Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable Review

The Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable Made a Bold First Impression

Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless gadgets come and go. When the Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable landed on my doorstep, I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting a revolution. However, its promise of multiple species calling in a compact, budget-friendly package piqued my interest.

I’ve been struggling with carrying multiple calls on my hunts. Switching between diaphragm calls and electronic calls was cumbersome and sometimes cost me valuable seconds when a coyote was closing in. I needed a single, reliable device that could mimic a variety of prey sounds effectively.

Unboxing the Mantis 25, the first thing I noticed was its compact size. The lightweight feel and pivoting legs suggested a focus on portability and ease of use. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; it looked promising, but the real test would be in the field.

I’ve used other electronic calls like the Primos Doggfather and the Foxpro Shockwave. The Doggfather boasts impressive sound quality but lacks the portability I need, and the Shockwave, while packed with features, comes with a price tag that’s hard to justify for casual predator hunting. The Mantis 25 seemed to strike a balance between functionality and affordability.

My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. The small size was appealing, but I wondered if the sound quality and volume would hold up in open terrain. Only a real-world test would reveal its true potential.

Real-World Testing: Putting Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable on a coyote hunting trip to the high desert of Eastern Oregon. The landscape is vast and open, requiring calls with decent range and clarity. The wind was gusting, adding another layer of challenge.

The Mantis 25 performed surprisingly well. The pre-loaded calls were clear, and the volume was adequate, even in the windy conditions. I primarily used the cottontail distress and coyote pup distress calls, and both sounded authentic.

The Mantis 25 was incredibly easy to use. The 4-way keypad made call selection straightforward, and the volume control was responsive. I appreciated the backlit LED screen, which made it easy to navigate the menu in low-light conditions.

The only minor issue I encountered was the sound activation trigger button. It’s a neat idea, allowing you to instantly trigger a call, but it took a little getting used to. I accidentally activated it a few times while adjusting the call’s position.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable has proven to be a reliable tool in my predator hunting arsenal. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, from dry and dusty to cold and damp, and it has consistently performed without issues.

The Mantis 25 has held up well to the rigors of field use. The plastic housing shows no signs of cracking or breaking, despite being tossed in and out of my pack repeatedly. The pivoting legs are still sturdy and provide a stable platform for the call.

Maintenance is simple. I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or dust. The battery life is also decent; I haven’t had to replace the batteries yet after several hunts.

Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive electronic calls, the Mantis 25 holds its own in terms of sound quality and ease of use. It might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but it gets the job done at a fraction of the price. It proves that effective predator calling doesn’t require breaking the bank.

Breaking Down the Features of Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable

Specifications

• The Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable comes pre-loaded with 25 distinct predator calls. This offers a versatile range of sounds for attracting various species.
• It features a 4-way keypad for call selection and volume control, ensuring intuitive operation even in the heat of the moment. This allows for quick adjustments to the call’s volume and immediate access to the needed sound.
• The call includes a backlit LED screen, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions, which is critical for dawn and dusk hunts. This feature guarantees usability regardless of the ambient lighting.
• It has random repeat timed options, adding realism to the call sequence and preventing predators from becoming call-shy. This mimics natural prey behavior and increases the chances of a successful hunt.
• A sound activation trigger button provides instant call activation, enabling rapid response to approaching predators. The button gives hunters precise control over call timing.
• The Mantis 25 has a versatile, compact design with lock-in, pivoting legs, offering stable placement on uneven terrain. The legs offer adjustable height for optimal sound projection.
• It includes a hand lanyard, offering secure carrying and preventing accidental drops in the field. This ensures the call is always readily accessible.
• The call is powered by four AAA batteries (not included), making it easy to find replacement power sources. This standardized power source is convenient and reliable.

These specifications combine to create a portable, user-friendly, and effective predator calling device. The features aim to maximize hunter success in various hunting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable performs its job admirably. The pre-loaded calls are realistic, and the volume is sufficient for most hunting situations.

Its strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and affordability. The main weakness is that the sound quality isn’t as pristine as higher-end models, especially at maximum volume.

The Mantis 25 largely meets expectations for a budget-friendly electronic call. It’s a reliable tool for attracting predators, even if it doesn’t offer the advanced features of more expensive options.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mantis 25 features a lightweight plastic construction. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, but the plastic feels somewhat cheap.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a clear LED screen. There is a slight learning curve with the sound activation trigger, but it’s easy to master.

Durability & Maintenance

The Mantis 25 seems reasonably durable for its price point. It should last for several seasons with proper care.

Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe it down after each use. The battery compartment is easily accessible for quick battery changes.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable comes with a hand lanyard. Unfortunately, there are no real customization options available.

The Mantis 25 is not designed to be compatible with external speakers or other accessories. What you get is what you get, which is perfectly acceptable at this price point.

Pros and Cons of Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable

Who Should Buy Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable?

The Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable is perfect for:

• Beginner predator hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use electronic call.
• Hunters on a tight budget who still want a reliable and effective predator call.
• Hunters who prioritize portability and lightweight gear.

Who should skip this product?

• Experienced predator hunters who demand the highest sound quality and advanced features.
• Hunters who require a rugged and durable call for harsh environments.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Extra AAA batteries are a must-have.

Conclusion on Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable

The Western Rivers Mantis 25 Predator Call Multiple Species Portable is a solid entry-level electronic predator call. Its affordability, portability, and ease of use make it an excellent option for beginner hunters or those on a budget.

The price is definitely justified. It delivers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use predator call. If you’re just starting out or don’t want to break the bank, the Mantis 25 is a great option. Pick one up today and get out in the field – the predators are waiting!