First Impressions of Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call
The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call is a premium acrylic call promising a range of vocalizations, from the sharp cracks needed for long-distance traffic to the subtle moans for close encounters. Haydels has a long-standing reputation in the waterfowl hunting community, and I was eager to see if the H2 lived up to the hype, especially considering its $179.99 price tag. I needed a goose call that could cut through the wind and distant chatter, drawing geese in from afar while also possessing the finesse to seal the deal in close quarters.
For years, I’ve relied on various polycarb calls, but I wanted to step up to acrylic for its potential for greater clarity and tonal control. Upon unboxing, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call felt substantial, with the smooth, polished acrylic conveying a sense of quality. Its compact 6cm length hinted at a design geared towards fast, responsive calling.
Compared to my trusty Buck Gardner Canada Hammer and a buddy’s Zink Money Maker, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call immediately stood out with its sleeker profile and the promise of “broke in guts,” something that can make or break a call for immediate use. I chose the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call hoping for a blend of distance-reaching power and nuanced control that my other calls seemed to lack. My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism; only time in the field would reveal if this call truly delivered on its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call was a late-season goose hunt in the frigid fields of Saskatchewan. Temperatures hovered around -15°C with a biting wind, providing a challenging environment for both hunter and equipment. The call performed admirably, producing sharp, attention-grabbing honks that cut through the wind and attracted a distant flock.
The “broke in guts” lived up to their billing, requiring minimal break-in period, and allowing for immediate use. The only minor issue was a slight freeze-up in the reed after extended use in the sub-zero temperatures, but a quick warm-up in my gloved hand remedied it. After the first use, I was impressed with the call’s ability to produce clear, crisp tones, and reach out at a distance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of heavy use across various conditions, from damp marshes to dry fields, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call has proven to be a reliable companion. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, a testament to the quality of the acrylic construction. Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with water and occasional cleaning of the reed assembly is all that’s needed.
Compared to previous calls I’ve used, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call shines in its ability to maintain consistent sound quality even after prolonged use and exposure to the elements. It consistently outperforms my older polycarb calls in terms of clarity, responsiveness, and overall tonal control. The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call has proven itself a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call
Specifications
The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call boasts several key specifications contributing to its performance. The acrylic construction provides durability and crisp sound projection. Its compact size, with a length of 6 cm, a height of 2.2 inches, and a width of 2.5 inches, contributes to its responsiveness and ease of handling in the field.
Weighing in at a mere 0.2 oz, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call is incredibly lightweight. This minimizes fatigue during extended calling sequences. These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s sound quality, ease of use, and overall effectiveness in attracting geese.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call excels at producing a wide range of goose vocalizations. From the high-pitched cracks needed for drawing in distant flocks to the softer moans and clucks used for finishing birds at close range, it does it all. Its strength lies in its versatility and responsiveness.
The only slight weakness is the potential for reed freeze-up in extreme cold, a common issue with many calls. Despite this, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call consistently meets and often exceeds expectations, delivering a realistic and effective goose sound that has proven successful in numerous hunting scenarios. The call really shines when mimicking traffic calls to draw in geese from great distances.
Design & Ergonomics
The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call features a sleek and functional design. The smooth acrylic is comfortable to hold, even with gloved hands. The call’s compact size makes it easy to operate.
The design emphasizes user-friendliness, requiring minimal break-in and allowing for immediate mastery of basic goose calling techniques. While advanced techniques require practice, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call provides a solid foundation for both novice and experienced callers. The comfortable design is a huge plus for all-day hunts.
Durability & Maintenance
The acrylic construction of the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call suggests a long lifespan with proper care. Regular cleaning and occasional reed maintenance will ensure consistent performance for years to come. The call’s simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning, further contributing to its longevity.
Unlike some more complex calls with intricate mechanisms, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call is relatively straightforward to maintain and repair, should the need arise. The durable construction ensures the call can withstand the rigors of field use. The ruggedness of the call provides peace of mind when hunting in harsh environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product details state no additional accessories are included with the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call. While there are no included accessories, many callers explore replacing the reed with a custom option if they desire a very specific sound. The acrylic barrel should be compatible with many standard reed designs.
The ability to experiment with different reeds allows hunters to fine-tune the call’s sound to their specific preferences and hunting conditions. This provides an added layer of customization for those seeking a truly unique calling experience. Haydels also offers lanyards to keep the call accessible in the field.
Pros and Cons of Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality: Produces a wide range of realistic goose vocalizations, from sharp cracks to subtle moans.
- Durable acrylic construction: Built to withstand the rigors of field use, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to use: Requires minimal break-in period and allows for immediate mastery of basic calling techniques.
- Versatile: Suitable for various hunting scenarios, from attracting distant flocks to finishing birds at close range.
- Compact and lightweight: Comfortable to hold and operate, even with gloved hands, minimizing fatigue during extended calling sequences.
Cons
- Potential for reed freeze-up: May experience reed freeze-up in extreme cold conditions, requiring occasional warming.
- Price: The $179.99 price tag may be prohibitive for some hunters, especially beginners.
Who Should Buy Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call?
The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call is perfect for experienced waterfowl hunters seeking a high-quality, versatile call that can produce a wide range of realistic goose sounds. Those who appreciate superior sound quality and durability will find this call a worthwhile investment. Hunters who frequently hunt in diverse conditions, requiring both long-range calling power and close-range finesse, will benefit the most from the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call.
Beginners may find the price tag daunting and might be better served by a more affordable polycarb call while learning the basics. Hunters who primarily hunt in extremely cold climates should be aware of the potential for reed freeze-up. A must-have accessory is a high-quality lanyard to keep the call readily accessible in the field.
Conclusion on Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call
The Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call is a premium product that delivers exceptional performance and versatility in the field. Its durable acrylic construction, realistic sound quality, and ease of use make it a top contender in the world of goose calls. While the price is a significant investment, the call’s quality and performance justify the cost for serious waterfowl hunters.
I personally recommend the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call to any experienced hunter looking to upgrade their calling arsenal and take their goose hunting to the next level. If you’re serious about bringing in the birds, the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call is a tool you won’t want to be without. Invest in your success; pick up the Haydels H2 Canada Goose Call and experience the difference.