Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call Review

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call Made a Bold First Impression

Duck hunting. It’s more than a sport, it’s a ritual, a connection with nature, and a test of skill that I’ve relished for over a decade. My quest for the perfect call has been ongoing, and the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call certainly piqued my interest with its promise of easy blowing and versatile sound.

My go-to call, a double-reed acrylic model, had recently taken an unscheduled swim during a particularly enthusiastic retrieve by my Lab, leaving me in a lurch. I needed a reliable and affordable backup, something that wouldn’t break the bank but could still bring the ducks in close. The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call presented itself as a solution, and at $8.49, the price was certainly right.

Upon receiving the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call, my initial impression was one of simplicity. The molded plastic felt lightweight but solid enough, and the single-reed design looked straightforward. Compared to my higher-end acrylic calls and even a polycarbonate double-reed call I own, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call felt decidedly basic. Still, I remained optimistic about its performance potential and hopeful for success.

Compared to my Duck Commander Triple Threat and a Buck Gardner Double Nasty, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call felt significantly lighter and had a noticeably different tone straight out of the package. I was excited to see how the tuning hole affected the tone and pitch. I was eager to test whether it could live up to its promise of being effective in both timber and open water situations.

My first impression was a blend of curiosity and cautious optimism. For such a budget-friendly call, I hoped that the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call could still deliver a convincing duck sound and prove its worth in the field. I knew my judgement would depend on how it performs and whether it can stand up to the rigors of a real hunt.

Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call took place in a flooded timber area, a prime spot for mallards seeking refuge. I encountered typical marsh conditions – damp air, occasional splashes, and the ever-present possibility of a complete submersion.

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call performed surprisingly well for a call at its price point, even blowing when wet! Its single-reed design proved exceptionally easy to blow, requiring minimal air pressure to produce a decent quack. Despite the damp conditions, the call consistently produced sound without any noticeable degradation in tone.

Initially, I found the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call easy to use. I quickly adjusted to the single-reed design and was able to produce basic quacks, greetings, and comeback calls with relative ease. I did need a few minutes to find the sweet spot and discover the best way to manipulate the air flow for optimal sound, but it was a quick learning process.

One minor issue I encountered was the tuning hole; I unintentionally covered it with my finger a few times when first starting out, drastically altering the sound. After adjusting my grip, I overcame that initial stumbling block and learned to adapt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use across multiple hunts, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call has proven to be a surprisingly reliable performer. The plastic construction has held up well, showing only minor scratches and no signs of cracking or structural weakness.

Even after prolonged exposure to moisture and mud, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call continued to function without issue, demonstrating good durability for its price. The single-reed design has remained consistent, with no noticeable change in tone or responsiveness.

Maintaining the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each hunt is usually all it takes to keep it clean and ready for the next outing. Compared to my acrylic calls, which require more careful cleaning and occasional reed adjustments, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call is virtually maintenance-free.

While it may not have the nuanced sound of my higher-end acrylic calls, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call has consistently produced results, bringing ducks in close on multiple occasions. It surpasses my expectations for a budget-friendly call, providing solid performance and reliability in various hunting conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call

Specifications

• Easy blowing single-reed call: This design focuses on simplicity and requires minimal air pressure, making it ideal for beginners and hunters who want a call that won’t wear them out.
• Blows when wet!: This is a crucial feature for duck hunting, as calls often get wet in the marsh. This call is specifically designed to maintain its sound quality even in wet conditions.
• Sounds great in timber or over open water: This versatility is a major selling point, as it allows hunters to use the same call in different hunting environments without sacrificing effectiveness.
• Made with .010″ Mylar reed: This reed is known for its durability and ability to produce both raspy quacks and clear high calls, offering a wide range of sounds.
• Tuning hole in the bell: This innovative feature allows hunters to easily change the tone and pitch of the call, effectively mimicking the sound of multiple ducks.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall ease of use, versatility, and reliability of the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call. The simple design and durable materials make it a practical choice for hunters of all skill levels.

Performance & Functionality

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call performs its job admirably, consistently producing convincing duck sounds that attract birds. Its ease of use and versatility make it a valuable tool for any duck hunter.

The strengths of the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call lie in its affordability, ease of use, and surprising versatility. The primary weakness is its slightly less refined sound compared to higher-end acrylic calls.

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call far exceeds expectations given its price point. It provides solid performance, reliable operation, and enough versatility to make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal.

Design & Ergonomics

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call is constructed from durable molded plastic. This material makes it lightweight and easy to handle.

The call is incredibly user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve. Its simple design makes it easy to pick up and start producing convincing duck sounds right away.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its durable plastic construction, the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call is expected to last for several seasons with proper care.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward; simply rinse the call with fresh water after each use. Then store it in a dry place, and it’s ready for the next hunt.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call does not come with any additional accessories. It is designed as a standalone, ready-to-use tool.

Due to its molded plastic construction, customization options are limited. However, some hunters may choose to experiment with different reeds to fine-tune the sound to their liking.

Pros and Cons of Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call

Who Should Buy Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call?

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call is perfect for beginner duck hunters who are just starting to learn the art of calling. It is also great for experienced hunters looking for a reliable and affordable backup call.

Hunters seeking a high-end, customizable call with a more nuanced sound should consider other options. This includes calls made from acrylic or wood.

A simple lanyard is a must-have accessory to keep the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call readily accessible in the field. Also, consider a call carrying case to protect the call from scratches and damage during transport.

Conclusion on Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call

The Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call is a remarkable value, providing solid performance, reliable operation, and impressive versatility at an incredibly affordable price. While it may not have the refined sound of more expensive calls, its ease of use and durability make it a valuable tool for any duck hunter.

Given its performance and affordability, the price is more than justified. It represents an excellent entry point for beginners and a reliable backup for seasoned hunters.

I would absolutely recommend the Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call to anyone looking for an affordable and effective duck call. It’s a testament to the fact that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a successful duck hunt.

So, grab a Primos Pro Mallard Duck Call, head out to the marsh, and experience the thrill of calling in those greenheads! You might just be surprised at how effective this little call can be.