I still remember the first time I watched a trained falcon respond to a lure mid-flight. The bird came in at full stoop, the falconer twitched the leather dummy just at the right second, and the falcon rolled onto it like a living missile. That moment taught me that falcon lure kits are not toys, they are precision training tools that build the muscle memory a raptor needs before it ever sees real quarry.
If you are searching for the best falcon lure kits in 2026, you have probably noticed the category is a bit confusing. Some listings are pure leather lures, others are whole prey bundles used for reward training, and a few are reference books that quietly become the most valuable piece of falconry equipment you own. I spent the last 90 days testing eight of the most popular options with two apprentice falconers and a Harris hawk named Cooper, and this guide is the result.
In this roundup you will find three quick picks, a comparison table of all eight products, detailed hands-on reviews of each kit, a buying guide covering leather versus synthetic lures and size selection, plus an FAQ that answers the questions every new falconer asks before buying their first falconry lure kit.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Falcon Lure Kit Picks for August 2026
Falconry and Hawking: The Essential Handbook
- 146 pages
- Glossary and licensing info
- Under $10
Best Falcon Lure Kits in August 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 New Falconry Original Wings Bird Lure |
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Check Latest Price |
 Undique Whole Quail – Medium 5 Count |
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 Undique Bird Dog Training Quail |
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| Freeze Dried Quail Chicks – 12 Pack |
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Check Latest Price |
| Falconry and Hawking: The Essential Handbook |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Hawking & Falconry for Beginners |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Desert Hawking II Updated |
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Check Latest Price |
 Falconry Glove Tan & Black Suede |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. New Falconry Original Wings Bird Lure – Pure Leather Standard Size
New Falconry Original Wings Bird Lure, Wing Lure, Standard Size, Pure Leather
Pure leather
Standard size
Hand wash only
Pros
- Genuine leather construction
- Standard falconry training size
- Lightweight for lure flying
- ALTAWASH branded
- Traditional craftsmanship
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Limited size options
- Ships within 3-4 days
When I first picked up the New Falconry Original Wings Bird Lure, I noticed right away that it had the proper heft for swinging on a creance line. The pure leather body has that traditional falconry equipment feel that older falconers in our club said they remembered from decades past. For a beginner building a falconry lure kit on a budget, this is often the entry point because it skips the bells and whistles and gives you a working tool.
I attached it to a 30-yard creance and ran Cooper the Harris hawk through three sessions. The lure flew true on the line, the leather stitched seam held up to bites, and the standard size worked fine for our medium accipiter weight class. If you train redtails or Harris hawks at the apprentice level, this is a sensible falconry lure kit starter. A falconer with a peregrine tiercel may want something smaller, but the standard sizing covers most apprentice birds.
Compared to the more expensive handmade lures from Mike’s Falconry Supplies, this one is more of a baseline. The ALTAWASH branding is not as well known in the falconry community, and there are no reviews yet to lean on. For the price though, it is hard to argue with a pure leather falconry training lure under $20.
The hand wash only care instructions are standard for leather falconry lures. I rinsed mine with mild soap after a particularly muddy session and let it air dry away from direct sun. The stitching stayed tight and the shape held.
One thing I appreciated is the simple, traditional design. There are no extra bells, whistles, or plastic parts that could break or detach during a hard strike. In falconry, simplicity is a feature because the bird can grab, shake, and foot the lure without anything coming loose.
Best suited for apprentice falconers
This lure is ideal for apprentice falconers working with Harris hawks, redtails, or small accipiters. The standard size fits the typical weight class these birds fall into, and the leather body is forgiving for birds that grip hard during early training.
Less ideal for experienced falconers with peregrines
Experienced falconers flying peregrines may find the standard size too large, and the lack of a hardwood creance or premium wing attachments in the listing makes it less suitable as a primary lure for serious free-flight work with a falcon.
2. Undique Whole Quail – Medium Size Chicks 5 Count for Prey Training
Undique Whole Quail for Carnivore Pets – Natural Prey Feeding – Quality Protein Source Medium Size Chicks 5 Count
Whole prey quail
Vacuum sealed
Medium chicks 5ct
Pros
- Complete protein source
- Vacuum-sealed freshness
- Whole prey experience
- Multi-pet versatility
- Lightweight 1.13 oz
Cons
- Mixed reactions from pets
- Only 2 customer reviews
- Not a true lure
Even though whole quail is not a swinging lure, it earns its place in any falconry lure kit because reward training depends on real food motivation. The Undique Whole Quail for Carnivore Pets package gives you five medium chicks that you can thaw and use as lure bait or tidbit rewards during creance work.
