First Impressions of Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call
Duck hunting has always been more than a sport to me; it’s a communion with nature, a test of skill, and a tradition passed down through generations. So, when I heard about the Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call, promising a blend of ease of use and aggressive calling capability, I was intrigued. The claim that it was designed based on a customer’s special request, honoring American tradition and patriotism, sealed the deal.
For years, I’ve trusted various calls, from single-reed powerhouses to more subtle timber calls, but I was looking for a versatile option that could handle both close-in work and reach out to distant birds. The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call‘s double reed design suggested the potential for such versatility. Upon unboxing, the call presented itself with a clean white finish. It felt lightweight, almost deceptively so.
Compared to my Buck Gardner Double Nasty and Primos Cut-Down, the Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call felt significantly lighter. The other two calls are more robust, but the Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call promised a different feel, potentially focusing on ease of use and high-pitched tones. I chose this call hoping for a blend of controllability and carrying distance I hadn’t yet found. I was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if its performance could match the promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call came during an early-season teal hunt on the Mississippi Delta. The morning was damp, with a light mist hanging over the flooded timber. I wanted to see how the call performed in real hunting conditions.
The call worked surprisingly well, despite the less-than-ideal conditions. The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call produced a clear, crisp sound that cut through the still morning air. It was easy to get the basic quack down, and the double reed design made it forgiving even when my breath control wasn’t perfect. I did notice, however, that the white color of the call reflected the morning sun more than I’d prefer, which could potentially spook wary birds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call has proven to be a reliable tool. The call still sounds the same as it did on day one, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. Some very slight discoloration from moisture has occurred, but this is negligible.
Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with water after each hunt is all it takes to keep it clean. Compared to other calls I own that require occasional reed adjustments or cork replacements, the Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call has been remarkably low-maintenance. It hasn’t outperformed my top-tier calls in terms of sheer volume or realistic tone, but its ease of use and consistent performance have made it a valuable addition to my lanyard.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call
Specifications
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call is a purpose-built call designed for mallard hunting. It is manufactured by Haydels, a respected name in the hunting call industry. The call’s primary features are its double reed design and durable construction, intended for both ease of use and longevity.
- Manufacturer: Haydels.
- Species: Duck.
- Color: White.
These specifications are crucial for hunters seeking a reliable and effective call. The double reed design simplifies the learning curve for beginners while allowing experienced callers to create a range of realistic mallard sounds. The color, while aesthetically pleasing, might present a slight visibility issue in certain lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call performs admirably in a variety of hunting scenarios. Its strengths lie in its ease of use and ability to produce a range of basic mallard sounds, including quacks, feeding chuckles, and comeback calls. It is specifically tuned to avoid locking up, even with aggressive calling, making it reliable for various calling styles.
While it may not possess the nuanced tonal qualities of higher-end, hand-tuned calls, it’s perfectly adequate for attracting ducks. Its main weakness lies in its limited volume, making it less effective in extremely windy conditions or when trying to reach birds at long distances. The call meets expectations for a mid-range, easy-to-use duck call.
Design & Ergonomics
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call features a straightforward, functional design. The white color provides a clean look, although it may not be the most practical choice for concealment. It’s lightweight and comfortable to hold, even during extended calling sessions.
The simple design means there is virtually no learning curve. Beginners can quickly master the basics, while experienced callers can easily integrate it into their calling sequences. The ergonomic design is excellent, fitting comfortably in the hand and allowing for natural calling motions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of duck hunting. The plastic barrel is resistant to cracking and breaking, and the double reed design is less prone to sticking than some single reed calls.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply rinse the call with water after each use to remove any saliva or debris. With proper care, this call should last for several seasons of hunting. The durable materials and simple design contribute to its long-lasting performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call does not come with any additional accessories beyond the call itself. Due to its design, customization options are limited. There are no readily available aftermarket reeds or barrels designed specifically for this model.
However, the call is compatible with standard lanyards for easy carrying. While the limited customization options might disappoint some hunters, the call’s out-of-the-box performance is more than adequate for most situations.
Pros and Cons of Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call
Pros
- Ease of Use: Ideal for beginners and hunters who prefer a forgiving call.
- Reliable Performance: Consistently produces mallard sounds without locking up.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the elements and frequent use.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal cleaning and upkeep.
Cons
- Limited Volume: Not ideal for windy conditions or long-distance calling.
- Basic Tonal Quality: Lacks the nuanced realism of higher-end calls.
- Color: The white color of the call can reflect light and potentially spook wary birds.
Who Should Buy Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call?
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call is perfect for beginner duck hunters who are learning the basics of calling. Also, it is great for experienced hunters looking for a reliable, easy-to-use call for close-range work or backup situations. Hunters who value simplicity, affordability, and durability will also find this call appealing.
Hunters who require maximum volume for calling over long distances or in extremely windy conditions should skip this product. Also, those seeking a highly realistic, nuanced tone may find this call lacking compared to higher-end options. A good lanyard is a must-have accessory to keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call
The Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call is a solid, reliable option for duck hunters of all skill levels. Its ease of use, durable construction, and affordable price make it an excellent value. While it may not be the loudest or most tonally complex call on the market, its consistent performance and forgiving nature make it a valuable tool for any duck hunter’s arsenal.
At $44.99, the price is definitely justified, especially for beginners or those needing a dependable backup. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a straightforward, effective duck call. Grab yourself a Haydels OB-19 Ol’ Betsy Double Reed Mallard Duck Call and get ready to bring those ducks into your spread!