Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard Review

Why I Chose the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard: A Hands-On Review

My hunting season, like many others, is a symphony of organized chaos. Calls are crucial, and in my experience, misplacing or fumbling with a call at the critical moment can be the difference between a successful outing and a frustrating day. This is precisely why I found myself searching for a reliable way to keep multiple calls accessible and secure, leading me to the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard. This particular model from Landing Gear caught my eye with its promise of comfort and ample call-holding capacity.

The trigger for this purchase was a particularly frustrating early season hunt where I’d managed to snag my primary duck call on a branch, nearly losing it. Juggling multiple calls for different species—ducks, geese, and even a crow call for variety—had become a cumbersome affair, often leaving me with pockets full of lanyards or calls precariously clipped to my vest. I needed a streamlined solution that could handle a variety of call types without adding undue bulk or discomfort.

Upon receiving the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard, my initial impression was positive. The neoprene neck strap felt immediately more comfortable than the thin paracord or basic webbing I’d used previously. The braided cord appeared robust, and the metal hardware offered a sense of durability. It felt like a functional piece of gear, designed with practical use in mind, rather than just an accessory.

While I primarily focused on this specific lanyard, I did briefly consider some more minimalist, single-call holders and some heavy-duty, multi-loop options from competitor brands. However, none offered the blend of capacity, comfort, and what appeared to be thoughtful design that this model promised. My immediate feeling was one of practical optimism; this seemed like a tool that would genuinely enhance my field experience.

Real-World Testing: Putting Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard to the Test

My testing ground for the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard was primarily the marsh and wooded areas during waterfowl season, interspersed with some early spring turkey hunting excursions. This meant exposure to damp conditions, the occasional splash from retrieving downed birds, and the constant jostling of navigating thick brush and uneven terrain. I also used it on a few early morning field stalks, where the primary concern was staying concealed and having quick access to my goose calls.

During its initial use, the lanyard performed admirably. The neoprene neck strap distributed the weight of six calls evenly, significantly reducing neck strain compared to previous setups. Accessing calls was intuitive; the double drop holders kept them secure yet reachable, and I could easily identify and grab the specific call I needed. I experienced no issues with the calls detaching unexpectedly, even when moving quickly or crouching.

Over several weeks of consistent use, the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard proved its mettle. It held up remarkably well, showing no signs of fraying or degradation in the braided cord, and the neoprene strap maintained its padding and shape. Even after being exposed to light rain and dew multiple times, it dried relatively quickly and retained its comfortable feel. The metal hardware showed no corrosion, which is a common issue with gear exposed to the elements.

Compared to some of the simpler, cord-only lanyards I’ve used in the past, this model offered a significant upgrade in comfort and functionality. Budget alternatives often become stiff and uncomfortable after prolonged wear or struggle to securely hold larger goose calls. This particular lanyard, however, felt built to last and perform reliably across a range of conditions, demonstrating a clear step up in durability and user-focused design.

Extended Use & Reliability

As the season progressed, the lanyard became an indispensable part of my hunting kit. It consistently kept my calls organized and ready, significantly reducing fumbling time when a flock was in sight or a particular bird needed responding to. The ability to position calls via the detachable hooks was particularly useful, allowing me to keep my most frequently used calls closer or adjust their hang for better accessibility. I even found myself using the break-away whistle feature once during a particularly dense fog; it provided an audible alert without being overly disruptive.

The durability of the lanyard has been impressive. After numerous excursions through mud, water, and thicket, the neoprene remains soft and pliable, and the cord shows no signs of weakening or abrasion. The metal hardware, including the clips and the whistle hook, still operates smoothly and shows no rust or deformation. It has certainly withstood the rigors of a demanding hunting season far better than many other accessories I’ve relied on.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick rinse in fresh water after a muddy outing and allowing it to air dry was all that was needed. There are no complex mechanisms to worry about or delicate parts that require special care. This low-maintenance aspect is a huge plus for anyone spending a lot of time outdoors.

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard took place on a chilly morning in a flooded timber area, a prime spot for mallards. My goal was to have immediate access to both my main duck call and a secondary goose locator call. The lanyard felt substantial around my neck, the neoprene padding a welcome relief.

The double drop call holders were intuitive to use; I simply slid the loops of my calls onto them. Positioning the calls using the detachable hooks was straightforward, allowing me to adjust the placement so my duck call hung just above my vest pocket and the locator call slightly to the side. The whistle hook was also conveniently placed and kept my emergency whistle secure.

During the hunt, I found myself reaching for my duck call multiple times. Each time, it was exactly where I expected it, and I could pull it free with a smooth motion. The weight of the calls was well-distributed, and I didn’t feel the need to constantly adjust the lanyard for comfort. It was a seamless integration into my hunting routine from the very first use.

Breaking Down the Features of Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard

Specifications

The Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard boasts a design focused on practical utility for the outdoors enthusiast. It features a braided cord construction, chosen for its strength and resistance to abrasion, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of field use. The metal hardware used for the clips and hooks provides a durable and reliable connection point for your calls.

A standout feature is the neoprene padded neck strap, which is designed for extended wear. This padding significantly enhances comfort by distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure points on the neck, a crucial factor when carrying multiple calls for an entire hunting day. The 6 double drop call holders offer ample capacity for a variety of calls, allowing hunters to carry multiple species-specific calls or backups.