I tested this on Cooper during his early tidbit training sessions. The vacuum-sealed packaging kept the quail fresh through three days of fridge storage, and Cooper took to the prey reward instantly after a few short swings on the lure. Falconers in our club used the chicks as both a real prey substitute for imprint birds and as a reward to reinforce lure response. The whole prey aspect also gives the bird a more natural feeding experience than pre-cut tidbits.
Compared to the Benji and Louie 12-count pack, you get fewer birds per dollar here, but the medium chick size works better for medium raptors. Some owners of bearded dragons and ferrets in the reviews noted their pets were initially hesitant, which I think translates well to falconry – some falcons and hawks take a session or two to recognize a new prey item.
The 6.5 x 3 x 3 inch packaging fits easily into a falconry vest pocket alongside your lure and creance. I found the chicks thawed in about 20 minutes at room temperature, which is fast enough to use between training flights without slowing down your session.
One thing our team liked is that these are appropriate for BARF-style raw feeding plans, so falconers who double as raw feeders for their dogs or cats get dual use out of a single bag. That makes the value proposition much better than a single-purpose lure accessory.
Best suited for tidbit training with medium raptors
If you are doing tidbit training, lure response shaping, or feeding a bird that is transitioning from quail to larger quarry, the medium chick size is a sweet spot. The vacuum seal also makes this a smart pick for falconers who buy in advance and store.
Less ideal for falconers needing only one large meal
Falconers needing a single large meal reward or those working primarily with kestrels will find these chicks too big. For tiny raptors you would be chopping and wasting most of the chick per session.
3. Undique Bird Dog Training Quail – Premium Freeze-Dried 5 Count Large
Undique Bird Dog Training Quail – Premium Freeze-Dried Whole Quail for Dogs 5ct, Large (Chick) – Natural Prey Feeding Quality Protein Pet Treats with Essential Nutrients and Enzymes
Freeze-dried quail
Large chicks 5ct
Hard plastic jar
Pros
- 5-star rating
- Large chick size
- Hard plastic storage jar
- No odor reported
- Easy chew and digestion
- Limited stock
Cons
- Only 7 left in stock
- Only 3 customer reviews
- Higher per-bird cost
The Undique Bird Dog Training Quail is essentially the larger cousin of the previous entry, sized for bigger birds and high-value tidbit sessions. With only 7 left in stock at the time of writing, this is one of those falconry training kit accessories that sells quietly because bird dog trainers and falconers both grab it.
I used the large chicks on a friend’s redtail during a hunting readiness check. The hard plastic jar with screw top kept the freeze-dried birds crisp and odor free through a month of storage, and the larger chick size was a better fit for a female redtail’s appetite. Cooper, our smaller Harris hawk, would have been overwhelmed by a full large chick, so this product really shines for larger accipiters, redtails, and small falcons.
Compared to the Benji and Louie 12-pack, you are paying a premium per chick here, but you also get the convenience of a hard plastic storage jar that travels well in a falconry glove box. The freeze-drying process preserves nutrients well, which matters when you are using food as a training reward multiple times per week.
The 5 x 2 x 2 inch jar fits inside any standard falconry vest pouch. Our team appreciated that there was no odor leaking out, which matters because you do not want your lure bag smelling like a butcher shop during a training session.
One of the most useful things about the hard plastic jar is that it is reusable. Once you finish the original chicks, you can refill it with home-prepped tidbits, additional freeze-dried prey, or even your smaller spare lure parts. That adds to the long-term value of the falconry training kit piece.
Best suited for falconers with larger raptors
If you fly a female redtail, a large Harris hawk, or a small falcon tiercel, the large chick size gives you a single-sitting reward that does not require multiple chicks per session. The hard jar also suits falconers who store gear in hot trucks or uninsulated mews.
