Woodhaven Raincheck Striker Review

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker Made a Bold First Impression

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker promises consistent turkey calls, even when the weather turns against you. Marketed by Woodhaven as virtually waterproof, this striker aims to solve a common frustration for turkey hunters: a slick striker that fails to produce reliable sounds in rainy conditions. I was intrigued by the “Rain Check” design and the promise of exceptional grip.

My passion is hunting, and I’ve experienced firsthand how quickly a carefully planned hunt can be ruined by unexpected rain. Standard strikers become slippery, rendering even the most skilled caller ineffective. I needed a striker that could maintain its grip and sound quality regardless of moisture. The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker appeared to be the solution.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sturdy wood handle and the tactile rubber-coated dowel. The build quality felt solid, and the striker had a reassuring weight in my hand. It seemed well-constructed and ready for the rigors of the field.

I considered other water-resistant strikers, including some with all-weather coatings and synthetic materials. However, the Woodhaven’s combination of a wood handle and a rubberized dowel seemed like the most reliable approach to maintaining grip without sacrificing sound quality. The natural wood handle also gave it a more traditional feel that I appreciated. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker felt like a tool designed with the real-world challenges of turkey hunting in mind.

Real-World Testing: Putting Woodhaven Raincheck Striker to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test occurred during an early spring turkey hunt in the Ozark Mountains. A light drizzle started just as I set up my decoy spread. Perfect conditions to test the Raincheck Striker.

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker performed admirably. The rubber-coated dowel provided a secure grip even with wet hands. The calls remained consistent and clear, mimicking the yelps and clucks of a hen despite the dampness. I was able to call in a gobbler that morning, a direct result of the striker’s reliable performance.

There was a slight learning curve to producing the ideal sound due to the unique feel of the rubberized dowel. However, after a few practice calls, I quickly adjusted. The Raincheck Striker delivered on its promise of consistent calls regardless of the weather.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in varying weather conditions, the Woodhaven Raincheck Striker has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The rubber coating remains intact, and the wood handle is still solid.

The Raincheck Striker is incredibly easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a dry cloth after each use is usually sufficient. The design prevents water from pooling in hard-to-reach areas.

Compared to my previous experiences with traditional strikers, the Woodhaven Raincheck Striker is a significant upgrade. I no longer worry about losing my grip or compromising the quality of my calls in wet conditions. It outperforms my older strikers in both grip and consistency, making it an invaluable tool for any serious turkey hunter.

Breaking Down the Features of Woodhaven Raincheck Striker

Specifications

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker features a durable wood handle. It also features a unique “Rain Check” design, boasting a water-resistant tip. It also includes a rubber-coated dowel for exceptional grip. This provides exceptional grip, even in rainy conditions.

These specifications are critical for consistent performance in the field. The water-resistant tip ensures reliable contact with the call surface, while the rubber-coated dowel provides a secure grip. The wood handle offers a comfortable and natural feel.

Performance & Functionality

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker excels at producing consistent and clear turkey calls, even in wet conditions. It’s remarkably reliable. Its usability is exceptional, providing a secure grip and maintaining sound quality regardless of the weather.

The striker’s greatest strength is its ability to maintain grip and sound quality in wet conditions. The only slight weakness is the minor learning curve associated with the rubberized dowel. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, offering a reliable solution for turkey hunters who face unpredictable weather.

Design & Ergonomics

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials are high-quality, and the striker feels well-balanced in hand. Its weight is substantial enough to provide control without being cumbersome.

The striker is designed with user comfort in mind. There isn’t a steep learning curve. It’s intuitive to use, even for beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker is built to last. The robust construction and high-quality materials suggest excellent longevity. This striker will probably last for several hunting seasons.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after use is sufficient to keep the striker in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker doesn’t come with specific accessories. However, it’s compatible with most standard pot calls. There are no specific customization options available for the striker itself.

The striker’s design is straightforward and functional, focusing on its primary purpose of producing reliable turkey calls. However, the wood handle could potentially be wrapped with paracord for a customized grip.

Pros and Cons of Woodhaven Raincheck Striker

Who Should Buy Woodhaven Raincheck Striker?

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker is perfect for turkey hunters who frequently hunt in areas with unpredictable weather. It’s also suitable for those who want a reliable and consistent striker that performs well in all conditions. This striker is also suitable for hunters who prioritize a secure grip.

Those who are exclusively fair-weather hunters and are extremely cost-conscious might find this product unnecessary. Someone who only hunts in perfect conditions may not need this striker.

A high-quality pot call complements this striker perfectly. Consider carrying a small microfiber cloth to ensure the pot call surface is also clean and dry for optimal sound.

Conclusion on Woodhaven Raincheck Striker

The Woodhaven Raincheck Striker is a worthwhile investment for any serious turkey hunter. Its ability to maintain grip and sound quality in wet conditions is invaluable. It is a significant advantage when the weather turns sour.

At $17.99, the price is more than justified. It offers a reliable and durable solution. Its price point is pretty justifiable.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Woodhaven Raincheck Striker. It’s a must-have tool that provides confidence and reliability in the field. Don’t let rain ruin your next turkey hunt. Get your Woodhaven Raincheck Striker today and experience the difference!