Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

When I bought my ASAT several years ago I thought I it was the best; and it was at the time. After several years of HARD hunting it began to fall apart. I was ready to grab another set of ASAT but decided to give the Enigma a shot. I wasn't too eager since it wasn't available in leafy wear, but kept hearing good 'press' about it.

I bought both myself and my son Enigma outfits about 8 weeks ago. My first impression was the design. TheXLfield jacket seemed to beoverly large with the sleeves being very blousy. This proved to be an asset with an innovation in the sleeves. The large diameter of the sleeves allow you to put the jacket on easily over any layers and three velcro straps in each sleeve allow you to 'tighten' the sleeves around your arms. The straps also work to eliminate the need for an armguard with or without heavy layering. Two velco straps on each side around your waist adjusts for your waist size.

Cargo pockets on the jacket, similar to those on the pants, are great. The chest pockets were a delightful surprise. They have vertical zippers for access. At first I didn't care for them, but found them ideal for radios and rangefinders. The access to get those instruments out is much easier, yet they are secure. You just have to remember to close the zippers after use.

The pants are six pocket cargo style. Added features are zippers up to the knees that allow you to get them on even with boots. Velcro strapsaround the ankles keep them tight around your boots.

Now to the pattern. My 15 year oldson, whohas his own set of both patterns,made the best observation. He said thatthe Enigmawas much harder to see in the tree or on the ground than the ASAT. We often hunt visibly within 75 yards of each other and I have to agree with him.

Two other factors stand out. First, the fabric is VERY quiet. Second, there is NO indication of wear to date. I know it's only been 8 weeks, but I hunt 2-4 times a week and am very abusive to my clothing. Time will certainly tell, but I'm optimistic.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Good Review Len. What would you do differently if you were designing your next set of enigma?

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Excellent review Len. I couldn't agree more.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

How about some pics

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I've given Chuck some ideas that I'd do differently......and I think they'll be incorporated in the future.

I also love the fabric.....and most of the design features. I chose not to have the cargo pockets installed on my pants.....and I don't have the cargo pockets on my jacket. I like them MUCH better, this way (and I've worn both).

Chuck's a great guy to work with.....and he's really listening to the guys out there now.....wearing his stuff. It's the most durablecamo I've seen.

Jeff

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Len I couldn't agree with you more. I have 30+ trips into the woods with my Enigma suit (I've lost count)with washing my suit about every other day or so plus before the season when I would wear it into the woods and puposely wash and dry it many times in a row and my Enigma suit looks as good as it did the day I got it. No fading and no wearing of the fabric at all. Trust me I have been purposely abusing mine. We all have read of the success stories of having animals just not notice us while wearing Enigma, and to all those nay-sayers, just try it you'll see. IMHO one of the best patterns and hunting garments on the market today.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Thanks Len, it sounds like they have some pretty unique designs. May have to try them some day.

As far as the pattern, I think camo that breaks up the body outline (like enigma, predator, asat) will alwayswork the best.

As far as which is best though, who knows, we'd have to ask the game. Doesn't really matter what we see.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

looks good but i've been "not noticed" in denim jeans and a flannel shirt....

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

As a side note....

Grey Wolf Woolens has been using the wolf skin fabric for several years now. You can get all their clothing in Predator camo. I have a set in Predator and absolutely love it. Mine is about 3 years old and it looks like the day I recieved it.

Wolf skin is excellent stuff.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Bob I couldn't agree more. (By the way LEN, great review) Between the list in Bob's quote above, like bows, there are no bests in this line up. I've worn them all and they all have the same abililty. What I believe is that Chuck has developed a camo that is truly effective, I have not heard of a single "I got busted by sight" while wearing Enigma. As a camo pattern, I would think it needs more but oddly enough Chuck saw through his vision and is right, the animals are simply not seeing hunters who are wearing it.