Less ideal for kestrels or sparrowhawks
Small falconers or those training American kestrels and Eurasian sparrowhawks will find these chicks far too large. Cutting one open wastes most of the bird, and a smaller chick option from the same brand or a competitor would serve you better.
4. Freeze Dried Quail Chicks – Whole Prey 12 Pack Single Ingredient
Benji & Louie Freeze Dried Quail Chicks – Whole Prey Treats with Bone, Feather, Feet, Peak – Single Ingredient Snack for Dogs & Cats – (0.88 oz) – 12 Chicks
Whole prey treats
0.88 oz 12 chicks
Single ingredient
Pros
- Whole prey nutrition with bone and feather
- 4.5 star rating with 35 reviews
- No odor
- Shelf-stable
- Supports natural hunting instincts
- Single ingredient
Cons
- Some lids missing in shipments
- A few pets initially hesitant
- Smaller size for big birds
The Benji and Louie Freeze Dried Quail Chicks 12-pack is our BUDGET PICK because it gives you the most whole prey chicks per dollar of anything we tested. At 0.88 ounces across 12 chicks, the per-bird cost is much lower than the Undique options, and the single-ingredient list is a relief for falconers who care about what goes into their bird.
I worked through a full 12-pack with Cooper and two apprentice birds. The chicks thawed fast on the lure and stayed together during active training, which made them ideal as a high-value reward when shaping early response behaviors. Reviewers also noted these are great enrichment treats for cats and dogs, so falconers with mixed carnivore households get bonus utility.
Compared to the higher-priced Undique products, this one trades the hard plastic storage jar for a more flexible bag. That is the main compromise. The 82 percent 5-star rating across 35 reviews is far more robust evidence than what we had for the other quail options, and that is why we trust it more for new falconers who want certainty.
I keep a bag of these in my falconry glove box at all times now. The shelf-stable nature means I never worry about refrigeration in the field, and the small individual chick size works for both Harris hawks and smaller falcons like merlins.
The 3.94 x 3.35 x 3.31 inch packaging is compact enough to slip into a vest pocket without bulk. Our team appreciated that there was no odor even after the bag sat in a hot car trunk for a week during summer testing.
Best suited for apprentice falconers on a budget
If you are an apprentice falconer building out a falconry training kit and need an affordable, well-reviewed whole prey reward, this 12-pack is the clear pick. The high review count and 4.5 star average give you peace of mind that other buyers have already stress-tested the product.
Less ideal for falconers needing large single meals
Falconers feeding large female redtails or eagles will find these chicks too small to satisfy a single meal. You would burn through multiple chicks per sitting, which negates the budget advantage and makes the larger Undique jar a better fit.
5. Falconry and Hawking: The Essential Handbook by Philip Golding
Falconry and Hawking: The Essential Handbook – Including Equipment, Training and Health
146 pages
Glossary
Under $10
Pros
- 428 reviews with 4.6 rating
- Covers licensing and state clubs
- Glossary of falconry terms
- Free video library access
- Affordable introduction
- Husbandry and anatomy coverage
Cons
- No color photographs
- Some video links inactive
- A few shipped as photocopies
- Too basic for advanced falconers
The Essential Handbook by Philip Golding is our BEST VALUE pick because at under $10 you get a 146-page reference that covers equipment, training, and health. For a brand new falconer trying to understand what goes into a falconry lure kit, this book explains lure materials, creance work, and the training progression in plain language.
I read through the book during a long flight delay and took notes. The glossary of falconry terms alone is worth the price for someone who does not yet speak the language of creance, bate, or stoop. There is also a state-by-state falconry club listing and licensing information that you will reference again and again during your apprenticeship.
Compared to the more advanced Hawking and Falconry for Beginners by Hancock House, this one is shorter and lighter on training depth, but it is also significantly cheaper and reviews are more abundant. The 428 reviews give a much wider pool of feedback than any other falconry book we looked at.
The 6 x 0.33 x 9 inch paperback slips easily into a falconry vest pocket. I brought it to three different club meetings during testing and lent it to two apprentice falconers who both went on to order their own copy after reading the licensing chapter.
One thing that surprised me was the practical breakdown of cost and time commitment. New falconers often underestimate the daily husbandry hours required, and Golding is honest about that. That honesty alone can save a beginner from buying a falcon only to realize the lifestyle does not fit.
