Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry Review

Was the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry Worth It?

As an experienced gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I approached the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry with a seasoned eye. This hand-built and tuned call is designed to produce realistic, two-tone yelps with a dual-sided design for great rollover. My need for reliable and authentic-sounding waterfowl calls led me to explore this particular model, seeking to enhance my success in the field.

Initial impressions of the Pallbearer Dugout Cherry were positive; the cherry wood felt substantial and well-finished, hinting at the craftsmanship advertised. Compared to some mass-produced calls I’ve used, the immediate tactile feedback suggested a higher level of attention to detail. My first reaction was one of hopeful curiosity, anticipating how this handcrafted piece would perform against the real thing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry to the Test

My testing grounds for the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry were primarily the early morning dew-kissed fields and the misty edges of waterfowl habitats. I sought out scenarios that demanded a natural and nuanced sound, crucial for luring wary birds. The call was subjected to repeated use throughout several challenging hunts, exposing it to varying degrees of humidity and cool autumnal air.

From the outset, the ease of use was apparent; the ergonomic design of the dugout fit comfortably in my hand. Even after extended periods of calling, there were no significant comfort issues or signs of fatigue. The initial surprise was how readily I could produce a range of sounds, from soft clucks to more aggressive yelps, without excessive effort.

First Use Experience

The first time I brought the Pallbearer Dugout Cherry into the field, it was on a crisp morning with a light fog rolling in. I was positioned near a known flyway, hoping to intercept some early morning traffic. My objective was to simulate the natural communication of a flock, drawing them closer with authentic vocalizations.

The performance in these conditions was quite impressive. The dual-sided nature of the call allowed for a remarkable variation in tone and pitch, which proved effective in holding the attention of passing ducks and geese. It was remarkably intuitive; I found myself naturally able to transition between different calls without needing to consult a manual or extensive practice.

Any initial quirks were minor and related to personal preference rather than functional flaws. For instance, I noticed that pre-chalking was indeed effective, but I still found myself re-chalking every so often to maintain peak performance, especially in damp conditions. This is a common characteristic of many wooden calls, and this model was no exception to that rule.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use throughout the hunting season, the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry has held up exceptionally well. Its presence in my gear bag meant it endured the typical bumps and scrapes associated with field use, yet it shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The wood finish remains intact, and there’s no discernible loss in sound quality or responsiveness.

Durability has been a strong suit for this dugout call. Unlike some composite materials that can crack or degrade, the cherry wood has proven resilient. I haven’t encountered any issues with stiffness in the reed or a drop in its ability to produce clear, distinct sounds, even after numerous outings in varying weather.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a soft cloth after each use is usually sufficient, and re-chalking is a standard practice for any call of this nature. Storing it in its protective pouch ensures it remains in excellent condition, preventing any potential damage from other items in my hunting pack.

Compared to previous experiences with budget-friendly calls, the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry offers a significant step up in both sound fidelity and build quality. While more premium, custom-made calls might offer marginal improvements, this model strikes an excellent balance for its price point. It certainly outperforms many synthetic or less meticulously crafted wooden calls I’ve encountered.

Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry

Specifications

The Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry boasts a design focused on delivering authentic waterfowl sounds. Its hand-built and tuned nature suggests a level of craftsmanship that aims for superior performance. The dual-sided design is a key feature, intended to produce a wider range of realistic vocalizations, including nuanced yelps and clucks.

This dual-sided construction is crucial for mimicking the complex vocal patterns of various waterfowl species. It allows for a richer, more resonant sound profile compared to single-sided calls. The cherry wood construction, while not explicitly detailed as a specification, contributes to its acoustic properties and premium feel.

The dimensions provided for this model are a length of 11 inches, a width of 5 inches, and a height of 2.5 inches, with a total weight of 0.32 lbs. These measurements make it a comfortable size to hold and operate in the field without being overly cumbersome. The relatively light weight means it won’t add significant bulk to your hunting gear.

The product description notes it is pre-chalked, which is a convenient feature for immediate use. This saves the user the initial step of preparing the call, allowing them to start calling right out of the box. This thoughtful detail ensures that users can quickly transition from unpacking to active calling in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry is to produce realistic waterfowl sounds, and it excels in this regard. The dual-sided design is not just a marketing gimmick; it genuinely allows for a broader spectrum of calls. I found it particularly effective at mimicking the softer clucks and murmurs that often entice hesitant birds.

