What Makes HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL Stand Out?
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL from Hunters Specialties is a compact and affordable option for hunters looking to bring in coyotes. Its open reed design promises a full range of coyote vocalizations. This is designed to make it a versatile tool in the field.
For years, I’ve relied on diaphragm calls, but I’ve always been intrigued by the raw, untamed sound of open reed calls. Diaphragm calls offer subtlety, but I was looking for something that could cut through the wind and reach out across vast distances. The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL seemed like the perfect, budget-friendly experiment.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was its small size and lightweight construction. The rubberized material felt durable and provided a comfortable grip. It immediately felt like something I could easily stash in a pocket or on a lanyard without adding unnecessary bulk.
Compared to my diaphragm calls from Primos and a higher-end acrylic open reed call from Quaker Boy, the HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL felt less refined. However, it also cost significantly less. I was choosing it for its potential versatility and loud volume, not necessarily its premium materials.
My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could a call at this price point truly deliver the range and realism I needed? Time, and a few wary coyotes, would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL on a late-season coyote hunt in the high desert of eastern Oregon. The landscape was vast and open, with sparse vegetation and howling winds. This made it a perfect setting to test the call’s ability to project sound.
The call performed surprisingly well in the harsh conditions. It was able to cut through the wind and produce a loud, raspy howl. I also experimented with distress calls, and the rubberized material seemed to help dampen the plastic sound I sometimes get from cheaper calls.
It did take some practice to get used to the open reed design. My initial attempts sounded more like a strangled duck than a distressed rabbit. However, after about an hour of practice, I started to get the hang of it and was able to produce a decent range of coyote vocalizations.
The first time a coyote responded to the call was an adrenaline rush. It circled downwind before eventually catching my scent and bolting, but that initial response confirmed the call’s potential.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL is holding up well. There are no signs of cracking or wear and tear on the rubberized material. I’ve used it in rain, snow, and extreme heat, and it has consistently produced sound.
The call is relatively easy to clean. I simply rinse it with water and let it air dry after each use. I haven’t noticed any issues with the reed sticking or becoming clogged.
Compared to my diaphragm calls, the HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL requires more maintenance in terms of learning curve. However, it offers a different level of projection and a unique sound that complements my calling repertoire. I find that the open reed call is effective for aggressive coyote hunting, while the diaphragm calls are more suited for subtle setups.
Breaking Down the Features of HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hunters Specialties
- Frame Color: Black / Red
- Design: Open Reed
- Material: Rubberized
- Intended Use: Predator Calling (specifically coyote vocalizations)
These specifications are important because they highlight the call’s intended purpose. The open reed design is crucial for producing a wide range of coyote sounds. The rubberized material aims to create more natural, realistic tones.
Performance & Functionality
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL performs its job adequately, particularly for its price point. It effectively produces coyote howls, yips, and distress calls. However, achieving subtle nuances takes practice.
The primary strength of this call is its volume. It can reach out across considerable distances, making it suitable for open terrain. The weakness is its lack of finesse; it’s not as easy to create delicate sounds as with a diaphragm call.
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL meets expectations for a budget-friendly open reed call. It delivers the volume and basic coyote sounds that I was hoping for. However, it does not exceed expectations in terms of realism or ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, considering the price. The rubberized material provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The light weight makes it easy to carry.
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL is not inherently user-friendly. It requires practice and experimentation to master. There’s a learning curve, especially for those accustomed to diaphragm calls.
Durability & Maintenance
The call appears to be reasonably durable. After months of use, there are no significant signs of wear. It should last for several seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is simple; rinsing with water after use is typically sufficient. The open reed design makes it easy to clean any debris that may become lodged inside.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available from the manufacturer. However, hunters can add a lanyard for easy carry.
It’s compatible with most standard lanyards and call holders. The simplicity of the design means there’s not much to customize beyond that.
Pros and Cons of HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to beginners.
- Loud volume for reaching coyotes at long distances.
- Rubberized material provides a comfortable grip and helps dampen plastic sounds.
- Versatile – can produce a range of coyote vocalizations with practice.
- Durable construction that holds up well under field conditions.
Cons
- Requires practice to master and produce realistic sounds.
- Lacks the subtlety and nuance of higher-end calls.
Who Should Buy HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL?
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL is perfect for beginner predator hunters on a budget. It is also good for experienced hunters who want to add a loud, versatile open reed call to their arsenal. It’s ideal for hunting in open terrain where long-distance calling is necessary.
This product is not for hunters seeking a premium, highly realistic call with a minimal learning curve. If subtlety and finesse are paramount, a higher-end diaphragm or acrylic open reed call would be a better choice.
A must-have accessory is a lanyard to keep the call readily accessible in the field. Practicing consistently is also a must to develop proficiency.
Conclusion on HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL
The HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL is a solid, budget-friendly option for coyote hunters. It offers decent versatility and loud volume for attracting predators from a distance. While it requires practice to master and lacks the finesse of more expensive calls, it’s a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s toolkit.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s an excellent entry point into the world of open reed predator calls.
I would personally recommend this call to beginner coyote hunters or those looking for a backup call. If you’re ready to experiment with open reed calling, give the HS HSJSORPRED OPEN REED PREDATOR CALL a try, and see if you can bring in that elusive coyote!