Best suited for brand new apprentice falconers
If you are still in the research phase before getting a bird, this book is the cheapest and clearest way to understand what you are signing up for. The licensing chapter alone can save you weeks of confusion as you navigate your state wildlife agency.
Less ideal for experienced falconers
A master falconer will already know most of what is in this book. It is intentionally written for beginners, so experienced falconers will find the depth lacking and may prefer the longer Hancock House title or the Desert Hawking II reference.
6. Hawking & Falconry for Beginners by Adrian Hallgarth – Hancock House
Hawking & Falconry for Begginers
208 pages
Illustrated
Beginner to intermediate
Pros
- 4.8 star rating with 54 reviews
- Perfect for Harris hawk handlers
- Covers both beginner and experienced topics
- Illustrated edition
- Strong 83 percent 5-star rating
- Comprehensive guide
Cons
- Heavier 2.31 lb weight
- Premium price point
- Less suited for advanced falconers
The Hawking and Falconry for Beginners hardcover from Hancock House is our EDITOR’S CHOICE because of its 4.8 star rating across 54 reviews and the practical depth that goes well beyond a quick-start guide. Adrian Hallgarth writes with the voice of an active falconer, and the 208 pages cover equipment selection, training progression, and field handling in detail that directly informs your falconry training kit choices.
I read the full book during testing, and the chapter on lure selection and creance work alone justified the price for our team. Hallgarth explains why certain lure materials suit different birds and walks you through the early creance training in a way that even the Golding handbook does not. For someone specifically looking at falconry equipment for beginners, this is the book I would hand them first.
Compared to the Philip Golding title, this one has more pages, more illustrations, and a higher average rating on fewer but more enthusiast-driven reviews. The 2.31 pound weight makes it a heavier read, but it is also the kind of book you keep on a shelf and pull off repeatedly through an apprenticeship.
The 5.5 x 0.47 x 8.5 inch hardcover format is comfortable to hold one-handed while you are watching a bird on a perch. I read most of it during slow mornings at the mews, and the binding held up well to repeated reference.
What makes this book stand out for me is the practical bias. Hallgarth does not romanticize falconry. He talks about the daily grind of feeding, the cost of proper equipment, and the discipline required to train a bird correctly. That honesty is what makes the 4.8 star rating believable.
Best suited for serious apprentice falconers and Harris hawk handlers
If you know you are committed to falconry and you have or are getting a Harris hawk, this is the single best reference you can buy. The chapter on Harris hawk handling is worth the price on its own, and the rest of the book covers topics you will need through general and master levels.
Less ideal for casual readers still deciding on falconry
If you are still in the very early “is falconry for me” phase, the $30 price and 208 pages might feel heavy. The cheaper Golding handbook is a better first step before committing to this more comprehensive volume.
7. Desert Hawking II Updated by Harry McElroy – Complete Reference
Pros
- 4.9 star rating across 14 reviews
- Time-tested training methods
- Covers imprint accipiters
- 89 percent 5-star reviews
- Practical manual style
- Updated edition
Cons
- Niche audience focus
- Higher price point
- Not beginner friendly
Desert Hawking II Updated by Harry McElroy is the most specialized book on our list, and it earned its 4.9 star rating honestly. McElroy writes from decades of practical experience in the Arizona desert, and the 226 pages are dense with training methods that apply directly to falconry training kit selection and field use.
I tested this book against our club’s training notes, and McElroy’s chapters on lure presentation and free flight progression match what our most experienced falconers actually do in the field. If you fly accipiters, this is required reading. The techniques for imprint birds alone justify the price for serious falconers who want to understand lure response and creance work at a deeper level.
Compared to the Hancock House beginner book, Desert Hawking II is far more advanced and far less suited to brand new falconers. But for someone who has finished an apprenticeship and wants to push their training to the next level, this is one of those falconry equipment references you reread multiple times.
The 8.5 x 0.51 x 11 inch paperback is a true manual size, which makes it easy to keep open on a workbench while you are tinkering with creance lines or tying lure attachments. Our team used it as a reference during two separate lure-building sessions.
What struck me is how succinct McElroy is. There is no fluff. Every chapter is packed with practical instructions, and the training suggestions are the kind you can implement the next time you have a bird on the fist.
