Decoy/target questions

[nbadger23]

I've been shooting at a block like target for a few years now but was thinking of going back to a deer target. My hope was to get one that could be used both as a target and a decoy but I don't know if that is possible. I have very little experience using a decoy, outside of a cardboard cutout I tried about 15 years ago. Oddly enough I had pretty good luck with that thing but only had it for about 4 sits as a buck literally tore it up.

I don't really see the need for a decoy when I hunt at home because there's no more than 30 yards of visibility in my spots but I will be back down in Missouri this year with my Dad, this time in October and I was thinking about getting a decoy for that trip. So, my questions are:

1)Can you use a decoy as a target practice device - maybe have a "new" set of vitals you'd use when it's a decoy so it doesn't look all shot up?

2)Any recommendations for using a decoy in mid-october on properties that should have mature bucks and good buck to doe ratios? I'm not sure if it would be good to get one with a smaller set of antlers or if the stance of the decoy should be paid attention to? I'm going to do some reading in the next few months on tactics and such but personal experiences are always good learning tools. I keep thinking of watching Stan Potts on t.v. with his "bucky jr" and how much he loved using that thing.

[mnguy152]

i think either do a decoy or target not both since the target to carry that thing will be too heavy to get to some spots.

[Crappie Rage]

Get a decoy. I use a flambeau ready doe and I cut holes in it's head and put in two medium antlers. Forkies walk up to this thing.

I always place it upwind of me 20-25 yards and facing me. If the eyes are not shiny I use a black marker and clear nail polish to make them shiny.

You can do backflips in your stand and they will not see you when they are locked on the decoy.

[nbadger23]

Stupid question Crappie - why get a doe decoy and "make" it into a buck decoy - price?

[Powerstroke]

The 3'd target that I have was ~$100 and doubles as a decoy. Its as lightweight as the good decoys and the legs and head come off for easy transport. The one I have is nothing special. Its always for sale at FLeet Farm and all the major chains for $100-130. Its all one color on one side and a set of vitals on the other side.

It comes with antlers, but I find it works best with only one antler or just as a doe. Deer are pretty finicky so don't be surprised if they don't like it.

At home, it gets the same reaction, some deer walk up to it, some shy away from it and sometimes the bucks fight with it.