Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke Review

First Thoughts on the Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke

The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke promises Zink quality at a price point accessible to all. Coming from Zink Calls™, a name synonymous with championship-caliber duck calls, this polycarbonate version aims to deliver authentic sound without breaking the bank. It’s a call designed for both seasoned hunters and beginners alike.

My duck hunting started later in life. I needed a reliable, easy-to-use call that wouldn’t discourage me as I learned. The promise of an “easy blow” system drew me to this call.

Unboxing the Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke, I immediately noticed the solid feel of the polycarbonate. The Gun Smoke color is understated and practical. It looks like it belongs in the marsh. Compared to higher-end acrylic calls from Zink and other manufacturers, the finish isn’t as polished. But at this price, that’s expected.

I considered a few other calls in this price range, notably offerings from Duck Commander and Primos. I chose the Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke for the Zink reputation and the described “easy blow” system. It had to be less frustrating to learn than some of the more air-restrictive calls I’d tried.

My first impression was positive. It felt good in my hand and seemed like a call I could potentially master without needing to be a professional caller. I was eager to get it in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke on a late-season duck hunt in a flooded timber area. The weather was cold and damp. The ducks were wary after a long season of hunting pressure.

The call performed surprisingly well in the wet conditions. Polycarbonate doesn’t absorb moisture like some wood calls, so I didn’t experience any sticking or changes in tone. It was easy to blow, as advertised. The call produced a decent range of hen mallard sounds with minimal effort. It took me a few minutes to find the sweet spot, but I was able to produce convincing quacks, feeding calls, and even some basic comeback calls. I did experience some reed lock the first few times out.

After this initial use, I was pleasantly surprised. The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke actually lured a pair of mallards into shooting range on my first sit. It was something I wasn’t expecting on my first try.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of hunting, the Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or fading. The call still sounds the same as the first day I used it.

Durability has been a strong point. The polycarbonate construction has withstood being dropped in the mud, banging around in my blind bag, and exposure to extreme temperatures. Cleaning is simple. I just rinse it with water and let it air dry.

Compared to other calls I’ve used, the Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke provides excellent value. I’ve had calls that cost three times as much fail in a single season. I am definitely happy with the performance of this call.

Breaking Down the Features of Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke

Specifications

The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke is molded from durable polycarbonate. It’s designed to mimic the sound of Zink’s original custom acrylic calls. The call is equipped with Zink’s “easy blow” sound system. This makes it user-friendly even for novice callers.

The “easy blow” system is key. It allows for a wider range of callers to use it effectively. The polycarbonate material ensures durability and consistent performance in various weather conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke delivers a convincing hen mallard sound. The “easy blow” system enables the user to create a variety of calls. These include basic quacks, feeding chuckles, and comeback calls with minimal effort. While it might not have the same tonal depth as a high-end acrylic call, it does its job effectively. It does well for beginner and intermediate callers.

The main strength is its ease of use and consistent performance. A weakness is that it is not the most versatile call. It excels at hen mallard sounds but might struggle with other duck species. It exceeds expectations for a call in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke features a simple, functional design. The Gun Smoke color is practical and non-reflective. The call is lightweight and comfortable to hold.

The design prioritizes ease of use. There isn’t a steep learning curve. The call is ready to use right out of the package.

Durability & Maintenance

The polycarbonate construction ensures excellent durability. The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke is resistant to cracking, fading, and moisture damage. Maintenance is minimal. Rinsing with water after use is generally sufficient.

With proper care, this call should last for several seasons. The simple design minimizes potential points of failure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited. The user can change the lanyard.

The focus is on delivering a functional call at an affordable price. Aftermarket customization isn’t a priority.

Pros and Cons of Zink Power Hen PH-1 Polycarbonate Duck Call – Gun Smoke