MAD RIP Growl Deer Call Review

The MAD RIP Growl Deer Call: Final Thoughts from Me

The MAD RIP Growl Deer Call aims to replicate the nuanced vocalizations of whitetail deer, a critical tool for hunters seeking to attract game. Its design hinges on a reflective nasal and vocal cavity, engineered to mimic the air volume and sound produced by an actual deer. This hunting call offers the versatility to produce doe and fawn sounds, alongside mature buck growls, and includes a removable snort wheeze for added realism.

My pursuit of this particular call stemmed from a frustrating season where subtlety in calling proved more effective than sheer volume. Existing calls on my lanyard, while loud, lacked the intricate tones needed to truly fool a wary buck, often resulting in curious stares rather than confident approaches. I was seeking a more sophisticated instrument that could capture the spectrum of whitetail communication.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of sturdy construction, though perhaps not overtly premium. The plastic felt robust enough for field use, and the overall form factor felt natural to hold. I had briefly considered a competitor’s model that boasted a more elaborate reed system, but the focus on the internal cavity design of this MAD brand call piqued my interest. My first reaction was one of hopeful anticipation, a quiet confidence that this might be the missing piece in my calling arsenal.

Real-World Testing: Putting MAD RIP Growl Deer Call to the Test

My testing grounds for the MAD RIP Growl Deer Call were primarily the wooded edges and clearings common in early and mid-season whitetail hunting scenarios. I spent several early mornings and late evenings in various timber types, from dense hardwoods to more open pine stands, attempting to elicit responses. The call was primarily used from a stationary position, mimicking typical ambush hunting strategies.

In terms of performance in different conditions, the call handled light morning dew and damp air without any noticeable degradation in sound quality. Repeated use over several days did not reveal any stiffness or compromise in the internal mechanisms, though I did avoid submerging it or exposing it to heavy rain. The effectiveness seemed to be most pronounced during calmer wind conditions, where the nuanced growls and wheezes carried better and were less likely to be masked.

Ease of use was generally straightforward. The basic growls and bleats were intuitive to produce with a bit of practice, requiring a controlled exhale. Mastering the snort wheeze took a little more finesse, demanding a specific puff of air to achieve the desired raspy sound. No significant issues arose during initial attempts, though fine-tuning the breath control to achieve specific pitches did require some dedicated practice sessions in my backyard before heading afield.

Over several weeks of dedicated hunting trips, this deer call proved itself to be a reliable, albeit sometimes temperamental, tool. Its core function of producing deer vocalizations held up well under repeated, though not constant, use. There were no visible signs of wear and tear on the exterior plastic, and the internal components remained responsive.

Maintenance was minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use was sufficient to keep it clean. I made sure to store it in a dry place, away from extreme temperatures. Compared to some of the simpler, single-reed calls I’ve used in the past, this model offered a broader range of sounds, but it also demanded a higher level of user control to get the most out of it. Budget options often lack the complexity this call offers, but premium models might provide a slightly more refined sound.

Breaking Down the Features of MAD RIP Growl Deer Call

The MAD RIP Growl Deer Call is constructed with a focus on acoustic replication. Its defining feature is a reflective nasal and vocal cavity, designed to process air volume akin to an actual whitetail. This internal design is intended to enhance the realism of the emitted sounds.

The capacity of this call is essentially its internal air volume, meticulously shaped for acoustic resonance. Its construction utilizes a durable plastic material, engineered to withstand outdoor elements without significant degradation. The call also includes a removable snort wheeze, a key component for adding a layer of aggressive or excited vocalization.

The internal reflective cavity is crucial because it directly influences the sound waves produced, aiming to mimic the organic resonance within a deer’s throat. This isn’t just about making noise; it’s about making the right noise. The inclusion of a removable snort wheeze adds significant versatility, allowing the user to transition between different vocalizations rapidly. Unlike single-note calls, this design encourages a more dynamic and responsive calling sequence.

Specifications

• Internal Design: Combines a reflective nasal and vocal cavity to mimic natural whitetail vocalizations. This design is central to producing realistic sounds.
• Vocal Capabilities: Capable of emitting mature buck growls, doe bleats, and fawn whines. This range provides versatility for different hunting situations and deer behaviors.
• Snort Wheeze Feature: Includes a removable snort wheeze, allowing for the addition of this specific, often aggressive, deer vocalization. This is a crucial element for certain calling strategies.
• Material: Constructed from durable plastic, designed to withstand typical outdoor and hunting conditions. This ensures a reasonable lifespan for the product.
• Price Point: Retails around $41.19, positioning it as a mid-range option in the deer call market. This price point suggests a balance between features and affordability.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the MAD RIP Growl Deer Call is to produce realistic whitetail vocalizations, and for the most part, it succeeds. The growl sounds are deep and resonant, capable of carrying a reasonable distance. The doe and fawn bleats are higher pitched and have a good plaintive quality.

