Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call Review

The Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call Made a Bold First Impression

The Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call isn’t just another piece of gear in my pack; it’s a legacy. Haydel’s claims to have introduced the first tube-type grunt call back in 1986. This call promises to tap into the primal language of deer with its simple, yet effective design.

I was drawn to the DG-87 because I needed a reliable and easy-to-use grunt call for those tense moments when a buck is just out of range. I was tired of calls that required too much air or were prone to freezing up. The DG-87 offered a seemingly straightforward solution at a reasonable price of $14.99.

Unboxing the DG-87, I was immediately struck by its no-frills design. It’s lightweight, constructed of what appears to be durable plastic, and feels comfortable in hand. It lacks the fancy aesthetics of some of the more modern calls, but its simplicity gave me a sense of confidence.

Compared to some of my other grunt calls, like the Primos Buck Roar and the Flextone Buck Collector, the Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call is noticeably more compact. The Primos offers a more variable tone while the Flextone relies on a bellows system, but the DG-87 promises a clear, consistent grunt with minimal effort. I chose the Haydel’s for its reputation for producing consistent and realistic sounds with minimal fuss.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The DG-87 doesn’t scream high-end, but its lightweight feel and reputation suggested it could be a dependable tool in the field. I was excited to see if this humble call could live up to its legacy.

Real-World Testing: Putting Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test with the Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call was during the early archery season in the heavily wooded areas of Northern Wisconsin. I tested the call during both morning and evening hunts, primarily in cool, dry conditions. The temperature ranged from 45-60 degrees Fahrenheit.

The DG-87 proved remarkably easy to use. A simple, controlled exhale produced a convincing, low grunt. I didn’t have to fiddle with reeds or mouthpieces, which was a welcome change from some of my other calls.

My first surprise came when a small buck responded almost immediately to a series of soft grunts. It approached cautiously, providing me with a clean shot opportunity, though I ultimately chose to let him pass. The effectiveness of the call was instantly apparent.

Extended Use & Reliability

After using the Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call for a full season, it has proven to be a reliable tool. It has withstood several days of use in the field. Despite being made of plastic, it has held up well with no signs of cracking or breaking.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. I simply blow out any moisture after use and store it in my call lanyard. Compared to calls with intricate designs or moving parts, the DG-87 is exceptionally easy to care for.

In comparison to previous experiences with other calls, the Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call has significantly outperformed them in terms of ease of use and consistency. Other calls often require more effort to produce realistic sounds, while the DG-87 delivers a dependable grunt every time. The other calls don’t seem as reliable in the field.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call

Specifications

• The Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call is a tube-style deer call designed to mimic the vocalizations of a mature buck. Its simple design ensures ease of use, even for novice hunters.

• The call is constructed from durable plastic. This makes it lightweight and resistant to cracking under normal hunting conditions.

• It is approximately 4 inches in length and weighs less than an ounce. Its compact size allows it to fit easily into a pocket or on a lanyard.

• The DG-87 produces a deep, guttural grunt. The sound is specifically designed to attract mature bucks during the rut.

• The call’s simple reed design requires minimal airflow. This feature reduces the risk of freezing in cold weather.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the call’s reliability, ease of use, and effectiveness in the field. The lightweight construction and simple design allow hunters to focus on the hunt, rather than struggling with their equipment. The consistent tone ensures that the call effectively attracts deer, even in challenging conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call performs its job admirably. It consistently produces a realistic grunt that attracts deer. It’s easy to use, even with gloved hands.

Its greatest strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It consistently produces a believable grunt. The only weakness is its limited tonal range.

The DG-87 meets expectations. Its price point and basic construction make it an excellent, reliable, and affordable tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call prioritizes function over form. The plastic body is basic but durable. Its lightweight feel and comfortable grip make it easy to use for extended periods.

The call is user-friendly. There’s no learning curve whatsoever; it’s ready to use straight out of the package.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its simple construction and durable plastic body, the Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call should last for several seasons with proper care. I have used it heavily and haven’t seen any wear or tear.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply blow out any moisture after use and store it in a dry place.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available beyond attaching it to a lanyard of your choice.

The DG-87 is compatible with any standard call lanyard. This allows hunters to easily integrate it into their existing gear setup. The call doesn’t require any specific accessories to function properly.

Pros and Cons of Haydel’s DG-87 Deer Grunt Call