First Impressions of Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call promises speed and versatility for waterfowlers, especially those juggling a flag. Higdon Outdoors claims it’s designed for one-handed operation, maximizing calling styles without excessive hand pressure. It’s an intriguing proposition for any serious waterfowl hunter.
As a seasoned waterfowl hunter, I’ve always sought the “holy grail” of calls: one that sounds realistic, is easy to use, and doesn’t require a contortionist’s hand dexterity. My biggest frustration has been manipulating a call and a flag effectively. The claim of one-handed operation immediately grabbed my attention.
Upon unboxing, the Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call felt surprisingly lightweight. The battleship gray polycarbonate/acrylic body appeared robust enough to handle the rigors of the marsh. The short barrel felt comfortable in hand, hinting at the promised ease of manipulation.
Compared to my trusty (but bulky) Zink Calls ATM Green Machine and my buddy’s Echo Pure Meat poly call, the Ion Open Call‘s compact design was immediately noticeable. I was drawn to the Ion Open Call for its potential to simplify calling while flagging. I previously struggled with the larger calls interfering with my flag movements.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The size and feel were promising, but the proof would be in the performance – both in tone and ease of use under real hunting conditions. Let’s see if the Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call was during an early teal season hunt in a flooded rice field. Conditions were typical for early September: humid, with a slight breeze. I primarily tested the call alongside my usual spread of teal decoys.
The call was surprisingly easy to use right out of the box, requiring very little break-in time. The molded Lightning guts produced realistic teal sounds with minimal effort. I was able to transition quickly between calls and flagging, a significant improvement over my previous experiences.
I experienced no issues with moisture affecting the call’s performance, even after prolonged use. The short barrel design allowed for comfortable and consistent calling, even with slightly muddy gloves. The only initial “issue” was simply getting accustomed to the different feel of the call compared to my longer-barreled calls.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use across various hunting scenarios (teal, wood ducks, and early goose), the Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call has proven remarkably durable. It has withstood rain, mud, and the occasional accidental drop without any visible damage. The color battleship gray has held up very well with no noticeable fading.
The call requires minimal maintenance. A quick rinse with fresh water after each hunt is usually sufficient to keep it performing optimally. I’ve noticed no degradation in sound quality or performance over time, a testament to the quality of the materials used.
Compared to some of my more temperamental calls, the Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call has been a pleasant surprise. It consistently delivers realistic tones and is easy to operate even in challenging conditions. It outperforms many similarly priced calls in terms of ease of use, versatility, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call
Specifications
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call features a polycarbonate/acrylic body, chosen for its durability and resistance to the elements. It utilizes a single reed design with molded Lightning guts and a Mylar PreciseFit reed for consistent tone. The call comes in a battleship gray color, which provides excellent concealment in most hunting environments.
Its short body is specifically designed for one-handed operation, essential when simultaneously operating a flag. The Ion Open Call is a single reed call type. The use of a Polystyrene Worn-In Toneboard provides the realistic sound, and the Mylar PreciseFit Reed contributes to the consistent performance of the call.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the call’s overall ease of use, durability, and realistic sound production. The materials chosen ensure the call can withstand harsh hunting conditions. The single reed design and Lightning guts make it easy for hunters of all skill levels to produce convincing duck sounds.
Performance & Functionality
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call excels at producing a wide range of realistic duck sounds, from high-pitched teal whistles to raspy mallard calls. Its versatility makes it suitable for hunting various species of waterfowl. The ease of transitioning between different calls and flagging is a significant advantage.
The call’s strengths lie in its ease of use, versatility, and durability. The main area for potential improvement is perhaps offering different color options to cater to individual preferences. The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call meets and even exceeds expectations for a call in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call‘s design is simple yet functional. The polycarbonate/acrylic body feels comfortable in hand, and the short barrel design allows for easy manipulation. The call is lightweight, reducing fatigue during long calling sessions.
The call is very user-friendly. Even beginners can quickly learn to produce realistic duck sounds. Its intuitive design minimizes the learning curve, allowing hunters to focus on attracting ducks.
Durability & Maintenance
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call is built to last. The durable polycarbonate/acrylic body can withstand the rigors of hunting. The call is also easy to maintain.
Regular cleaning with fresh water is typically all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The simple design minimizes the risk of parts breaking or wearing out quickly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call does not come with any additional accessories in the box. As a single reed call, there are limited customization options available for the Ion Open Call compared to double reed calls. The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call is compatible with standard lanyards for easy carrying.
Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call
Pros
- One-Handed Operation: Allows simultaneous calling and flagging without compromising either.
- Realistic Sound: Produces a wide range of convincing duck sounds suitable for various species.
- Durability: The polycarbonate/acrylic body can withstand harsh hunting conditions.
- Ease of Use: Beginner-friendly design requires minimal break-in and practice.
- Versatility: Effective for calling teal, mallards, wood ducks, and other waterfowl.
Cons
- Limited Customization: As a single reed call, customization options are limited.
- Color Options: Only available in battleship gray, which may not be ideal for all environments or personal preferences.
Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call?
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently use a flag or need a call that can be operated with one hand. It’s also a great choice for beginners who are just learning to call ducks. Experienced hunters will also appreciate its versatility and ease of use.
Hunters who prefer highly customizable calls or require a specific color to match their environment might want to consider other options. This call might not be ideal for those who exclusively hunt in very close quarters, where a more subtle call might be preferred. A must-have accessory is a high-quality lanyard to keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call
The Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call is a well-designed and effective tool for waterfowl hunters of all skill levels. Its ease of use, versatility, and durability make it a standout product in its price range. The ability to operate the call with one hand is a game-changer for those who use a flag.
The price of $61.99 is justified by the call’s performance and features. It offers excellent value for money compared to other calls on the market.
I would definitely recommend the Higdon Outdoors Ion Open Call to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use duck call. It has become a staple in my hunting gear, and I’m confident it will help you put more ducks in the bag. Get yours today and experience the difference!