The Speck Made a Bold First Impression
The Speck by Speck (apparently!), is billed as a very easy-blowing speckle-belly call tuned slightly higher for increased range on two-note yodels. It also boasts quick response for rapid yodeling and easy clucking for close-in work. Coming in at $17.99, the promise is a lot of goose-calling capability in a small, affordable package.
My quest for the Speck started with a very specific problem: I needed a reliable, easy-to-use speckle-belly call for hunting waterfowl in pressured areas. I’ve tried numerous calls over the years, some costing hundreds of dollars, but I’ve found that sometimes, the simplest tools are the most effective. The Speck’s straightforward design and focus on ease of use really caught my attention.
Upon receiving the Speck, the first thing I noticed was its vibrant teal blue color (SP-04 TEAL BLUE). The plastic felt sturdy enough for its intended purpose, though not exactly premium. The double “O” rings gave me confidence in its airtight seal, and the included lanyard was a nice touch, saving me the hassle of adding my own right away.
Compared to my more expensive calls (a custom acrylic call and a mass-produced polycarbonate model), the Speck felt noticeably lighter and less refined. However, those calls are targeted towards experienced callers. I picked the Speck specifically for its advertised ease of use, hoping it would be a solid option for introducing less experienced hunters to the art of speckle-belly calling.
My first impression was a cautiously optimistic surprise. While the materials weren’t top-of-the-line, the call felt well-constructed. The promise of easy blowing and responsiveness intrigued me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Speck to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Speck out to a local waterfowl hunting area known for holding decent numbers of speckle-belly geese. The conditions were less than ideal: damp, with a light but persistent drizzle and a moderate wind. I wanted to see how well it would perform in conditions where more expensive calls sometimes falter due to moisture.
Initially, I struggled a bit to get the exact tone I was looking for. The higher pitch, while potentially beneficial for range, required a slightly different blowing technique than my usual calls. However, after about 15 minutes of practice, I started to get the hang of it and was able to produce convincing two-note yodels and clucks.
The biggest surprise was how well the Speck cut through the wind. Its higher pitch seemed to carry farther than I expected, and I was able to get the attention of a small flock of geese that were circling at a considerable distance. I had no issues with moisture build-up affecting sound quality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple hunts in varying weather conditions, the Speck has held up surprisingly well. There are no cracks or signs of stress on the plastic body. The “O” rings continue to maintain a tight seal.
The finish has started to show a few minor scratches from being carried in my vest, but that’s purely cosmetic. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with water and a gentle drying with a cloth. Maintenance is very easy.
Compared to some of my previous calls, the Speck is a workhorse in terms of reliability, especially considering its price point. It consistently produces clear, crisp sounds, even in less-than-ideal conditions. It certainly outperformed my expectations for a budget-friendly call.
Breaking Down the Features of Speck
Specifications
- The Speck is a short-reed speckle-belly goose call. It is designed for ease of use.
- The call is tuned to a slightly higher pitch. This allows for increased range on two-note yodels.
- It features double “O” rings for an airtight seal. The durable plastic construction is teal blue in color.
- A lanyard is included for convenient carry. The retail price is $17.99.
These specifications are crucial for a speckle-belly call because they directly impact its effectiveness in attracting geese. The higher pitch, for example, could be the difference between reaching distant birds or having your calls drowned out by wind or other noise.
Performance & Functionality
The Speck excels at producing realistic speckle-belly goose sounds with minimal effort. Its responsiveness allows for quick transitions between different calls, such as yodels and clucks. This is essential for mimicking the natural vocalizations of geese.
The higher pitch is both a strength and a potential weakness. While it increases range, it may require some practice to master, especially for those accustomed to lower-pitched calls. Overall, the Speck meets its promise of being easy to use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Speck’s simple design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The plastic body is lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
There is a slight learning curve to mastering the call’s unique pitch and responsiveness, but it’s generally user-friendly. The included lanyard is a practical addition that enhances its usability in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The Speck’s plastic construction is durable enough to withstand the rigors of regular hunting. Its simple design makes it easy to clean and maintain.
With proper care, the Speck should provide seasons of reliable use. It’s a great investment for both beginner and experienced speckle-belly hunters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Speck comes with a lanyard. This allows for immediate use.
Due to its straightforward design, there are limited customization options. The user could potentially replace the lanyard with a higher-quality or personalized one. However, no other modifications are necessary for effective use.
Pros and Cons of Speck
Pros
- Very easy to blow, making it ideal for beginners.
- Higher pitch provides excellent range.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all hunters.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Responsive design allows for versatile calling techniques.
Cons
- Plastic construction may not appeal to those seeking premium materials.
- Higher pitch may require a learning curve for experienced callers.
Who Should Buy Speck?
The Speck is perfect for beginner speckle-belly goose hunters seeking an affordable, easy-to-use call. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters looking for a reliable backup call or a simple call for specific hunting situations.
Those seeking a premium call with custom features and high-end materials should skip this product. Hunters with years of experience with lower-pitched calls might also find the Speck requires too much adjustment to their technique.
A must-have accessory is a reliable carrying case or lanyard to protect the call from damage during transport. Aside from that, no modifications are necessary.
Conclusion on Speck
The Speck is a surprisingly capable speckle-belly goose call that delivers excellent value for its modest price. Its ease of use, impressive range, and durable construction make it a standout option in the budget-friendly category.
The $17.99 price tag is absolutely justified for the performance it offers. It’s an outstanding call for the beginner to intermediate caller.
I would definitely recommend the Speck to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable speckle-belly goose call. Don’t let the low price fool you; this call is a serious performer. Pick one up and get out there and start calling in those geese!