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Kestrel vs Mantis

B

blakeman

New Member
Joined
Jun 17, 2018
Messages
20
What are the pro's and con's to both?
Is one really better than the other?
In the market for a saddle just looking for true feedback
 
I would say that the kestrel wins currently just by existing. ;)

Seriously, until they get all caught up on shipments, you're gonna be hard pressed to find guys who have actually had their hineys cupped by a mantis. It looks like a sweet rig though.

I will say that I have a kestrel and love it in a way that makes my wife and dog both jealous.
 
Once I get the Mantis I will try and do a review
 
There are only a handful of guys - product testers - who have had a mantis prior to the last couple of days who would be able to provide a meaningful comparison. Over the next couple of weeks you'll probably get a bunch of reviews of the mantis popping up. I own an aerohunter kestrel and should have my Mantis by monday. Once i've tinkered with it i'll post up a comparison and initial review of the Mantis.
 
I'll add mine when I get it as well. I already compared the Kestrel and Kite from Aerohunter.
 
Have spoken with Ernie and Greg on many occasions and to me there is no doubt that the Mantis is the way to go because of the weight difference (Mantis is mesh and 15 ounces whereas Kestrel is solid fabric and heavier), Mantis has a shallower seat, and it rolls up smaller to fit in a pack. I have one coming and doubt I will switch from my hybrid, but will offer my opinion once I get it. Also the fact that both Greg and Ernie hunted from Sit Drags which are minimalist set-ups, is another reason as they personally know what saddle hunting is about.
 
The shallow seat aspect John brings up is interesting. The kestrel does have a "pocket" of sorts built into it. This makes for very comfortable sitting, but when leaning on a platform I've noticed it's not as ideal. Seems like it results in unnecessary pressure on the upper part of the sadle, and slack on the lower side. Not uncomfortable really, just noticable imbalance in the way it rides.
 
I have a Krestel and can’t say it’s more comfortable than my sit drag so there that.
I plan on getting a Mantis some where down the road.


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ImThere said:
I have a Krestel and can’t say it’s more comfortable than my sit drag so there that.
I plan on getting a Mantis some where down the road.


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You will probably win one at saddlepalooza.
 
I can’t say which I like better. So far the mantis definitely wins in how small it will roll up. I plan on sitting with it and the predator. Should be in the tree by 6am in the morning. So far I think I will enjoy it. You really don’t know until you have sat in it for several hours straight. I’ve got more gut pushing down on my saddle than but to hold it up and unless I’m hunting really close to the truck I pack my saddle in. The mantis definitely beats the kestrel in packability. Comfort I can comment on not after Saturday.
 
Sorry guy's I didn't realize the mantis was not out much yet, Looking forward to all the review on the mantis from you folk's. Thanks for helping out though. Good luck hunting this year!
 
Until there are a few Mantis out there being used in the field, it will be hard to evaluate the pros and cons. The Mantis does appear to be a great choice for those who are seeking an ultralight setup. This close to the opener, whatever saddle you have on hand is a good choice. I'm sure my Kestral will fill the bill for this season.
 
Anyone have experience with both now? I need to figure out which one to put on my Christmas list :smile:
 
lardy125 said:
Anyone have experience with both now? I need to figure out which one to put on my Christmas list :smile:
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If you want one on Christmas, get the Kestrel. If want one next summer get the Mantis, when they get caught up on backorders..
 
I had them both, there both nice saddles and allot of it is going to come down to personal preference. I sold the mantis after a couple hunts. I'm a pretty big fan of new tribe. Love the kestral
 
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