First Thoughts on the Double Reed Cajun Squeal
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal call is a niche product, hearkening back to a bygone era of hunting in the Louisiana bayous. Market hunting days are long gone, but the sounds that lured waterfowl then can still prove effective today. This call from [Manufacturer Name – not specified] promises a unique, higher-pitched tone and a distinctive squeal at the end of each note.
I’ve been using various duck calls for over a decade, but always looking for an edge. My usual double reeds are effective, but sometimes the birds get call-shy, and a different sound can make all the difference.
Upon unboxing, the Double Reed Cajun Squeal feels lightweight and compact. It’s constructed from a seemingly durable molded plastic. The double reed setup looks relatively standard.
Compared to my tried-and-true Duck Commander Classic and a newer acrylic Buck Gardner call, the Cajun Squeal is noticeably smaller. It’s also simpler in design, lacking the fine-tuning adjustments found on some higher-end calls. My first impression is cautiously optimistic; the simplicity could be a strength, but also a limitation. At $20.99, expectations are set accordingly.
Real-World Testing: Putting Double Reed Cajun Squeal to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Double Reed Cajun Squeal out to a local marsh during the early teal season. The conditions were typical for early September: humid, with light winds. The marsh had been heavily pressured during the previous weeks, so the birds were skittish.
Initially, the call felt a little awkward. The smaller size required a different grip than my larger calls. However, after a few minutes of practice, I was able to produce consistent squeals. The higher pitch seemed to cut through the ambient noise well.
The teal responded immediately to the Cajun Squeal. A group of three, circling high, broke formation and committed to our decoys. That first hunt was a success, yielding two teal thanks to the Double Reed Cajun Squeal.
Extended Use & Reliability
After using the Double Reed Cajun Squeal for an entire season, it has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of cracking or damage to the call body. The reeds are still producing the same sound as day one.
Maintenance has been minimal, consisting mainly of blowing out moisture after each use. I have not needed to disassemble and clean the reeds, which is a bonus. Compared to some more complex calls, the Double Reed Cajun Squeal requires less fussing.
The call did outperform my expectations initially. The novelty of the sound was effective on pressured birds. However, later in the season, its effectiveness seemed to wane. The ducks may have simply become accustomed to it.
Breaking Down the Features of Double Reed Cajun Squeal
Specifications
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal boasts the following specifications:
- Type: Double Reed Duck Call
- Material: Molded Plastic
- Tone: Higher pitched with a squeal at the end of each note
- Intended Use: Finesse calling
- Model Number: DRS-88
These specifications are important because they define the call’s core functionality. The double reed design allows for easier control and raspiness. The molded plastic keeps it lightweight and affordable. The high pitch and squeal are the defining characteristics that set it apart.
Performance & Functionality
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal performs its intended job admirably. It effectively produces a higher-pitched duck call with a distinctive squeal. The call is easy to blow and requires minimal air pressure.
Its strength lies in its unique sound profile. It can be an effective tool for luring birds that are wary of more common calls. Its weakness is its limited range of tones. It is not as versatile as some other double reed calls. It meets expectations, but it’s not a game changer for every situation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal features a simple, functional design. The molded plastic is lightweight and feels comfortable enough in the hand. The smaller size might be an issue for some users with larger hands.
There is virtually no learning curve. Any experienced duck hunter will be able to pick it up and use it immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
The molded plastic construction should ensure decent longevity with proper care. It is easy to maintain. Blowing it out after each use is all that’s usually required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal comes with no accessories. There are no customization options available. The call is a simple, self-contained unit. It’s unlikely to be compatible with aftermarket parts due to its basic design.
Pros and Cons of Double Reed Cajun Squeal
Pros
- Unique high-pitched sound with squeal.
- Easy to blow and control.
- Affordable price point.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Effective on pressured birds.
Cons
- Limited tonal range.
- No customization options.
- Basic construction might not appeal to all users.
Who Should Buy Double Reed Cajun Squeal?
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal is perfect for duck hunters looking to add a unique sound to their arsenal. It’s especially useful for those hunting pressured birds or in areas where a higher-pitched call might be more effective. It’s also a good option for beginners due to its ease of use.
Hunters seeking a versatile call with a wide range of tones should skip this product. The call’s single-minded focus on the squeal might not be suitable for every situation. A lanyard to keep the call handy is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Double Reed Cajun Squeal
The Double Reed Cajun Squeal is a solid, affordable duck call that offers a unique sound. Its higher pitch and distinctive squeal can be effective in specific situations. The price of $20.99 is certainly justified for what it offers.
I would recommend this call to duck hunters looking to expand their calling repertoire. It’s a specialized tool, not a do-it-all solution, but it can be a valuable asset in the right hands. Add this to your bag and give those ducks something they haven’t heard before!