The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic Made a Bold First Impression
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic duck call isn’t just another piece of equipment; it’s an instrument, a means of communication with nature itself. This single reed acrylic call, crafted by Echo Calls, Inc, promises versatility in attracting waterfowl, from loud hail calls to soft, intimate timber coaxing. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled countless calls, but the allure of the Black Gold Pearl finish and the “XLT” designation (Xtra Loud Timber) piqued my interest immensely.
I’ve long searched for a single call that can truly do it all, one that removes the need for fumbling between different calls in the heat of the moment. My usual setup involved carrying a dedicated open water call and a more subtle timber call, which proved cumbersome and occasionally cost me valuable seconds when birds were working. The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic seemed like the perfect solution, promising to bridge the gap between loud, attention-grabbing calls and the quieter, more seductive tones needed for close encounters.
Upon unboxing, the call immediately impressed with its sleek design and the rich, swirling colors of the Black Gold Pearl acrylic. The weight felt substantial, suggesting quality craftsmanship and durability. Compared to my other calls, mostly made of polycarbonate or wood, the acrylic construction and the refined finish of this Echo Calls, Inc product felt like a significant step up.
I considered other calls, notably models from Haydel’s and Duck Commander, but the reported versatility and the reputation of Echo Calls, Inc for producing high-quality acrylic calls ultimately swayed my decision. My initial impression was one of excitement; the call looked and felt like a serious piece of equipment, and I was eager to see if its performance matched its aesthetics. The anticipation of testing its range and ability to mimic different duck vocalizations was high, promising a significant upgrade to my hunting setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic came during an early season teal hunt on a flooded timber reservoir. The conditions were relatively mild, but the air was thick with humidity. I tested the call while concealed in a flooded willow thicket.
The call’s performance was immediately noticeable; the high-pitched hail call cut through the morning air with impressive clarity, reaching far across the open water. When ducks responded and began circling, I transitioned to softer, more subtle feeding calls, and the ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic executed these just as convincingly. Initially, I struggled slightly with the back pressure needed to produce the softer tones, but after a few minutes of practice, I found the sweet spot. The sound of the call in this setting was music to my ears.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use throughout the hunting season, the ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic continues to impress. The acrylic construction has proven remarkably durable, showing no signs of cracking or fading despite exposure to harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. Cleaning the call is simple; a quick rinse with warm water and a thorough drying are all it takes to keep it in optimal condition.
Compared to some of my older calls, which have become sticky or required frequent reed adjustments, the ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic has been remarkably consistent. Its ability to produce a wide range of tones, from loud hail calls to subtle feeding chuckles, has genuinely improved my hunting success. This call has surpassed my expectations in both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic
Specifications
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic is a single reed duck call designed for versatile waterfowl hunting. It is meticulously crafted from high-quality acrylic, which contributes to its durability and sound projection. The Black Gold Pearl finish provides a unique and attractive aesthetic.
This call is specifically tuned to produce both loud, ringing hail calls for open water situations and soft, raspy timber calls for close-range encounters. The single reed design allows for a wide range of tones and vocalizations. Its specifications directly translate to an improved hunting experience, offering the ability to adapt to diverse hunting scenarios and attract a wider variety of waterfowl.
Performance & Functionality
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic performs exceptionally well in various hunting scenarios. Its primary strength lies in its versatility. It can effectively reach distant birds with its loud hail call and then seamlessly transition to softer, more intimate tones when they approach.
The call’s responsiveness to subtle changes in breath control and back pressure is impressive, allowing for realistic and nuanced duck vocalizations. One potential area for improvement could be in the reed design, perhaps exploring different materials to further enhance the call’s resistance to moisture-related performance issues. Overall, this call meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic boasts a sleek and ergonomic design. The acrylic material feels comfortable in hand, even during extended use in cold weather. The call’s weight is well-balanced, contributing to ease of use and control.
The Black Gold Pearl finish not only looks stunning but also provides a smooth and grippy surface. The call is user-friendly. After a short period of practice, most hunters will be able to master its range of tones and vocalizations.
Durability & Maintenance
The acrylic construction of the ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic ensures long-lasting durability. The call is resistant to cracking, fading, and warping, even after prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions. Maintaining the call is straightforward.
Regular cleaning with warm water and a thorough drying will keep it in optimal condition for years to come. The durable design and easy maintenance contribute significantly to the call’s overall value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic does not come with any specific accessories beyond the call itself. However, its standard design makes it compatible with a variety of lanyards and call holders from other brands.
While customization options are limited, the durable acrylic material allows for personalized engraving or etching. The compatibility with standard lanyards ensures that hunters can easily integrate the call into their existing setups.
Pros and Cons of ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic
Pros
- Exceptional Versatility: Seamlessly transitions between loud hail calls and soft timber coaxing.
- Durable Acrylic Construction: Withstands harsh weather conditions without cracking or fading.
- Realistic Sound Reproduction: Allows for nuanced and convincing duck vocalizations.
- Ergonomic Design: Feels comfortable in hand, even during extended use.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning routine ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Price Point: More expensive than some polycarbonate or wooden calls.
- Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the full range of tones.
Who Should Buy ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic?
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic is perfect for serious duck hunters who demand versatility and quality from their gear. It’s ideally suited for hunters who frequently encounter diverse hunting scenarios, from open water to flooded timber. This call would be beneficial to someone who seeks a single, reliable call that can handle a wide range of situations.
Hunters primarily focused on close-range timber hunting or those on a tight budget might find other options more suitable. For optimal performance, a quality lanyard is a must-have accessory to keep the call readily accessible and prevent loss in the field.
Conclusion on ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic
The ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic is a premium duck call that delivers on its promise of versatility and quality. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the durable construction, realistic sound reproduction, and ability to handle diverse hunting scenarios justify the investment. This call is well worth its cost.
I would confidently recommend the ECHO CALLS, INC XLT Ducks Black Gold Pearl Single Reed Acrylic to any serious duck hunter seeking a reliable and versatile call. Invest in this call, hone your calling skills, and watch the birds work like never before. It’s time to elevate your hunting game.