Then step up into the fabric, I have to agree with muzzyman88, the Wolfskin is by far the best fabric I have ever worn. Couple that with a effective camo, and the fact that right now, Chuck is offering the best bang for the buck, this new Enigma is fantastic. I've been fortunate enough to hunt with guys wearing it, it's amazing what it does in the trees and how I've been invisible to the game I've been in front of. I'm hearing of guys walking up on turkeys, stalks on whitetails, lions and other African game.

It's an all season camo with a blend of colors that hide you in green, brown, skylined etc...not just a camo specific for a season causing you to have shades of the same camo pattern which is very costly especially if you want it all in Wolfskin.

Here's SBGobblers from my view to his:

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I think coming from someone as well respected in the archery business as Len, this review is not only credible, but complimentary towards Chuck and his efforts.

I can say this, and honesty......I've worn Enigma all season, exclusively, and I have not been visually picked off by a deer, or coyote, all season long. And ASAT has the money back guarantee.....Too funny.....I was spotted a couple of times wearing ASAT, and not this year. I can't wait for the 3D to come out.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Rob, when did you hunt with that SBGobbler guy?

I've been finding the same reaction to animals as mentioned. I wasn't sold on it at first but the price for Wolfskin was hard to pass up. I had been hearing such great things I had to try it. I've been amazed at how many animals that didn't see me. I missed 2 good bucks this year and after jumping the shot, the ran off to about 60 yards and stared my direction. They never saw me despite the fact I'm only 10' up in my ladder stand. I've been pleased.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Raxx, I hunted with Jeff two weekends ago why do you ask?

Close up, he looks like sticks, (No offence Jeff)..lol ;)

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Rob SBGobblers looks like really really old sticks.;)I just had to take that shot at him you made the setup too easy.

I agree with what everyone is saying about Enigma. I dare you to find a better deal on a camo suit made of wolfskin in a pattern that works very effectively like Enigma and will last you for many many years. I am anxious to see what my enigma suit looks like after 10 years of heavy abuse or heck even 5 years. Because right now with all of the abuse I have put it through this season It still looks brand new. And the best part yet is that you can add my name to the list of Enigma users who have not been busted visually while wearing enigma.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

First PA H, LOL

Now, I hear what your saying. I cannot tell you how many times I've washed my Enigma, over and over and wore it hard...I then sent it to SBGobblers who washed it, several times, wore it and washed it again when I came down to hunt with him, I've washed it since again and there is absolutely ZERO fade or wear to it. I'm impressed.

I'd post a picture of my other camos after these washings but I won't.....pitiful. [:'(]

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I am a big believer in Wolfskin,I purchased pants and jacket from Jeff at Grey Wolf Woolens,they are lined with comfortmax and they are in the Predator Fall Gray pattern.Like a lot of you I am a hunting clothing junkie,and these garments are by far the best that I have ever used,I have owned quite a bit of Day One stuff and one set of Pants and Jacket from Raven Wear.
The pricing of Chucks stuff is phenomenal,absolutely exceptional pricing.I am trying to warm up to the pattern,I havn't gotten there yet.I am a very new user of Asat,I have that pattern in a leafy suit,cotton jacket and pants (mistake) and Day one light fleece.(told you junkie!) I have had three very positive experiences with the Asat pattern.One while turkey hunting that still blows me away and two this season while still hunting for deer,I have been caught out in the open with no backround cover twice by being completely still while in plain view of deer each time they relaxed and went back to browsing.It was like they were looking right through me.I almost felt quilty (almost!).
The kind of guy Chuck is and the positive recommendations that you guys have made has me close to taking the leap of faith and purchasing.I just wish I liked the pattern better.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I like my Enigma!

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

26 trophy animals and countlees wildlife photos to date wearing Enigma camo. I do not believe it was all me. I have had the same experiences as those already mentioned..."animals seem to see through the stuff". I'm sold and will never look back. Chuck is down right the greatest customer support man I've ever seen.Remember, He drove from Pennsylvania toDulles International Airport andhand delivered my gear. He promised I would have it before I left for Africa-he keep his word (Thanks Chuck!). I love the wolf skin fabric! I look forward to purchasing the 3-d suit when it'savailable.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

anyone have a link to where I can check it out!
thanks!

