Let’s Dive into Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood duck call promises a versatile sound profile, bridging the gap between open water carrying power and close-range finesse. Duck Commander, a brand synonymous with waterfowl hunting, aims to deliver a call that appeals to both seasoned pros and aspiring duck callers. My journey to this particular call began with a common frustration: finding one call that could truly do it all. I was tired of juggling multiple calls on my lanyard, each designed for a specific situation.
I remember one particularly frustrating morning last season. The wind was howling across the open water, and the mallards were circling high. My go-to open water call, a high-pitched acrylic, just wasn’t cutting through the wind effectively, and I watched bird after bird flare off. That’s when I started my quest for a call that could offer both volume and subtlety. The DCPROTW seemed to fit the bill, promising both piercing high notes and soft, raspy lows.
Unboxing the Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood was a pleasant surprise. The tigerwood barrel felt substantial in my hand, with a smooth, natural finish. The black anodized aluminum band added a touch of modern aesthetics to the classic wood design, and the clear poly insert seemed robust enough to withstand the rigors of a duck blind. Compared to some cheaper calls I’ve handled, this one felt like a step up in terms of materials and construction.
I also considered the Primos Original Wench and the Zink Calls ATM Green Machine before settling on the DCPROTW. The Wench, while effective, lacked the high-end volume I needed for open water. The ATM, although impressive in its versatility, was a bit too expensive for my budget at the time. The DCPROTW appeared to offer a good balance of features and affordability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The call looked and felt good, but the true test would be how it sounded in the field. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood came during a late-season hunt on a flooded timber impoundment. The weather was cold and damp, with a light drizzle falling throughout the morning. The ducks were wary, responding best to subtle calling.
The DCPROTW performed admirably in these conditions. I was able to produce soft, raspy feeding chuckles that coaxed several small flocks of mallards into range. The call’s double reed design allowed for easy manipulation of tone and volume, and I appreciated its responsiveness to subtle changes in air pressure. There were no initial issues, but the true test would be longer-term use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood has proven to be a reliable performer. The tigerwood barrel has held up well to exposure to moisture and temperature changes, showing no signs of cracking or warping. The reeds have maintained their tone and responsiveness, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply disassemble the call, rinse the reeds with water, and allow everything to air dry completely before reassembling. Compared to some acrylic calls that require frequent tuning, the DCPROTW has been remarkably low-maintenance. In comparison to other wood calls I’ve used, the DCPROTW maintains its tone far better over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood
Specifications
- The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood is a double-reed duck call designed for a wide range of calling situations. The double reed construction provides the user with a wider range of sounds, from high-pitched hails to soft, raspy finishing calls.
- The call features a tigerwood barrel, known for its density and tonal qualities. Tigerwood offers a distinct sound profile compared to acrylic or polycarbonate calls.
- A clear polycarbonate insert houses the reeds, protecting them from moisture and damage. This insert allows the call to be easily cleaned and reassembled.
- An anodized black aluminum band reinforces the joint between the barrel and insert. This also enhances the call’s durability and adds a touch of visual appeal.
- The DCPROTW is a mouth-blown call, requiring the user to provide the air and breath control to produce the desired sounds. This gives the caller more control over volume, tone, and cadence.
These specifications are critical to the call’s performance. The double reed design enables the versatile sound profile that Duck Commander advertises. The tigerwood barrel contributes to the call’s overall tone and durability, while the clear poly insert protects the reeds and facilitates cleaning.
Performance & Functionality
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood performs admirably in a variety of hunting scenarios. It’s capable of producing loud, attention-grabbing hail calls for attracting ducks from a distance. It is equally adept at creating soft, seductive finishing sounds that seal the deal when birds are close.
The call’s strengths lie in its versatility and ease of use. It requires minimal back pressure, making it easy to produce a wide range of sounds with minimal effort. One weakness is that, like most double-reed calls, it can be prone to sticking if not properly maintained. It meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood boasts a classic design that feels comfortable in the hand. The tigerwood barrel is smooth and contoured, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions. The call is lightweight and well-balanced, reducing fatigue during extended calling sessions.
The DCPROTW is user-friendly. The call is easy to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning.
Durability & Maintenance
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood is built to last. The tigerwood barrel is resistant to cracking and warping, and the clear poly insert protects the reeds from damage. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and occasional reed replacement, will ensure years of reliable performance.
Maintaining the call is simple. Disassembling the call, rinsing the reeds, and letting the components air dry takes only a few minutes.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood does not come with any specific accessories. However, the call can be customized with different reed combinations to alter its sound profile. The standard reeds are easily replaceable with aftermarket options, allowing users to fine-tune the call to their specific preferences.
Pros and Cons of Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood
Pros
- Versatile Sound Profile: Produces both loud hail calls and soft, raspy finishing sounds.
- Ease of Use: Requires minimal back pressure, making it easy to learn and master.
- Durable Construction: Features a tigerwood barrel and clear poly insert for long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to other high-end duck calls.
- Classic Design: Feels comfortable in the hand and looks great on a lanyard.
Cons
- Prone to sticking if not properly maintained.
- Limited customization options compared to acrylic calls.
Who Should Buy Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood?
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood is perfect for duck hunters of all skill levels. The call’s versatility and ease of use make it an excellent choice for beginners. Its durable construction and reliable performance also appeal to seasoned pros.
Those who prefer the sharp, crisp sound of acrylic calls may want to skip this product. Those who demand extensive customization options may also want to look elsewhere. Must-have accessories include a lanyard and a reed replacement kit.
Conclusion on Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood
The Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood is a well-rounded duck call that offers excellent value for the money. Its versatile sound profile, durable construction, and ease of use make it a solid choice for hunters of all skill levels. The price is certainly justified given the performance and reliability it provides.
I would personally recommend the DCPROTW to anyone looking for a versatile and affordable duck call. It has earned a permanent spot on my lanyard. If you’re looking to upgrade your calling game without breaking the bank, give the Duck Commander DCPROTW Pro Series Tigerwood a try. You won’t be disappointed.
