The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned waterfowl hunter, I’ve blown through more duck calls than most people have seen ducks. I’ve experimented with calls crafted from exotic woods, acrylics, and even calls with built-in electronic amplification. However, the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call piqued my interest for a different reason: its simplicity and reputation for delivering realistic mallard sounds at an incredibly accessible price point.
My quest for a reliable, no-frills call that could withstand the rigors of the marsh led me to Haydels. I needed a call that wouldn’t break the bank, wouldn’t require constant tuning, and would consistently produce the enticing quacks that bring greenheads circling.
Upon unboxing the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call, my initial impression was one of unassuming functionality. The black plastic construction felt durable, and the call itself was lightweight and easy to hold. This call is a far cry from the polished, high-end calls I’m accustomed to. Yet there was something appealing about its no-nonsense design.
I own a high-end acrylic call from RNT Calls and a wooden call from Duck Commander. I chose the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call to fill a specific niche: a tough, dependable call that I wouldn’t hesitate to throw in my bag and use in any conditions without worrying about damage or delicate tuning. This call seemed better suited for when a pristine sound is not necessary and ultimate durability is most important.
I was cautiously optimistic. Could a call this inexpensive truly deliver the goods? The proof, as always, would be in the quacking.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call took place on a flooded timber hunt in eastern Arkansas. The weather was typical for late December: damp, chilly, and with a light mist hanging in the air. I needed a call that wouldn’t freeze up or lose its tone in the wet conditions.
The call performed admirably. Even with wet reeds, it produced a surprisingly consistent and realistic sound. I found the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call easy to use right out of the box, requiring very little adjustment to my calling technique.
Initially, I found that the call required a little extra breath control than my usual call to get a good ducky sound. With a little practice, I was surprised with how consistently I could make it sound like a hen.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in various hunting scenarios, including flooded fields, open water, and timber holes, the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call has proven to be a reliable performer. It has held up well to the rigors of the hunt. There were no signs of cracking or damage to the plastic.
The call requires minimal maintenance. A quick rinse with water and a wipe-down are all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. Compared to some of my more expensive calls, which require meticulous cleaning and occasional reed adjustments, the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call is a breeze to maintain.
This Haydels call is not outperforming my high end call, but I’m okay with that. The most important point is that it meets my needs. I no longer need to worry about losing or damaging an expensive call in a harsh environment.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Haydels
- Material: Black Plastic. This construction provides durability and resistance to moisture, making it ideal for harsh hunting conditions.
- Part Number: VTM90. This identifier helps ensure you’re getting the correct model.
- Buds Item Number: 81054.
- Type: Mallard Call. Designed specifically to mimic the sounds of a mallard duck.
These specifications highlight the call’s focus on simplicity and functionality. Its design is catered towards use in tough environments and easy usage.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call excels at producing basic mallard sounds, including quacks, feeding chuckles, and comeback calls. It may lack the nuanced tones of a high-end call. But it gets the job done effectively.
The call’s strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. Its weakness is the limitations in sound. However, it’s a reliable and effective tool for attracting ducks within its sound capabilities.
The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call meets my expectations for a durable, affordable, and functional duck call. It won’t win any sound contests, but it will consistently put ducks in the decoys.
Design & Ergonomics
The black plastic construction is robust and lightweight. The call is comfortable to hold, even with gloved hands.
The design is basic but functional. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction is highly durable. This leads to a design that is resistant to cracking and damage.
Maintenance is minimal. Only a quick rinse with water is required after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call comes as a standalone unit. No additional accessories are included.
There are no official customization options offered by Haydels. Due to its simple construction, customization might be limited to aftermarket reed adjustments, but it is not recommended for novice call users.
Pros and Cons of Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call is incredibly budget-friendly. This makes it accessible to beginner hunters or those needing a backup call.
- Durable Construction: The black plastic is tough and can withstand harsh hunting conditions without cracking or breaking.
- Easy to Use: The call requires minimal practice and is straightforward to operate, making it suitable for hunters of all skill levels.
- Reliable Performance: Consistently produces effective mallard sounds, attracting ducks without the need for constant tuning or adjustments.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain. Only a quick rinse after use to ensure optimal performance.
Cons
- Limited Sound Range: Lacks the nuanced tones and versatility of higher-end calls, which may be a drawback for experienced callers.
- Basic Design: The black plastic construction is functional but lacks the aesthetic appeal of calls made from wood or acrylic.
Who Should Buy Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call?
The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call is perfect for:
- Beginner duck hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use call.
- Experienced hunters needing a durable and reliable backup call for harsh conditions.
- Hunters on a tight budget who still want a functional call that will attract ducks.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced callers seeking a call with a wide range of tones and advanced calling capabilities.
- Hunters who prioritize aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship over pure functionality.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A lanyard to keep the call readily accessible while hunting.
- While not essential, a reed adjustment tool could be useful for fine-tuning the sound, but is generally not necessary for this call.
Conclusion on Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call
The Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call is a simple, durable, and affordable tool that gets the job done. It may not be the fanciest or most versatile call on the market, but it consistently produces effective mallard sounds. It’s a dependable option for hunters of all skill levels.
At a price of $20.49, the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call offers exceptional value. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone needing a reliable call without breaking the bank.
Yes, I would recommend the Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call to anyone looking for a no-frills, dependable duck call. If you’re just starting out or need a backup call that can withstand the rigors of the marsh, this call is a solid choice. Get yourself a Haydels Black Plastic Mallard Call and get ready to bring those greenheads in close!