First Impressions of Faulks Deluxe Duck Call
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call arrives as a testament to tradition, promising a smooth, natural mallard tone in a world increasingly dominated by synthetic alternatives. Made by Faulks, a name synonymous with quality game calls, this walnut call aims to deliver a trouble-free and easy-blowing experience.
My journey to the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call began with a familiar frustration: inconsistent calls. I’d used various acrylic and polycarbonate calls over the years, each with its own quirks, but I longed for the reliability and warmth of a classic wood call.
Unboxing the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call was a simple, yet satisfying experience. The heft of the walnut immediately felt good in my hand, suggesting a build quality that modern calls often lack.
Compared to my previous acrylic calls, like the Buck Gardner Double Nasty or the Primos Honky Tonk, the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call offers a different aesthetic. It’s less about flashy designs and more about understated elegance and functional design.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try a call that promised ease of use and a realistic sound, but I was also aware that wood calls can be finicky and require proper maintenance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faulks Deluxe Duck Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call during a late-season duck hunt on the Mississippi River. The conditions were challenging: a biting wind, intermittent sleet, and wary ducks that had seen it all.
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call performed admirably, even in the less-than-ideal weather. The tone remained consistent, and the call didn’t freeze up or become waterlogged like some of my previous calls had.
Using the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call was surprisingly intuitive. I found it easy to produce a range of sounds, from soft feeding chuckles to loud comeback calls, with minimal effort.
The only initial issue was a slight stickiness of the reed after prolonged use, but that quickly resolved itself with a quick cleaning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across different hunting environments, the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call has proven to be a reliable companion. The walnut has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear despite being exposed to moisture and rough handling.
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe-down after each hunt and occasional cleaning of the reed is all it takes to keep it in top condition.
Compared to my past experiences with cheaper calls, the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call stands out in terms of consistency and tone quality. It consistently produces a realistic mallard sound, far exceeding the performance of mass-produced plastic calls.
Breaking Down the Features of Faulks Deluxe Duck Call
Specifications
- The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call is crafted from heavy-duty walnut, providing a classic look and durable build. Walnut lends a certain inherent warmth to the call’s tone, which is desirable for realism.
- The call is tuned for a smooth, natural mallard tone, offering a versatile range of sounds. This tuning makes it suitable for various hunting scenarios, from close-range coaxing to long-distance attracting.
- Faulks advertises the call as trouble-free and easy blowing, which is critical for hunters of all skill levels. The ease of use reduces fatigue during long hunts and increases the chances of producing effective calls.
- It weighs approximately 0.13 kg, offering a comfortable balance in hand. The moderate weight contributes to the call’s solid feel and prevents it from feeling cheap or flimsy.
- The dimensions are: Length – 8 inches, Height – 1.4 inches, Width – 5 inches, making it compact and easy to carry. These dimensions allow for easy storage in a hunting vest or bag without taking up excessive space.
Performance & Functionality
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call excels in producing a realistic and appealing mallard sound. Its ability to create a variety of tones, from soft quacks to loud hails, makes it a versatile tool in the field.
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call’s primary strength lies in its ease of use and natural tone. The one weakness is its vulnerability to extreme moisture, although this is mitigated with proper care.
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call meets and often exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point. It delivers a high-quality sound and reliable performance, making it a worthwhile investment for serious duck hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call features a classic and functional design. The walnut construction provides a comfortable grip and a pleasing aesthetic.
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call is exceptionally user-friendly. Even a novice caller can quickly learn to produce realistic sounds with minimal practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call is built to last for years with proper care. The durable walnut construction can withstand the rigors of hunting.
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional reed adjustments are all that is needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call does not come with any additional accessories. It is primarily designed as a standalone tool.
Due to its simple construction, there are limited customization options available. However, some users may choose to modify the reed or add a lanyard for convenience.
Pros and Cons of Faulks Deluxe Duck Call
Pros
- Natural Mallard Tone: The walnut construction and expert tuning produce a realistic and appealing sound that attracts ducks.
- Easy to Use: Even novice callers can quickly learn to produce a variety of calls with minimal effort.
- Durable Construction: The heavy-duty walnut provides a solid feel and ensures long-lasting performance.
- Classic Design: The timeless aesthetic appeals to hunters who appreciate traditional craftsmanship.
- Affordable Price: At $37.99, the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call offers excellent value for its quality and performance.
Cons
- Walnut requires more careful moisture management compared to acrylic.
- Limited Customization Options: The design is simple and doesn’t offer many opportunities for personalization.
Who Should Buy Faulks Deluxe Duck Call?
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call is perfect for: hunters who appreciate a classic design, value a natural sound, and seek a user-friendly call. It particularly benefits hunters looking for an affordable and reliable alternative to expensive custom calls.
Who should skip this product? Those who demand extreme customization options or hunt in consistently wet environments without the time to properly care for a wood call.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality lanyard to keep the call readily accessible and a cleaning kit specifically designed for wood calls.
Conclusion on Faulks Deluxe Duck Call
The Faulks Deluxe Duck Call is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional craftsmanship. This is evident through its walnut construction to its focus on producing a natural mallard tone, this call delivers on its promise of ease of use and reliable performance.
At $37.99, the price is more than justified by the quality and effectiveness of the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call. It offers an exceptional value proposition for hunters of all skill levels.
I would personally recommend the Faulks Deluxe Duck Call to anyone seeking a classic, reliable, and effective duck call. Pick up a Faulks Deluxe Duck Call today and experience the difference a quality wood call can make in your next hunt – your success depends on it!