Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call Review

First Thoughts on the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call

The Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call, new in box and bearing the part number P90, is a simple tool designed to mimic the distinct calls of pheasants. Manufactured by Haydels, a company known for its affordable and effective game calls, this particular call promises to bring those elusive birds within shooting range. As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always eager to evaluate the practicality and performance of tools designed to enhance the hunting experience.

What brought me to the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call? For years, I’ve relied on vocalizations and more complex calls, but I wanted a straightforward, reliable backup. Often, the most effective tools are the simplest, and I was seeking a compact and easy-to-use call that wouldn’t break the bank.

Upon unboxing, the call is exactly what you’d expect: a molded piece of plastic. It feels light and somewhat basic, but also surprisingly robust for a $10 item. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; its simplicity could be its strength or a limiting factor.

Compared to more expensive, hand-tuned calls featuring exotic woods and intricate designs, the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call is decidedly utilitarian. However, many modern calls also use plastic construction. I chose this call primarily for its price point and the Haydels reputation, hoping it would provide acceptable performance without the investment required for premium options.

My initial reaction was a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Could this simple, inexpensive piece of molded plastic actually deliver the authentic pheasant sounds needed to lure birds? The proof, as they say, would be in the calling.

Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call during a late-season pheasant hunt on a sprawling private ranch in South Dakota. Conditions were challenging, with a biting wind and patches of snow still clinging to the fields. I mostly used the call near heavy brush lines, trying to provoke a response from any birds hunkered down to escape the wind.

The call performed surprisingly well, even in the harsh conditions. It took a little practice to master the different tones, but I quickly learned to produce convincing cackles and alarm calls. No, it didn’t sound exactly like a pheasant, but it was close enough to elicit responses from birds nearly 100 yards away.

The ease of use was definitely a highlight. There’s virtually no learning curve; a few minutes of experimentation yields usable results. After a few practice tries, I was able to produce a raspy squawk and a clearer “come-back” call. I experienced a brief moment of panic when the call initially produced more of a duck sound, but after adjusting my embouchure, I was able to get realistic pheasant sounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use in various weather conditions, the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call has held up remarkably well. It’s been exposed to rain, snow, and mud, and it still functions perfectly. The plastic shows no signs of cracking or deterioration.

The durability is impressive considering the price. Other than some minor surface scratches, the call looks and performs as it did on day one. Cleaning is also a breeze; a quick rinse under water removes any debris.

Compared to other game calls I’ve used, the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call is simple and reliable. It might not have the nuanced sound quality of a custom-made call, but it gets the job done without any fuss. Other, more expensive, calls sometimes malfunction or require constant tuning. This call just works.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call

Specifications

The Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call is a single-reed, molded plastic call specifically designed to imitate pheasant vocalizations. It weighs next to nothing, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a lanyard. Its compact size and simple design contribute to its durability and ease of use.

The call’s primary function is to produce the various calls of a pheasant, including the cackle, alarm call, and come-back call. This allows hunters to attract birds, pinpoint their location, and potentially influence their movement. These calls can be useful to incite a response when the birds are holding tight or to bring them closer for a shot.

Performance & Functionality

The Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call performs its intended function well, especially considering its low cost. While it may not perfectly replicate the complex vocalizations of a pheasant, it produces convincing sounds that can attract birds. The volume is adequate for most hunting situations.

The call’s biggest strength is its simplicity and reliability. Its weakness, perhaps, is its lack of tonal complexity. However, for its intended purpose as an inexpensive and reliable call, it excels.

It met my expectations as a simple, effective tool, and even exceeded them slightly in terms of durability. It’s hard to expect perfection at this price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is basic but functional. The molded plastic is sturdy enough to withstand normal use. The call is lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.

The design is straightforward, with no moving parts or complicated mechanisms. It’s very user-friendly, requiring minimal practice to produce usable sounds. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic construction is resistant to cracking and breaking, making it likely to last for several hunting seasons with proper care. Its simple construction makes maintenance a non-issue. Cleaning is as simple as rinsing it with water.

There are no parts to repair or replace. The call’s durability is one of its most appealing features.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call does not come with any accessories. Customization options are limited, but you could potentially modify the reed to alter the sound slightly. However, modifying the call may negatively impact performance.

It is compatible with most standard lanyards for game calls, allowing for easy access in the field. The simple design leaves little to customize but its effectiveness is more important.

Pros and Cons of Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call

Who Should Buy Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call?

The Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call is perfect for:

• Beginner pheasant hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use call.
• Experienced hunters seeking a reliable backup call.
• Hunters who prioritize simplicity and durability over nuanced sound quality.
• Anyone on a budget who still wants a functional pheasant call.

Who should skip this product? Hunters who demand the highest level of sound quality and realism should look at more expensive, hand-tuned calls.

A must-have accessory is a game call lanyard to keep the call readily accessible.

Conclusion on Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call

The Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call is a simple, affordable, and surprisingly effective tool for attracting pheasants. While it may not have the refined sound quality of more expensive options, its reliability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s gear. The price is absolutely justified.

I would definitely recommend the Haydels Plastic Pheasant Call to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable pheasant call. It’s a great starting point for beginners and a dependable backup for experienced hunters. Don’t let its simplicity fool you – this call can bring birds to bag! Pick one up and get out in the field; you might be surprised at what you find.