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

www.enigmacamo.com

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

HAZCON7[/align]

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What would you do differently if you were designing your next set of enigma?

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[/align]I've passed some comments on to Chuck about some things I'd like to see. I'm sure he will analyze what I want along with what others want and hopefully improve an already good product.
[/align]SBGobblers

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I also love the fabric.....and most of the design features. I chose not to have the cargo pockets installed on my pants.....and I don't have the cargo pockets on my jacket. I like them MUCH better, this way (and I've worn both).

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[/align]My electrian once talked me into putting a lot of ceiling lights into my house. His reason, "You don't have to use them/turn them on." I feel the same way about pockets. You don't have to use them, but it's nice if they're there when you need them. ;)[/align][/align]jgbennett6

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looks good but i've been "not noticed" in denim jeans and a flannel shirt....

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[/align]I'm glad for you, but most of us don't feel that 'fortunate.' :)[/align]
[/align]

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

True story.......

The day Rob took those photos.......we got into the woods (Ok....let's be honest.....we were REALLY close to houses!) pretty early. I was sitting for a while.....and I looked to my right to see.........a bird perched on my arrow.

Now.....I've only been hunting 60-70 times or so (whitetails).....but it was the first day I wore my Enigma.....and the fist time that's ever happened to me. He was there for a bit......hopped down to my sight......noticed my eyes......and fluttered off.

I'm just sayin.......

:D

Jeff

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

First and foremost, Chuck's customer approach is nothing short of "Excellent". Here's a man that impressed me on day one of my internet order. After receiving my order, Chuck called my home and then my cell and we spoke a little--within a few days he had shipped his first order to Canada--a Blouse. Shortly after hesent me the Jacket and the pants---excellent service from a guy I've never met and dealt with before.
Added to this, he shipped me the clothing even before receiving my payment. Not many like him around anymore these days--the man is as decent as they can get!!!
The clothing--they're great--workmanship perfect--camo intriguing!!
Wether it's luck or coincidence, the first afternoon wearing the blouse I killed a nice doe. When the Jacket arrived I killed buck. Am I superstitious, 'yes' --I have a gut feeling I got the stuff from 'great gentleman'!!!

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Just wondering, how does that wolfskin do moving through brush, noise wise? I've seen it in stores and thought it was nice but was wondering how quiet it is.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I had that very same concern,the material has got to be absolutely quiet.While it is not as quiet as fleece,it is plenty quiet enough.The Grey Wolf woolens stuff once washed one time was incredibly quiet,I wouldn't wear it if it wasn't.I am really impressed with Wolfskin material!

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

The "changes" I was speaking of were NOT related to the cargo pockets. I suggested Chuck add a grommet in the back for the hunters' tehter to pass thorugh. He's added that option. I also suggested (after standing in the rain for an hour and a half one day) that he change the collar to a 2 button, squared off version that wouldn't funnel rain in when it was turned up. I haven't heard back on that one.....but it's not in my hands, anymore. I also suggested an optional strap that would serve as a place to rest the cam/idler bottom wheel when standing with the bow in hand (to reduce fatigue in the bow arm). Still don't know if he'll add it.....but it's something I bet an individual could add.

The no pockets thing is a PERSONAL decision. That won't be an across the board change, at all. MOST people love the cargo pockets.

jeff

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

:DChuck, Chuck everybody knows Chuck. I'm really feeling small. I don't have any names to drop with the camo I wear, but then again I don't even know the name of the pattern/s.:D

2 things come to mind when I see that pattern and hear the name. The first is a couch we had in the 80's and the second is a line by Mr. Robert Duvall in the movie "The Great Santini":D

Just kidding. Look forward to seeing it someday on clearance.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I'm glad to hear everyone is happy with their Enigma.

