Thursday, September 3, 2009

Rattle Bags verses Real or Not Real Antlers

Today I would like to mention Rattling what I use and what there is on the market. Most importantly I would like to hear what you like to use and why.

This one is called "The Hunter's Specialties Heavy Horn Hunter Bag".

It can be found at Cabela's and sell for $14.99

This magnum rattle bag simulates the fighting sounds of heavy-antlered bucks and bull elk. Its larger, heavier rods produce more volume and realism. The Heavy Horns Rattling Bag has attached lanyard and shoulder strap and includes silencer straps for quiet transport.






These are from Primos and they are called "Fighting Horns"

The high-tech polymer in these horns delivers the same consistency and structure as real antlers. The 14 contact points reproduce buck-fighting sounds from light sparing to an extra-loud fight. Extended handles.

They can also be purchased from Cabela's for $19.99

Some say these types work well but I am partial to using real antlers. I was at a flea market one day and found someone that was selling a 8 point rack. I chewed them down a bit on the price until it was exceptable took them home. After smashing thumbs a few times I decided to cut off the small brow tines and they worked much better after that.

I prefer them because to me they sound more real than a sythetic pair but, then again that is my opinion.

What is your opinion? Please take a second to take part in the Poll to your left in the side bar.

7 comments:

Gun Slinger said...

I have heard, and correct me if I am wrong, that antlers for rattling need to be from the previous season, otherwise they don't sound right.

Anyone know?

Shoot Straight,
GunSlinger

Rick Kratzke said...

Gun Slinger, I have heard that if you use real antlers that the tone could change as they get older. The pair I have I've been using with success for the past 15+ years.

cal45 said...

I have also heard that the antlers have to be fron the previous season. I have a set that I use to use with good sucess but with all the stuff I was gathering I stopped carrying them. I now use a rattler that has a couple of slats in a cup. You rub and bang them on your pant leg or in the palm of your other hand.

Steven said...

I agree with you. I like real antlers just because to me they sound better. But we've all seen deer killed using the synthetic ones as well, so it's probably just personal opinion. Good luck hunting everyone!!

Paul Steeve said...

My dad and I have been using the same pair of rattling antlers for as long as I can remember. Each year, they prove to be productive. I've tried using a rattle bag for increased safety, but it just doesn't get the results.

Albert A Rasch said...

GS,

I had heard that too, but from the experience of our friends, I think we can put that idea to rest.

Best regards,
Albert A Rasch
Trophy Merriam’s Turkey
Game Reserves, High Fence Hunting What are the Facts?

Rick Kratzke said...

Allen,Steven,Paul and Albert, thanks for your input. It sounds like it boils down to preference.