One of its greatest strengths is the ability to create two-tone yelps. This complexity in sound is essential for fooling more experienced birds that might be wary of simpler calls. The sound carries well, projecting clearly across open fields and water, which is critical for effective communication with distant flocks.

Compared to its price point, this dugout call meets and often exceeds expectations for functionality. While it may not possess the intricate tuning mechanisms of extremely high-end custom calls, its performance is more than adequate for serious waterfowl hunters. Its reliability in producing authentic sounds across a variety of common calls makes it a valuable tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry is immediately apparent. The cherry wood offers a warm, natural aesthetic and a solid feel in the hand. The finish is smooth and polished, reflecting the “hand-built” claim made by the manufacturer.

Ergonomically, the design is well-suited for extended use. The 11-inch length provides a good grip without being unwieldy, and the 5-inch width offers stability. I experienced no discomfort even after multiple calling sequences during long hunts, and the shape naturally fits the contours of the hand.

Practical design details, such as the subtle curvature of the dugout and the carefully shaped mouth opening, contribute to its ease of use. These elements allow for precise control over air intake and reed vibration, which directly translates to the quality and nuance of the sounds produced. There was virtually no learning curve for me to get started with its basic functions.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry is built to last for many seasons of rigorous use. The solid cherry wood construction is inherently durable, and the lack of complex mechanical parts means fewer potential failure points. I anticipate it holding its performance for a considerable time under normal conditions.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe with a cloth after use and proper storage are sufficient to keep it in top condition. Re-chalking is a standard procedure for any wooden call, and this one is no different. I’ve noticed no signs of the reed becoming stiff or the wood degrading, even with exposure to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Potential concerns are minimal, but as with any wooden call, extreme temperature changes or prolonged submersion in water could potentially affect the wood or reed. However, this is standard for the category, and the unit has shown no signs of weakness in typical field conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry comes as a standalone unit, with no additional accessories included in the package. The product description does not mention specific customization options beyond its inherent dual-sided design and material. It is a ready-to-use call designed for immediate effectiveness in the field.

While there are no direct accessories offered, the performance of this call is largely dependent on the user’s skill and the use of appropriate chalk for the reed. The focus here is on the inherent quality and acoustic properties of the call itself, rather than an ecosystem of add-ons. It relies on its straightforward design to deliver authentic waterfowl sounds.

Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry

Who Should Buy Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry?

This Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry is ideally suited for the serious waterfowl hunter who values authenticity and quality in their gear. It’s perfect for those who understand the nuances of waterfowl communication and seek a call that can replicate those sounds effectively. Experienced hunters will appreciate its responsiveness and the range of sounds it can produce.

Individuals who are new to waterfowl hunting might also consider this call, provided they are willing to learn the proper techniques for operating a wooden dugout. However, those who demand sterile, single-use equipment for specific regulated applications or who prefer purely synthetic, low-maintenance gear might want to look elsewhere. It’s a tool for those who appreciate the craft of traditional call making.

For those looking to enhance their experience, ensuring you have a good quality chalk specifically designed for waterfowl calls is recommended. While it comes pre-chalked, having a fresh supply will keep the call performing at its peak. A protective pouch or case is also wise to maintain the wood finish and prevent damage during transport.

Conclusion on Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry

Overall, the Strut Commander Pallbearer Dugout Cherry stands out as a highly capable and authentically performing waterfowl call. Its hand-built quality, combined with the sophisticated dual-sided design, delivers realistic and varied sounds that are crucial for successful hunting. The cherry wood construction not only looks good but feels robust, promising durability for seasons to come.

At its price point, the value proposition is strong. You are investing in a handcrafted instrument that offers performance rivaling much more expensive options. It genuinely enhances the hunting experience by providing a reliable and authentic voice for communicating with waterfowl.

I would personally recommend this call to dedicated waterfowl hunters who appreciate the blend of craftsmanship and effectiveness. If you’re looking to upgrade from basic calls or seek a more nuanced sound palette to fool wary birds, this model is an excellent choice. It’s a tool that earns its place in the gear bag, offering reliable performance when it matters most.