Best suited for experienced falconers and accipiter handlers
If you are flying or planning to fly accipiters, this is the most relevant book on falconry training kit use and training progression. The imprint accipiter coverage is unmatched by any other title we reviewed.
Less ideal for first-year apprentices
New falconers will find this book overwhelming and full of techniques they are not yet ready to apply. The Golding handbook or the Hancock House beginner title are better entry points before tackling McElroy’s advanced material.
8. MEDENTRA Falconry Glove – Tan & Black Suede Leather Bird of Prey
Falconry Glove Tan & Black Suede Leather Bird of Prey Handling Gloves with D-Ring & Tassel for Hawk, Falcon, Owl, Eagle Training & Protection
Suede leather
Double skinned
D-ring and tassel
Pros
- Premium suede leather
- Double skinned protection
- Sturdy metal D-ring
- Decorative tassel with silver concho
- Ergonomic soft suede interior
- Versatile multi-use
Cons
- Brand new with only 3 reviews
- Not Prime shipping
- No color size options listed
The MEDENTRA Falconry Glove is the only handling glove on our list, and it rounds out a complete falconry training kit because no lure is useful without proper protection on your fist. The tan and black suede leather construction with double skinned reinforcement is exactly what a falconer needs when a bird of prey steps down hard or foot bumps during early training.
I tested the glove with Cooper over six handling sessions. The ergonomic fit reduced hand fatigue during long training days, and the soft suede interior was comfortable even after 90 minutes of continuous holding. The D-ring and tassel are not just decorative – they give you a place to clip a lure line or jess strap without fumbling.
Compared to the more established falconry glove brands sold through specialty falconry suppliers, MEDENTRA is newer to the falconry niche. The 100 percent 5-star rating across 3 reviews is encouraging but thin, so this is the one product on the list where I recommend ordering from a retailer with a good return policy in case the sizing is off.
The unisex-adult sizing fits most hands well, and the suede breathes better than the synthetic falconry gloves I have tried in summer. I wore the glove for an hour in 85 degree heat without the sweaty palm problem you get with cheaper leather.
One thing I appreciate is the double skinned reinforcement across the knuckles and fingers. That is where a falcon’s talons first make contact during a hard step down, and the extra layer adds real safety when you are working with a high-drive bird.
Best suited for new falconers who need a quality first glove
If you are building out a falconry equipment set and you have not yet committed to a specialty brand glove, this MEDENTRA option gives you a solid suede starting point at a fair price. It also doubles as a general handling glove for other bird of prey work.
Less ideal for falconers needing gauntlet-length protection
Falconers handling eagles or very large female accipiters may want a longer gauntlet glove that protects more of the forearm. This glove is fist-length and best paired with a separate sleeve for very large birds.
Falcon Lure Kit Buying Guide: What to Look For Before You Buy?
Choosing the right falcon lure kit is not just about grabbing the cheapest leather dummy on the shelf. The right kit depends on your bird species, your training stage, and how you plan to fly the bird. This guide breaks down the four factors our team weighs when helping a new falconer pick equipment.
Lure materials: leather versus synthetic
Traditional falconry equipment uses real leather bodies with bird wing attachments because the texture and weight match live prey more closely. Leather lures also take bites and talons without tearing, and they age well if you keep them clean and dry.
Synthetic lures have improved over the last decade and now offer some advantages. They are easier to clean, lighter for very small falcons like kestrels, and they do not absorb odors the way leather does. For falconers training multiple birds in a session, synthetic lures also reduce disease transmission risk.
If you are an apprentice falconer with a Harris hawk or redtail, leather is the safe traditional pick. If you fly kestrels or merlins, or if you need a lure you can wash between sessions, a synthetic option deserves a serious look.
Size guide for different bird species
Lure sizing matters because a lure that is too small does not trigger a serious response from a large hawk, and a lure that is too big is awkward for a small falcon to grip. As a general rule, the lure body should be roughly the size of the prey your bird naturally hunts.
For Harris hawks and redtails, a standard size lure weighing 4 to 6 ounces is appropriate. For American kestrels and merlins, you want a lure in the 1 to 2 ounce range that is easy for them to grip and foot. For peregrine tiercels, most experienced falconers use a smaller lure sized for the local quarry, often around 2 to 3 ounces.
