Let’s Talk About ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber
The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber is a duck call designed for hunters who need to reach out and touch those high-flying mallards, while also possessing the finesse to coax them in close with soft, nasally tones. Echo Calls has built a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable calls, and this one, crafted from beautiful Bocote wood, certainly aims to continue that legacy. The “Breaker” promises extra punch for long-range calling, alongside the ability to produce soft, realistic timber sounds.
My journey to finding the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber began with a frustrating season of watching ducks flare just outside my effective calling range. I needed a call that could cut through the wind and reach those birds, but without sacrificing the subtle realism necessary for finishing them in the timber. The Bocote wood promised not only aesthetic appeal but also potentially unique sound characteristics.
Unboxing the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber was a pleasing experience. The Bocote wood is gorgeous, showcasing a rich, swirling grain pattern that speaks to quality craftsmanship. The call feels solid and well-balanced in hand, not too heavy, but substantial enough to inspire confidence.
Compared to my previous acrylic call (a loud, open-water model) and a double-reed poly call I use in close, the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber felt like a deliberate attempt at versatility. I chose it specifically because of the manufacturer’s claim that it could handle both long-range and close-range calling scenarios. Other calls either focused on volume or finesse, but rarely both.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a hint of apprehension. The call looked beautiful, but I was eager (and slightly nervous) to see if it could live up to the hype in the field. This was an investment, and I wanted it to pay off in a filled game bag.
Real-World Testing: Putting ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber came on a late-season hunt in flooded timber. Conditions were challenging: a biting wind and intermittent rain made for tough hunting. The ducks were call-shy, having been pressured for weeks.
Initially, I was impressed with the call’s ability to project its sound. Even in the wind, my hail calls seemed to reach further than with my previous timber call. I managed to turn a flock of mallards that were skirting the edge of the timber, bringing them in for a closer look.
However, I noticed a slight learning curve in achieving the soft, nasally sounds described. It took a bit of practice to get the right back pressure and tongue placement to produce those subtle quacks and feeding chuckles. The call required a lighter touch than I initially anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber has become a staple in my lanyard. It has proven to be remarkably reliable, even in fluctuating temperatures and humidity. The call hasn’t stuck or frozen up, a common issue with some calls I’ve used in the past.
The Bocote wood has held up well to the rigors of the field, showing no signs of cracking or warping. A simple wipe-down after each hunt is all the maintenance it requires. I’ve also used a bit of cork grease on the reed to ensure optimal performance.
Compared to my old poly call, the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber offers a noticeably richer, more natural sound. It definitely outperforms my previous call in terms of versatility, handling both long-range and close-range situations with aplomb. It may have taken me a little while to master the subtle sounds, but it was worth the effort.
Breaking Down the Features of ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Echo Calls
- Material: Bocote Wood
- Reed Type: Single Reed
- Species: Duck
- Color: Brown
The single-reed design contributes to the call’s versatility, allowing for a wide range of tones and volumes. Bocote wood is known for its density and attractive grain patterns, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal. The Echo Calls commitment to producing calls specifically for ducks is also important to the value.
Performance & Functionality
The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber performs admirably as a versatile duck call. It truly shines in its ability to transition seamlessly between loud, attention-grabbing hail calls and soft, intimate timber talk. The call’s responsiveness allows for nuanced control over volume and tone, enabling realistic and effective calling sequences.
The primary strength lies in its versatility. It effectively bridges the gap between open-water and timber hunting scenarios. The only area for potential improvement would be clearer instructions or online resources for mastering the subtler timber sounds.
The call definitely meets my expectations, particularly in its ability to reach out to distant birds. With practice it exceeded my expectations as I was able to also entice ducks within mere yards of my location.
Design & Ergonomics
The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber boasts excellent build quality. The Bocote wood feels solid and comfortable in hand. The weight is well-balanced, allowing for comfortable and effortless use during extended hunts.
The call is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the subtle timber sounds requires some practice. The learning curve is manageable, and the responsiveness of the call makes it a pleasure to use once you get the hang of it. The design is also easy to clean.
Durability & Maintenance
The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber, crafted from dense Bocote wood, is built to last. With proper care, it should withstand years of use in the field. Periodic cleaning and occasional reed adjustments are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down after each hunt and occasional lubrication of the reed are sufficient. With proper care, this call should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber does not come with any specific accessories. However, aftermarket lanyards are readily available for convenient carrying. The reed is replaceable, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences.
Because the call is a standard single reed design, replacement reeds from Echo Calls or other manufacturers can easily be used. While it’s primarily a standalone product, a good lanyard is practically a must-have accessory for any serious duck hunter.
Pros and Cons of ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber
Pros
- Versatile Sound Range: Capable of producing both loud, long-range hail calls and soft, realistic timber sounds.
- High-Quality Materials: Crafted from durable and beautiful Bocote wood.
- Reliable Performance: Consistent and responsive, even in challenging weather conditions.
- Ease of Maintenance: Simple cleaning and occasional reed adjustments are all that’s needed.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The unique grain pattern of Bocote wood makes each call visually appealing.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the subtle timber sounds requires some practice.
- Price Point: Slightly more expensive than some mass-produced plastic calls.
Who Should Buy ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber?
The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber is perfect for duck hunters who hunt in a variety of environments, from open water to flooded timber. It’s also a great choice for hunters who appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of a handcrafted wooden call. Experienced hunters who want a versatile and reliable call that can handle a wide range of calling situations will find it invaluable.
This product might not be ideal for absolute beginners who are just learning to use a duck call. The slightly steeper learning curve for mastering the subtler sounds might be frustrating for novices. Hunters on a very tight budget might also find the price a bit prohibitive.
A high-quality lanyard is a must-have accessory. Reed replacement kits are also a good idea to have on hand for quick repairs in the field.
Conclusion on ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber
Overall, the ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber is an outstanding duck call that delivers on its promise of versatility and performance. The price is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the wide range of sounds it can produce. It’s a call that grows with the hunter’s skill.
I would highly recommend this call to any serious duck hunter looking to upgrade their calling arsenal. The ECHO CALLS, INC 78913 Breaker Ducks Single Reed Bocote Timber is more than just a tool; it’s an investment in your hunting success. Add this call to your lanyard and get ready to bring those high-flyers down!