The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call Made a Bold First Impression
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call, a name synonymous with affordable and effective waterfowl calling, piqued my interest immediately. I’ve spent over a decade chasing geese in flooded timber and frozen fields, and I’m always on the lookout for reliable gear. At $18.99, this call promised a lot without breaking the bank.
My journey to this call began with a persistent problem: inconsistent calling. My aging, more expensive call was starting to stick in cold weather. Plus, it lacked the high-pitched crack needed to cut through the wind on open water. I wanted something dependable and versatile without sacrificing performance.
Unboxing the Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call was straightforward. The call came in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight. The clear acrylic construction felt solid enough, though not as premium as some of my higher-end calls.
I considered the Duck Commander Goose Commander and the Primos Honky Tonk before settling on the Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call. Both are solid calls, but the Haydels was significantly cheaper. Also, I appreciated Haydels’s reputation for producing user-friendly calls.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited by the price and simplicity. However, I was slightly concerned about the lightweight feel and how that might affect its tone and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call was on a frigid morning in a flooded cornfield. The temperature hovered around 20 degrees Fahrenheit with a biting wind. I was targeting Canada geese that were staging in a nearby refuge.
Despite the cold, the call performed admirably. It didn’t stick or freeze up like my old call. I was surprised by the range of sounds I could produce with relative ease, from deep honks to high-pitched clucks.
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. It required minimal tuning or practice to produce convincing goose sounds. After about 15 minutes of practice in the truck, I felt comfortable using it in the field. The geese responded positively, and we had a successful hunt, bagging three birds.
One initial surprise was how loud this call is for its size. It really carries across open fields.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use in various conditions, the Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it in rain, snow, and dry conditions, and it has consistently performed without issue.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of hunting. I have stored it in my blind bag, which is often tossed around. The acrylic has resisted scratching and chipping.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply rinse it with warm water after each hunt to remove any saliva or debris.
Compared to my previous call, which cost five times as much, the Haydels has exceeded my expectations. It’s not as refined in tone, but its reliability and ease of use are unmatched, especially at this price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Haydels
- Material: Clear Acrylic. This provides a durable and weather-resistant construction.
- Part Number: H81. This is helpful for reordering or finding replacement parts.
- Buds Item Number: 81058. This will assist in easily locating the product on Bud’s Gun Shop website.
- Price: $18.99. This is an incredibly accessible price point for hunters on a budget.
These specifications are important because they highlight the call’s simplicity, durability, and affordability. The acrylic construction ensures that the call can withstand harsh weather conditions. Also, it won’t break the bank for budget-conscious hunters.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call performs its primary function – attracting geese – exceptionally well. It produces a wide range of realistic goose sounds, including honks, clucks, and moans.
Its strengths lie in its ease of use, consistent sound production, and loud volume. The weakness is that the tone lacks the nuanced richness of higher-end calls.
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call meets and even exceeds expectations, given its low price. It’s a reliable and effective tool for any goose hunter.
Design & Ergonomics
The clear acrylic design is simple and functional. The lightweight construction makes it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call is incredibly user-friendly. Its simple design ensures that even novice callers can quickly master it.
Durability & Maintenance
The acrylic construction suggests that the call should last for several seasons with proper care. It’s a durable material resistant to cracking and chipping.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple rinse with warm water after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call comes with no additional accessories, reflecting its minimalist design. There are no specific customization options available directly from Haydels.
However, some users might choose to experiment with different reeds or tone boards to alter the sound slightly. The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call does not require any specific modifications to function effectively.
Pros and Cons of Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call
Pros
- Affordable price point. Makes it accessible to beginners and budget-conscious hunters.
- Easy to use. Requires minimal practice to produce convincing goose sounds.
- Durable acrylic construction. Withstands harsh weather conditions and regular use.
- Loud and effective. Carries sound well across open fields and water.
- Versatile sound production. Capable of producing a variety of goose vocalizations.
Cons
- Lacks the refined tone of higher-end calls.
- No included accessories or customization options.
Who Should Buy Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call?
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call is perfect for:
- Beginner goose hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use call.
- Experienced hunters who want a reliable backup call or a call for less demanding hunts.
- Hunters on a budget who need a functional call without breaking the bank.
Who should skip this product?
- Hunters seeking a high-end call with a complex and nuanced tone.
- Professional guides who require the absolute best equipment.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A lanyard to keep the call readily accessible in the field.
Conclusion on Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call
The Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call is an excellent value proposition. Its low price, ease of use, and reliable performance make it a standout product in its category.
The price is absolutely justified. It delivers exceptional performance for a fraction of the cost of high-end calls.
I would definitely recommend the Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable goose call. If you’re starting out, or simply want an inexpensive and effective call, this is a great option. Don’t hesitate – give the Haydels Clear Acrylic Goose Call a try and see the difference it can make in your next hunt.