Bone Collector Upright Jake Review

One Week with the Bone Collector Upright Jake

As an experienced gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I approach new equipment with a critical eye honed by countless real-world applications. My recent acquisition, the Bone Collector Upright Jake, is a turkey decoy designed to provoke a dominant response from wary gobblers. My existing setup lacked a truly aggressive, ground-based jake decoy, and anecdotal evidence from fellow hunters pointed towards this model’s ability to draw attention.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of practical construction. The decoy feels robust, and the EVA material, while yielding slightly to the touch, promises resilience. I considered more elaborately painted, premium decoys from other manufacturers, but their higher price point and often more fragile designs were a deterrent for my specific need for a no-nonsense, hard-working decoy. My first reaction was a sense of anticipation, a quiet confidence that this piece of equipment might just fill a significant gap in my hunting strategy.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Upright Jake to the Test

My testing grounds for this upright jake were primarily the early morning fields and wood edges of my local hunting properties during the spring turkey season. I deployed it in various scenarios, from open fields to more confined timber, often in conjunction with hen decoys to create a more complete tableau. The decoy was subjected to typical early season conditions: damp dew-covered grass, intermittent light rain, and the occasional gust of wind.

The ease of use was immediately apparent. Attaching the stake and positioning the decoy took mere minutes, even in the low light of pre-dawn. After multiple deployments over the course of a week, the decoy held its posture consistently. I noticed no significant issues with stiffness or degradation from the moisture.

Extended use over several days revealed the true nature of this decoy’s construction. While the heat-treated paint is a notable feature, I did observe minor scuffing on the most exposed edges after a particularly rough transport in my decoy bag. This is a common occurrence with most decoys, and the underlying material remained unaffected. Cleaning was straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth was sufficient to remove dirt and dew. Compared to some of the softer, more pliable decoys I’ve used in the past, this upright jake seemed to offer a better balance of durability and portability.

First Use Experience

The first deployment occurred on a dewy morning in a small field adjacent to thick timber. I placed the Bone Collector Upright Jake about 20 yards from my blind, paired with a hen decoy a few yards to its side. The objective was to simulate a young male turkey posturing confidently, a common trigger for dominant tom turkeys.

Performance in the field was satisfactory. The decoy stood firm against a moderate breeze, and its upright stance was clearly visible from a distance. The included stake system allowed for a slight rocking motion when nudged, adding a subtle realism that mimicked a live bird shifting its weight.

Ease of use was a significant plus; the setup was intuitive and required no complex assembly. I was able to position it quickly and quietly before the morning light truly broke. No immediate issues or surprises presented themselves, beyond the general understanding that no decoy is truly indestructible.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of the week, the decoy was deployed and retrieved nearly every day. It held its shape remarkably well, resisting the tendency of some foam decoys to permanently crease or deform. The heat-treated paint, while showing some minor signs of abrasion, did not flake significantly, a testament to its toughness.

Durability seems to be a strong suit for this model. I noticed no cracks or structural weaknesses, even after being packed and unpacked repeatedly. The EVA material proved resistant to punctures, which is a common concern with less robust decoys.

Maintenance was refreshingly simple. After each use, I would give it a quick rinse or wipe down to remove any debris. Storing it in its original packaging or a dedicated decoy bag kept it protected. The simplicity of care makes it a practical choice for hunters who value efficiency in the field. Compared to more expensive, intricately painted decoys that require careful handling, this upright jake proved to be a much more forgiving piece of equipment for regular use.

Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Upright Jake

Specifications

The Bone Collector Upright Jake boasts a straightforward set of specifications designed for effective field use. It measures approximately 16 inches in length and 8.7 inches in width, with a height of 5 inches. This provides a substantial, yet manageable, profile in the field.

The decoy weighs in at 1.86 lb, making it a reasonable addition to a hunter’s gear load without being overly burdensome. It is constructed from tough EVA material, which is known for its durability and resilience to the elements. The heat-treated paint is designed to resist scratches and flaking, preserving its visual appeal over time.

The manufacturer is Bone Collector, a brand known for its focus on hunting-specific equipment. The decoy position is upright, specifically mimicking an agitated or assertive jake turkey. This posture is intended to provoke a dominant response from mature gobblers.

