Let’s Dive into Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard
The Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard from Banded promises to be a comfortable and efficient way to carry your essential duck and goose calls. For a waterfowler, a reliable call lanyard isn’t just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of gear that ensures your calls are always accessible and ready. I’ve been chasing waterfowl for over a decade, and I’ve seen lanyards that tangle, break, and just generally fail at the worst possible moments.
I needed a lanyard that could withstand the harsh conditions of a duck blind: cold, rain, mud, and the constant wear and tear of calling. I was looking for something durable, comfortable for all day wear, and capable of holding multiple calls securely. I’ve used everything from paracord loops to elaborate braided lanyards, but I was hoping for something more streamlined and reliable.
My first impression of the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard upon unboxing was that it was well-made. The neoprene felt durable, and the fleece backing seemed like a welcome addition for those long, cold hunts. It felt lighter than my current paracord lanyard, and the easy attaching quick clips appeared to be sturdy.
I considered other options, like the Drake Waterfowl LST 4-Call Lanyard and the Avery Power Hunter Lanyard. I ultimately chose the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard because I liked the simplicity of the design and the promise of comfort with the fleece lining. I also appreciated that it held three calls, which is precisely the number I typically carry: a duck call, a goose call, and a pintail whistle.
I was cautiously optimistic. The initial feel was good, but I’ve been burned before by gear that looks great but falls apart in the field. I was eager to see if the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard could live up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard was on a late-season duck hunt in the flooded timber. The weather was brutal – a mix of sleet and freezing rain. I wore the lanyard all morning while calling in birds.
The lanyard performed remarkably well, even in the awful conditions. The neoprene exterior fabric repelled water effectively, and the fleece backing for neck comfort was a lifesaver against the biting wind. The calls were easily accessible thanks to the two call drops with easy attaching quick clips.
There was a slight learning curve getting used to the quick clips, as they were a bit stiff at first. But after a few uses, they became easier to operate, even with gloved hands. I didn’t experience any major issues and was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable it was, even after several hours.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the stitching remains intact. The neoprene exterior fabric has proven to be quite durable.
Cleaning the lanyard is simple: just rinse it with fresh water and let it air dry. The quick clips still function smoothly, and the fleece lining hasn’t matted down or become uncomfortable. I typically hunt 2-3 times a week during duck season, and the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard has been a constant companion.
Compared to my previous paracord lanyard, the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard is a clear upgrade in terms of comfort and weather resistance. The paracord tended to absorb water and become stiff, while the neoprene stays flexible and comfortable even when wet. It definitely outperforms in cold and wet environments.
Breaking Down the Features of Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard
Specifications
- The Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard features a neoprene exterior fabric. This material provides water resistance and durability, crucial for withstanding the elements in waterfowl hunting.
- It includes a fleece backing for neck comfort. This feature adds a layer of insulation and prevents chafing, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- The lanyard has two call drops with easy attaching quick clips. These clips securely hold your calls and allow for quick and easy access.
- The design is perfect for three calls. This is ideal for hunters who typically carry a duck call, a goose call, and a whistle or other specialty call.
- The Manufacturer is Banded, a well-known and respected brand in the waterfowl hunting industry. Banded is known for producing high-quality gear designed for the demands of waterfowling.
- The lanyard is available in Bottomland camo. This popular camo pattern provides excellent concealment in a variety of wetland environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard excels at its primary function: keeping your calls organized, accessible, and protected. The quick clips make it easy to swap out calls or detach them for cleaning. It is reliable in all weather conditions.
The lanyard’s main strength is its combination of comfort and durability. The fleece lining makes it comfortable to wear all day. The neoprene exterior ensures it can handle the rigors of the hunt.
One minor weakness is that the quick clips could be slightly easier to operate with very thick gloves. However, this is a minor issue that doesn’t significantly impact the lanyard’s overall performance. It meets and exceeds expectations for a lanyard in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard features a simple and functional design. The materials used are high-quality. It feels lightweight and comfortable around the neck.
The lanyard is user-friendly and requires no learning curve. The quick clips are intuitive to use, and the overall design is straightforward and efficient. The Bottomland camo is effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Durability & Maintenance
The neoprene exterior fabric and robust stitching suggest that the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard will last for many seasons. The materials are resistant to wear and tear. Regular cleaning with fresh water will help to prolong its lifespan.
The lanyard requires minimal maintenance. A quick rinse after each hunt is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The quick clips can be lubricated with a silicone-based spray if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard does not come with any additional accessories. The lanyard itself is not particularly customizable. The simplicity of its design makes it versatile and compatible with most standard duck and goose calls.
Many hunters add decorative or personalized beads to their lanyards, which can easily be done with this model.
Pros and Cons of Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard
Pros
- Comfortable fleece backing for all-day wear.
- Durable neoprene exterior that resists water and wear.
- Easy attaching quick clips for quick call changes.
- Perfect for three calls, providing ample space for essential calls.
- Affordable price makes it a great value for the quality.
Cons
- Quick clips can be slightly stiff with very thick gloves.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard?
The Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard is perfect for waterfowl hunters of all skill levels who are looking for a comfortable, durable, and reliable way to carry their calls. It’s especially well-suited for hunters who often hunt in cold and wet conditions due to the water-resistant neoprene and warm fleece lining. Hunters who prefer a simple, no-frills design will also appreciate this lanyard.
Hunters who require a large number of call drops or extensive customization options might want to consider other lanyards. If you are hunting in milder conditions only, cheaper options may suffice.
A must-have accessory is a good set of quality duck and goose calls to hang on the lanyard! Also consider a waterproof bag or case to protect your calls when they’re not in use.
Conclusion on Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard
Overall, the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard is a well-designed and functional piece of gear that offers excellent value for its price. The combination of comfort, durability, and ease of use makes it a worthwhile investment for any serious waterfowl hunter. It’s a far cry from those tangled messes of paracord I used to deal with!
At $43.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. It is a significant upgrade over cheaper, less durable lanyards.
I would definitely recommend the Banded Neoprene Call Lanyard to any waterfowl hunter looking for a reliable and comfortable way to carry their calls. Upgrade your hunting gear today and experience the difference a quality lanyard can make! You won’t be disappointed.
