Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel Review

The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel Made a Bold First Impression

The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel enters a market saturated with duck calls of varying complexities and price points. Primos is a well-known name, but does this budget-friendly option hold up to the expectations built by their more expensive calls? With its simple design and polycarbonate construction, it promises ease of use and durability for the everyday duck hunter, but that remains to be seen.

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve used countless duck calls, from custom-made acrylic masterpieces to mass-produced, injection-molded options. I was looking for an affordable, reliable call that I could loan out to newer hunters without worrying about damage or loss. My current go-to calls are too valuable to risk in such situations.

Upon receiving the Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel, my initial impression was one of simplicity. The weight was surprisingly light, and the polycarbonate felt sturdy enough, though obviously not as premium as acrylic or wood. The build quality seemed adequate for the price point, with no obvious flaws in the molding or assembly.

Compared to my high-end calls, like my custom RNT or even a mid-range Duck Commander, the Primos felt decidedly basic. I chose this over similar-priced calls from lesser-known brands hoping that Primos’s reputation for decent sound would translate to this budget model. I was cautiously optimistic but braced for potential disappointment, especially given the $11.99 price tag.

Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel was on a local managed waterfowl area during an early teal season. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze and clear skies. I hunted from a ground blind overlooking a small pond.

The call was relatively easy to use right out of the package, requiring minimal tuning or adjustment. The sound produced was a decent mallard hen call, although it lacked the richness and depth of higher-end calls. In those conditions, it was satisfactory. One issue immediately became apparent: the call would stick fairly easily if too much moisture built up.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel on various hunts – from flooded timber to open water – I have a better understanding of its capabilities and limitations. The polycarbonate barrel has proven to be remarkably durable, showing no signs of cracking or chipping despite being dropped and subjected to harsh conditions. However, the sticking issue persists.

Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down is all that’s needed. Compared to some of my calls that require regular oiling and tuning, the Primos is refreshingly low-maintenance. While it hasn’t outperformed my higher-end calls in terms of sound quality or versatility, it has proven to be a reliable and durable backup option, particularly for introducing new hunters to calling.

Breaking Down the Features of Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel

Specifications

• Polycarbonate Barrel: The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel utilizes a molded polycarbonate barrel for durability and weather resistance. Polycarbonate is a tough polymer, making it resistant to cracking and breaking in harsh conditions.
• Simple Reed Design: The call features a single-reed design, which is intended to make it easier for beginners to learn and operate. Simpler reed designs generally require less air pressure and produce a more consistent sound with less practice.
• Duck Call: This call is designed specifically to mimic the sounds of various duck species, primarily the mallard hen. Its sound is intended to attract ducks during hunting season.
• Affordable Price Point: With a price around $11.99, it’s one of the most affordable duck calls on the market. Its price makes it accessible for new hunters or those looking for a backup call.

These specifications are important because they directly affect the call’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The polycarbonate barrel ensures the call can withstand tough hunting conditions, while the simple reed design makes it accessible to hunters of all skill levels.

Performance & Functionality

The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel performs its primary function – producing a duck-like sound – adequately. Its range of tones is limited, but it can effectively create basic quacks and feeding calls. The major weakness is its tendency to stick, especially in humid conditions, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain consistent sound.

The call meets the basic expectations for an entry-level duck call, providing a usable sound at a very affordable price. More experienced callers will likely find it limiting.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for a call in this price range. The polycarbonate feels solid, but not exceptionally refined. The call is lightweight and comfortable to hold for extended periods.

The simple design makes it easy to learn, with a minimal learning curve for producing basic duck calls. However, mastering more complex calling sequences will be challenging due to the limited range of the call.

Durability & Maintenance

The polycarbonate barrel is highly durable and should last for many seasons of use, even with regular exposure to harsh weather conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove moisture and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel comes with no additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to the molded construction, meaning the user can’t swap out reeds. However, some users might experiment with minor reed adjustments, though this isn’t officially supported.

Pros and Cons of Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel

Who Should Buy Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel?

The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel is perfect for:

• Beginner Duck Hunters: Its ease of use and affordability make it an excellent starting point.
• Hunters on a Budget: A reliable option when money is a primary concern.
• Backup Call Users: A durable backup option in case their primary call is lost or damaged.
• Youth Hunters: A great option for younger hunters who are just learning the basics.

Who should skip this product?

• Experienced Duck Hunters: Those seeking high-quality sound and versatile tonal range will likely find it limiting.
• Competitive Callers: The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel is not suitable for competitive calling situations.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Lanyard: To keep the call readily accessible and prevent loss.
• Cleaning Cloth: For wiping away moisture and preventing sticking.

Conclusion on Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel

The Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel is an honest product. It doesn’t try to be something it’s not. For $11.99, it delivers a functional duck call that’s durable and easy to use. The price is absolutely justified, considering its durability and basic functionality.

I would recommend it to beginner hunters or those needing a reliable backup without breaking the bank. Despite its limitations, the Primos Duck Call w/Polycarbonate Barrel is a worthwhile investment for anyone starting their waterfowl hunting journey. Give it a try, and who knows, it might just call in that trophy duck!