The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green Made a Bold First Impression
The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green isn’t just another duck call; it’s a statement. Crafted by Zink Calls™, this call promises the legendary sound quality the brand is known for, but at a price that won’t break the bank. It aims to be the entry point for novice callers without sacrificing the performance seasoned hunters demand.
My quest for a reliable and affordable backup call led me to the Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green. I needed a call that could withstand the rigors of the marsh, wouldn’t be a heartbreaker if lost, and most importantly, could still bring ducks to my spread. The polycarbonate construction and promise of an “easy blow” system piqued my interest.
Unboxing the call revealed a simple, functional design. The Mallard Green color is a subtle nod to the quarry it’s designed to attract. The call felt surprisingly lightweight, a characteristic I appreciated, considering long calling sessions can be tiring.
Compared to my high-end acrylic calls (a Primos and a custom call), the Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green felt different, but not necessarily inferior. I chose this Zink call over other budget options due to the reputation of Zink Calls™ and the promise of an “easy blow” system; I was hoping it’d be beginner-friendly for my nephew, who’s just starting out. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t the visual masterpiece of my custom calls, but it felt solid, and I was eager to hear its voice.
Real-World Testing: Putting Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green was on a cold, drizzly morning in a flooded timber area. The conditions were less than ideal, but the ducks were flying. I was hunting with my usual crew, and we were hoping for a good flight.
The “easy blow” system proved to be more than just marketing hype. Even with the call wet and my lips numb from the cold, producing a convincing hen mallard sound was surprisingly simple. The ducks responded positively, swinging wide to investigate our spread. There were no initial issues, just effective calling that brought birds into range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green has held up remarkably well. There are no cracks, chips, or signs of significant wear, despite being subjected to mud, rain, and the occasional accidental drop. The call is easy to disassemble and clean, requiring only a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down with a cloth.
Compared to my experience with some other polycarbonate calls, this Zink offering is far superior in terms of durability and sound consistency. It hasn’t replaced my acrylic calls as my primary go-to, but it has earned a permanent spot in my gear bag as a reliable backup and a great option for introducing new hunters to the art of calling. It consistently delivers a convincing mallard hen sound without requiring a lot of air pressure or advanced calling techniques.
Breaking Down the Features of Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green
Specifications
- Material: The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green is constructed from durable polycarbonate. This material offers excellent impact resistance and is less prone to cracking or breaking compared to acrylic, especially in cold weather.
- Sound System: It boasts an “easy blow” sound system. This system is designed to require less air pressure to produce a realistic mallard hen sound, making it ideal for beginners and those with limited lung capacity.
- Color: The Mallard Green color provides a subtle, natural aesthetic. The color blends in well with typical hunting environments.
- Design: The call is molded after Zink Calls™ custom acrylic namesakes. This design is intended to replicate the sound quality of more expensive acrylic calls while maintaining affordability.
These specifications are critical for the call’s performance. The polycarbonate body ensures durability in harsh conditions. The “easy blow” system increases usability for hunters of all skill levels.
Performance & Functionality
The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green performs its job admirably. It produces a convincing range of mallard hen sounds, from soft feeding chuckles to loud, attention-grabbing comeback calls. Its strengths lie in its ease of use and consistent sound production; even a novice caller can produce realistic sounds with minimal practice.
The call could benefit from a slightly more refined tone board for enhanced sound versatility. It excels at basic mallard hen sounds but lacks the subtle nuances of higher-end calls. However, for its intended purpose and price point, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is surprisingly good for a polycarbonate call. The material feels solid and well-molded, with no noticeable imperfections. The call’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
The call is exceptionally user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve; even someone who’s never blown a duck call before can quickly produce recognizable mallard hen sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The polycarbonate construction suggests excellent long-term durability. The call should withstand years of regular use and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is straightforward; a simple rinse with water and a wipe-down is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no readily available customization options for this model. While not customizable like some higher-end calls, its simplicity is part of its appeal.
Pros and Cons of Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green
Pros
- Ease of Use: The “easy blow” system makes it ideal for beginners. Even novice callers can quickly produce realistic mallard hen sounds.
- Durability: The polycarbonate construction can withstand harsh hunting conditions. It is resistant to cracking, chipping, and other forms of damage.
- Affordability: Priced at $17.99, it offers exceptional value. It provides a high level of performance without breaking the bank.
- Realistic Sound: Despite its affordability, it produces a convincing mallard hen sound. Ducks respond well to its calls.
- Lightweight Design: It is comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. It reduces fatigue during long calling sessions.
Cons
- Limited Sound Versatility: It lacks the subtle nuances of higher-end acrylic calls. Advanced callers may find it somewhat limiting.
- No Customization Options: There are no readily available customization options. This may disappoint those looking for a personalized call.
Who Should Buy Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green?
The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green is perfect for beginner duck hunters, youth hunters, and anyone looking for an affordable and reliable backup call. It’s also an excellent choice for seasoned hunters who want a durable call that can withstand the rigors of the marsh without costing a fortune. Those seeking the ultimate in sound versatility or looking for a highly customizable call should consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a lanyard to keep the call secure and readily accessible.
Conclusion on Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green
The Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green is a surprisingly capable and affordable duck call. Its “easy blow” system, durable construction, and realistic sound make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced hunters alike. The price is definitely justified by the performance and build quality.
I would personally recommend the Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable duck call. It’s a fantastic value, easy to use, and performs well in the field. So, ditch the excuses, grab a Zink Power Hen PH-2 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Mallard Green, and get ready to bring those ducks into your spread!