Most hunters have used an assortment of decoys when they're out in the rough and looking to bag some birds.  While regular decoys are fine, motion duck decoys can provide an added bit of realism that can be useful for attracting more ducks. If you want to buy one of these motion decoys, you really should consider a few things beforehand.

Here are a few questions for those of you thinking about buying motion duck decoys to ask before you buy.

#1 - How it the motion duck decoy controlled?

One of the first things hunters need to think about when buying motion duck decoys is how the decoy is controlled.

Some designs are controlled by a jerk-cord, but serious hunters know that it's best to buy motion duck decoys that don't require the use of your hands, for obvious reasons. Any motion decoy you're considering putting down good money for should have the option to simply turn it on and leave it alone. Those hunters who are better-funded can find great designs with remote-control capabilities.

#2 What kind of paint is used on the decoy?

Another important factor to consider when buying motion duck decoys is the paint used on that decoy. Please avoid buying designs that have shiny paint.  While shiny paint can last longer than matte finishes, it shouldn't be used on serious decoys.  If you buy a motion duck decoy with shiny paint, that paint will reflect sunlight - and that just alerts ducks to the fact that something's just not right.

Do yourself a favor and buy decoys with a flat, matte finish.

#3 What kind of power is used to keep the duck decoys in motion?

While this isn't something that many people think about when buying motion duck decoys, it is an important factor.  How long are you going to be out hunting?  You want your motion duck decoy to last at least as long as you will!  Why pay money for a motion decoy that will become a stationary decoy after just a few hours?  

You won't be a happy hunter if your decoys stop moving just as the ducks are starting to fly over.  You especially won't be happy if you're forced to go out there and change batteries just as the ducks start to fly over.

#4 What kind of motion does the decoy have?

If your motion decoy displays realistic motion, your odds of luring ducks into range go up exponentially. Only buy a design that has realistic motions.  Motion duck decoys that have flapping wings and bobbing heads are especially good at attracting ducks.

#5 How will this motion decoy handle water?

Although it may seem obvious to some, if you're going to be using your motion duck decoys near water, you're going to need to make sure they won't become damaged.  Buy decoy designs that have protected motors, connectors and wires.  

"But I'm not going to be on the water!" you cry.  Well, what happens if it starts to rain while your expensive motion duck decoy is out?  Don't waste money by buying junk decoys.  

Review:
Concentrate on the hunt - not on the decoy. Buy decoys that don't require the use of your hands.  Don't buy decoys that have shiny paint that can reflect sunlight and scare away your ducks.  Buy a decoy that won't quit on you just three hours into your hunt.  Finally, make sure water won't kill your expensive new decoy!

I hope you've found these five questions to consider when buying motion duck decoys educational.

As always, good hunting!