Let’s Dive into Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed call is a deceptively simple tool, but in the right hands, it can turn a slow day in the blind into a limit-filling memory. Haydels has been a trusted name in game calls for decades, and the “RedLeg” promises to deliver realistic mallard sounds that even seasoned ducks can’t resist. I remember growing up listening to my grandfather’s collection of Haydels calls, the sounds as familiar as the rustling of leaves in the fall woods.
What drew me to the RedLeg was the promise of a “susie mallard” impersonation. I’ve been looking for a call that can effectively mimic the subtle, enticing sounds of a hen mallard, especially for those late-season hunts when ducks are call-shy. I was looking for something reliable, easy to blow, and, most importantly, convincing.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the call’s lightweight plastic construction. It felt durable enough, but definitely not as premium as some of my acrylic calls. The double “O” ring construction inspired some confidence, promising a tight seal against moisture. Initially, I picked it up alongside a Duck Commander Triple Threat and a Buck Gardner Double Nasty to see which one would provide the most realistic hen mallard sound. The Duck Commander felt a little too aggressive, and the Buck Gardner needed quite a bit of air to get the reeds moving.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price point of $29.56 made it an easy buy, and I was eager to see if its performance could outweigh its seemingly basic construction. I was excited to give it a try in the field, hoping it would live up to its claims of bringing in even the wariest of mallards.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed on a cold, blustery morning in a flooded timber near the Mississippi River. The wind was whipping and the ducks were flying high, so I needed a call that could cut through the noise and grab their attention. I was hunting with a buddy who usually handles the calling, but I wanted to see how the RedLeg performed.
The call was surprisingly easy to use, even with numb fingers. The double-reed system required minimal air pressure to produce a wide range of mallard sounds. In the wet conditions, the RedLeg continued to function flawlessly; I appreciated the double “O” ring construction that seemingly kept moisture out. A flock of mallards circled our spread after I did a series of soft greeting calls with the RedLeg.
There were no major issues after my initial use, but I did notice that the tone could become a bit raspy if I overblew it. I needed to find the right amount of air pressure to maintain a consistent, natural sound.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed in various conditions, I’ve grown to appreciate its consistent performance. The plastic construction has held up surprisingly well, showing no signs of cracking or damage despite being tossed around in my hunting bag. The double reeds required almost no tuning.
The call has been exposed to rain, mud, and even a brief accidental dunking in the water, and it still performs reliably. Cleaning is a breeze; I simply rinse it with fresh water and let it air dry. Compared to my previous experiences with more expensive calls that require meticulous cleaning and occasional reed adjustments, the RedLeg is refreshingly low-maintenance. The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed outperformed my expectations, particularly considering its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed
Specifications
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed boasts a simple yet effective design. It is constructed from durable plastic, ensuring resistance to moisture and the rigors of hunting. This call is specifically designed for attracting ducks, especially mallards, and is hand-tuned by professional callers. It features a double-reed system for enhanced resonance and a “susie mallard” sound, along with double “O” ring construction for a tight seal. The specification table provided lists the Manufacturer as Haydels, the Fabric/Material as Plastic, and the Species as Duck.
These specifications directly impact the call’s performance in several ways. The plastic material keeps the call lightweight and durable, while the double-reed system allows for a wide range of realistic mallard sounds. The tight seal provided by the double “O” rings ensures consistent performance in wet conditions, and the fact that it is hand-tuned ensures a high-quality sound right out of the package.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed excels at producing a convincing “susie mallard” sound, making it particularly effective for luring in call-shy ducks. Its ease of use is a major strength, requiring minimal air pressure to produce a variety of calls, from soft greeting calls to more aggressive comeback calls. The double-reed system allows for a good level of volume, capable of cutting through moderate wind.
One potential weakness is its tonal range; it might not be as versatile as some higher-end calls with adjustable reeds. However, for its intended purpose of mimicking a hen mallard, it performs admirably. It exceeded my expectations for a call in its price range, particularly in terms of its ease of use and reliability in wet conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed features a simple, functional design. The plastic construction makes it lightweight and easy to handle, even with gloved hands. It fits comfortably in the hand, and the mouthpiece is designed for easy blowing.
There is virtually no learning curve; even a novice caller can produce convincing mallard sounds with minimal practice. The plastic isn’t luxurious, but it’s functional and rugged enough for the demands of duck hunting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed is built to last, thanks to its durable plastic construction. It can withstand the bumps and bruises of everyday hunting without showing significant wear and tear. Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick rinse with water is usually all it takes to keep it in top condition.
The double “O” ring construction further enhances its longevity by preventing moisture from damaging the reeds. Considering its affordable price, its durability and ease of maintenance make it a great value for any duck hunter.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed comes as a standalone call, with no additional accessories included. Due to its design, customization options are limited. The plastic barrel is not designed to be easily modified or altered.
It is compatible with most standard lanyards for easy carrying, but that is where the accessory integration ends. Its strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use straight out of the package.
Pros and Cons of Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed
Pros
- Realistic “susie mallard” sound that effectively lures in ducks, especially during late season.
- Extremely easy to use, making it ideal for novice callers or those who prefer a low-effort call.
- Durable plastic construction that withstands the rigors of hunting.
- Double “O” ring construction ensures reliable performance in wet conditions.
- Affordable price point makes it an excellent value for its performance.
Cons
- The plastic construction might feel less premium than acrylic or wooden calls.
- Limited tonal range compared to more advanced, customizable calls.
Who Should Buy Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed?
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed is perfect for beginner duck hunters who need a simple, reliable, and effective call. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters looking for a dedicated “susie mallard” call to add to their arsenal. Hunters who hunt in wet conditions will particularly appreciate the call’s moisture resistance.
Hunters who prefer a wider range of tones and customization options might want to consider a higher-end call. If you’re looking for a premium feel or a call to be displayed, this probably isn’t the one for you. A must-have accessory would be a durable lanyard to keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed
The Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed is a fantastic value for the money, offering reliable performance and a convincing “susie mallard” sound in an easy-to-use package. The price of $29.56 is more than justified considering its effectiveness and durability.
I would definitely recommend it to any duck hunter looking for an affordable, reliable call to add to their collection. Don’t let its simple design fool you – the Haydels Duck RedLeg Mallard Double Reed can be a game-changer in the field. Get yours today and start bringing in those wary mallards!