First Thoughts on the Quaker Boy Coyote Predator
Coyote hunting is a thrilling game of wits, skill, and of course, having the right tools. A crucial piece of any coyote hunter’s arsenal is a reliable set of calls. The Quaker Boy Coyote Predator two-pack aims to provide just that, offering both a howler and a distressed rabbit call in one affordable package. This caught my eye as a seasoned outdoorsman always looking for reliable gear that won’t break the bank.
For years, I’ve relied on a variety of calls, from custom-made diaphragms to electronic callers. However, I’ve always found myself drawn back to the simplicity and effectiveness of open and closed reed calls. I was particularly interested in the claims that the Alpha Male Coyote Howler could locate coyotes at any time and lure them in during breeding season. The Screamin’ Cottontail, promising irresistible distressed rabbit sounds, seemed like a solid addition.
Upon receiving the Quaker Boy Coyote Predator pack, I immediately noticed the compact size of the calls. They felt lightweight but seemed sturdy enough for field use. Comparing them to my higher-end diaphragm calls, these were definitely more streamlined and beginner-friendly. I’ve used similar sets in the past from Primos and Flextone, but I chose this one for the Quaker Boy name and appealing price point.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the materials seemed basic, the potential for effective coyote calling at this price was undeniably exciting. Let’s see how they perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Quaker Boy Coyote Predator to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Quaker Boy Coyote Predator was on a crisp morning in the high desert of Eastern Oregon. I positioned myself overlooking a wide canyon, a known coyote travel route. The wind was calm, ideal for sound projection. I started with the Alpha Male Coyote Howler, attempting a series of long, mournful howls.
Initially, I struggled a bit to get a consistent tone from the open reed. However, after a few minutes of practice, I was able to produce a convincing howl. Switching to the Screamin’ Cottontail, I found it much easier to use. The closed reed produced a realistic, high-pitched squeal with minimal effort. There were no immediate responses, but the calls seemed to be projecting well.
After about 30 minutes, with no coyotes appearing, I shifted locations to a more wooded area. Here, I focused solely on the Screamin’ Cottontail. Within ten minutes, I spotted movement on the ridge opposite me. A coyote, ears perked, was cautiously approaching. The call worked!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Quaker Boy Coyote Predator calls, I’ve become more comfortable with their quirks and capabilities. The Screamin’ Cottontail remains my go-to call, consistently eliciting responses from coyotes in various terrains. It has proven especially effective in attracting younger, less experienced coyotes.
The Alpha Male Coyote Howler, while effective at locating coyotes, requires more finesse. It is not as consistent as the Screamin’ Cottontail. I’ve noticed that its performance is heavily dependent on the weather. Humid conditions seem to dampen the sound quality.
Durability has been surprisingly good, given the price point. The calls show some minor scratches from being carried in my pack, but the reeds remain intact. Cleaning is simple: I just blow out any moisture after each use. Compared to some of my more expensive calls that require regular reed adjustments, these are relatively low-maintenance. The Quaker Boy Coyote Predator is not outperforming my high-end calls, but is a very serviceable option.
Breaking Down the Features of Quaker Boy Coyote Predator
Specifications
- Alpha Male Coyote Howler: An open reed call designed to mimic the sounds of a dominant male coyote. This allows hunters to locate coyotes and challenge them during the breeding season.
- Screamin’ Cottontail: A closed reed call that reproduces the distress cries of a cottontail rabbit. This irresistible sound attracts coyotes year-round.
- Type: Two-pack predator call set
- Intended Use: Coyote Hunting
- Construction: Molded Plastic
Performance & Functionality
The Quaker Boy Coyote Predator set is functional and, for the price, provides good performance. The Screamin’ Cottontail excels at attracting coyotes, especially at close range. The Alpha Male Coyote Howler has a greater range but requires more practice and optimal weather conditions to achieve consistent results.
The primary weakness lies in the inconsistent tone production of the Alpha Male Coyote Howler. Strong points include the ease of use of the Screamin’ Cottontail and the overall value of the set. It mostly meets expectations, but the open reed takes time to perfect.
Design & Ergonomics
Both calls are lightweight and easy to carry. The molded plastic construction feels somewhat basic but is surprisingly comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
The Screamin’ Cottontail is incredibly user-friendly. Almost anyone can produce a convincing rabbit distress sound with minimal effort. The Alpha Male Coyote Howler requires some practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The molded plastic construction appears durable enough for regular field use. The calls have withstood moderate abuse without any significant damage.
Maintenance is straightforward: blow out moisture after each use and store in a dry place. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Quaker Boy Coyote Predator is sold as a standalone two-pack. There are no included accessories and limited customization options. The calls are not designed to be disassembled or modified. As a basic, ready-to-use set, it forgoes customization for simplicity.
Pros and Cons of Quaker Boy Coyote Predator
Pros
- Extremely affordable: Excellent value for beginner predator hunters.
- Screamin’ Cottontail: Easy to use and highly effective at attracting coyotes.
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to carry in a pack or pocket.
- Durable construction: Withstands regular field use.
- Versatile: Suitable for various terrains and hunting styles.
Cons
- Alpha Male Coyote Howler requires practice to master.
- Tone consistency can be affected by weather conditions.
- No customization options.
Who Should Buy Quaker Boy Coyote Predator?
The Quaker Boy Coyote Predator is perfect for beginner coyote hunters who want an affordable and effective call set. It’s also suitable for experienced hunters looking for a lightweight and portable backup option.
Those seeking advanced features, customizability, or the highest possible sound quality should skip this product. It’s also not ideal for hunters who primarily hunt in consistently humid climates, as the Alpha Male Coyote Howler may struggle in those conditions.
A basic lanyard to keep the calls readily accessible is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Quaker Boy Coyote Predator
The Quaker Boy Coyote Predator delivers solid performance at an unbeatable price. While the Alpha Male Coyote Howler requires some patience to master, the Screamin’ Cottontail is an incredibly effective and easy-to-use call that will undoubtedly attract coyotes.
The $16.49 price tag is easily justified by the value and functionality offered. It’s a perfect entry point into the world of coyote hunting.
I would personally recommend the Quaker Boy Coyote Predator to anyone looking for an affordable and effective coyote call set. If you’re looking to get started hunting predators, this is a great place to begin! Give it a try, and see if you can outsmart those wily coyotes!