The lanyard also includes a dedicated whistle hook, ensuring your safety whistle is always readily accessible. Furthermore, the inclusion of detachable hooks allows for customizable call positioning, letting you tailor the lanyard to your personal preferences and hunting style. Finally, the break-away whistle adds an extra layer of safety by detaching under significant tension, preventing potential entanglement.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard is to securely and comfortably hold multiple calls. In this regard, it excels. The six double drop holders are robust enough to hold even larger goose calls without issue, and the secure connection prevents accidental dislodging. The braided cord exhibits excellent strength and minimal stretch, ensuring your calls remain at the desired height.

The neoprene padding is a true game-changer for comfort. After several hours of hunting, I experienced none of the chafing or discomfort associated with thinner straps. The weight of six calls, while noticeable, was distributed so effectively that it felt manageable. This comfort directly translates to better focus and performance in the field, as you’re not constantly fidgeting with an uncomfortable lanyard.

One of the most appreciated functional aspects is the customizable call positioning offered by the detachable hooks. This allows a hunter to arrange their calls in a way that makes the most sense for their specific hunting scenario, whether it’s keeping a duck call front-and-center or positioning a locator call for quick access. The break-away whistle is a thoughtful safety addition, providing peace of mind without being overly intrusive.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard strikes a good balance between rugged utility and user comfort. The black color is classic and unobtrusive, blending well with most hunting apparel. The overall build quality feels solid; the braided cord is thick and tightly woven, and the metal components are well-finished, giving a sense of longevity.

Ergonomically, the neoprene padded neck strap is the hero here. It’s wide enough to provide good coverage without being bulky, and the soft material feels pleasant against the skin, even when wearing lighter clothing. The length of the lanyard is generous, accommodating various body types and allowing for multiple calling positions without restriction. The double drop holders are designed with a secure loop that is easy to manage even with gloves on.

The inclusion of detachable hooks adds a layer of user-friendly customization. These hooks are simple to attach and detach, allowing for quick adjustments on the fly. This small design detail significantly enhances the overall usability of the lanyard, making it adaptable to different hunting situations and personal preferences.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extensive use, the durability of the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard appears to be very high. The braided cord shows no signs of wear after repeated exposure to rough environments. The neoprene strap has maintained its cushioning properties and shows no signs of cracking or deterioration.

The metal hardware, including the clips and hooks, is robust and has resisted corrosion despite regular contact with moisture. This is a critical factor for gear used in outdoor and potentially wet conditions. I have not encountered any failure points, such as loose stitching or compromised connections, which speaks volumes about its construction quality.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple rinse with water and allowing it to air dry is sufficient to keep it clean and in good condition. There are no complex parts to disassemble or special cleaning agents required, making it ideal for users who prioritize gear that is easy to care for. Its design suggests it’s built for longevity, likely outlasting many other hunting accessories.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard comes with its essential components to function as designed. The primary features that offer customization are the detachable hooks for the call holders. This allows users to reconfigure the spacing or number of active call loops as needed.

While no external accessories are included, the lanyard’s design makes it compatible with most standard waterfowl and turkey calls. The double drop holders are sized to accommodate the loops found on a wide variety of call lanyards. The whistle hook is a standard size, easily accepting most common emergency whistles.

The manufacturer, Landing Gear, focuses on providing a well-equipped core product. The emphasis is on the integrated features like the padded strap and multiple holders, rather than extensive external add-ons. This keeps the product focused and eliminates the need for additional purchases to achieve its intended functionality.

Pros and Cons of Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard

Who Should Buy Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard?

This lanyard is an excellent choice for serious waterfowl hunters who rely on multiple calls throughout a single outing. If you regularly carry duck, goose, and possibly other calls like a crow call, this model will keep them organized and readily accessible. It’s also ideal for hunters who experience long days in the field and prioritize comfort, as the padded strap makes a noticeable difference.

Individuals who value durability and are tired of flimsy, uncomfortable lanyards will find this product a worthwhile upgrade. It’s designed for active use in varied outdoor conditions, making it suitable for those who hunt in wet or challenging environments. The customizable nature of the detachable hooks will appeal to those who like to fine-tune their gear setup.

However, if you are a minimalist hunter who only carries one or two calls, or if budget is an extreme constraint, simpler and less expensive options might suffice. Those primarily involved in lab work, workshop tasks, or indoor environments will find no application for this specific piece of outdoor gear. For this lanyard, the main complementary item would be a selection of high-quality calls to fill its ample capacity.

Conclusion on Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard

The Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard stands out as a well-designed and highly functional piece of equipment for the dedicated outdoors enthusiast. Its comfortable neoprene strap, robust construction, and practical features like the six call holders and customizable hook system make it a superior choice for those who need to carry and access multiple calls efficiently. The durability observed throughout my testing suggests it’s a product built to last through numerous seasons.

Considering its price point of $49.89, the value proposition is strong, especially when weighed against the enhanced comfort, organization, and reliability it provides. It successfully mitigates common frustrations associated with carrying multiple calls, making the hunting experience smoother and more enjoyable. While it might be more than a beginner needs, for any serious hunter of game that requires calling, this lanyard is a worthy investment.

I would certainly recommend the Landing Gear Deluxe 6 Call Neoprene Lanyard to any hunter who values comfort, organization, and durability in their gear. It’s a practical solution that delivers on its promises and enhances field performance, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their calling setup.