Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard Review

Let’s Dive into Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is a duck call designed to lure in waterfowl with its realistic mallard sounds. Haydels has a long-standing reputation in the hunting community, known for producing reliable and effective game calls. I’m eager to dissect this particular model, assessing its sound quality, ease of use, and overall value for both novice and experienced hunters.

My journey to the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard began with a growing frustration. My previous duck call, a single-reed model from a lesser-known brand, was proving inconsistent and difficult to master, resulting in more spooked ducks than successful retrieves. I needed a call that was easier to control and produced a convincing mallard hen sound, without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing the Haydels DR85, my initial impression was favorable. The call felt lightweight yet sturdy in my hand, constructed of what appeared to be durable plastic. The design was simple and functional, suggesting a focus on performance rather than flashy aesthetics.

Compared to a Primos Yo Sista and a Duck Commander Triple Threat, the Haydels DR85 appeared to offer a middle ground. The Primos, known for its volume, seemed like overkill for smaller, timber-filled hunting spots, while the Duck Commander, though versatile, sometimes felt too airy. I chose the Haydels DR85 hoping for a balanced call capable of producing realistic mallard sounds in various hunting scenarios.

My first impression was a mixture of excitement and cautious optimism. I was eager to test the call in the field, but also aware that many calls sound great in a store and fall short in real-world hunting situations. Only time and testing would reveal the true potential of the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Haydels DR85 was on a crisp morning in a flooded timber section of the Mississippi River bottomlands. I was nestled in a natural blind, surrounded by towering cypress trees and the sounds of nature awakening. The conditions were ideal for duck hunting, with a light breeze and overcast skies.

The Haydels DR85 performed admirably in these conditions. The double reed design allowed me to produce a consistent, raspy hen mallard sound that immediately caught the attention of a flock of greenheads circling overhead. The call didn’t freeze up despite the moisture, and maintained tonal integrity throughout the session.

The call required minimal time to adjust to. The air pressure required was moderate, and the tone was easily controllable after a few practice runs. There were no immediate issues and the Haydels DR85 delivered precisely the mallard sounds I was seeking.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Haydels DR85 has proven to be a reliable and effective duck call. It’s become a staple in my hunting vest. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, from damp and cold mornings to drier, warmer afternoons.

The call has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear and tear. The plastic construction appears to be more robust than I initially anticipated. A quick rinse with water after each hunt has been sufficient to keep it clean and functioning optimally.

Compared to my previous duck calls, the Haydels DR85 significantly outperforms them in terms of ease of use, consistency, and realistic sound production. It has quickly become my go-to call for mallard hunting, surpassing my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

Specifications

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is specifically designed for duck hunting, targeting mallards as the primary species. The call is constructed from durable plastic, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The manufacturer is Haydels, a well-known name in the game call industry.

The double reed design allows for a wide range of mallard sounds, from soft feeding chuckles to loud comeback calls. The adjustable floating wedge is a key feature, allowing hunters to fine-tune the call to their personal preferences and hunting conditions. These specifications contribute to the call’s versatility and effectiveness in attracting ducks.

Performance & Functionality

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard excels at producing realistic mallard hen sounds. Its raspy tone and adjustable reed system allow for a variety of calls, making it effective in different hunting situations. The call is easy to use, even for beginners, and offers consistent performance.

One strength of the Haydels DR85 is its versatility; it can produce both soft and loud calls with ease. The adjustability of the reed wedge is another significant advantage, allowing hunters to customize the call to their liking. A minor weakness is that very high-pitched calls require a bit more practice.

The Haydels DR85 meets and often exceeds expectations. Its realistic sound, ease of use, and adjustability make it a valuable tool for any duck hunter.

Design & Ergonomics

The Haydels DR85 boasts a simple, functional design. The plastic construction makes it lightweight and easy to handle, even with gloved hands. The call feels comfortable to hold and use, and the sound projection is excellent.

The Haydels DR85 is remarkably user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. The adjustable floating wedge is easily accessible, making tuning simple and straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The durable plastic construction of the Haydels DR85 suggests that it will last for many hunting seasons with proper care. I expect to get years of use out of this call. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with water and a soft cloth.

Repair should be relatively simple, as the reed assembly is easily accessible. However, replacement parts may need to be ordered directly from Haydels or a hunting supply store.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Haydels DR85 does not come with any additional accessories, focusing on core functionality. The primary customization option is the adjustable floating wedge, which allows hunters to fine-tune the reed tension and sound. While specific aftermarket reeds are not widely available, experimenting with reed placement is possible.

Pros and Cons of Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

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Who Should Buy Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard?

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is perfect for duck hunters of all skill levels. It is especially beneficial for beginners looking for an easy-to-use and effective call. More experienced hunters will appreciate its versatility and ability to produce a wide range of mallard sounds.

Hunters specifically targeting mallards will find this call particularly useful. Those who prefer calls with a wider range of tonal options or those who require extensive customization might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory would be a quality lanyard to keep the call secure and easily accessible in the field.

Conclusion on Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is a solid, reliable, and effective duck call that delivers excellent value for its price. Its realistic sound, ease of use, and adjustable floating wedge make it a standout choice for mallard hunters of all skill levels. The Haydels DR85 is priced at $29.99, which is justified by its performance and durability.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable duck call. If you’re seeking a call that produces convincing mallard sounds and is easy to master, look no further. Add the Haydels DR85 to your hunting arsenal and experience the difference it can make in your success this season!