Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father Review

My Journey with the Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father

My quest for the perfect turkey call often leads me down a rabbit hole of materials, cuts, and reed configurations, each promising the elusive “perfect sound.” The Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father caught my eye with its promise of versatility, claiming to produce both soft clucks and loud gobbles. As an outdoorsman who values authenticity and reliability in my gear, I was eager to see if this mouth call could truly deliver across the spectrum of turkey vocalizations.

The inspiration for acquiring this particular call stemmed from a particularly frustrating spring season. My usual arsenal of calls felt inadequate, struggling to replicate the subtle nuances needed for a wary gobbler or the aggressive challenge to draw in a dominant tom. I needed a single call that could adapt to different scenarios, reducing the fumbling and swapping in the blind that often costs precious seconds.

Upon receiving the Strut Commander Gob-Father, my first impression was one of pragmatic simplicity. The Strut Commander brand has a reputation for straightforward, effective design, and this call embodies that. The latex reeds felt supple, and the bat-wing cut was clearly defined, suggesting a capacity for a range of sounds. It felt like a tool designed for purpose, not for show.

I had briefly considered other multi-reed diaphragm calls from brands known for their intricate reed setups, but their complexity often came with a steeper learning curve and a higher price point. For a versatile, everyday call, the Gob-Father’s straightforward construction seemed more appealing for immediate field use. A sense of practical anticipation settled in – this seemed like a call that could potentially simplify my setup.

Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father to the Test

My testing ground for the Strut Commander Gob-Father was the pre-dawn chill of several early spring turkey hunts, as well as numerous practice sessions in my workshop and backyard. I wanted to push its capabilities from the moment I stepped into the field, replicating various weather conditions and hunting scenarios to truly gauge its performance. The initial aim was to see if it could produce the full range of sounds advertised, from soft, inquisitive yelps to aggressive, attention-grabbing cuts.

In the field, the call performed admirably under the typical pressures of a turkey hunt. It handled the cool, damp morning air without losing its responsiveness, and I found it remarkably easy to manipulate. Even with cold fingers and a somewhat rushed setup, I could consistently achieve clear notes. The ease of use was a standout; it felt natural to position and call with, requiring minimal acclimatization.

Over several weeks of consistent use, including multiple successful hunts and countless practice sessions, the Strut Commander Gob-Father proved its mettle. The latex reeds, while supple, showed no signs of premature degradation, remaining pliable and responsive even after being stored in my vest for extended periods. There were no cracks, stiffness, or noticeable performance drops, which is a testament to its durable construction.

Maintenance for this diaphragm call is refreshingly simple. A gentle rinse under cool water and allowing it to air dry is usually sufficient to keep it clean and ready for the next outing. The included case is a small but essential addition, protecting the reeds from damage when not in use and preventing accidental loss in my gear. Compared to some of my more finicky calls, the ease of care for this Strut Commander model is a significant advantage.

First Use Experience

My very first attempt with the Strut Commander Gob-Father was in the quiet stillness of my backyard just before dusk. The goal was to get a feel for its tonal range without the pressure of a live bird. I started with soft, hesitant clucks and worked my way up to sharper, more excited hen yelps.

The call responded well, producing clear, resonant sounds without the raspy, airy quality that plagues some lesser-quality calls. I was immediately impressed by how little effort it took to generate these sounds; the bat-wing cut seemed to facilitate a natural airflow and reed vibration. It didn’t require extensive practice to produce a decent sound, which is a welcome change from some other diaphragm calls I’ve tried.

One minor quirk I noticed initially was the slight learning curve in achieving truly soft, subtle sounds. While it excelled at louder yelps and clucks, dialing in those very quiet, inquisitive sounds required a bit more precision in airflow and tongue pressure. It wasn’t a major issue, but something to be aware of if you’re targeting very shy or pressured birds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After weeks of using the Strut Commander Gob-Father on multiple hunts, its reliability has become evident. It consistently produced the sounds I needed, whether I was trying to locate a roosted bird with soft yelps or call a hung-up gobbler into range with insistent cutting. The ability to switch from a soft hen cluck to a sharp, aggressive cut with minimal adjustment in my technique was invaluable.

The 3 reeds used in its construction have held up remarkably well. I haven’t experienced any fraying or tearing, which can be a common issue with extensive use. The call maintains its ability to produce a wide range of pitches and volumes, a characteristic that hasn’t diminished over time.

I’ve found that the ** Strut Commander**’s commitment to quality materials shines through here. Unlike some calls that can develop a permanently “chewed” or distorted reed profile after a few trips, this one retains its shape and function. It’s a robust piece of calling equipment that feels built to withstand the rigors of a full hunting season.

Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father

Specifications

The Strut Commander Gob-Father is constructed with latex material for its reeds, a popular choice known for its flexibility and sound production capabilities. It features 3 reeds, which allows for a good balance of versatility and ease of use for intermediate callers. The distinctive bat-wing cut on the top reed is designed to enhance its ability to produce a wide range of vocalizations, from soft yelps to loud cuts.

The dimensions of the call are listed as 8 inches in length, 1.1 inches in height, and 3.75 inches in width, with a minimal weight of 0.07 lb. These specifications mean it’s compact and lightweight, easily fitting into a small pocket or calling vest without adding bulk. The no additional features noted in the specs highlight its focus on the core function of sound production.