I decided to go with Predator this year because the two emailsI sent Chuck were never responded to. Season was getting close and I needed some new camo.

Maybe next year.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Chuck was busy running to airports.:D

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I'd never judge someone for not returning an email. Email is the lowest form of communication. A phone call is much more personal, A mailed letter is even a step above email.

Anyway, could have been an overwhelming time, I do not know, plenty of things happen when dealing with puters, when in doubt, call. The numbers on the web page and he's a great guy to chat with. Would have solved the situation.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

This was back when I was working 10 - 12 hour days, six days a week, the only thing I reallyhad time for was email.

I'm not judging Chuck by it in the least, I understand he's a busy man, but at that point in time I really wasn't going to be able to wait until the last minute to order my camo.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Dan, I totally understand as I did then, still no excuse not to return an email, but trust me, I know how bad he's overwhelmed, but that was a generalization for people to pick up a phone, in fact, you still can, call Chuck, tell him your situation, he'd love to hear from you and in turn, you'll enjoy the conversation. Thanks Dan, I know you tried.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

Dan, when I was trying to get ahold of Chuck after we first talked, he didnt respond either. So, I talked to Rob, and he told him I was trying to get a hold of him, and within 30 minutes Chuck himself called me apologizing like crazy. That is the kind of person he is. I dont know him as well as the others but this was my first impression. The fact that he drove to the airport to keep his promise of getting him his camo before he left is some kind of customer service. Again this just shows what kind of guy he is.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

When I ordered mine we were running short on time before Chuck got it done.
I called him and told him to ship it to my home in Iowa.
I am in WI all week working.
I told him as long as it got there by that Sat night I could wash it up in Sportwash and dry it so I could wear it opening day.
He offered to wash it for me before he sent it out!
How many companies would pre-wash your new camo for you?
Chuck ROCKS!

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I personally can't say enough nice things about Chuck. He really is a top notch guy and sticks to his word and his morals. Always more than willing to go out of his way to give you that extra bit of customer service even when he doesn't have to. I will choose to do business with a company like this everytime over some of the big names who just want to know what the dollars in my pocket look like.

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I've talked to Chuck and he is top notch. He'll do anything for his cutomers. And he is incredibly busy from what I understand. What that being said, I'm still waiting on my Enigma. Going on 2.5 months now. I know it will be worth the wait though.

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And on top of all that......the camo works.

I saw a question earlier, about how quiet is the material.....VERY quiet. I rubbed it on my tree to test it...no noise what so ever...

RE: Enigma camo/design - my observations
 

I’ll step up and throw my 2 cents in. I just bought some Enigma camo. First day in the tree I saw 22 deer walk by within 50 yards, the most I’ve ever seen in one day. The only time I got busted was when I was getting out of my stand without realizing there was a buck standing 15 yards away looking straight at me while I was doing it and making lots of noise.

The material is really amazing. I can’t speak to its durability because I haven’t had it long enough. I spoke with Chuck a couple of times on the phone and he told me the material is actually upholstery fabric, which is why it is supposed to wear so well. I thought that meant it would be stiff. Nothing could be further from the truth. I was surprised at how soft it is. He also sent me the camo without having to pay for it first. He said “Try it. If you don’t like it, send it back and don’t pay me anything”

It took awhile to get it (~3 or 4 weeks). I think he is overwhelmed and has been backed up. As a fellow entrepreneur, I completely understand THAT!

No way am I going to ship it back now!

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Chad

Well what about all the bad things you told me about himon the phone last night:):D

Just kidding since I have known Chuck I would take a guess and say we have spoken on the phone for around 2 thousand hours glad my cell has free minutes after 7pm and weekends:D

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Now that's not nice Aussie!!! Or in Chuck's words, "Ya Bastard!" We all know Chuck is a super guy. I couldn't even make something bad up about the guy! How can anyone argue with all these personal stories about him?