Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard Review

The Good, the Bad & the Real of the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

For years, I’ve relied on the subtle nuances of waterfowl calls to bring birds within effective range, a pursuit that demands both patience and the right tools. My search for a reliable duck call led me to the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard, a call renowned in certain circles for its performance. It arrived on my workbench, a simple plastic instrument promising the ability to mimic a mallard hen with a high degree of fidelity.

My previous go-to call had succumbed to the elements, its reeds stiffening and its tone becoming an unpleasant squawk. I needed a replacement that could handle the rigors of repeated outings and deliver consistent results without fuss. This quest for a dependable sound producer pointed me toward Haydels, a name I’d heard whispered among fellow hunters for years.

Upon first inspection, the call felt solid enough for its price point, a straightforward plastic construction with a slightly textured finish. It didn’t scream premium, but rather a functional piece of gear designed to get the job done. I’d briefly considered a more elaborate multi-reed system from another brand, but the promise of a simple, tunable double reed seemed more aligned with my preference for straightforward operation. My initial reaction was one of pragmatic optimism, a sense that this particular duck call might just fill the void left by its predecessor.

Real-World Testing: Putting Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard to the Test

My initial testing ground for the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard was my backyard, a small patch of green that often serves as my proving ground for gear before it hits the field. I started with basic hails and chuckles, focusing on producing clear, distinct notes that would carry. The double-reed setup immediately felt responsive, requiring a moderate breath pressure to initiate sound.

Conditions in my backyard were mild, with a slight breeze and dry air, hardly a rigorous test for durability. However, the ease of use was apparent; the learning curve was virtually non-existent. Blowing into the call felt natural, and the distinct tones of a mallard hen began to emerge with practice.

After a few weeks of consistent practice sessions, usually in the early morning or late evening, the call continued to perform admirably. Its durability seemed robust for its intended purpose, showing no signs of cracking or stiffness despite being exposed to varied temperatures. Maintenance was refreshingly simple: a quick rinse with water and a gentle wipe-down was all it took to keep it clean. Compared to some of the more intricate calls I’ve used in the past, this model required far less fuss.

First Use Experience

The first time I took the Haydels DR85 out on the water was during a brisk autumn morning, the air sharp and carrying the scent of decaying leaves. I was positioned in a familiar marsh blind, hoping to intercept a passing flock of mallards. My goal was to produce a consistent sequence of hails and short feeding sounds to attract any birds in the vicinity.

The call performed well in these real-world conditions, responding to varying breath pressures to produce a range of tones. It handled the ambient moisture of the marsh without any noticeable degradation in sound quality. The fully adjustable floating wedge proved to be a key feature, allowing me to fine-tune the pitch to better match the natural calls of the ducks I observed.

The intuitive design meant I didn’t have to constantly consult a manual; it felt like an extension of my own voice. Any surprises were positive; the ease with which I could transition between different calls was noteworthy.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of the hunting season, this double-reed mallard call became a staple in my gear bag. It endured multiple trips into the field, enduring everything from light rain to the dusty conditions of gravel roads. Despite this regular use, the plastic construction held up remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs.

The reeds maintained their flexibility, and the call’s tonal quality remained consistent, a testament to its reliable design. Cleaning was straightforward, usually involving a quick soak and a gentle scrub, which prevented any buildup that might affect the sound. When compared to some of the more expensive calls I’ve owned, this model held its own in terms of consistent performance and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is designed with a specific set of features aimed at replicating the vocalizations of a mallard hen. Its core construction is a durable plastic, chosen for its ability to withstand the elements and maintain its acoustic properties. The defining characteristic is its double reed system, which, when coupled with a fully adjustable floating wedge, offers a degree of customization not always found at this price point.

This adjustable wedge is crucial because it allows the user to alter the tension and spacing of the reeds. By manipulating this component, one can effectively fine-tune the pitch and rasp of the call. The product description notes that it “covers the full chromatic scale,” which implies a wide range of tones can be achieved, from deep, guttural quacks to higher-pitched social sounds. This flexibility is essential for adapting to different duck behaviors and environmental conditions.

