I know what you’re thinking – do I really need to spend money on a fancy duck call? The truth is, for serious waterfowl hunters, the right call can make all the difference. From the iconic DUCK COMMANDER to the innovative BGC combo kit, these top-rated options offer unparalleled sound quality and performance. But what features should you prioritize, and which one will work best for your hunting style? Let’s plunge into the details and discover the perfect duck call to elevate your next waterfowl adventure.
DUCK COMMANDER Triple Threat Duck Call – Classic Series
The DUCK COMMANDER Triple Threat Duck Call – Classic Series is the perfect choice for beginners and experienced hunters alike, boasting a unique low and super raspy sound that effectively attracts mallard hens.
Crafted from durable high-impact plastic, this call features Phil Robertson’s patented Double-reed, friction fit system, making it easy to blow and produce clear, loud calls even in wet conditions.
With its proven field technology and original style, this classic duck call has been used for over 30 years to lure in your feathered targets.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by nearly 4,000 customers, the Triple Threat is a top seller in the duck call market, ranking #5 in the Duck Calls & Lures category.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned waterfowl hunter, this versatile call is sure to become an essential part of your hunting gear.
Best For: The DUCK COMMANDER Triple Threat Duck Call – Classic Series is best for both beginners and experienced hunters looking to attract mallard hens with its unique low and super raspy sound.
Pros:
Durable high-impact plastic construction
Easy to blow with Phil Robertson’s patented Double-reed, friction fit system
Loud and clear sound that effectively attracts ducks, even in wet conditions
Cons:
May be too raspy or low for some hunters’ preferences
Limited to attracting mallard hens specifically
Some users may find it challenging to master the call as a beginner
If you’re a beginner duck hunter or someone who doesn’t quite have the hang of calling, the Primos Hunting 829 Feedin Mallard Call is a great choice as it’s easy to use and reproduces the feed-chatter of ducks to add background noise and make it sound like there are more ducks in your spread.
This American-made call features a special tuning hole in the bell that allows it to mimic multiple ducks, making it a versatile tool for your hunting arsenal.
Whether you’re looking to shame the lazy or simply want to enhance your waterfowl setup, the Primos 829 is an affordable and reliable option that won’t let you down.
With its synthetic construction and average rating of 4.5 stars, this call is sure to become a staple in your hunting gear.
Best For: The Primos Hunting 829 Feedin Mallard Call is best for beginner duck hunters or those who struggle with traditional duck calling.
Pros:
Easy to use for those new to duck calling
Reproduces the feed-chatter of ducks to add background noise
Can make it sound like there are more ducks in your spread
Cons:
May not provide the most realistic duck sounds compared to higher-end calls
Limited to only mimicking the feeding chatter of ducks
May not be as effective in certain hunting situations or environments
Designed for the dedicated duck hunter seeking versatility and performance, the BGC Double Nasty Duck Call & Wood Duck Call Combo – Timber Pack Combo Kit offers a dynamic duo of calls crafted with premium materials and innovative technology.
The Double Nasty duck call’s Spit-Tech toneboard helps prevent sticking when wet, ensuring reliable performance in the field. Its double-reed design flawlessly delivers a full spectrum of sounds, from low-end feed calls to ringing hail calls.
Complementing the Double Nasty, the simple-to-use Wood Duck call remains effective throughout the season.
Constructed from durable polycarbonate, this American-made combo kit is built to withstand the demands of serious waterfowl hunting.
With 4.6 out of 5 stars and a best-sellers rank in the top 12 for duck calls, you can trust the BGC Double Nasty and Wood Duck Combo to elevate your duck-calling game.
Best For: Dedicated duck hunters seeking a versatile and high-performance combo call kit for all-season waterfowl hunting.
Pros:
Spit-Tech toneboard on Double Nasty call prevents sticking when wet
Double-reed design on Double Nasty delivers a full range of duck sounds
Made in the USA with durable polycarbonate materials
Cons:
May be more advanced than some beginner duck hunters require
Combo kit may be overkill for hunters who only need one or the other call
Price point may be higher than some budget-conscious hunters prefer
Primos Hunting 805 Duck Call, Easy Mallard Single Reed
For novice duck callers, the Primos Hunting 805 Duck Call, Easy Mallard Single Reed is a great choice.
It’s easy to blow, produces realistic duck sounds, and requires little air pressure, making it a breeze to use.
The .010-inch thin Mylar reed guarantees you don’t have to exert too much effort to get the call to sound off.
Whether the call is wet or dry, you’ll be able to generate that vital mallard quack.
At just 0.01 ounces, it’s lightweight and portable, so you can easily take it with you on your next hunting trip.
With a 4.3-star rating from over 630 customer reviews, this duck call is a proven performer that won’t let you down when you need to attract those elusive ducks.
Best For: Novice duck callers looking for an easy-to-use, affordable duck call that produces realistic mallard sounds.
