Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit Review

Let’s Talk About Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit

As an avid predator hunter, I’m always on the lookout for tools that can give me an edge in the field. The Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit, featuring the SPH-06 Howler, GHC Distress Call, and an instructional DVD, promised to be just that.

Years of chasing coyotes, foxes, and bobcats have taught me that the right call can make all the difference. I was particularly interested in the Haydels kit because it offered a combination of howl and distress calls, essential for a well-rounded calling strategy.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive. The calls felt solid and well-made, though clearly constructed from basic molded plastic, and the DVD looked informative. Compared to some higher-end, hand-tuned calls I’ve used, the Haydels felt a bit more utilitarian, but the promise of a complete kit at an affordable price was enticing.

I’ve used single calls from Primos and Foxpro in the past, both excellent in their specific sound replication, but more expensive. This Haydels kit seemed to offer a broader range of sounds in one package. I was excited to get into the field and see how it performed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit during a winter coyote hunt in the high desert of Nevada. The temperature hovered around freezing, and a light wind carried the sound effectively.

The SPH-06 Howler produced decent coyote vocalizations, and the GHC Distress Call mimicked a cottontail in distress reasonably well. However, I noticed that the plastic seemed to stiff in the cold, affecting the sound quality and responsiveness slightly. It took some practice to get the right cadence and tone. After about an hour of calling, a lone coyote responded, but it hung up about 300 yards out, unconvinced.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit has held up surprisingly well considering its price point. The plastic construction, while not premium, is durable enough to withstand normal wear and tear.

There are some minor scratches on the calls, and the lanyard attachment points show some signs of wear. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down is usually sufficient. Compared to higher-end calls that require more delicate maintenance, the Haydels kit is refreshingly low-maintenance. While it hasn’t outperformed my higher-end calls in terms of nuanced sound quality, it provides a dependable and versatile option for various hunting scenarios.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit

Specifications

The Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit includes two primary calls: the SPH-06 Howler and the GHC Distress Call.

• The SPH-06 Howler is designed to produce various coyote vocalizations.
• The GHC Distress Call is designed to mimic the sounds of small animals in distress, primarily rabbits.

The kit also includes an instructional DVD featuring Byron South from the “Coming to the Call” series. The DVD provides basic instructions on using the calls and showcases actual hunting footage. Both calls are made from molded plastic, and the kit comes in assorted colors.

These specifications matter because they provide a basic, all-in-one solution for predator calling. The combination of howl and distress calls covers a range of calling scenarios, and the DVD provides guidance for beginners. The plastic construction keeps the cost down, making it an accessible option for novice hunters or those on a budget.

Performance & Functionality

The Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit performs adequately for its intended purpose, which is to attract predators. The calls are relatively easy to use, although mastering the proper techniques takes practice.

The SPH-06 Howler can produce decent coyote howls, but it lacks the tonal complexity of more expensive calls. The GHC Distress Call does a reasonable job of mimicking a rabbit in distress, but the sound can be somewhat generic. The DVD provides valuable instruction, though the production quality is dated. While the kit doesn’t offer top-tier performance, it’s a solid starting point for predator hunting.

Design & Ergonomics

The Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit features a simple and functional design. The plastic construction makes the calls lightweight and easy to carry.

The calls are comfortable enough to hold, though the plastic can feel a bit slick in wet conditions. There’s a slight learning curve to mastering the calls, but the instructional DVD helps to shorten that process.

Durability & Maintenance

The plastic construction of the Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit is reasonably durable. The calls can withstand normal wear and tear from field use.

Maintenance is simple; cleaning is typically limited to rinsing and wiping the calls. The kit is not designed for extensive repairs, but the low cost makes replacement a viable option if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit comes with the SPH-06 Howler, GHC Distress Call, and instructional DVD. There are no additional accessories included.

There are no customization options available for the calls themselves. However, users can add lanyards or carry cases to personalize the kit. The Haydels calls are compatible with most standard lanyards.

Pros and Cons of Haydels Ultimate Predator Call Kit