Ever heard that magical sound that brings ducks right to your feet? It’s the work of a duck call, and the double reed kind is a favorite for many hunters. But if you’ve ever walked into a store or scrolled online looking for one, you know it’s not as simple as it sounds. There are so many different brands, styles, and sounds! It can be tricky to figure out which one will actually help you bag more ducks.
Choosing the wrong double reed call can lead to frustration. Maybe it’s hard to blow, makes a squeaky sound, or just doesn’t sound like a real duck. You want a call that’s easy to use and sounds authentic, so you can enjoy your time in the blind and improve your hunting success. That’s where this guide comes in!
We’re going to break down everything you need to know about double reed duck calls. You’ll learn what makes them special, how to pick the best one for your needs, and even get some tips on how to use it. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident in your choice and ready to make some noise that the ducks can’t resist. Let’s dive in and find your perfect double reed call!
Our Top 5 Double Reed Duck Call Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Double Reed Duck Call Detailed Reviews
1. Haydel’s Game Calls Inc. DR-85 Mallard Duck Call for Hunting
Rating: 9.4/10
The Haydel’s Game Calls Inc. DR-85 Mallard Duck Call, nicknamed “The Deceiver,” is a legendary tool for any duck hunter. This double-reed call is designed for easy blowing, making it a favorite for both pros and beginners. Its adjustable floating wedge lets you fine-tune your sound for the perfect mallard imitation. Plus, it’s hand-tuned by experts and even works when wet, ensuring you can call in ducks no matter the weather. It’s made right here in the USA, so you know you’re getting quality craftsmanship.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly easy to blow, even for beginners.
- The adjustable floating wedge allows for personalized tuning.
- Professional callers trust this call for its proven effectiveness.
- It’s built to perform even when wet.
- It’s proudly made in the USA.
- The nickname “The Deceiver” hints at its ability to fool ducks.
What Could Be Improved:
- While adjustable, some users might find the initial tuning process takes a little practice.
- Being a “meat call” means it’s designed for specific results, so mastering its nuances is key.
This duck call truly lives up to its legendary status. If you want to improve your mallard calling game, the DR-85 is a solid investment.
2. Duck Commander Classic Duck Calls – The Sarge Duck Call – Double-Reed
Rating: 9.0/10
When you’re out in the field chasing waterfowl, you need a call that works. The Duck Commander Classic Duck Calls – The Sarge Duck Call – Double-Reed, Friction-Fit, Smooth Nasally Tone – for Waterfowl Hunting is built for just that. It’s part of the Gunning Series, made for serious hunters who need a reliable call. This call is designed to sound like a real mallard hen, which is great for attracting ducks.
What We Like:
- It’s part of the Gunning Series, built for hardcore hunters.
- The double-reed, friction-fit system gives smooth, consistent calls.
- It makes a realistic mallard hen sound.
- The Sarge is versatile for calling ducks in the middle of nowhere and open areas.
- It produces a smooth, nasally tone perfect for attracting ducks in open spaces.
- Each call is custom-tuned for accurate and authentic duck sounds.
- It’s built for all hunters, from beginners to pros.
- The call is durable and reliable in different weather.
What Could Be Improved:
- While versatile, some advanced hunters might prefer more specialized calls for very specific duck species or conditions.
The Sarge duck call is a solid choice for any waterfowl hunter. It offers great performance and reliability, making your hunting trips more successful.
3. Duck Commander Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call – Easy Blowing
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to bag more ducks this season? The Duck Commander Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call in Burnt Hedge is here to help. This call is built to sound just like a real mallard hen, making it a top choice for serious duck hunters. Its burnt hedge wood barrel looks great and the clear poly insert and gold anodized band add a touch of class. Get ready to experience versatile performance that works in any hunting situation.
What We Like:
- Authentic Mallard Hen Sound: It truly sounds like a real duck, helping you attract more birds.
- Easy to Blow: Even beginners can make great sounds with this call. It’s designed for consistent performance.
- Versatile Performance: It can make loud, high-pitched sounds for open water and soft, raspy sounds for close-up calling.
- Durable and Stylish: The burnt hedge wood is tough and looks good. It’s built to last for many hunting seasons.
- Patented Double Reed: The double reed design makes calling realistic and reliable every time.
- Endorsed by Jase Robertson: This call has the stamp of approval from a hunting legend.
What Could Be Improved:
- Wood Finish Durability: While the wood is durable, some users might find the burnt hedge finish susceptible to chipping with very rough handling over time.
- Reed Sensitivity: For absolute beginners, fine-tuning the reed pressure might take a little practice to achieve the perfect sound consistently.
This Duck Commander call is a fantastic addition to any duck hunter’s gear. Its ease of use and realistic sound make it a winner for both new and experienced hunters.
4. Zink Calls Power Hen 2 (PH-2) Polycarbonate Double Reed Durable Hunting Waterfowl Duck Game Call
Rating: 8.7/10
The Zink Calls Power Hen 2 (PH-2) in Mallard Green is a hunting duck call designed to help you bring in more ducks. It’s made with tough polycarbonate material and a double reed that makes a smooth mallard sound. This call is built for performance and aims to make your hunting trips more successful.
What We Like:
- It creates a smooth mallard sound that hunters want.
- The call has a special “Z-cut, no-stick tone channel.” This helps you make many different sounds and stops the reeds from sticking together.
- Each call is carefully put together and hand-tuned by an expert to make sure it sounds great.
- It’s made to be durable and withstand tough hunting conditions.
- The design is based on a popular custom acrylic call, bringing premium quality to a polycarbonate version.
- It offers increased volume and a better “feed chuckle” sound.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some hunters might prefer the feel of a custom acrylic call.