Pros:
Easy to blow with little air pressure required
.010-inch thin Mylar reed makes it super easy to use
Produces great duck sounds whether wet or dry
Cons:
Lightweight design may feel flimsy to some users
Limited to mallard sounds, not suitable for more advanced calling
May not project sound as far as more expensive, higher-end duck calls
DUCK COMMANDER Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call
The DUCK COMMANDER Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call stands out as a top pick for waterfowl enthusiasts seeking an exceptionally easy-to-use and versatile option that delivers realistic mallard hen vocalizations.
This single-reed call boasts a harmonized design that combines the toughness of a double-reed with the effortless blowing of a single-reed.
You’ll be impressed by its wide range, from loud attention-grabbing calls to soft, alluring notes that can draw in wary ducks.
Crafted with a shortened polycarbonate barrel and reed, it requires less air, making it a breeze to use, even in the harshest weather conditions.
With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 2,900 customers, this affordable pro-series call is a high-performing and budget-friendly choice that won’t disappoint.
Best For: Waterfowl hunters seeking a high-performing, easy-to-use duck call that delivers realistic mallard hen vocalizations at an affordable price point.
Pros:
Harmonized single-reed design with the toughness of a double-reed
Requires less air due to shortened polycarbonate barrel and reed
Wide range of vocalization from loud attention-grabbing to soft, alluring notes
Cons:
Limited to mallard hen vocalizations
May not be as durable as some other premium duck calls
Potential for inconsistent performance if not properly maintained
When choosing a duck call, you’ll want to ponder several key factors.
Sound quality is vital – you need a call that can mimic the natural vocalizations of your target species.
Ease of use and durability are also important, as is the call’s weather resistance for those rainy hunts.
Sound Quality
To produce an engrossing call that effectively mimics different duck species, you’ll want to ponder the sound quality factors that shape a duck call’s performance.
The material used is vital – high-impact plastic and polycarbonate provide durability and resistance to sticking, while Mylar reeds offer a super-easy blow. Single-reed calls deliver a more nasal, raspy sound, while double-reed calls produce a fuller, more resonant tone. Some calls even feature specialized tuning holes to enhance sound quality further.
Ease of blowing also impacts sound quality. A call that’s easy to blow can generate a more consistent, realistic sound, while a difficult-to-blow call may result in a strained or unnatural tone.
And don’t forget about wet conditions – a call that maintains a clear, loud sound even when wet can be a game-changer in the field.
Ease of Use
In addition to sound quality, the ease of using a duck call is a crucial factor to ponder when choosing the right one for your hunting needs.
When selecting a duck call, you’ll want one that’s comfortable and simple to blow, even for beginners or those with limited lung capacity. Consider a call with a single reed or a patented friction-fit system, as these can make it easier to use. Opt for calls like the Primos Hunting 805 Easy Mallard Single Reed, which require little air pressure to blow.
The material of the duck call can also impact its ease of use. Durable polycarbonate materials, as seen in the DUCK COMMANDER Triple Threat Duck Call – Classic Series, are less prone to sticking when wet.
Some calls, such as the BGC Double Nasty Duck Call & Wood Duck Call Combo, feature Spit-Tech toneboards to prevent sticking in various weather conditions. Ultimately, the best easy-to-use duck call should allow you to produce a wide range of vocalizations with minimal effort, like the DUCK COMMANDER Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call.
Durability
Durability is a paramount consideration when selecting a duck call, as you’ll want a reliable instrument that can withstand the rigors of the hunt.
The high-impact plastic construction of many duck calls makes them more durable and less prone to cracking or breaking compared to other materials. This guarantees your call can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain and extreme temperatures, without compromising its sound quality.
The design and construction of the call also play a vital role in its durability. Opt for a single-reed or double-reed call, as these are more resistant to sticking and freezing. Additionally, a call with a Spit-Tech toneboard can help prevent sticking when wet, reducing maintenance and improving the overall lifespan of your investment.
The weight of the duck call is another indicator of its durability, with heavier calls often proving more robust and less likely to break or crack. By considering these factors, you can guarantee your duck call will serve you well for seasons to come, no matter the weather or hunting conditions.
Weather Resistance
When selecting a duck call, you’ll want to prioritize weather resistance, as Mother Nature can be quite unpredictable in the field.
Fortunately, modern duck call design has come a long way, with high-impact plastics and synthetic materials often proving more durable than their wooden or metal counterparts in wet conditions.
Some calls even feature advanced technologies, like Spit-Tech toneboards, that help prevent sticking when the weather turns nasty.
This is vital, as ducks are often most active during rainy or snowy weather, and you’ll need your call to continue producing clear, loud sounds to effectively lure them in.
The reed design of your duck call can also impact its weather resistance, with single-reed calls being more prone to sticking compared to double-reed models.
Target Species
Targeting the right species is essential when choosing a duck call, as each type of waterfowl has distinct vocalizations that require specialized calls.
Mallard hens are the most common quarry, and calls mimicking their quacks and feeding sounds are often the most effective.
