Tri-Tronics Accessory BeeperSportDog Deluxe Beeper Locator - DSL 400Beeper Collar RangeYour next consideration would be the range of the beeper collar. If you are a flushing dog owner or own a close working pointer, you might not need a beeper collar that has as great a range. Manufacturers are also creating beeper collars with a Hi and Low volume setting. However, don’t confuse range with volume. While volume does factor into the equation when considering range, keep in mind that the frequency of the tone has a greater bearing on the range of a unit than volume. To make things easier, manufacturers state the maximum range associated with the collar.
Hawk Scream versus Standard Beeper ToneThe latest innovation in beeper collars is the ability of some collars to emit the sound of a hawk scream rather than the standard beeper tone. The Hawk Scream mode is designed to simulate the sound of a shrieking hawk. This sound should be used only when the collar is on point mode to help hold birds tighter while the dog is on point.
The following manufacturers offer models which feature the Hawk Scream tone in addition to the standard tone –
Tri-Tronics and
SportDog.
Number of DogsMany pointing dog owners will run multiple dogs at the same time. In this case, I would suggest choosing a beeper collar that has the ability to change the sound it emits. There are two ways to do this; first most manufacturers offer collars that can be run in a single or double beep modes. The second way is to change the tone selection of the beeper. Either option will work and allow you the ability to tell which dog is which in the field.
On the SportDog DSL-400 you can change from one mode to another by opening the unit setting the operating mode manually.
Ability to Change Beeper ModesAn often overlooked feature of beeper collars is the ease in which you can change the mode of operation. Some beeper collars can change from one mode to another by opening the unit and flipping a switch, others can be changed with a simple push of a button on the collar itself, while still others change their mode of operation from the transmitter. The obvious advantage of being able to change the mode of operation from the transmitter becomes apparent when you switch to open cover and don’t want to listen to beeper while your dog is quartering in front of you. With a beeper collar designed to change its mode of operation from the transmitter you don’t need to stop the dog and fumble with the collar – simply press a button on the transmitter and continue hunting.
I hope you can see the obvious advantage of hunting with a beeper collar. Not only will the beeper collar allow you to know where your dog is at all times it will also help you harvest more birds by allowing you to quickly get into position when your dog pins that big cock pheasant or that covey of quail. Do your homework and make sure you choose the right beeper collar for your hunting conditions and your gundog. If you have any questions regarding the selection of beeper collars, please don’t hesitate to call GundogsOnline.com toll free at 1-866-4GUNDOG.