Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller Review

Let’s Dive into Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller

The Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller is a budget-friendly option for hunters looking to enhance their calling capabilities. Western Rivers promises a compact, easy-to-use device with 50 pre-loaded calls. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype!

I’ve been an avid hunter for over a decade, primarily focusing on predator control to protect livestock. I needed a game caller that was portable, offered a variety of sounds, and wouldn’t break the bank; my old, bulky caller was becoming a burden.

Upon unboxing the Mantis 50, I was immediately struck by its size and lightweight design. The rubberized grip felt secure, and the pivoting legs seemed like a practical addition.

I considered other entry-level callers like the Primos Doggcatcher 2, but the Mantis 50’s compact size and claimed sound library swayed me. The other comparable models seemed more targeted toward specific animal calls, whilst this model seemed all encompassing. I also looked at the FoxPro Inferno but its price point put me off.

My initial impression was positive. While it didn’t scream “premium,” the Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller seemed like a capable tool for the price.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller during a coyote hunt in the rolling hills of West Texas. The weather was dry and dusty, with a slight breeze.

The caller performed adequately, projecting sounds a decent distance. The keypad was easy to navigate, even with gloved hands.

The sound activation trigger button felt somewhat redundant, and the volume control took a little getting used to. My first surprise was the somewhat artificial sound quality of certain calls; some were noticeably better than others.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scuffs on the rubberized grip, but the unit still functions as intended.

Durability is acceptable for the price point, although I wouldn’t subject it to extreme conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous, more expensive caller, the Mantis 50 falls short in sound quality and projection. However, its portability and ease of use make it a worthwhile trade-off for certain situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller

Specifications

• The Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller features 50 pre-loaded game calls, offering a decent variety for different hunting scenarios. This eliminates the need for downloading or purchasing additional sounds.
• It is powered by four (4) AAA batteries (not included). This makes it easy to find replacement batteries in a pinch.
• The unit features pivoting legs with lock-in position for stable placement on uneven terrain. This is a handy feature for hands-free operation.
• The durable rubberized grip provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet conditions. This increases user confidence in the products durability.
• The 4-way keypad allows for easy call selection and volume control. Even with thick gloves the controls are accessible.
• The LCD screen readout with backlight provides clear visibility in low-light conditions. This ensures ease of use at any time.
• Random repeat timed options allow for more realistic and unpredictable calling sequences. The random calling is a great feature to confuse predators.
• The sound activation trigger button allows for quick and responsive calling. Although convenient it is not necessarily needed.
• It includes a hand lanyard for added security and convenience. This simple addition minimises the chance of dropping the device.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the caller’s effectiveness and user experience. The battery life, sound quality, and ease of use all contribute to a successful hunt.

Performance & Functionality

The Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller performs its primary function – attracting game – with varying degrees of success. Some calls are remarkably effective, while others sound somewhat artificial.

Its strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and decent sound volume. The main weakness is the sound quality of some calls, which can be improved.

For the price, the Mantis 50 meets expectations. It’s a solid entry-level caller that’s suitable for beginners or experienced hunters on a budget.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for a budget-friendly device. The rubberized grip is comfortable and provides a secure hold, and the pivoting legs are a practical addition.

The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time users. There’s a minimal learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller should last for several seasons. The plastic housing is reasonably durable, although it’s not designed to withstand extreme abuse.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. The battery compartment is easily accessible.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller comes with a hand lanyard. There are no other customization options available directly from Western Rivers.

Due to its limited features and affordability, users are unlikely to seek extensive aftermarket accessories. The Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller is ready to go straight out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Western Rivers Mantis 50 Compact Handheld Game Caller