Specifications

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is constructed primarily from plastic, a common and practical material for duck calls. This choice of fabric contributes to its lightweight nature and resilience against moisture and temperature fluctuations. The species it is designed to mimic is the mallard duck, a primary target for many hunters.

The key internal component is the double reed system, designed to produce a rich, authentic sound. Accompanying this is the fully adjustable floating wedge, a feature that sets this call apart. This adjustable mechanism allows for significant tonal variation, enabling hunters to achieve a broad spectrum of duck vocalizations.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this duck call is to accurately mimic the sounds of a mallard hen, and in this regard, the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard performs exceptionally well. Its double reed system is responsive, allowing for the execution of various calls from loud hails to soft clucks. The ability to adjust the internal wedge is a significant advantage, as it enables fine-tuning for specific situations or personal preference.

What truly shines is its ability to produce a wide range of sounds, from aggressive territorial calls to softer, more social interactions. This versatility makes it effective across different hunting scenarios. While its basic functionality is excellent, the ability to fine-tune the sound with the adjustable wedge elevates its performance beyond many basic models.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this duck call is intentionally straightforward, focusing on practical application over elaborate aesthetics. The plastic construction feels sturdy, and the textured finish provides a secure grip, even with wet hands. Its shape is ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the palm and allowing for easy manipulation during use.

The color is a muted, natural tone that blends well with typical hunting environments, reducing the chance of it startling wary birds. The simplicity of its design means there’s no complex ornamentation to get snagged or break. Every aspect, from the mouthpiece to the barrel, feels purposefully engineered for effective sound production.

Durability & Maintenance

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard exhibits good durability for a plastic duck call. After extended use, the plastic itself shows minimal wear, with no signs of cracking or becoming brittle. The reed system, a common point of failure in lesser calls, has maintained its flexibility and acoustic integrity.

Cleaning is straightforward; a simple rinse with water and occasional airing out is usually sufficient. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soap can be used, but care should be taken to ensure no residue remains. Avoiding prolonged submersion in water or exposure to harsh chemicals is recommended to preserve the reed’s integrity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary customization option inherent in the Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard is its fully adjustable floating wedge. This feature allows the user to modify the reed tension, directly impacting the pitch and tone of the calls produced. While no additional physical accessories are typically included with this model, the tunable wedge provides significant functional customization.

This internal adjustability means that users can tailor the call to their specific blowing style and hunting preferences. It eliminates the need for purchasing multiple calls to achieve a wide sonic range, offering considerable value within the single unit.

Pros and Cons of Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

Who Should Buy Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard?

This call is an ideal choice for any duck hunter looking for a reliable and versatile instrument without a hefty price tag. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who are new to duck calling and want a user-friendly yet capable tool to learn with. Experienced hunters will also appreciate the tunable wedge, which offers a degree of customization often reserved for more expensive models, allowing them to fine-tune their sound for specific hunting scenarios.

Those who prioritize practicality and effectiveness over premium materials will find this call a strong contender. It’s perfect for daily use in varied weather conditions, where a robust and low-maintenance option is preferred. However, if you are a seasoned waterfowl enthusiast who demands the absolute highest fidelity and resonance only achievable with high-end materials like hand-tuned acrylic or wood, you might consider this as a solid backup or practice call rather than your primary instrument.

Conclusion on Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard

The Haydels DR85 Duck Double Reed Mallard stands out as an exceptional piece of waterfowl hunting gear, offering a remarkable balance of performance, adjustability, and value. Its double reed system combined with the fully adjustable floating wedge provides a surprisingly wide sonic range, capable of producing everything from subtle clucks to loud, attention-grabbing hails. For its price point of $29.99, the level of customization and the authenticity of the mallard hen sound it produces are truly impressive.

The durable plastic construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of the field, and its ease of use makes it an excellent tool for both novices and seasoned callers. While it may not possess the artisanal resonance of a custom wood or acrylic call, its functional prowess and tunability make it a highly effective option for bringing ducks within range. I would wholeheartedly recommend this duck call to anyone looking for a dependable, versatile, and affordable tool to enhance their waterfowl hunting success.