The species it’s designed for is Turkey, which is self-explanatory for its purpose. The included case is a practical addition, ensuring the call’s protection and longevity. The price point of $9.95 positions it as an exceptionally accessible option, making high-quality turkey calling available to a broad range of hunters, from beginners to seasoned veterans.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Strut Commander Gob-Father is to produce realistic turkey vocalizations, and it excels at this. Its ability to generate a full range of sounds, from soft clucks and yelps to louder, more aggressive cuts and gobbles, is genuinely impressive for a call in this price category. The 3 reeds and bat-wing cut work harmoniously to create a natural-sounding cadence.

One of its greatest strengths is its versatility. It doesn’t pigeonhole itself into producing just one type of sound; rather, it allows the caller to manipulate the pitch and tone with subtle changes in air pressure and tongue placement. This adaptability means a single hunter can effectively use this call in various hunting situations. The call offers a clear, crisp sound that carries well in the field, crucial for attracting wary birds.

While the call performs exceptionally well across its advertised range, achieving the absolute softest, most subtle clucks can require a practiced touch. For absolute beginners, mastering the very quietest end of the spectrum might take a bit more dedicated practice compared to some single-reed calls. However, for most practical hunting scenarios, its performance is more than sufficient and highly effective.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Strut Commander Gob-Father is a study in functional simplicity. Made from quality latex, the reeds are pliable yet durable, providing a comfortable feel against the palate. The bat-wing cut is precisely executed, allowing for a broad range of vocal expression without being overly complex to manage.

Ergonomically, the call is straightforward to insert and hold in place. Its compact size ensures it doesn’t feel cumbersome in the mouth. The lack of additional, unnecessary design elements keeps the focus squarely on sound production. It’s designed to be a workhorse, not a showpiece, and the execution of its design reflects that practical ethos.

The overall feel is one of solid craftsmanship. There are no rough edges or awkward protrusions. It’s simply a well-formed piece of calling equipment designed for consistent performance. This attention to detail in the basic design makes it an intuitive tool for hunters of all experience levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Strut Commander Gob-Father is quite good, especially considering its affordable price. The latex reeds are resilient and hold their shape well through repeated use and exposure to the elements. I have not encountered any issues with the reeds tearing or losing their elasticity, which is a common problem with some less expensive mouth calls.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. After each use, a quick rinse under cool water and allowing it to air dry is usually sufficient. This simple cleaning routine helps to preserve the reed’s pliability and prevent any buildup that could affect sound quality. The included case further aids in its longevity by protecting it from damage in your gear.

Potential failure points for any mouth call typically involve reed damage or warping. However, with proper care – avoiding excessive chewing or rough handling – this call is built to last through many hunting seasons. Its robust construction means it can handle being jostled around in a hunting vest without undue concern for its performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Strut Commander Gob-Father comes with a simple yet crucial accessory: a protective case. This case is essential for preserving the integrity of the call and ensuring its longevity. It prevents accidental damage to the reeds and helps keep the call clean when not in use.

Beyond the included case, there are no inherent customization options for the call itself, as it is a pre-set diaphragm call. However, its design allows for extensive vocal customization through the caller’s technique. The bat-wing cut and 3-reed configuration are engineered to respond to a wide variety of tongue pressures, airflows, and mouth movements, allowing the user to create a personalized range of sounds. It’s not about swapping parts, but about mastering the vocal manipulation of this specific setup.

Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father

Who Should Buy Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father?

This Strut Commander Gob-Father turkey mouth call is an ideal choice for beginner to intermediate turkey hunters looking for a reliable and versatile call without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for those who want a single call that can handle a variety of hunting scenarios, from early morning locate calls to aggressive engagement tactics. Hunters who appreciate practical, no-frills gear will find a lot to like here.

However, serious callers seeking the absolute pinnacle of nuanced, highly specialized vocalizations, or those who prefer extremely complex reed setups for hyper-specific calls, might want to explore higher-end, more specialized options. It’s also not the best choice if you are looking for a call designed for sterile medical or laboratory applications, as it is specifically intended for outdoor hunting. For field use, consider keeping a small bottle of water handy for rinsing and a soft cloth for drying.

Conclusion on Strut Commander Strut Commander Gob-Father

The Strut Commander Gob-Father stands out as an exceptional value in the crowded market of turkey calls. For its modest price of $9.95, it delivers a surprisingly wide range of vocalizations, from subtle clucks to aggressive cuts, all thanks to its well-designed 3-reed latex construction and bat-wing cut. Its ease of use makes it a fantastic option for those just starting out, while its versatility ensures it remains a capable tool for experienced hunters.

The durability and straightforward design are major selling points, proving that effective gear doesn’t need to be expensive. While achieving the absolute whisper-quiet notes might require a bit of finesse, its overall performance for typical hunting situations is more than commendable. I would readily recommend the Strut Commander Gob-Father to any hunter looking for an affordable, reliable, and versatile mouth call that consistently performs in the field. It’s a smart addition to any turkey hunter’s vest, offering quality sound production without a hefty price tag.