The stake system included with the decoy is designed to create realistic motion, a crucial element in making any decoy appear lifelike. While the product description notes “No” for “Additional Features,” the core design and materials are its defining characteristics. The overall dimensions and weight are well-balanced for portability and effectiveness, ensuring it’s noticeable without being cumbersome.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – attracting mature gobblers – the Bone Collector Upright Jake performs commendably. Its assertive, upright jake posture is specifically engineered to challenge dominant toms, and in my testing, it certainly drew attention. I observed several instances where gobblers became visibly agitated and approached the decoy aggressively, looking to assert their dominance.

The strengths of this decoy lie in its aggressive posture and durability. The EVA material held up well, and the heat-treated paint, despite minor scuffs, maintained a good visual presence. A weakness, however, is that while the paint is resistant, it is not entirely impervious to damage under rough handling, which is common in the field.

Considering its price point, the performance is solid. It met my expectations for a durable, effective jake decoy that could reliably draw a reaction from wary toms. It’s not a hyper-realistic, ultra-detailed model, but it delivers on its core promise of provoking a dominant response.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Bone Collector Upright Jake is functional and robust. The use of tough EVA material lends a sense of sturdiness to the decoy, making it feel like it can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The finish, achieved through heat-treated paint, aims for longevity and resistance to wear.

Ergonomically, the decoy is designed for ease of transport and deployment. Its 16-inch length and manageable weight make it simple to carry in a pack or alongside other gear. The stake system is straightforward to attach and insert into the ground.

Practical design elements include the specific upright pose, which is its main selling point for attracting dominant gobblers. The markings on the decoy are generally realistic for a jake turkey, sufficient to be recognized without being overly intricate. No complex controls or grips are necessary, contributing to its user-friendliness.

Durability & Maintenance

The expected lifespan for this decoy under normal use is quite good, especially for its category. The tough EVA material is designed for repeated deployments and exposure to the outdoors. It should last multiple seasons if cared for reasonably well.

Maintenance is exceptionally easy. A simple rinse or wipe-down is usually all that is needed to keep it clean and ready for the next hunt. Storing it properly in a bag or container will prevent unnecessary damage.

Potential failure points, while minor, could include the paint chipping with significant abrasion or the stake potentially bending if forced into extremely hard ground. However, these are common wear-and-tear issues for most ground decoys, and the core structure of this model appears quite sound.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bone Collector Upright Jake comes with its necessary stake system for deployment. This stake allows for secure placement in the ground and is designed to enable subtle motion, enhancing realism. No other significant accessories are included as standard with this decoy.

Customization options for this particular model are limited to the inherent design. It is not a decoy that readily accepts bolt-on accessories or interchangeable parts. Its purpose is singular: to present an upright jake.

Compatibility with external accessories is not a primary feature. The decoy is designed to be used as-is, with its integrated stake. While one could theoretically attach additional elements, it’s not designed for modularity in the way some tactical gear might be.

Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Upright Jake

Who Should Buy Bone Collector Upright Jake?

The Bone Collector Upright Jake is an excellent choice for turkey hunters who specifically target dominant gobblers and need a decoy that will provoke an assertive reaction. It’s ideal for those who prioritize durability and a straightforward, effective design over hyper-realism or extensive features. This decoy is well-suited for hunters who frequently move their setups and need equipment that can withstand moderate field abuse.

Those who should likely skip this product are hunters seeking the absolute most realistic, intricately painted decoys on the market, or those who need a decoy with advanced features like electronic movement or sounds. If your primary strategy relies on subtle realism rather than provocation, this might not be the best fit. A good complement would be a realistic hen decoy to create a more complete scene, and perhaps a portable ground blind for concealment.

Conclusion on Bone Collector Upright Jake

The Bone Collector Upright Jake delivers on its core promise: an aggressive, durable decoy designed to draw out dominant tom turkeys. Its tough EVA material and heat-treated paint offer a good degree of resilience for regular field use, and the upright jake posture is a proven tactic for eliciting a challenging response. While it may not boast the fine detailing of premium models or a plethora of additional features, its functionality and robustness at a $59.99 price point are commendable.

The value proposition is strong for its intended purpose. It’s a practical, no-nonsense piece of equipment that should serve a hunter well for multiple seasons. I would recommend this decoy to turkey hunters who are looking for an effective tool to stir up mature gobblers and who value durability and ease of use in their gear. If you’re heading out for a hunt where provoking a dominant tom is part of your strategy, this upright jake is a solid, dependable choice.