The Dead End Game Calls Traffic Made a Bold First Impression
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic, a plastic grunt call from Dead End Game Calls, promises to deliver a versatile range of deer vocalizations in a single, affordable package. It boasts the ability to produce mature buck grunts, young buck grunts, doe grunts, estrous bleats, and fawn bleats, all by simply adjusting an internal O-ring. This versatility immediately piqued my interest, given my experience managing various calls in the field.
I’ve always struggled with carrying multiple calls, each dedicated to a specific sound. The promise of a single call handling it all was incredibly appealing. My hunting pack often feels overloaded, and simplifying my gear is a constant goal.
Unboxing the Dead End Game Calls Traffic, my first impression was that it felt solid for its price point. The plastic construction felt durable enough to withstand regular use, and the internal O-ring was easily accessible. Compared to my collection of individual grunt calls, this seemed a more efficient design; my older calls, like the Primos Buck Roar and the Flextone Buck Collector, each excel at a single sound. But they lack the all-in-one capability promised by the Dead End Game Calls Traffic. I was cautiously optimistic – the claims seemed significant, but the build quality seemed decent for the price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Dead End Game Calls Traffic to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Dead End Game Calls Traffic with me on a late-season whitetail hunt in the Pennsylvania backcountry. The weather was cold and damp, with temperatures hovering around freezing. I tested the call in various scenarios: blind calling, response to visual sightings, and in areas with known deer activity.
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic required some initial experimentation to achieve the desired sounds. Initially, the O-ring adjustment felt a bit finicky; however, after some practice, I managed to produce convincing mature buck grunts and doe bleats. The fawn bleats were more challenging and required a very light touch. There were no immediate issues, but the sensitivity of the O-ring to moisture was something I noticed during my first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across multiple hunts, the Dead End Game Calls Traffic has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the plastic, but the call remains fully functional. Cleaning is relatively simple – a quick rinse and wipe-down were enough to remove any dirt or debris.
Compared to my higher-end acrylic calls, like the Quake Call, the Dead End Game Calls Traffic doesn’t offer the same tonal richness or projection. However, for its price, it performs admirably and has proven to be a reliable addition to my gear. It has allowed me to cut down on the number of calls I carry into the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Dead End Game Calls Traffic
Specifications
- The Dead End Game Calls Traffic is a plastic grunt call. This makes it lightweight and relatively inexpensive compared to acrylic or wood calls.
- It is designed to produce mature buck grunts, young buck grunts, doe grunts, estrous bleats, and fawn bleats. This versatility is its key selling point.
- The sound variation is achieved through an adjustable internal O-ring. This allows the user to manipulate the reed’s vibration and produce different tones.
- The price is $22.49. This makes it an affordable option for beginners or hunters looking for a backup call.
The ability to produce various sounds is essential for attracting deer in different phases of the rut. The O-ring adjustment, while potentially sensitive, is the key to this call’s versatility. The low price point makes it accessible to a wider range of hunters.
Performance & Functionality
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic performs adequately in producing a range of deer vocalizations. With practice, I was able to mimic common calls effectively. The key to success lies in mastering the O-ring adjustment and controlling breath pressure.
The call’s primary strength is its versatility. Its weaknesses include the somewhat generic sound quality compared to specialized calls and the sensitivity of the O-ring to moisture and precise adjustment. It meets the basic expectation of producing multiple deer sounds, but doesn’t exceed expectations in terms of sound quality or ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic is constructed from molded plastic, making it lightweight and easy to carry. The call is comfortable to hold, and the mouthpiece is ergonomically designed for easy use.
The O-ring adjustment is relatively straightforward. Mastering it takes some practice, but it is reasonably user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic is durable enough for regular hunting use. It is unlikely to break easily under normal conditions.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply rinsing and drying the call after use is sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. It’s a simple, self-contained unit designed for versatility right out of the package.
It’s not designed to be compatible with aftermarket reeds or other components. Its value is in its complete, all-in-one design.
Pros and Cons of Dead End Game Calls Traffic
Pros
- Versatile: Produces mature buck grunts, young buck grunts, doe grunts, estrous bleats, and fawn bleats.
- Affordable: Priced at $22.49, making it accessible to hunters on a budget.
- Lightweight: The plastic construction makes it easy to carry in the field.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean and maintain with minimal effort.
- All-in-One Solution: Eliminates the need to carry multiple specialized calls.
Cons
- Generic Sound Quality: Sound quality isn’t as rich or realistic as higher-end acrylic calls.
- O-Ring Sensitivity: The internal O-ring can be sensitive to moisture and requires careful adjustment.
Who Should Buy Dead End Game Calls Traffic?
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic is perfect for:
- Beginner hunters looking for an affordable and versatile call to start with.
- Hunters on a budget who need a multi-functional call.
- Hunters who want to minimize the amount of gear they carry.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced hunters who prioritize superior sound quality and realism.
- Hunters who prefer specialized calls for specific vocalizations.
- Hunters who require a call that performs consistently in harsh weather conditions.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None required; the call is intended for use as-is.
Conclusion on Dead End Game Calls Traffic
The Dead End Game Calls Traffic is a solid, affordable option for hunters seeking a versatile grunt call. While it doesn’t match the sound quality of higher-end calls, its ability to produce a range of deer vocalizations in a single package makes it a valuable tool for the price.
The price of $22.49 is more than justified given the call’s functionality.
I would recommend the Dead End Game Calls Traffic to beginner hunters and those on a budget. It’s a great way to learn different deer vocalizations without investing in multiple specialized calls. Pick up the Dead End Game Calls Traffic and simplify your hunt – you might be surprised by the results!
