The Definitive Guide to the Best Acrylic Duck Calls: Finding Your Perfect Quack

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For duck hunters, the sound of a perfectly executed duck call is akin to music. It’s the siren song that lures waterfowl from the sky, bringing them within range. While many materials are used in duck call construction, acrylic has risen to prominence for its durability, sound quality, and aesthetic appeal. Finding the best acrylic duck call for your needs can significantly improve your success in the field. This guide will explore the key factors to consider when selecting an acrylic duck call, review some of the top models on the market, and provide insights to help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose an Acrylic Duck Call?

Before diving into specific models, it’s crucial to understand the advantages of acrylic duck calls. Here’s why they are a favorite among seasoned hunters:

Durability: Acrylic is a highly durable material, resistant to cracking, warping, and moisture damage. This makes acrylic calls ideal for harsh hunting conditions.
Sound Quality: Acrylic produces crisp, clear, and consistent tones. The material’s density contributes to excellent sound projection and responsiveness.
Versatility: Acrylic calls can be tuned to produce a wide range of duck sounds, from high-pitched hen mallard calls to deep, raspy feeder chuckles.
Aesthetics: Acrylic allows for vibrant colors and intricate designs, making each call a unique piece.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Acrylic Duck Call

Selecting the best acrylic duck call involves more than just picking the prettiest one. Consider these factors to ensure you choose a call that suits your hunting style and skill level:

Single Reed vs. Double Reed

The number of reeds in a duck call significantly affects its sound and ease of use:

Single Reed Calls: Known for their loud volume and versatility, single reed calls require more air control and practice. They are ideal for experienced callers who want to produce a wide range of sounds.
Double Reed Calls: Easier to operate and more forgiving, double reed calls produce a softer, more consistent sound. They are a great choice for beginners and hunters who prefer a more natural, subtle call.

Tone and Pitch

The tone and pitch of a duck call should match the type of ducks you are hunting and the environment you are hunting in. Consider these points:

High-Pitched Calls: Effective for attracting ducks from long distances, especially in open water.
Low-Pitched Calls: Ideal for close-range calling and hunting in timbered areas.
Raspy Calls: Mimic the natural sounds of older hen mallards, often effective for finishing ducks.

Ease of Use

Especially for beginners, the ease of use is paramount. Some acrylic calls are designed to be more forgiving and require less air pressure to produce realistic sounds.

Mouthpiece Design

The mouthpiece should be comfortable and allow for consistent air flow. Consider the size and shape of the mouthpiece to ensure a good fit.

Price

Acrylic duck calls range in price from around $50 to over $200. While price isn’t always an indicator of quality, higher-priced calls often feature superior craftsmanship, tuning, and materials. Determine your budget and prioritize features that are most important to you.

Top Acrylic Duck Calls on the Market

Now, let’s take a look at some of the best acrylic duck calls currently available. This is not an exhaustive list, but it represents a range of options to suit different needs and preferences.

Duck Commander Triple Threat

Known for its versatility, the Duck Commander Triple Threat is a popular choice among hunters. This call features a triple reed design, making it easy to produce a variety of duck sounds with minimal effort. It’s a great option for beginners and experienced callers alike.

Haydel’s DR-85 Daisy Cutter

The Haydel’s DR-85 Daisy Cutter is a single reed call renowned for its loud volume and raspy tone. It’s a favorite among hunters who need to reach ducks from long distances. This call requires some practice to master but offers excellent versatility.

RNT Short Barrel

The RNT Short Barrel is a versatile single reed call that produces a wide range of duck sounds. Its shorter barrel design makes it easy to control and manipulate, allowing for realistic calling sequences. This call is a favorite among competition callers.

Zink Calls ATM Green Machine

The Zink Calls ATM Green Machine is a double reed call designed for ease of use and consistent performance. It produces a mellow, natural sound that is effective for close-range calling. This call is a great choice for hunters who prefer a more subtle approach.

Echo Pure Meat

The Echo Pure Meat is a single reed call known for its deep, raspy tone. It’s particularly effective for mimicking the sounds of mature hen mallards. This call requires some practice to master but offers excellent realism.

Tips for Using Your Acrylic Duck Call

Once you’ve chosen the best acrylic duck call for your needs, it’s important to learn how to use it effectively. Here are some tips to help you improve your calling skills:

Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you’ll become at producing realistic duck sounds. Practice at home, in your car, or anywhere you have a few spare minutes.
Listen to Real Ducks: Pay attention to the sounds that real ducks make. This will help you develop a better understanding of the nuances of duck calling.
Vary Your Calls: Don’t just stick to one type of call. Vary your calls to mimic the natural sounds of a flock of ducks.
Use Air Control: Air control is essential for producing realistic duck sounds. Experiment with different amounts of air pressure to find what works best for you.
Don’t Overcall: Sometimes, less is more. Avoid overcalling, especially when ducks are close.

Maintaining Your Acrylic Duck Call

Proper maintenance will help ensure that your best acrylic duck call lasts for years to come. Here are some tips for maintaining your call:

Clean Regularly: Clean your call after each use to remove dirt, saliva, and other debris. Use warm water and mild soap.
Dry Thoroughly: Dry your call thoroughly after cleaning to prevent moisture damage.
Store Properly: Store your call in a dry, safe place when not in use.
Replace Reeds: Replace the reeds in your call as needed. Worn or damaged reeds can affect the sound quality of your call.

The Art of the Quack: Mastering Your Acrylic Duck Call

Choosing the best acrylic duck call is the first step, but mastering its use is an ongoing journey. Duck calling is an art form, requiring practice, patience, and a keen ear. As you gain experience, you’ll develop your own unique style and techniques.

Consider taking a duck calling class or watching instructional videos to improve your skills. There are many resources available online and in hunting stores. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things.

Ultimately, the best acrylic duck call is the one that you feel most comfortable and confident using. It’s the call that produces the sounds that you need to attract ducks and bring them within range. So, take the time to research your options, practice your calling, and enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

Remember to always hunt responsibly and ethically. Respect the environment and follow all hunting regulations.

Good luck, and happy hunting!

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