Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter Review

First Thoughts on the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter promises to deliver Zink’s renowned duck-calling expertise in a more budget-friendly package. Zink Calls, a name synonymous with high-quality, realistic waterfowl calls, aims to make their signature sound accessible to a broader range of hunters with this polycarbonate offering. I was intrigued to see if this call could live up to the hype, offering comparable performance to their premium acrylic models without the premium price tag.

My interest in the COD – Custom Hunter stemmed from a desire to upgrade my current call. I needed something that could consistently produce a wide range of realistic duck sounds without requiring advanced calling skills. I was hoping for a call that could cut through the wind and draw in even the most call-shy birds.

Unboxing the call, my initial impression was positive. The cocobolo wood finish on the Custom Hunter version provides an aesthetic upgrade, adding a touch of class to the polycarbonate body. The call felt lightweight but solid, suggesting a decent level of durability.

Compared to my old single-reed call (a Haydel’s DR-85), the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter felt more refined, albeit lighter. I considered a higher-end acrylic call from Zink, but the price point of the COD made it an easier entry point into the Zink lineup. I also briefly looked at a Duck Commander call, but preferred the sleek aesthetics and reputation for realism that Zink offered.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the COD – Custom Hunter could deliver the realistic sounds and ease of use it promised, all while remaining durable enough to withstand the rigors of a duck season. The cocobolo wood finish adds a nice touch.

Real-World Testing: Putting Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test of the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter took place in a flooded timber setting on a particularly blustery morning. The wind was howling, creating a challenging environment for calling ducks. I wanted to see if the call could cut through the wind and reach distant birds.

The COD – Custom Hunter performed admirably in the tough conditions. Its easy-blow sound system allowed me to produce loud, clear calls without excessive effort, even with the wind working against me. I was surprised by how easily I could create realistic quacks, feeder chuckles, and comeback calls.

The call’s ease of use was immediately apparent. Even a relatively inexperienced caller like myself could produce convincing duck sounds with minimal practice. I did have to spend some time dialing in the back pressure to prevent squeaking, but once I found the sweet spot, it was smooth sailing.

After my first outing, the only issue I noted was a slight tendency for the call to freeze up in extremely cold temperatures. This was easily remedied by warming the call in my hand for a few seconds. Overall, the initial experience was overwhelmingly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full duck season of consistent use, the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the polycarbonate body or cocobolo wood insert. It remains as effective as it was on day one.

The call has proven to be remarkably durable, withstanding accidental drops in the mud and exposure to harsh weather conditions without any noticeable damage. The cocobolo wood finish has retained its luster. The finish adds a touch of class.

Maintaining the COD – Custom Hunter is a breeze. I simply rinse it with warm water and a mild soap after each hunt to remove any dirt or debris. A quick blast of compressed air keeps the reed clean and functioning optimally.

Compared to my previous single-reed call, the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is a significant upgrade. It offers a broader range of more realistic sounds, is easier to use, and has proven to be far more durable. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter

Specifications

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is a single-reed duck call constructed from durable polycarbonate. It features a cocobolo wood insert for enhanced aesthetics. The call is designed with an easy-blow sound system that allows even novice callers to produce realistic duck sounds.

The polycarbonate body ensures durability and resistance to cracking or breaking, while the cocobolo wood adds a touch of elegance. The single-reed design makes it easier to control and produce a wide range of sounds, from soft quacks to loud hails. The easy-blow system ensures minimal air pressure is required.

These specifications are crucial for hunters because they directly impact the call’s performance and usability in the field. The durable construction ensures that the call can withstand the rigors of hunting. The easy-blow system makes it accessible to hunters of all skill levels.

Performance & Functionality

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter excels at producing a wide range of realistic duck sounds. It can easily transition from soft, subtle feeder chuckles to loud, aggressive comeback calls, allowing hunters to adapt to different hunting situations. This makes it a very versatile call.

Its strengths lie in its ease of use, realistic sound production, and durability. One area that could be improved is the sensitivity of the reed. In extremely cold temperatures, the call can occasionally freeze up, requiring a quick warm-up.

The COD – Custom Hunter meets and exceeds expectations for a call in its price range. It delivers a premium calling experience without the premium price tag. The realistic sounds are particularly impressive.

Design & Ergonomics

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter boasts a well-designed and ergonomic form factor. The polycarbonate body is lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. The cocobolo wood insert adds a touch of visual appeal.

The call is user-friendly and requires minimal practice to master. The easy-blow system makes it accessible to callers of all skill levels, reducing the learning curve. Even beginners can produce convincing duck sounds quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is built to last, thanks to its durable polycarbonate construction. With proper care, it should provide many seasons of reliable performance. The cocobolo wood insert has a nice finish.

Maintaining the call is simple. Regular cleaning with warm water and mild soap is all that’s required to keep it in optimal condition. Occasionally using compressed air to clear the reed is also recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is available as a single call or in a Power Pak that includes an instructional DVD. While there are no specific customization options directly offered by Zink, the call is compatible with most standard lanyards. This allows hunters to personalize their setup.

The availability of the instructional DVD is a significant bonus, particularly for novice callers. The DVD provides valuable tips and techniques for mastering the call and improving calling skills. Lanyards are important for keeping the call secure.

Pros and Cons of Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter?

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is perfect for beginner to intermediate duck hunters looking for an easy-to-use, versatile, and durable call that won’t break the bank. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters who want a reliable backup call or a more budget-friendly option for everyday use. This call is ideal for those in varied hunting conditions.

Hunters who demand the absolute highest level of realism and performance may prefer to invest in a premium acrylic call. The COD – Custom Hunter would not be the best choice for them. Those who frequently hunt in extremely cold conditions might also want to consider a call that is less susceptible to freezing.

A must-have accessory for the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is a high-quality lanyard to keep it secure and readily accessible. While not necessary, purchasing the Power Pak with the instructional DVD is highly recommended for novice callers looking to improve their skills.

Conclusion on Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter

The Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter is an excellent duck call that delivers impressive performance at an affordable price. Its easy-blow sound system, durable construction, and versatile sound range make it a great choice for hunters of all skill levels. The cocobolo wood finish adds a touch of class.

The price is definitely justified for the level of performance and quality that this call offers. It provides a significant upgrade over cheaper, less effective calls without requiring a major investment. The value is excellent.

I would highly recommend the Zink Call of Death (COD) – Custom Hunter to anyone looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, and versatile duck call. It’s a fantastic value and a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s arsenal. Get yours today and start bringing those ducks in close!

Check Best Price HERE