First Impressions of Faulks Flute Goose Call
The Faulks Flute Goose Call promises to bring the distinct sound of Canada geese within earshot, a siren song for any waterfowl hunter. Faulks, a name synonymous with quality game calls, steps into the arena with a product boasting a “rallentando tuned” design aimed for ease of use. Could this call be the key to filling my freezer this season, or will it end up collecting dust in my gear closet?
My journey to the Faulks Flute Goose Call began with a frustrating early goose season. I needed a reliable, easy-to-use call that could realistically mimic the sounds of Canada geese without requiring hours of practice. I was tired of scaring birds away with off-key honks and squawks, desperately needing something that would deliver consistent, authentic goose sounds.
Unboxing the call revealed a simple, no-frills design. The molded body felt lightweight, but not cheap, and the included double lanyard was a welcome addition. I had been considering a Zink Calls Power Clucker and a Buck Gardner Canada Hammer II before settling on the Faulks Flute Goose Call. I chose the Faulks because of its reputation for being user-friendly, specifically targeting beginners like myself needing that authentic goose sound quickly.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Faulks Flute Goose Call appeared to be a straightforward, functional piece of equipment that I hoped would bridge the gap between my ambition and my calling skills. Time would tell whether this call lived up to the hype, or if I should’ve opted for something with a higher price tag and steeper learning curve.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faulks Flute Goose Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Faulks Flute Goose Call during a scouting trip to a local marsh known for holding early-season geese. The weather was crisp, with a light breeze—ideal conditions to put the call through its paces. I was anxious to see if this $41.99 investment would pay off.
The Faulks Flute Goose Call proved surprisingly easy to use, even for a novice caller like myself. It didn’t require the lung capacity of a seasoned pro and produced convincing honks and moans with minimal effort. I noticed some moisture buildup affecting the tone after a few minutes, requiring a quick blow-out to clear it, but that was a minor inconvenience.
My first experience yielded positive results. I even managed to coax a small flock of geese to swing back for a second look, a feat I hadn’t accomplished with other calls. This initial success boosted my confidence and provided encouraging evidence that the Faulks Flute Goose Call might just be the tool I needed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After weeks of consistent use, the Faulks Flute Goose Call has proven to be a reliable companion in the field. It has held up well despite being exposed to mud, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. The plastic construction shows no signs of cracking or warping, a testament to its durability.
Cleaning the Faulks Flute Goose Call is a breeze. A quick rinse with warm water and a gentle scrub with a soft brush are all it takes to remove any accumulated debris. Compared to some of the more intricate, multi-reed calls I’ve used in the past, the Faulks requires minimal maintenance, saving me valuable time and frustration.
The Faulks Flute Goose Call has exceeded my expectations in terms of ease of use and reliability. While it may not possess the nuanced tonal range of higher-end calls, it delivers consistent performance and authentic goose sounds. It’s a tool that I now trust and rely on during my hunts.
Breaking Down the Features of Faulks Flute Goose Call
Specifications
The Faulks Flute Goose Call is designed primarily for calling Canada geese. It features a “rallentando tuned” design, which is intended to make the call easy to blow, even for beginners. Weighing in at a mere 0.21 oz, it’s incredibly lightweight and won’t weigh you down during long hunts.
Measuring 11 inches in length, 3.8 inches in width, and 1.7 inches in height, the Faulks Flute Goose Call is relatively compact and easy to carry. It comes equipped with a double lanyard, allowing you to keep it readily accessible around your neck. All from Faulks, a reputable manufacturer with a long history of producing game calls.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall user-friendliness and portability of the call. The lightweight design prevents fatigue during extended calling sessions, while the “rallentando tuned” construction makes it easier to produce realistic goose sounds. The double lanyard ensures that the call is always within reach, reducing the risk of losing it in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Faulks Flute Goose Call excels at producing basic Canada goose vocalizations, including honks, moans, and clucks. It’s designed for ease of use, making it suitable for beginners and experienced callers alike. Its simplicity is both a strength and a weakness.
The call’s main strength lies in its consistent and reliable performance. It consistently produces authentic goose sounds without requiring excessive effort or precise technique. The weakness, however, is its limited tonal range compared to more complex calls.
The Faulks Flute Goose Call meets expectations for a budget-friendly, user-friendly goose call. It may not be able to replicate the full spectrum of goose vocalizations, but it effectively attracts geese and delivers reliable performance in the field. It gets the job done for its intended purpose and price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faulks Flute Goose Call features a simple, molded plastic body. It’s lightweight and feels comfortable in hand. Its streamlined design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics.
The call’s user-friendly design makes it easy to learn and master. Even a novice caller can quickly produce convincing goose sounds. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faulks Flute Goose Call is constructed from durable plastic, which should withstand regular use in the field. While it’s not indestructible, it should last for several seasons with proper care. The simple construction makes it easy to clean and maintain, prolonging its lifespan.
Maintaining the Faulks Flute Goose Call is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with warm water after each use is usually sufficient to remove any debris or moisture. Occasional cleaning with a mild soap solution can help to prevent the buildup of grime and maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faulks Flute Goose Call comes standard with a double lanyard. This allows the user to keep the call readily accessible around their neck. There are no other included accessories or customization options.
Given the simple design of the Faulks Flute Goose Call, there are limited customization options available. It is not designed to accept aftermarket reeds or other performance-enhancing components. The lanyard is the only accessory that comes standard with the call.
Pros and Cons of Faulks Flute Goose Call
Pros
- Easy to blow and learn, making it great for beginners.
- Produces realistic goose sounds, effectively attracting birds.
- Durable plastic construction, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight and portable, won’t weigh you down in the field.
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to hunters on a budget.
Cons
- Limited tonal range compared to higher-end calls.
- Moisture can affect the tone, requiring occasional blow-outs.
- No customization options available.
Who Should Buy Faulks Flute Goose Call?
The Faulks Flute Goose Call is perfect for beginner goose hunters who want a simple, easy-to-use call that produces realistic sounds. It’s also a good option for experienced hunters who want a reliable backup call. Someone looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers consistent performance would benefit most from Faulks Flute Goose Call.
This product might not be the best choice for experienced callers who demand a wide range of tonal variations. Hunters who require a call with customization options or are sensitive to moisture affecting the tone should also consider other models. A professional goose hunting guide may prefer a higher-end, more nuanced call.
A must-have accessory is a good carrying case to protect it when not in use. Learning basic goose calling techniques through online tutorials or a hunting mentor will also enhance the effectiveness of this call. Consistent practice is key to improving your calling skills and maximizing the potential of the Faulks Flute Goose Call.
Conclusion on Faulks Flute Goose Call
The Faulks Flute Goose Call offers a compelling combination of ease of use, reliable performance, and affordability. It’s a solid choice for beginner goose hunters. It’s also valuable for those seeking a straightforward, no-frills call that gets the job done.
The $41.99 price tag is justified given the call’s durability and effectiveness. While it may not possess the advanced features of higher-end models, it provides excellent value for the money. It’s a tool that delivers consistent results in the field.
I would personally recommend the Faulks Flute Goose Call to anyone looking for an entry-level or backup goose call. It’s a great way to get started in goose hunting without breaking the bank. Give it a try and experience the satisfaction of calling in your own birds.