For wood ducks, you’ll need a higher-pitched, more nasal call to accurately imitate their unique sounds.
When hunting mergansers and harlequin ducks, look for calls with a higher-pitched, rapid series of notes to replicate their distinctive vocalizations.
On the other hand, when targeting puddle ducks like gadwalls and wigeons, softer, more subtle calls can be more effective than loud, raspy options.
Some versatile calls are designed to mimic the sounds of multiple species, allowing you to adapt to different hunting situations and target a wider range of ducks.
Understanding the specific call requirements for your target species is pivotal for success in the field.
Price Point
Affordability often takes center stage when selecting the right duck call, as the price point can substantially impact your overall hunting experience and setup.
Duck call prices can range from under $10 to over $100, so it’s vital to understand what you’re getting for your money. Generally, high-end calls made from premium materials like wood or high-quality plastics are more expensive, while entry-level options using lower-quality materials are more affordable.
The number of items in a duck call kit can also affect the price, with combo kits including multiple calls or accessories typically costing more than individual purchases.
Some top brands, like Duck Commander, offer a variety of products at different price points, allowing you to choose a call that fits your budget and needs.
For a good quality duck call suitable for most hunting situations, plan to spend between $20 to $50. By considering the price point and the features that matter most to you, you can find the perfect duck call to enhance your waterfowl hunting success.
Customization
Beyond the price point, customization is a key factor to contemplate when choosing the right duck call. The materials, finishes, and customized features of a duck call can substantially impact its sound quality, durability, and overall performance in the field.
When it comes to materials, you’ll find duck calls crafted from various woods, acrylics, and even specialized composites. Each material has its own unique tonal properties, so you’ll want to experiment to find the one that best suits your preferences and hunting conditions.
The finish of the call, whether smooth, textured, or even hand-painted, can also affect grip and aesthetics.
Many top-of-the-line duck calls also offer customization options, allowing you to personalize the look, sound, and functionality to your exact specifications.
This could include custom engraving, unique color combinations, or specially designed reeds and barrels.
Hunting Style
Your hunting style is a crucial consideration when selecting the right duck call, as different approaches demand varying degrees of volume, tone, and realism to effectively communicate with waterfowl.
For open-water hunting, you’ll want a loud and raspy call that can carry long distances and attract ducks from afar.
On the other hand, if you’re hunting in timber or flooded areas where ducks are already in close proximity, softer, more subtle calls will be better suited to your needs.
When dealing with pressured ducks that have become wary of aggressive calling, timid or ‘less-aggressive’ calls are the way to go.
Additionally, the specific species of duck you’re hunting can influence the type of call you choose, as different ducks respond to distinct tones and vocalizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Way to Clean and Maintain Duck Calls?
To keep your duck calls in prime condition, start by regularly cleaning them.
Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to gently wipe away any built-up grime or residue.
Avoid submerging the call in water, as this can damage the internal mechanisms.
After cleaning, thoroughly dry the call before storing it in a cool, dry place.
With proper maintenance, your duck calls will continue to produce crisp, clear sounds that’ll attract those wary waterfowl.
How Do I Choose the Right Duck Call for Different Hunting Conditions?
When choosing a duck call, consider the hunting conditions.
For open water, use a deeper-toned call that projects well.
In flooded timber or thick cover, opt for a higher-pitched call that’s easier to hear.
Lean on versatile single-reed or double-reed calls for diverse situations.
And don’t forget to practice with your call before the hunt – mastering the right sounds will help you lure in ducks no matter the setting.
Can Duck Calls Be Used for Other Game Like Geese or Turkeys?
Over 2 million duck calls are sold annually in the US.
While duck calls are primarily designed for waterfowl, you can use them for other game like geese and turkeys. However, you’ll need to adjust your technique and sound to effectively mimic these species.
What Are the Differences Between Single and Double-Reed Duck Calls?
When it comes to duck calls, you’ll find two main types – single-reed and double-reed.
Single-reed calls are simpler, producing a more nasal, high-pitched sound, while double-reed calls offer a deeper, richer tone.
The double-reed design requires more skill to master, but it can also create a greater variety of duck sounds.
The choice between the two really comes down to your personal preference and hunting style.
Both can be effective, so experiment to see which one suits you best.
How Can I Tell if a Duck Call Is Made of High-Quality Materials?
When evaluating a duck call’s quality, look beyond the surface.
You’ll want to pay close attention to the materials used – high-quality calls are often crafted from durable hardwoods or acrylics.
Jiggle the components; they shouldn’t feel loose or wobbly.
Inspect the workmanship – a well-made call will have clean, precise seams.
And most importantly, listen to the sound.
A quality call will produce a rich, resonant tone that captivates waterfowl.
The journey to finding your perfect duck call starts here.
Conclusion
When you’re out in the marsh, your duck call is your voice – it’s how you communicate with the waterfowl.
Choose wisely, and let your call be a reflection of your skill, your passion, and your respect for the hunt.
The right duck call can make all the difference, guiding the birds right into your spread.
