First Impressions of Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call
The Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call promises to bring the tantalizing sounds of “ribeye in the sky” closer to your hunting blind. Coming from Haydels, a name synonymous with quality game calls, this call boasts a hybrid design with an acrylic tone board and a special reed. The claim? It is loud, easy to run, and capable of producing a wide range of pitches, mimicking multiple birds.
My quest for the perfect crane call stems from years of frustration. Previous calls I’ve used have either sounded like a kazoo underwater or required the lung capacity of a deep-sea diver. The RS-18 caught my attention because of its user-friendly design.
Upon unboxing, the Haydels RS-18 feels solid and well-constructed. The acrylic has a smooth, polished finish and it fits comfortably in my hand. It’s significantly lighter than some of the polycarbonate calls I’ve handled.
Compared to my old Primos Power Crane call, which always felt a bit bulky, the RS-18 is a welcomed change. A cheaper, mass-produced call made of plastic was a disappointment from the get-go. This feels more professional.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The feel is right and now all that’s left to discover if the Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call actually sounds like, well, a sandhill crane. I’m eager to see if it lives up to the hype and helps me fill my freezer with some “ribeye of the sky”.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Haydels RS-18 was during the early crane season in central Nebraska. The weather was typical for the area: windy with a hint of rain. The call needed to perform in less than ideal conditions.
Despite the wind, the call cut through the air surprisingly well. It required minimal effort to produce a clear, resonant tone. I managed to lure a small flock of cranes within shooting range in less than 30 minutes.
The Haydels RS-18 was easy to master right out of the package. A few practice honks in the truck prepared me for the field. I noticed some moisture buildup but it did not impact the sound.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the hunting season, the Haydels RS-18 has proven to be a reliable performer. It’s consistently delivered convincing crane sounds, even in freezing temperatures. There are no cracks or signs of wear, attesting to its acrylic construction.
The only maintenance I’ve performed is a quick rinse with water after each hunt. This keeps the reed clean and prevents any sticking. The sound quality has not degraded.
Compared to my previous calls, the Haydels RS-18 is a significant upgrade. The sound is more realistic and much easier to produce consistently. This makes it a crucial piece of gear in my hunting arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call
Specifications
Manufacturer: Haydels. Haydels is renowned for producing high-quality, durable game calls for serious hunters.
Fabric/Material: Acrylic. The acrylic construction provides excellent durability and consistent sound quality regardless of weather conditions.
Species: Crane. This call is specifically designed to mimic the sounds of Sandhill Cranes, making it highly effective for attracting these birds.
Hybrid design: This offers both loudness and ease of use. This design allows for a wide range of pitches and realistic sounds.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call excels at its primary function: attracting Sandhill Cranes. The call’s ability to produce a variety of realistic tones significantly increases its effectiveness. It’s a huge advantage over generic, single-tone calls.
The RS-18‘s greatest strength is its ease of use combined with its ability to create multiple tones. The hybrid acrylic design and reed system contribute to a clear and strong call. A slight learning curve to master the subtleties of crane vocalizations is needed.
This call greatly exceeded my expectations. It sounded great right out of the packaging, and produced successful hunts immediately. This puts it high on my list of hunting accessories.
Design & Ergonomics
The Haydels RS-18 is crafted from a single piece of polished acrylic. This design ensures a comfortable grip and easy handling. The call’s light weight prevents fatigue during long calling sessions.
The design is simple and effective, with a focus on functionality. The call has an ergonomic feel with no sharp edges.
Durability & Maintenance
The acrylic construction of the Haydels RS-18 ensures long-lasting durability. The material is resistant to cracking, chipping, and fading, making it ideal for harsh outdoor environments. The call should last for many seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply rinsing the call with water after each use. A more in-depth cleaning can be performed periodically with mild soap and a soft brush.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call does not come with many included accessories. It is a standalone calling device. There are no obvious customization options for the body of the call itself.
Some users may want to use a lanyard to keep the call readily accessible. A good lanyard would be the only worthwhile addition.
Pros and Cons of Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call
Pros
- Ease of Use: The call is incredibly easy to operate, even for beginners.
- Realistic Sound: Mimics a wide range of Sandhill Crane vocalizations.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality acrylic for long-lasting performance.
- Loud and Clear: Projects sound effectively even in windy conditions.
- Versatile Pitch Range: Can be used to simulate multiple birds, increasing realism.
Cons
- Price: It’s more expensive than some basic plastic calls.
- Moisture Build-up: Can occasionally experience moisture buildup in the reed.
Who Should Buy Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call?
The Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call is perfect for serious crane hunters looking for a reliable and easy-to-use call. It’s also a great choice for beginners who want to improve their calling skills. Experienced hunters looking for a dependable upgrade will also appreciate the RS-18.
Hunters who primarily hunt waterfowl might find this call unnecessary. If you are unwilling to spend a bit more on a high-quality call, this may also not be for you.
A good lanyard to keep the call accessible is a must-have accessory. Practice is also essential to master the nuances of crane vocalizations.
Conclusion on Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call
The Haydels RS-18 Ribeye in the Sky Sandhill Crane Call is a top-tier product that delivers on its promises. It’s easy to use, produces realistic sounds, and is built to last. The price is justified by its performance and durability.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Haydels RS-18 to any serious crane hunter. Its effectiveness and ease of use make it an invaluable tool in the field. If you’re ready to bring home the “ribeye in the sky,” this is the call for you!