The greatest strength of this call lies in its ability to produce a variety of sounds that can genuinely fool deer when executed properly. The reflective cavity design does seem to contribute to a more natural tone compared to simpler calls. Its main weakness, however, lies in the learning curve associated with mastering the nuances of each sound.

In terms of meeting expectations, it performs well for its price. It consistently produced recognizable deer sounds, but eliciting a strong, positive response from deer often depended on perfect execution of the calls, particularly the snort wheeze. It doesn’t guarantee success, but it provides the tools for realistic vocalization.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this deer call feels solid, though not luxurious. The plastic housing is smooth and untextured, which provides a clean surface but can be slightly slippery if your hands are wet or cold. The overall shape is comfortable to hold, fitting naturally in the palm.

Ergonomically, the call is designed for ease of use once you’ve practiced. The main body is intuitive to grip and direct airflow. The removable snort wheeze component attaches securely, and its removal and reattachment are straightforward. There’s a slight learning curve to controlling the exact pitch and volume, but the basic operation is not complicated.

Markings are minimal, as expected for this type of product. The focus is on the functional design that allows for air to pass through and create sound. The lack of complex buttons or dials simplifies its operation, making it a straightforward tool for hunters.

Durability & Maintenance

This call is built to last for several seasons of regular hunting use. The durable plastic construction suggests it can handle being dropped occasionally on soft ground or banged against gear. It is not designed as a disposable item, but rather a tool meant for repeated use.

Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt or moisture after each use. It’s important to ensure it’s dry before storing it to prevent any potential issues with the internal cavity or reeds. There are no user-replaceable parts on the main call body, but the removable snort wheeze is a durable piece in itself.

A potential concern, common to many calls of this type, is the accumulation of moisture or debris within the internal cavity if not properly cared for. This could eventually affect the sound quality. However, with basic care, it should remain functional for a significant period.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MAD RIP Growl Deer Call comes with its removable snort wheeze as the primary integrated accessory. This piece is crucial for adding a layer of realism for certain vocalizations. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options for this specific call are limited. The ability to remove or attach the snort wheeze is the extent of its modularity. It is not designed to accept different types of reeds or external attachments.

The call is compatible with the common practice of using a lanyard to keep it accessible around the neck. Many hunters will attach it to a broader hunting vest or pack for easy access. While it doesn’t integrate with electronic devices or other specialized gear, its simplicity is part of its design philosophy.

Pros and Cons of MAD RIP Growl Deer Call

Who Should Buy MAD RIP Growl Deer Call?

The MAD RIP Growl Deer Call is best suited for intermediate to experienced whitetail hunters who understand the importance of varied vocalizations. It’s ideal for those who have moved beyond basic calls and are looking to refine their calling strategy with more authentic sounds. This call is also a good option for hunters operating in areas where deer might be call-shy or educated by simpler calls.

Those who should probably skip this product are complete beginners who have no experience with deer calling whatsoever, as the complexity of mastering its sounds might be overwhelming. Hunters who prefer a completely foolproof, always-on-demand loud call without needing much user skill might also find this call requires more effort than they are willing to invest. It is also not for someone seeking an electronic, automated calling solution.

For those who do purchase it, I would recommend pairing it with a quality lanyard to keep it easily accessible around your neck during hunts. Practicing with it in a controlled environment, like your backyard or a local park, before heading into the field is also highly advisable. Familiarity with its sound production will be key to unlocking its full potential.

Conclusion on MAD RIP Growl Deer Call

The MAD RIP Growl Deer Call offers a compelling blend of realistic vocalizations and functional design for the dedicated whitetail hunter. Its key feature, the reflective nasal and vocal cavity, genuinely contributes to a more authentic sound than many simpler calls on the market. The inclusion of a removable snort wheeze significantly enhances its versatility, allowing for more dynamic and aggressive calling sequences.

At its price point of $41.19, this call provides solid value, especially considering the quality of the sounds it can produce when used correctly. It’s not a magical device that guarantees a deer in the freezer, but it equips a hunter with a more sophisticated tool to mimic natural deer communication. While it demands some practice to master its full range, particularly the snort wheeze, the effort is well rewarded with potentially more responsive encounters.

Overall, I would recommend the MAD RIP Growl Deer Call to hunters who are serious about using vocalizations as a part of their strategy and are willing to put in the time to learn its capabilities. If you’re looking to step up your calling game beyond basic bleats, this call offers a realistic and effective option.