Let’s Talk About ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic call isn’t just another duck call; it’s a promise. A promise of loud, raspy tones that cut through the wind and timber, bringing ducks in close. Made by Echo Calls, a brand synonymous with quality and craftsmanship, this single-reed acrylic call in a stealthy black matte finish, is designed for serious duck hunters.
I’ve been hunting waterfowl for over a decade, and finding the perfect call has always been a quest. I needed a call that could reach out across flooded fields and grab the attention of distant flocks. My existing calls were either too soft or lacked the aggressive tone needed for late-season pressured birds.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, the call arriving securely packaged. The immediate impression was one of quality; the acrylic felt dense and substantial in hand. The matte black finish gives it a tactical, almost menacing look.
Compared to my older polycarbonate calls, this Echo Calls acrylic model feels like a significant upgrade. I considered other acrylic calls from different manufacturers, but the reputation of Echo Calls and the specific description of the “Ace In The Hole” as loud and raspy swayed my decision. I wanted that extra reach and aggressive tone.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Could it really live up to the hype and outperform my existing calls in real-world hunting situations? The proof, as they say, would be in the calling.
Real-World Testing: Putting ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place on a frigid December morning in a flooded timber area. The air was thick with moisture, and the wind howled through the trees. These are tough conditions for any call, demanding both projection and clarity.
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic immediately impressed. It cut through the wind with ease, producing a loud, raspy quack that echoed through the timber. The ducks responded almost instantly, turning their course and heading straight for our decoys.
The call required a slight learning curve, as the single-reed design demanded more precise air control than my double-reed models. After a few minutes of practice, however, I was able to produce a wide range of sounds, from aggressive greeting calls to soft, enticing feeding chuckles. There were no immediate issues; the call performed flawlessly in the demanding conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of rigorous use, the ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic has proven its worth. It’s become my go-to call for open water and windy conditions. The durability is exceptional; despite being subjected to constant moisture, temperature fluctuations, and rough handling, the call shows no signs of wear and tear.
The acrylic has retained its finish and clarity, and the reed remains perfectly tuned. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with warm water after each hunt. This call far outperforms my previous experiences with cheaper calls, which often crack or lose their tone after a season or two. The quality and performance of the Ace In The Hole justifies the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Echo Calls is a well-respected name in the waterfowl hunting community, known for producing high-quality, handcrafted calls. Their reputation for innovation and attention to detail makes them a trusted brand among serious hunters.
- Color: The black matte finish offers a stealthy, non-reflective appearance that won’t spook wary birds. This is especially important in open water or clear sky conditions where a shiny call could give away your position.
- Fabric/Material: The acrylic construction provides superior sound quality, durability, and weather resistance compared to polycarbonate or wood. Acrylic’s density and consistency contribute to a richer, more resonant tone.
- Species: Designed specifically for ducks, the Ace In The Hole produces a range of calls that mimic the sounds of mallards and other common duck species. Its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of hunting situations.
Performance & Functionality
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic excels in reaching distant birds with its loud, raspy tone. The single-reed design allows for a wide range of vocalizations, from aggressive comeback calls to subtle feeding chuckles. The call’s responsiveness and ease of manipulation allow for nuanced calling sequences.
The main strength lies in its volume and reach. It can be heard across large bodies of water or windy fields. The call also requires a bit of practice to master. The call is responsive, but beginners might find the single-reed design more challenging than a double-reed.
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic has exceeded my expectations. Its versatility and performance have made it an invaluable tool in my waterfowl hunting arsenal.
Design & Ergonomics
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic is constructed from high-quality acrylic. It feels solid and well-balanced in hand. The weight is substantial enough to provide a sense of quality without being cumbersome.
The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold and operate, even with gloved hands. While the call requires some practice to master, the learning curve is manageable. Experienced callers will appreciate the responsiveness and control it offers.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its acrylic construction, the ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic is built to last. Acrylic is highly resistant to cracking, chipping, and fading, even in harsh weather conditions. With proper care, this call should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick rinse with warm water and occasional cleaning of the reed. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic does not come with any specific accessories. However, the call is compatible with standard lanyards, allowing you to keep it readily accessible.
While there are no specific customization options available directly from Echo Calls, you could potentially replace the reed with aftermarket options to fine-tune the sound. However, doing so may affect the call’s performance and void any warranty.
Pros and Cons of ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic
Pros
- Exceptional Volume & Reach: The Ace In The Hole cuts through wind and reaches distant flocks with ease.
- Versatile Sound: Produces a wide range of duck vocalizations, from aggressive hails to subtle feeding chuckles.
- Durable Acrylic Construction: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide years of reliable service.
- High-Quality Craftsmanship: Made by Echo Calls, a trusted brand known for attention to detail.
- Stealthy Matte Black Finish: The non-reflective finish won’t spook wary birds.
Cons
- Requires Practice:* The single-reed design demands more precise air control than double-reed calls.
- Price:* The acrylic construction makes it more expensive than polycarbonate alternatives.
Who Should Buy ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic?
Perfect for: Experienced duck hunters who need a loud, versatile call that can reach distant flocks in windy conditions. It is also ideal for those who appreciate high-quality craftsmanship and durable construction.
Who should skip this product? Beginners who are new to duck calling might find the single-reed design challenging to master. Also, hunters on a tight budget may want to consider less expensive polycarbonate options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality lanyard is essential for keeping the call readily accessible. Beyond that, no modifications are necessary. The call performs exceptionally well in its stock configuration.
Conclusion on ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic
The ECHO CALLS, INC 90022 Ace In The Hole Ducks Black Matte Single Reed Acrylic is a worthwhile investment for serious duck hunters. Its loud, raspy tone, versatile sound, and durable construction make it a top-performing call in demanding conditions. The price is justified by the quality of craftsmanship and the call’s ability to consistently bring ducks into range.
I personally recommend the Ace In The Hole to any hunter looking to upgrade their calling game. It’s a game-changer that will help you bag more birds and experience greater success in the field. So, gear up, get out there, and let the Ace In The Hole do its magic.