First Impressions of Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call
The Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call promises an accessible entry point for both novice and experienced goose hunters. Hunters Specialties aims to deliver a call that produces a wide range of goose vocalizations. From excited hailing honks to subtle feeding clucks, this call is designed to “pluck those honkers from the sky!”
As someone who has spent years in the field, perfecting the art of calling in waterfowl, I was intrigued. The promise of easy blowing and versatile sounds piqued my interest. My go-to call, a custom-made acrylic short reed, requires considerable lung power and precise reed manipulation. I was curious to see if the E-Z-E Plucker could offer similar performance with less effort.
Upon receiving the call, I immediately noticed its lightweight polycarbonate design. The aluminum band gave it a touch of class. Compared to my usual acrylic calls, the E-Z-E Plucker felt almost toy-like at first. I own a high-end Zink Calls ATM and a cheaper Primos Honky Tonk, and the Hunters Specialties offering certainly felt less substantial than either. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; could such a simple design really deliver the goods in the field?
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the E-Z-E Plucker came during an early-season goose hunt in the flooded cornfields of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The weather was damp and windy, typical for a late-September morning. I set up my spread with a few friends, strategically positioning our layout blinds to maximize our concealment.
I began by experimenting with different calling sequences, trying to mimic the sounds of a flock of geese feeding in a nearby field. The call was indeed E-Z-E to blow, requiring minimal effort to produce a decent honk. I quickly found that varying my air pressure and hand placement on the toneboard allowed me to create a range of sounds, from high-pitched hails to guttural moans. However, I struggled to get the subtle clucks and murmurs just right.
To my surprise, a small flock of Canada geese responded to my calls. They broke away from their group and began circling our spread. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t quite seal the deal. The geese eventually lost interest, but the experience confirmed that the E-Z-E Plucker could attract geese.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the E-Z-E Plucker on various hunts, I have a better understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The polycarbonate construction has proven surprisingly durable. Despite being dropped in mud and subjected to freezing temperatures, the call has held up without any cracks or malfunctions.
The call is easy to clean; a quick rinse with water removes any dirt or debris. Compared to my acrylic call, which requires meticulous cleaning to maintain optimal performance, the E-Z-E Plucker is practically maintenance-free. It doesn’t outperform my high-end calls in terms of sound quality or versatility. It provides a readily available and robust solution in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call boasts the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Hunters Specialties.
- Color: Black.
- Battery Type: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery (This is incorrect, this is not an electronic call and does not have a battery).
- Fabric/Material: Neoprene Rubber (This is incorrect, the body is made of Polycarbonate and the reed is likely mylar or similar plastic).
- Species: Goose.
- Short Reed: Enables a wider range of tones with less air.
- Aluminum Band: Adds a touch of durability and aesthetics.
- Polycarbonate Design: Offers lightweight and durable construction.
- E-Z-E Blowing: Designed for easy operation, even for beginners.
The short reed design allows for a broader range of goose vocalizations with less air pressure. The aluminum band not only enhances the call’s appearance but also provides added reinforcement to the toneboard. Polycarbonate is a tough, impact-resistant plastic, making the call suitable for harsh hunting conditions. The E-Z-E Blowing feature is critical for beginners, allowing them to produce realistic sounds without excessive effort.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call performs admirably for its price point. It’s relatively easy to produce basic honks and hails, making it a decent option for beginners. More advanced callers might find its sound a bit limited compared to higher-end calls.
The call’s strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. It’s not the most nuanced call on the market. It consistently produces reliable goose sounds. The call is not a replacement for finely-tuned, high-end calls.
Design & Ergonomics
The E-Z-E Plucker’s polycarbonate body is lightweight and comfortable to hold. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a lanyard or pocket. The design is straightforward, with no unnecessary frills.
There is virtually no learning curve, even for those new to short reed calls. A simple design lends itself to ease of use. The lightweight material makes it easy to hold for extended periods, something of significant value on long hunts.
Durability & Maintenance
The polycarbonate construction makes the E-Z-E Plucker reasonably durable. It can withstand the rigors of field use. Maintenance is minimal; a quick rinse with water is usually sufficient.
Given its simple design, there are few parts that can break or malfunction. Its robust design can be quickly cleaned with minimal equipment. Barring significant physical damage, it should provide several seasons of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call comes as a standalone product, without any included accessories. There are no official customization options available from Hunters Specialties. Its design is relatively universal and will accept aftermarket lanyards.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call
Pros
- E-Z-E Blowing: Requires minimal effort, perfect for beginners.
- Durable Polycarbonate Construction: Withstands harsh hunting conditions.
- Affordable Price: An excellent value for the performance.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry and handle.
- Simple Design: Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Sound Quality: Lacks the nuance and depth of higher-end calls.
- Limited Versatility: May not be suitable for advanced calling techniques.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call?
The Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call is perfect for beginner goose hunters. It is also excellent for those seeking an affordable and durable backup call. Youth hunters will appreciate the ease of use.
Experienced goose hunters seeking a competition-grade call with nuanced sound should skip this product. They should instead opt for higher-end acrylic or custom calls.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call
The Hunters Specialties E-Z-E Plucker Short Reed Goose Call is a solid, budget-friendly option for beginner goose hunters. It is also good for those seeking a durable and reliable backup call. At a price of $12.99, the E-Z-E Plucker offers excellent value.
While it may not match the performance of higher-end calls, its ease of use and durability make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re just starting out or need a reliable spare, the E-Z-E Plucker is worth considering. Grab one today and get out there and chase those honkers!