Let’s Dive into Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer
The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer is a small, specialized game call designed to mimic the sounds of a hawk. Haydels, a well-known name in the hunting and game calling world, produces this call to aid hunters in locating various game species by using the hawk’s natural alarm call to trigger reactions from prey. Its compact size and acrylic construction make it a potentially durable and easy-to-carry option for hunters targeting bobwhite quail, pheasant, raccoon, mourning doves, and other game.
I was looking for a non-traditional call to add to my arsenal, something that could potentially spook game into movement rather than directly attracting them. The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer seemed like a unique tool to achieve this, given its purported ability to elicit reactions from a range of species.
Upon unboxing, the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer felt lightweight yet solid. The acrylic material felt smooth and durable, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It was smaller than I anticipated, fitting comfortably in the palm of my hand, enhancing its portability.
I considered other calls designed for specific game species, but the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer‘s versatility and potential to indirectly influence game movement appealed to me more. Unlike a specific quail call or dove call, the hawk screamer offered a broader application, targeting a range of species through a natural alarm response.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was intrigued by the concept and the potential applications, but skeptical about its effectiveness in the field. Only real-world testing would determine whether the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer lived up to its promise or ended up as just another piece of gear collecting dust in my pack.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer during a pheasant hunt in the rolling fields of South Dakota. I used it intermittently throughout the day, alternating between traditional pheasant calls and the hawk screamer, hoping to flush birds that were holding tight. The weather was dry and crisp, with a slight breeze.
The call was surprisingly easy to use. I quickly learned to produce a convincing hawk screech, though mastering the nuances for different inflections took some practice. I didn’t notice a direct increase in flushed birds, but I did observe increased alertness in nearby quail, suggesting the call was at least creating a sense of unease.
After my first use, I noticed no immediate issues with the call itself. The acrylic remained unscratched, and the tone hadn’t changed. The ease of use was a definite plus, though the lack of immediate results made me question its practical value.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across multiple hunting trips, the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer has held up well. It has become a regular part of my gear, used in various environments from open fields to wooded areas. The call has also been subjected to different weather conditions, including light rain and cold temperatures.
The acrylic construction has proven to be quite durable, showing minimal signs of wear despite being carried in my vest pocket alongside other gear. I haven’t noticed any cracks or chips, even after accidentally dropping it a couple of times. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to other calls I’ve used, the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer is unique in its purpose. While it hasn’t drastically changed my hunting success, I believe it adds another layer of strategy, potentially creating opportunities by altering the behavior of wary game. It’s not a replacement for traditional calls, but a supplement.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer
Specifications
- Material: The call is constructed from acrylic, a durable and weather-resistant material. This ensures the call can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without cracking or warping.
- Type: This is categorized as a Hawk Call, designed specifically to mimic the sounds of a hawk. Its purpose is to create a sense of alarm or disturbance among targeted game species.
- Species: The call is designed to mimic the call of a Hawk. This enables it to be effective on a broad range of game that naturally respond to a hawk’s presence.
- Battery: The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer requires no batteries. Its functionality relies entirely on the user’s ability to blow into the call and manipulate the sound.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the call’s durability, ease of use, and effectiveness in the field. The acrylic construction ensures longevity, while the focus on mimicking a hawk’s call makes it a versatile tool for triggering reactions from various game animals. The lack of batteries ensures it is always ready to use.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer performs its job adequately, producing a realistic hawk screech when blown correctly. Its effectiveness is subjective and depends on the game species, the environment, and the hunter’s skill in using the call. It is also effective in scaring away unwanted animals, like crows.
The strength of this call lies in its ability to create a sense of unease, potentially causing game to move or flush. However, it is not a guaranteed method and requires strategic use alongside other hunting techniques. Its weakness is in its reliance on indirect effects, which can be unpredictable.
The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer largely meets expectations as a supplemental tool, but doesn’t exceed them as a game-changer.
Design & Ergonomics
The acrylic construction feels robust and comfortable in the hand. Its small size makes it easy to carry and manipulate, even with gloved hands. The lightweight design further enhances its portability and ease of use.
The call is user-friendly, requiring minimal practice to produce a basic hawk screech. Mastering the nuances and variations takes time and experimentation. Overall, the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer design is simple and functional.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its acrylic construction, the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer should last for many years with proper care. Its resistance to weather and impact makes it a reliable tool for outdoor use. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and moisture.
Repair is unlikely to be necessary unless the call is subjected to extreme abuse. The simple design minimizes potential points of failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer does not come with any specific accessories. Due to its simple design, there are no customization options.
The call is not designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands, as it is a standalone product. Its value lies in its simplicity and specific function.
Pros and Cons of Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer
Pros
- Versatile Application: Can be used for various game species, not just one.
- Durable Acrylic Construction: Ensures longevity and resistance to weather.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and manipulate in the field.
- Simple to Use: Requires minimal practice to produce a basic hawk screech.
- Unique Hunting Tactic: Adds another layer of strategy to influence game behavior.
Cons
- Indirect Effect: Relies on creating unease rather than direct attraction.
- No Customization Options: Limited to its default design and functionality.
Who Should Buy Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer?
The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer is perfect for hunters looking to experiment with non-traditional tactics and those who want to add a unique element of surprise to their hunting strategy. It is also suitable for those targeting multiple game species and need a versatile call.
This product is not for hunters seeking guaranteed results or those who prefer calls with specific and direct attraction methods. It’s also not ideal for beginners who are just learning the basics of game calling.
A lanyard to keep the call readily accessible is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer
The Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer is a niche product with a specific purpose: to create a sense of alarm and potentially influence game behavior. Its durable construction, ease of use, and versatile application make it a worthwhile addition to a hunter’s arsenal, though it should not be considered a replacement for traditional calls. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to disrupt animals, adding a unique element to your strategy.
At $21.49, the price is justified for the potential benefits it offers. While results may vary, the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer provides a unique hunting experience.
I would recommend it to hunters who are open to experimentation and want to add a non-traditional tool to their hunting strategy. Give the Haydels HS91 Acrylic Hawk Screamer a try and see if it can give you the edge you’ve been looking for.