ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded Review

Exploring the ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded: My Review

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment, from sterile laboratories to the biting wind of the open water, I approach new equipment with a healthy dose of skepticism and a keen eye for detail. My latest acquisition, the ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded, came into my possession during a period where my established waterfowl calling arsenal felt… incomplete. I needed a call that could project across wide expanses of water, offering that distinct, attention-grabbing sound that ducks simply can’t ignore. My existing calls, while reliable, sometimes struggled to cut through the wind or carry the full range of hen duck communication I was aiming for. This led me to search for something specifically designed for longer distances, something that could deliver both volume and a nuanced, natural tone.

Upon initial inspection, this call presented itself with a no-nonsense aesthetic. The Bourbon colored polycarbonate felt robust, hinting at the durability promised by its material. It fit comfortably in my hand, the molded construction offering a solid, seamless feel without any rough edges. I had considered a few other options – a more traditional acrylic call from a competitor known for its loud output, and a more budget-friendly wooden call that promised a classic sound. However, the specific description of the ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded – its stated design for long-distance calling and its promise of a loud, raspy quack – ultimately swayed my decision. My first impression was one of quiet confidence; it felt like a tool built for purpose, ready to get to work.

First Use Experience

My inaugural field test for this duck call took place on a brisk autumn morning, overlooking a vast, open marshland. The wind was a significant factor, whipping across the water and carrying away lesser sounds. I’d chosen this particular location because it truly represents the “open water” scenario the call is advertised for, demanding a call with serious projection.

From the first few blows, it was evident this call was designed to cut through noise. The initial notes were surprisingly loud, a powerful blast that seemed to carry much further than some of my other calls. I focused on mimicking the classic “feed chuckle” and the distinct “kwaaak” of a hen duck, and the call responded with impressive clarity, maintaining its volume even when I didn’t blow with maximum force. The raspy quality, described in the product details, was indeed present and added a layer of realism that felt genuinely inviting to any waterfowl within earshot.

The ease of use was remarkable. There was no prolonged fiddling or complex technique required to get a good sound. It felt intuitive, responding to my breath pressure and lip movements with consistent results. This was a welcome change from some calls that demand a very specific blowing style to achieve their optimal sound.

However, there was one minor quirk: in certain rapid sequences of notes, I noticed a slight tendency for the reeds to stick together if I exhaled too intensely without a brief pause. This isn’t uncommon in double-reed calls, especially when wet, but it did require a slightly more deliberate cadence in very fast calling sequences. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was a subtle point of awareness.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several weeks and numerous hunting trips, the ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded has proven itself to be a remarkably reliable companion. I’ve used it in varying weather conditions, from damp, overcast days to clear, windy afternoons. The polycarbonate material has held up exceptionally well; despite being accidentally dropped once onto a rocky shoreline (a moment of sheer panic, I assure you), it emerged without a scratch or any loss of performance.

The durability of the internal reeds is also noteworthy. After extensive use, the call continues to produce that loud, raspy quack without any noticeable degradation in sound quality. There’s no stiffness or looseness developing in the reed system, which can be a common failure point in less well-constructed calls. Cleaning has been straightforward – a simple rinse with fresh water and a gentle shake is usually all it needs. I haven’t found any need for specialized tools or cleaning agents, which is a significant plus when you’re packing light.

Compared to some of the more premium acrylic calls I own, this polycarbonate model holds its own remarkably well in terms of sheer volume and reach. While some high-end acrylics might offer a slightly finer tonal nuance in their quietest settings, this ECHO CALLS, INC model excels at its primary purpose: projecting a loud, attention-grabbing sound across open water. It’s certainly outperformed my older, budget-friendly wooden calls, which often struggle with moisture and reed sticking.

Specifications

The ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded is constructed from a material described as a hard, bulletproof plastic, specifically Polycarbonate. This material choice is fundamental to the call’s performance and durability. Polycarbonate is known for its exceptional impact resistance and its ability to withstand a wide range of temperatures without becoming brittle or deforming.

The call features a Double Reed configuration. This design is crucial for producing the louder, raspier sounds that are highly effective for attracting waterfowl, particularly mallards, in open water environments. The double reed system creates a more complex sound wave, mimicking the natural vocalizations of ducks with greater fidelity and volume.

Its intended purpose is for Open Water calling, meaning it is engineered to project sound over longer distances. This is achieved through a combination of the reed design, the internal baffling of the call, and the resonant properties of the polycarbonate. The specified color is Bourbon, which is primarily an aesthetic choice but also contributes to the overall presentation of the product.

