The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE Made a Bold First Impression
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE from Haydel’s is marketed as a versatile predator call, designed to mimic a range of distress sounds to attract various predators. At a price point of $12.49, it promises an accessible entry point into predator calling, a discipline often requiring specialized and expensive equipment. I was eager to see if this compact call could truly deliver on its promise of versatility and effectiveness in the field.
What prompted my interest in the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE was a persistent problem on my property. Coyotes had become increasingly brazen, impacting the local deer population and even posing a threat to livestock. I needed a reliable and affordable solution for predator control, without breaking the bank on elaborate electronic calls.
Upon receiving the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE, my initial impression was one of compact simplicity. The call is small and lightweight, constructed of durable plastic. It feels solid in the hand, and the overall build quality inspires confidence that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Compared to other predator calls I’ve used, like the Primos Turbo Dogg electronic caller (expensive but feature-rich) and the Flextone Bone Collector call (limited to specific sounds), the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE seemed to offer a unique compromise. The promise of multiple sounds in a single, affordable package was definitely appealing. My first thought was, can this little thing actually sound convincing?
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The call felt well-made, and the concept was intriguing. I was excited to test its performance in the field and see if it could truly attract predators.
Real-World Testing: Putting HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE took place on my property in central Texas, a mix of dense brush and open fields, prime coyote habitat. I focused on calling in the early morning and late evening, when predators are most active. The weather was cool and crisp, with a slight breeze, conditions generally favorable for calling.
The performance was surprisingly effective. I started with a basic rabbit distress call, easily achieved by adjusting my hand position and air pressure. Within 15 minutes, I spotted movement on the edge of the field – a coyote cautiously approaching my location.
The ease of use was a definite plus. Unlike some calls that require a specific technique or a lot of practice, the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE was relatively intuitive to use from the start. However, mastering the different sounds took practice, but getting a decent rabbit distress call out of the box wasn’t an issue.
The only issue after the first use was learning to control the volume and pitch of the different sounds. Overblowing the call produced an unrealistic, high-pitched squeal that likely scared away more animals than it attracted! This required some fine-tuning and experimentation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, fading, or other damage, despite being exposed to dirt, rain, and varying temperatures. The plastic construction proves to be durable.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick rinse with water after each use is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The call’s simple design prevents the build-up of moisture or grime.
Compared to my previous experiences with electronic calls (which often require battery replacements and can be prone to malfunction), the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE offers a refreshingly simple and reliable solution. It consistently produces clear and convincing sounds, and its durability has exceeded my initial expectations. It’s a simple, reliable tool.
Breaking Down the Features of HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE
Specifications
- The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE is a mouth-blown predator call designed to produce a variety of distress sounds. This design allows hunters to mimic the sounds of prey animals, such as rabbits, rodents, and birds, to attract predators.
- It’s made from durable, molded plastic, making it lightweight and weather-resistant. The plastic body ensures longevity even in harsh outdoor conditions.
- It retails for $12.49, positioning it as an affordable option for both novice and experienced hunters. The low price makes it an accessible tool for predator control.
- The call is compact and easy to carry, measuring approximately 4 inches in length and weighing less than an ounce. Its small size allows for convenient storage in a pocket or hunting pack.
- It produces a range of sounds, including rabbit distress, coyote howls, and rodent squeaks, by varying hand position and air pressure. This versatility allows hunters to adapt their calling strategy based on the specific predators they are targeting.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s usability, versatility, and overall effectiveness in the field. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of hunting, while the range of sounds allows hunters to target multiple species. The affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
Performance & Functionality
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE performs its job admirably, delivering a convincing range of distress sounds that attract predators. The ability to mimic different prey animals is a significant advantage in varying hunting scenarios. I was able to call in coyotes, foxes, and even bobcats using different sound combinations.
The strength of the call lies in its versatility and simplicity. Its weakness is that mastering the different sounds requires practice and a good ear. You can’t expect to sound like a pro caller right away!
It meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations. For the price, the performance is exceptional. It doesn’t have the range or volume of an electronic caller, but it’s far more portable and reliable.
Design & Ergonomics
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE features a simple, functional design. The molded plastic construction is durable and lightweight. It is comfortable to hold and easy to manipulate.
The call is user-friendly, requiring minimal setup or adjustment. There is a slight learning curve to master the different sounds, but the basic rabbit distress call is easy to produce. Some YouTube tutorials can really help shorten that learning curve!
Durability & Maintenance
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE is built to last. The durable plastic construction can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It should easily last for several hunting seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick rinse with water and occasional cleaning with mild soap are sufficient to keep it in good working order. No special tools or cleaning products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. Its value is in its simplicity and affordability. However, a lanyard is useful to keep it accessible and prevent loss in the field. Any standard call lanyard will work.
It is not designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands. It is a self-contained, standalone product.
Pros and Cons of HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to hunters of all budgets.
- Versatile sound range allows users to mimic various prey animals to attract different predators.
- Durable construction ensures longevity and reliability in harsh outdoor conditions.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and store.
- Relatively easy to learn and use, even for novice callers.
Cons
- Mastering the full range of sounds requires practice.
- The volume is limited compared to electronic callers.
Who Should Buy HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE?
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, beginners looking to get into predator calling, and experienced hunters who want a reliable backup call. It is also ideal for anyone who values simplicity and portability.
Anyone looking for the advanced features and volume of an electronic caller should skip this product. Similarly, those who are unwilling to invest the time and effort required to master the different sounds may be disappointed.
A must-have accessory is a simple lanyard to keep the call readily accessible and prevent loss.
Conclusion on HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE
The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE is a surprisingly effective and versatile predator call at an incredibly affordable price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive electronic callers, it delivers excellent performance for the money. Its durable construction, ease of use, and range of sounds make it a valuable tool for any hunter looking to control predator populations.
The price is more than justified. The HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE offers exceptional value for its cost.
I would personally recommend the HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable predator call. If you’re serious about predator hunting, grab a HAYDEL’S CALL ULTIMATE and start practicing! You might be surprised at what you can attract.