The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE Made a Bold First Impression
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE isn’t just another call; it’s a promise. A promise of bringing the big birds in close, crafted from durable polymer and finished in a stealthy gunsmoke color, this call aims to be the reliable voice in your waterfowl arsenal. I’ve blown through countless calls over the years, some that sang like angels and others that sounded like a dying cow, and I was eager to see where this one would land.
My search for the perfect goose call has been a lifelong quest, much like chasing a phantom flock across an endless sky. I needed a call that could handle the rigors of the field, produce a variety of realistic goose sounds, and wouldn’t break the bank. The promise of durability and affordability with the COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is what hooked me.
Upon unboxing, the call felt solid in my hand, the polymer construction reassuringly robust. The gunsmoke finish gives it a tactical, no-nonsense look, and the single reed design seemed straightforward enough for immediate use. It’s clear that COD focused on functionality over flashy aesthetics.
Compared to some of my higher-end acrylic calls, like my prized Tim Grounds Super Mag, or the more versatile Zink Calls ATM, the COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is definitely simpler in design. I chose this one because I was specifically looking for a reliable, no-frills call for situations where I didn’t want to risk damaging my more expensive calls, like hunting in thick brush or extreme weather. The durability and value proposition were the deciding factors.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It wasn’t love at first sight, but there was a definite sense that this call could be a workhorse. I was excited to get it out in the field and see what it could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE was on a frigid morning in a flooded cornfield. The wind was howling, and the temperature hovered just above freezing, conditions that would test both my resolve and the call’s functionality. I set up my decoys, hunkered down in my layout blind, and started to call.
The call performed admirably in the cold, not sticking or freezing up as some other calls sometimes do. It cut through the wind with surprising clarity, and I was able to produce a decent range of honks and clucks. No high-end resonate sound, but functional and clear.
It did take a little getting used to. The single reed design requires a different air presentation than my double reed calls, and I initially struggled to get the right tone. But after about an hour of practice, I started to find the sweet spot and was able to create some realistic goose vocalizations. There were no major issues, just a learning curve to master the single reed nuances.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting, the COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE has held up remarkably well. It’s been subjected to rain, snow, mud, and the occasional accidental drop, and it’s still going strong. The polymer construction is proving to be exceptionally durable.
There are a few minor scratches on the finish, but no cracks or chips, and the reed is still performing as it did on day one. I’ve cleaned it a few times with warm water and a mild soap, and it’s been incredibly easy to maintain. A drop of cork grease every few hunts on the tone channel made it sing.
Compared to some of the acrylic calls I’ve used in the past, which are more prone to cracking or chipping, the COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE has been a pleasant surprise in terms of durability. While it might not have the same nuanced sound as my high-end calls, it’s proven to be a reliable and resilient tool that I can count on in any hunting situation. It certainly outperformed my expectations given the price point.
Breaking Down the Features of COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE
Specifications
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is a single-reed goose call constructed from durable polymer. It features a gunsmoke finish and a simple, straightforward design optimized for ease of use and reliability. The precise specifications of this call are somewhat limited in publicly available documentation, but based on my experience, the key characteristics are as follows.
- Material: Constructed from molded polymer, offering a robust and weather-resistant build. This is crucial for durability in harsh hunting environments.
- Reed Design: Utilizes a single reed, which makes it easier for beginners to learn basic goose calling techniques. This design promotes consistent sound production.
- Finish: Features a gunsmoke color that provides a stealthy look and helps to minimize glare. This finish is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- Weight & Dimensions: Lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and handle. The size and shape are designed for comfortable operation, even with gloved hands.
- Price: Retails for around $31.99, offering excellent value for a durable and functional goose call. This is an extremely attractive price point for many hunters.
Performance & Functionality
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE excels at producing basic goose sounds like honks, clucks, and moans. Its single-reed design simplifies the learning process, making it a great choice for beginner and intermediate callers. It’s designed to be a foundational call.
The call’s strengths lie in its ease of use and consistent performance. Its weakness would be more nuanced sounds. The sound projection is adequate for close to medium range, but it may struggle to reach distant birds in very windy conditions. It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, durable goose call.
Design & Ergonomics
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE features a simple, functional design. The polymer construction feels solid in the hand, and the gunsmoke finish adds a touch of stealth. No frills, just function.
The call is comfortable to hold and operate, even with gloves. It is important for comfortable, all-day use in the field. There’s a minimal learning curve, making it easy for anyone to pick up and start calling.
Durability & Maintenance
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is built to last. The polymer construction is incredibly resistant to cracking, chipping, and other forms of damage. It is perfect for tough hunting conditions.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with warm water and a mild soap will keep the call performing optimally. A touch of cork grease will keep the tones singing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE does not come with any specific accessories. However, being a standard goose call, it is compatible with lanyards for easy carrying. Lanyards are easily available on the market.
There are limited customization options for this particular call, given its single-piece molded design. It’s primarily designed to be a functional and affordable tool straight out of the box.
Pros and Cons of COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The polymer construction is incredibly resistant to damage, making it ideal for tough hunting conditions.
- Affordable Price: At around $31.99, this call offers excellent value for money, making it accessible to hunters of all budgets.
- Easy to Use: The single-reed design is simple to learn and operate, making it perfect for beginners.
- Consistent Performance: Produces reliable and consistent goose sounds, helping to attract birds effectively.
- Stealthy Design: The gunsmoke finish provides a low-profile look, minimizing glare and spooking potential targets.
Cons
- Limited Sound Variety: The single-reed design is not as versatile as double-reed calls, limiting the range of goose sounds that can be produced.
- Sound Projection: May struggle to reach distant birds in very windy conditions.
Who Should Buy COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE?
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is perfect for beginner goose hunters who are just starting to learn the art of calling. It is also ideal for experienced hunters who need a durable and reliable backup call. This call can be used in tough hunting conditions.
Hunters who prioritize sound versatility and long-range projection should consider a double-reed acrylic call instead. Also, if you are a hunter who likes flashy, customized gear, this call’s simple design might not appeal to you.
A must-have accessory is a comfortable lanyard for easy carrying. While not strictly necessary, a small tube of cork grease can help keep the reed functioning smoothly.
Conclusion on COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE
The COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is a no-nonsense goose call that delivers on its promise of durability and affordability. It might not be the flashiest or most versatile call on the market, but it’s a reliable tool that will get the job done. This will ring true especially in challenging hunting conditions.
At $31.99, the price is more than justified for the quality and performance you get. If you’re a beginner looking for a starter call, or an experienced hunter in need of a rugged backup, the COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE is an excellent choice.
I would definitely recommend this call to anyone looking for a durable and affordable option. It’s a solid performer that will earn its place in your hunting pack. So, grab a COD GOOSE CALL POLY SINGLE – GUNSMOKE, get out in the field, and start calling those honkers in!