- The sound, while smooth, might require practice for beginners to master its full range.
This Zink Calls Power Hen 2 is a solid choice for duck hunters. It balances quality, performance, and a great sound to help you on your next hunt.
5. Duck Commander Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call – Easy Blowing
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to bring in the ducks with the Duck Commander Jase Robertson Pro Series Duck Call. This call is made to sound just like a real mallard hen, which is perfect for serious duck hunters. It has a cool look with a Chartreuse Smoke barrel, a black insert, and a black aluminum band. Jase Robertson himself endorses this call, so you know it’s good.
What We Like:
- It sounds exactly like a mallard hen, making it great for serious hunters.
- It’s super easy to blow, which is good for both beginners and experienced hunters.
- It works well in different situations, from open water to close calls.
- The double reed design makes a realistic and reliable sound every time.
- It’s made from durable smoke acrylic, so it will last for many hunting seasons.
- The patented riveted double reed ensures consistent performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s easy to use, mastering the perfect duck call takes practice.
- The specific color combination might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
This duck call is a fantastic tool for any duck hunter. Its realistic sound and easy-to-use design make it a top choice for bringing in those ducks.
Your Guide to the Best Double Reed Duck Call
Finding the right double reed duck call can make a big difference in your hunting success. This guide will help you choose the perfect call.
Why Double Reed?
Double reed calls are known for their versatility. They can make a wide range of duck sounds. This makes them a great choice for both beginners and experienced hunters. They can mimic the sounds of mallards, pintails, and other common duck species.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a double reed duck call, keep these important features in mind.
Sound Quality
This is the most important feature. A good call sounds natural. It should be able to produce loud hail calls and soft, close-range quacks. Listen to sound samples if you can.
Ease of Use
Some calls are easier to blow than others. A call that is too hard to blow will frustrate you. Look for a call that feels comfortable in your hand.
Durability
You want a call that will last. It should be made from strong materials. It should also withstand different weather conditions.
Adjustability
Some calls let you adjust the reeds. This can help you fine-tune the sound. It allows you to create different tones.
Important Materials
The material of your duck call affects its sound and durability.
Acrylic
Acrylic calls are very popular. They produce a loud, clear sound. They are also easy to clean and maintain. Acrylic is very durable.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is another strong plastic. Calls made from this material are usually less expensive. They offer good sound quality.
Wood
Wood calls can produce a warm, rich sound. They often look beautiful. However, wood can be more sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. They might require more care.
Other Materials
Some calls use a combination of materials. For example, a barrel made of wood and a insert made of acrylic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a duck call better or worse.
Craftsmanship
How well the call is made matters. Good craftsmanship means precise cuts in the reeds. It means a well-fitted insert. This leads to better sound.
Reed Cut and Thickness
The shape and thickness of the reeds are crucial. Different cuts create different sounds. Thicker reeds might be harder to blow but can produce more volume. Thinner reeds are easier to blow and can create softer sounds.
Barrel and Insert Fit
A tight fit between the barrel and the insert is important. This prevents air leaks. Air leaks can make the call sound raspy or unnatural.
Tuning
Some calls come pre-tuned. Others might need to be tuned by the hunter. A well-tuned call sounds much better.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your duck call affects your experience.
Beginner Hunters
Beginners often do well with polycarbonate calls. They are forgiving and easier to learn on. Look for calls recommended for beginners.
Experienced Hunters
Experienced hunters might prefer acrylic or custom wood calls. They can achieve a wider range of sounds. They can also control the nuances of duck language.
Hunting Scenarios
For open water hunting, you need a loud call. This helps attract ducks from far away. For timber or marsh hunting, a softer, more realistic call is better. This is because ducks are closer.
A double reed duck call is a valuable tool for any duck hunter. By understanding these key features, materials, and quality factors, you can make an informed decision. Choose a call that fits your skill level and hunting style. Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions About Double Reed Duck Calls
Q: Are double reed calls good for beginners?
A: Yes, double reed calls are often recommended for beginners. They are usually easier to blow and can produce a good variety of sounds.
Q: How do I clean my double reed duck call?
A: Most calls can be cleaned with warm water and a soft brush. For wood calls, be careful not to soak them. Always dry them thoroughly.
Q: Can I use one duck call for all types of ducks?
A: While some calls are versatile, different duck species have different vocalizations. A good double reed call can mimic many common duck sounds, but specialized calls might be better for specific species.
Q: How often should I replace the reeds in my duck call?
A: Reeds can wear out over time. If your call starts to sound off or is difficult to blow, it might be time to replace the reeds. This can happen after a season or two of heavy use.
Q: What is the difference between a double reed and a single reed duck call?
A: Double reed calls have two reeds that vibrate against each other. They are generally easier to blow and produce a wider range of sounds. Single reed calls have one reed and often produce a more aggressive, louder sound, but can be harder to master.
Q: How do I make different duck sounds with a double reed call?
A: You control the sounds by changing the pressure of your air and the position of your tongue. Practice is key to mastering different quacks, hails, and feeding calls.
Q: Can I tune my own double reed duck call?
A: Some calls are designed to be tuned by the user. This usually involves slightly adjusting the reeds or the insert. Many calls come pre-tuned.
Q: What is the best material for a duck call in wet weather?
A: Acrylic and polycarbonate are excellent choices for wet weather. They are not affected by moisture like wood can be.
Q: How much does a good double reed duck call cost?
A: Prices can vary widely. You can find good beginner calls for $20-$50. High-end, custom calls can cost $100 or more.
Q: Where can I find sound samples of different duck calls?
A: Many online retailers and manufacturer websites offer sound samples. You can also find many videos on platforms like YouTube where hunters demonstrate their calls.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.