech trail cameras to meticulously planned food plots, I’ve explored it all. I needed a reliable scent attractant, one that could hold up in various conditions and truly draw deer in.
The initial impression was simple: a plain bottle, clearly labeled Top Secret Barely Legal Deer. The liquid itself had that distinct, slightly pungent odor that promises deer attraction. It’s worth noting the low price point immediately differentiates it from other premium brands, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious hunters. It also raises questions about the quality, hence this review.
Compared to premium scents like those from Wildlife Research Center or Code Blue, the Top Secret Barely Legal Deer lacks the sophisticated packaging and detailed marketing materials. I chose it for its accessibility and price point as a budget option, and the promise that it can be used all season.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, the scent was there, now it was time to see if it lived up to the hype. I was ready to put Top Secret Barely Legal Deer through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Top Secret Barely Legal Deer to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested Top Secret Barely Legal Deer in a familiar hunting area in central Pennsylvania, known for its thick woods and decent deer population. I applied the scent to a drag rag, creating a trail leading to my treestand overlooking a known scrape line. The weather was cool and damp, typical for early November, with a light drizzle falling intermittently.
The scent seemed to hold up well in the damp conditions. I didn’t notice any immediate, dramatic results but within a couple of hours, a young 8-point buck cautiously approached the scrape line. While he didn’t exhibit the frantic, lovesick behavior you sometimes see in scent lure commercials, he did spend a significant amount of time investigating the scrapes, and eventually worked his way to the base of my tree. This was enough for a shot opportunity.
The ease of use was straightforward. I just poured some of the scent on my drag rag and sprayed some near the base of trees. I didn’t need any special equipment or instructions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using Top Secret Barely Legal Deer, I have mixed feelings. It definitely attracts attention, but the results vary significantly based on the deer density in the area and the stage of the rut. I’ve found it to be most effective during the pre-rut and early rut phases, when bucks are actively seeking does but not yet completely locked down.
The scent seems to fade relatively quickly. I typically reapply it every couple of hours to maintain its effectiveness. This is a drawback compared to some of the more concentrated, long-lasting scents on the market.
After a few weeks of carrying the bottle in my hunting pack, I’ve noticed the label is starting to peel a little. The scent hasn’t changed noticeably, however. Compared to past experiences with other scents, Top Secret Barely Legal Deer is comparable in its attractant qualities, but lacking in longevity and overall scent strength.
Breaking Down the Features of Top Secret Barely Legal Deer
Specifications
Top Secret Barely Legal Deer is a doe urine-based deer attractant scent. It comes in a standard plastic bottle with a screw-top lid. The specific volume is not clearly stated on the packaging, but it’s estimated to be around 4 fluid ounces.
The key specification is the doe urine base, meant to mimic the scent of an estrous doe and attract bucks. The simplicity of the ingredients list (essentially just doe urine) suggests a straightforward, unadulterated product. This appeals to hunters seeking a pure, natural attractant.
Performance & Functionality
Top Secret Barely Legal Deer performs adequately as a general deer attractant. It’s most effective in drawing attention to scrapes and scent trails during the pre-rut and early rut. It’s less effective in areas with low deer populations, or during the peak rut when bucks are focused on actively breeding does, though it may attract them in some cases.
The strengths lie in its simplicity and affordable price. The weakness is its relatively short effective lifespan and potential lack of potency compared to more concentrated or specialized scents. Top Secret Barely Legal Deer meets basic expectations for a doe urine attractant at its price point, however it doesn’t exceed them by a long shot.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is basic and utilitarian. The plastic bottle is lightweight and easy to carry. It can also be knocked over easily, so you need to be careful.
The screw-top lid is functional, but prone to leaking if not tightened properly. There is no spray nozzle or applicator included, which is a minor inconvenience.
Durability & Maintenance
The scent itself has a decent shelf life if stored properly (cool, dark place). The plastic bottle is relatively durable but can crack if subjected to extreme temperatures or rough handling. You could probably expect to get a few seasons out of it if you take care of it.
Maintenance is minimal. Just ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use. Also, consider transferring the scent to a sturdier container if you plan on using it for extended periods.
Accessories and Customization Options
Top Secret Barely Legal Deer does not come with any accessories. However, it can be used in conjunction with various scent dispersal methods, such as drag rags, scent wicks, or scent bombs.
It is compatible with most scent dispensers on the market. Hunters can also mix it with other scents or urine-based products to create custom attractant blends.
Pros and Cons of Top Secret Barely Legal Deer
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all hunters.
- Simple and straightforward doe urine formula.
- Effective as a general deer attractant, particularly during the pre-rut.
- Easy to use with various scent dispersal methods.
- Good starter scent for novice hunters.
Cons
- Scent fades quickly, requiring frequent reapplication.
- Basic packaging lacks durability and convenience features.
- Potency may be lower compared to more concentrated scents.
Who Should Buy Top Secret Barely Legal Deer?
Top Secret Barely Legal Deer is perfect for budget-conscious hunters seeking a general doe urine attractant for pre-rut and early-rut hunting. It’s also a good choice for novice hunters experimenting with scents for the first time. Hunters who don’t want to spend a fortune on premium scents can make use of this.
Hunters seeking a highly potent, long-lasting, or specialized scent should skip this product. Those hunting in areas with low deer populations may not see significant results. Hunters looking for more convenience should consider a spray bottle.
Must-have accessories include scent wicks, drag rags, and a scent-proof container for storage. A small spray bottle for application could be helpful.
Conclusion on Top Secret Barely Legal Deer
Top Secret Barely Legal Deer is a no-frills, budget-friendly option for hunters seeking a basic doe urine attractant. It gets the job done adequately, especially during the early stages of the rut, but it’s not a game-changer. It’s a decent starter product.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. You should adjust your expectations if you want something that’s not going to break the bank.
I would recommend it as a supplemental scent or for hunters on a tight budget. For those willing to invest more, there are certainly more effective and convenient options available. It’s worth adding a bottle to your pack to improve your chances this hunting season.