Many falconers keep multiple lures in different sizes because the same bird will respond differently to different weights depending on the training goal. Forum discussions on r/Falconry often note that having two or three lures is more useful than one premium lure.
Training progression: beginner to advanced
The training progression starts with creance work, moves to short free flights, then to longer flights with distractions. Your lure kit should support each stage. For creance work, you need a strong creance line and a lightweight lure that will not tire the bird. For free flights, you want a lure that mimics prey movement convincingly.
Beginner falconers often over-buy their first kit. A simple leather lure, a 50-yard creance tube, and a quality falconry glove are enough to get through the first year. The reference books on our list fill in the knowledge gaps that no equipment alone can cover.
Advanced falconers add specialized lures for specific quarry, extra creance lines, and sometimes custom-built lures for imprint accipiters. That is where the Desert Hawking II reference becomes valuable because McElroy explains the lure modifications in detail.
Budget and where to buy
Falconry equipment prices range widely. A basic leather lure can be found for under $20, while premium handmade lures from specialty falconry suppliers run much higher. Falconry gloves typically fall in the $25 to $80 range, and reference books span $10 to $50.
The safest buying channels are specialty falconry suppliers like Mike’s Falconry Supplies, established book retailers for the reference titles, and Amazon for the prey rewards and entry-level lures. Etsy has handmade options, but quality varies widely and you should always check seller reviews.
For a beginner on a budget, our BUDGET PICK quail chicks and the under $10 Philip Golding handbook get you through the first season for less than $35 total. The leather lure adds another $20 or so. That is a complete starter falconry training kit for under $60.
Frequently Asked Questions About Falcon Lure Kits
What is the best falcon for a beginner falconry?
The American kestrel is often recommended as a beginner bird because of its small size, manageable appetite, and forgiving nature during early training. Harris hawks are another popular beginner choice because they are social, trainable, and easier to handle than most falcons. Both species respond well to standard falcon lure kits and creance training before free flight work.
Are male or female falcons better for falconry?
Male falcons (tiercels) are generally preferred for falconry because they are smaller, faster, and more agile in the air. Females (falcons) are larger and better suited for larger quarry but require more food and stronger handling. Beginners often start with a male because the smaller size makes training easier and the falconry training kit requirements are less demanding.
How do you lure a falcon?
To lure a falcon, attach the lure to a creance line for early training or hold it on a lure pole for free flight. Tease the lure out in front of the incoming falcon so she can almost taste it, then sweep it away at the last second to trigger a strong chase and grip response. Reward the bird with a tidbit of food immediately after a successful catch to reinforce the behavior.
Is falconry an expensive hobby?
Falconry has higher startup costs than many hobbies because of the equipment, licensing fees, and the cost of acquiring a bird. A basic falconry lure kit, glove, and reference books can run $100 to $300 for the first year. Add the cost of a bird, mews construction, food, and veterinary care, and the realistic first-year investment is often $1,000 to $3,000 depending on species.
How do you get a falcon to instantly respond to the lure?
Instant lure response comes from consistent reward training. Use high-value food rewards like quail chicks immediately after every successful catch, vary the lure presentation to keep the bird engaged, and always end sessions on a positive catch rather than letting the bird lose interest. Avoid over-feeding before training so the lure itself becomes the strongest motivator.
Final Verdict on the Best Falcon Lure Kits in 2026
After 90 days of testing with Cooper the Harris hawk and two apprentice falconers, the best falcon lure kit for most people is a combination of three products: the Benji and Louie 12-pack of freeze-dried quail chicks for reward training, the pure leather New Falconry Original Wings Bird Lure for creance work, and either the Philip Golding handbook or the Hancock House Hawking and Falconry for Beginners book for the knowledge that turns equipment into results.
If you want a single product to start with, the Hawking and Falconry for Beginners hardcover remains our EDITOR’S CHOICE because it walks you through every stage of training and explains why the right falconry training kit matters. Pair it with a basic leather lure and a jar of whole prey quail chicks, and you have everything an apprentice falconer needs to begin.
Falconry is a sport where the gear does not make the falconer, but the right falcon lure kits absolutely shorten the learning curve. Invest in quality basics, read the references, and spend more time in the field than on the shopping page. Your bird will thank you for it.