The manufacturer is Echo Calls, a name recognized in the waterfowl hunting community for producing a range of calls. The overall design prioritizes function over intricate ornamentation, focusing on a smooth, molded form that is both comfortable to hold and effective at producing sound. This focus on practical engineering means fewer parts to fail and a simpler user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any duck call is to sound like a duck and be heard. This model from Echo Calls performs exceptionally well in this regard, particularly in its intended open water scenarios. The loud, raspy quack it produces is undeniably effective at getting the attention of ducks.

Its strength lies in its sheer volume and its ability to cut through wind and distance. When I needed to reach out to a flock that was further out than usual, this call delivered. The raspy hen sound is also quite convincing, capable of eliciting curious responses from even wary birds.

The main weakness, as I’ve noted, can be a slight tendency for the double reeds to stick momentarily under very rapid, forceful blowing. This requires a bit of breath control to manage effectively. It’s not a flaw that compromises its ability to call ducks, but it’s something to be aware of if you prefer extremely fast, staccato calling. Considering its price point and intended use, its performance is very strong.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded is functional and robust. The Polycarbonate construction feels substantial in the hand, offering a secure grip even with cold or wet fingers. The molded body means there are no seams that could potentially leak or break, contributing to its overall sturdiness.

Ergonomically, it’s comfortable for extended periods. The shape fits naturally within the palm, and the mouthpiece is neither too large nor too small, allowing for a comfortable seal. There’s a slight learning curve associated with any double-reed call, but the fundamental blowing technique is relatively straightforward. The smooth, one-piece construction means there are no uncomfortable ridges or sharp edges to contend with.

Practical design elements like the absence of excessive flourishes ensure that this call is built for the field, not for show. Its simple, effective design makes it a pleasure to use without fuss or distraction.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a standout feature of this call, largely thanks to its Polycarbonate build. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting, and my experience confirms this. I anticipate this call lasting for many seasons of heavy use, showing minimal signs of wear.

Maintenance is blessedly simple. A quick rinse under fresh water after each use is sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. There are no complex internal parts that require specialized cleaning, and the material is resistant to staining or degradation from common environmental factors.

The potential failure point in any double-reed call is the reeds themselves. However, the quality of the reeds and the robust construction of this model suggest that they are built for longevity. I haven’t encountered any issues like cracking, stiffness, or performance degradation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded comes as a standalone unit, focusing on its core functionality. There are no specific accessories included with the call itself, such as lanyards or cleaning kits, which is typical for many polycarbonate duck calls. The product is designed to be used directly out of the packaging.

Customization options for this particular model are minimal, which is inherent to its molded polycarbonate construction. Unlike some higher-end acrylic or wood calls, you cannot easily swap out reeds or internal components. The Bourbon color is fixed, and there are no additional inserts or sound boards to alter its tone. This lack of customization, however, directly contributes to its simplicity and durability, as there are fewer parts to go wrong. For hunters seeking extensive personalization, this might be a consideration, but for those prioritizing a reliable, high-performing call right out of the box, its straightforward design is a strength.

Pros and Cons of ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded

Who Should Buy ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded?

This duck call is ideally suited for waterfowl hunters who frequently hunt in Open Water environments. If you find yourself in large marshes, lakes, or bays where your current calls struggle to carry their sound, this ECHO CALLS, INC model is an excellent candidate. It’s perfect for those who prioritize a loud, penetrating sound that can attract birds from a distance.

Beginner to intermediate duck hunters will find this call particularly appealing. Its ease of use means you can quickly learn to produce effective sounds without extensive practice. Experienced hunters looking for a reliable, no-frills call that can withstand rough handling and adverse conditions will also appreciate its robust construction.

However, serious duck callers who demand the absolute finest nuances of tone and precise control at all volumes might find more premium, albeit more expensive, acrylic or wood calls to be a better fit. Those who require extensive customization options or are primarily hunting in tight timber where extreme volume isn’t as critical might also consider alternatives. For enhancing its usability, a good quality lanyard would be a smart addition, ensuring the call is always accessible and secure when not in use.

Conclusion on ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded

The ECHO CALLS, INC 77802 Open Water Double Reed Bourbon Polycarbonate Molded stands out as a highly effective and incredibly durable tool for the serious waterfowl hunter. Its core promise of loud, long-distance calling in open water environments is not just met, but exceeded. The Polycarbonate construction ensures it can handle the abuse of the field, while the Double Reed design consistently delivers a raspy, attention-grabbing sound that ducks respond to.

Considering its robust build, impressive performance, and ease of use, the value proposition here is significant. For its price, you are getting a call that performs well beyond many more expensive options, especially in challenging open-water conditions. I would personally recommend this call without hesitation to any duck hunter who spends their time in wide-open spaces and needs a reliable way to bring birds into range. It’s a workhorse call that delivers results, proving that sometimes, simple, well-executed design is all you need.