Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose Review

First Thoughts on the Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose

The Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose promises to be a game-changer for hunters looking to add authenticity and control to their deer calling. Haydels is a well-known name in the hunting industry, known for producing affordable and effective calls, and this particular model aims to enhance that reputation. The inclusion of a collapsible hose intrigued me as a potential solution to inconsistent call direction and volume, a common challenge when attempting to mimic realistic deer vocalizations.

Having struggled for years with grunt calls that either sounded artificial or were difficult to direct accurately, I was looking for a solution that offered both realism and precision. I wanted a call that could effectively mimic various deer vocalizations – from the deep, resonating grunts of a mature buck to the softer, more subtle calls of a doe. I’ve tried several brands over the years, but none have quite hit the mark.

Upon unboxing the Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose, I was immediately struck by its lightweight design and simple construction. The plastic body felt durable enough for field use, and the collapsible hose, while somewhat pliable, seemed sturdy enough to withstand repeated adjustments. It wasn’t love at first sight, but the practical design spoke to its intended purpose.

Compared to other grunt calls I’ve used – like the Primos Buck Roar or the Flextone Bone Collector Grunt Call – the Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose stood out due to its unique hose feature. While other calls focused on tone and resonance, this Haydels call seemed to prioritize directional control. I picked this over others, betting on its potential for more realistic and strategic calling in dense woods.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price point of $16.49 suggests a budget-friendly option, but I was hoping that Haydels didn’t compromise on sound quality and functionality. The proof, as they say, would be in the calling.

Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test with the Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose took place during the early archery season in the dense forests of northern Wisconsin. The conditions were typical for that time of year: cool mornings with damp undergrowth, transitioning to warmer afternoons. The humidity hung heavy in the air.

The call performed surprisingly well in the varying conditions. The collapsible hose allowed me to direct the sound away from my stand, creating the illusion of a deer moving through the thick brush. It took a little practice to get the hang of manipulating the hose while simultaneously grunting, but it soon became second nature. I quickly learned to adjust the hose’s length and angle to vary the direction and distance the sound traveled.

The call was very easy to use, needing just a little experimentation before it was producing convincing grunts. The flexible hose made it easier to direct the call’s sound without moving too much, which is crucial when trying to stay undetected by wary game. I did notice that moisture could accumulate in the hose in humid conditions, slightly muffling the sound.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use throughout the hunting season, the Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. The plastic construction has held up well, showing only minor scratches and no signs of cracking or damage. The collapsible hose still functions perfectly.

The call has held up without problems. I clean it with a damp cloth after each use and haven’t had any issues with clogging or sound degradation. This is vastly better than some of the more complicated calls I’ve owned, which required complete disassembly for cleaning.

Compared to my previous experiences with other grunt calls, the Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose has exceeded my expectations, primarily due to its directional control and ease of use. While other calls might produce a slightly richer or deeper tone, the Haydels call’s ability to project sound realistically in different directions gives it a significant advantage. It performs better than expected at such a low price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose

Specifications

The Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose is a lightweight, single-reed deer call designed to mimic the various grunt vocalizations of white-tailed deer. It features a durable plastic body and a flexible, collapsible hose for directional sound projection. The call is compact and easy to carry.

The most important specs are the flexible hose and the durable build. The hose allows you to project the sound more realistically, making it appear as if the deer are moving. The build quality ensures the call will hold up under normal hunting conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose performs its job effectively by producing a range of realistic deer grunt sounds. By adjusting the air pressure and manipulating the hose, I could mimic the subtle grunts of a browsing doe, the assertive grunts of a buck tending a scrape, and the aggressive challenge grunts of two bucks sizing each other up. This call offers excellent versatility for attracting deer during different phases of the rut.

The call is strong where directional sound control is needed. The weaknesses include its somewhat simple construction, which could be improved with higher-quality materials. I would recommend this to people looking for deer.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The plastic body is lightweight and easy to hold, even with gloved hands. It’s comfortable enough to use for extended periods.

It’s designed well and is relatively user-friendly. There’s a slight learning curve involved in mastering the different grunt sounds and manipulating the hose effectively, but with a little practice, most hunters should be able to pick it up quickly. The hose has a good degree of flexibility, but still feels robust enough to withstand repeated adjustments in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic construction should last for multiple hunting seasons with proper care. The call is easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning optimally.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available, such as adjustable reeds or alternative hose materials. However, its simplicity is part of its appeal.

While not specifically designed for use with other brands’ accessories, the standard lanyard attachment point allows you to connect it to any standard hunting lanyard. This provides convenient hands-free carrying and easy access.

Pros and Cons of Haydels Deer Grunt Call w/Collapsible Hose