First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call
The Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call promises to deliver high-pitched, raspy calls in a no-frills package. For over a decade, I’ve relied on duck calls, from intricate custom builds to the simplest single reeds, and I’m always looking for a reliable, affordable option that gets the job done. This call, with its double reed design and polycarbonate construction, piqued my interest as a potential backup or loaner call for beginner hunters.
Having seen countless hunters struggle with calls that are too complex or fragile, I was searching for a robust, easy-to-use call that would be a welcome addition to my gear. Upon unboxing the Suzie-Q, my initial impression was of a compact, lightweight call that felt durable enough to withstand the rigors of the marsh. It felt surprisingly solid for its price point.
While I typically favor calls with more intricate sound chambers and tuning, the simplicity of the Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call was appealing. Compared to my go-to call, a hand-turned acrylic single reed known for its versatility, and a custom-tuned double reed with advanced sound baffling, the Suzie-Q seemed almost too basic. Yet, its compact design and reputation for ease of use made me eager to see how it would perform in the field. I was hoping it would surprise me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call during an early teal season hunt in a flooded rice field. The weather was typical for early September, warm and humid, with a slight breeze. I spent the morning alternating between my primary call and the Suzie-Q to gauge its effectiveness.
The Suzie-Q proved surprisingly easy to blow, producing consistent highballs and raspy quacks with minimal effort. It performed well in the relatively calm conditions, easily cutting through the ambient noise of the marsh. However, in the louder, more chaotic environment of a large flock descending, it lacked the carrying power of my more expensive calls.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the teal and early duck seasons, the Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call has held up remarkably well. The polycarbonate design has proven to be scratch-resistant and durable, showing no signs of cracking or deformation despite being subjected to mud, water, and the occasional accidental drop. Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick rinse with water to remove debris.
Compared to some of the more delicate acrylic calls I’ve used in the past, the Suzie-Q feels almost indestructible. While it may not offer the same nuanced sound or tonal range as my higher-end calls, its reliability and ease of use make it a dependable option for novice hunters or as a backup call. It consistently produces a decent ducky sound, even in the hands of someone with limited calling experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call is a straightforward, no-frills duck call designed for ease of use and durability. It features a double reed design, allowing for the production of raspy, high-pitched calls with minimal effort. The body of the call is constructed from polycarbonate, a lightweight and impact-resistant material.
An aluminum band adds a touch of visual appeal and reinforces the call’s structure. The call is specifically designed for attracting ducks, and its tuning is optimized for replicating common duck vocalizations. The neoprene rubber material is listed in the specification, however, this is incorrect. The Suzie-Q does not have any parts or components made from neoprene rubber.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call excels at producing basic duck calls with minimal effort. Its strength lies in its simplicity. The double reed design makes it easy to achieve consistent highballs, quacks, and feed chuckles. However, it lacks the versatility and tonal range of more advanced calls.
While it may not be ideal for mimicking the subtle nuances of different duck species or producing complex calling sequences, it’s perfectly adequate for attracting ducks in close range. Its main weaknesses are its limited volume and lack of tonal variation. The Suzie-Q meets expectations for a basic, entry-level duck call, providing reliable performance for novice hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Suzie-Q’s polycarbonate construction makes it lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. Its compact size allows for easy storage in a lanyard or pocket. The smooth, rounded design minimizes discomfort during use.
The call is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring virtually no learning curve. Even someone with no prior calling experience can quickly produce recognizable duck sounds with the Suzie-Q.
Durability & Maintenance
The polycarbonate construction of the Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call ensures excellent durability. It’s resistant to impacts, scratches, and moisture damage. With proper care, this call should last for many seasons.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and reassemble for thorough cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call does not come with any accessories and offers limited customization options. The aluminum band cannot be removed. Because of the polycarbonate molded design, altering the internal sound chamber is not possible. It is designed to function as a basic, ready-to-use call without requiring any modifications.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call
Pros
- Affordable price point: The Suzie-Q’s budget-friendly cost makes it accessible to beginner hunters or those seeking a reliable backup call.
- Easy to blow: The double reed design makes it simple to produce consistent duck sounds with minimal effort.
- Durable polycarbonate construction: The polycarbonate body is resistant to impacts, scratches, and moisture damage, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight and compact: The small size and light weight make it comfortable to hold and easy to carry in a lanyard or pocket.
- Simple maintenance: Cleaning is a breeze, requiring only a quick rinse with water.
Cons
- Limited volume: The Suzie-Q lacks the carrying power of more expensive calls, making it less effective in windy conditions or over long distances.
- Limited tonal range: The call produces basic duck sounds but lacks the versatility to mimic the subtle nuances of different duck species.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call?
The Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call is perfect for beginner duck hunters who are just learning to call. It is also a great option for experienced hunters looking for an inexpensive and reliable backup call. This call is also an excellent choice for youth hunters due to its ease of use and durability.
Experienced hunters who demand nuanced sounds and long-range projection should skip this product. Someone looking for a call capable of complex calling sequences should also avoid it. A must-have modification for this call would be a high-quality lanyard to keep it secure in the field.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call
The Hunters Specialties Suzie-Q Double Reed Duck Call is a solid, reliable, and affordable option for beginner duck hunters. It is also a good choice for seasoned hunters seeking a dependable backup. While it lacks the advanced features and nuanced sound of more expensive calls, its ease of use and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is definitely justified. I would recommend this call to anyone starting out in duck hunting or needing a dependable, no-frills option for their lanyard. Pick up a Suzie-Q and get ready to call in some ducks!