The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose Made a Bold First Impression
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose, manufactured by Haydels, promises to be a versatile tool for any serious predator hunter. For a price of just $14.99, this call boasts a collapsible hose designed for directional sound projection and ease of concealment. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism – could such an affordable call really deliver the performance I needed in the field?
My quest for a new predator call stemmed from increasing coyote activity near my property. I needed something that offered versatility and long-range projection without breaking the bank. I’d been using a diaphragm call, but found it challenging in cold weather and needed a hands-free option.
Unboxing the Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose revealed a lightweight, seemingly durable plastic call. The collapsible hose felt a bit flimsy initially, but the mouthpiece and call body appeared well-constructed for the price point. I compared it to a Primos Mini Mouse Squeeze Me call and a Flextone Bone Collector call, both around the same price. I picked the Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose due to its claimed directional sound control, hoping it would give me an edge in windy conditions. My first impression was intrigued.
Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place on a crisp December morning along the edge of a vast agricultural field known for coyote activity. The temperature hovered around 25 degrees Fahrenheit with a 10-15 mph wind. I wanted to see how the call performed in adverse conditions.
The collapsible hose, while seeming delicate at first, proved surprisingly useful. I was able to direct the sound downwind. This allowed me to project the call further with less effort. The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose was easy to use, although modulating the sound took some practice. The initial sounds I produced were less than convincing.
After about an hour of experimenting with different calls (distressed rabbit, coyote howls), a coyote appeared at the far end of the field, approximately 400 yards away. It was directly downwind. While I can’t say definitively the call alone lured it in, it was certainly responsive and began heading toward my position. After the first session, I was pleasantly surprised by its immediate effectiveness.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose continues to function as expected. I have used it multiple times a week. The plastic construction shows no signs of cracking or breaking, even after being subjected to freezing temperatures and being jostled around in my pack.
Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes. The collapsible hose can be a bit tricky to clean internally, but blowing air through it usually does the trick. Compared to my previous diaphragm calls, the Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose offers greater consistency and requires less maintenance, although is a different system entirely. It consistently produces the sounds I need with minimal effort.
Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose
Specifications
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose boasts a simple yet functional design. The call’s key specifications include:
- Material: Durable molded plastic construction for the call body and collapsible hose. This keeps the weight down and enhances weather resistance.
- Hose: Collapsible hose for directional sound projection. The collapsible design allows for compact storage and focused sound output.
- Sound Variety: Capable of producing a range of predator calls, including distressed rabbit, coyote howls, and pup whimpers. This versatility allows hunters to adapt to different situations and predator species.
- Part Number/Buds Item Number: CH92 / 81062. This ensures easy identification and reordering of the product.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s performance in the field. The plastic construction makes it lightweight and resistant to moisture, while the collapsible hose provides directional sound control. The ability to produce multiple sounds increases the call’s versatility, making it suitable for targeting various predators.
Performance & Functionality
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose performs its job admirably, especially considering its low price point. It consistently produces clear, loud calls that reach out across open fields. The directional sound projection is a noticeable advantage, allowing me to focus the sound in specific directions and minimize wasted sound dispersion.
The call’s primary strength lies in its ease of use and directional sound projection. However, its weakness is the somewhat limited sound repertoire compared to more advanced calls. It meets my basic expectations for attracting predators within a reasonable range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose features a functional design. Its weight is negligible. The plastic construction feels durable enough for typical hunting conditions.
The call is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Simply blow into the mouthpiece and modulate your breath to create different sounds. This makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced hunters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose appears to be built to last for several seasons of regular use. The plastic material is resistant to cracking and fading. The overall construction feels solid.
Maintenance is straightforward. Wiping the call down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. The simple design minimizes the risk of internal clogs or malfunctions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose is a self-contained unit and does not require any additional accessories to function. There are no specific customization options available for this particular model. While you can’t modify the call itself, consider camouflage tape to better conceal it in your hand or pack, or a lanyard to keep it readily accessible. Since it’s a fairly universal design, it is compatible with most lanyards designed for calls.
Pros and Cons of Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose
Pros
- Affordable: At $14.99, it’s a budget-friendly option for beginner and experienced hunters alike.
- Directional Sound: The collapsible hose allows for focused sound projection, which is especially useful in windy conditions.
- Easy to Use: Minimal learning curve makes it accessible for hunters of all skill levels.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry in a pocket or pack without adding significant weight.
- Durable Construction: The plastic material is surprisingly robust and weather-resistant.
Cons
- Limited Sound Variety: May not offer the same range of sounds as more advanced predator calls.
- Hose Durability: The collapsible hose feels somewhat delicate and may be prone to damage if not handled carefully.
Who Should Buy Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose?
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose is perfect for beginner predator hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use call. It’s also suitable for experienced hunters who want a lightweight and portable backup call. Those who frequently hunt in windy conditions or open terrain will especially appreciate the directional sound projection.
This product may not be ideal for hunters who require a wide range of specialized sounds or prefer calls with more robust construction. If you need a call that can mimic dozens of different animal sounds, you might want to consider a more advanced electronic call.
A must-have accessory would be a lanyard to keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose
The Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose offers excellent value for the money. For just $14.99, you get a functional and easy-to-use predator call that delivers directional sound projection. While it may not be the most advanced call on the market, it gets the job done effectively.
The price is definitely justified. This call provides a solid foundation for anyone getting into predator hunting or needing a reliable backup option.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and effective predator call, particularly beginners. Give the Haydels Predator Call w/Collapsible Hose a try – you might be surprised at how much performance you can get for such a low price. Your next hunt awaits!