6 Best Double Reed Duck Calls For Versatility for Hunters
Selecting the right double reed duck call is key for versatility. We review the top six models that offer hunters reliable performance in diverse conditions.
There is nothing quite like the sound of a mallard responding to your call on a crisp, pre-dawn morning in the marsh. Mastering the art of the double reed allows you to bridge the gap between aggressive open-water calling and the subtle, hushed tones required for finishing birds in the timber. Selecting the right instrument is the first step toward turning those distant flybys into committed decoying shots.
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Why Double Reed Calls Excel for Duck Hunters
Double reed calls are the workhorses of the waterfowl world because they offer a built-in forgiveness factor that single reeds simply cannot match. By utilizing two reeds—one usually slightly shorter than the other—the call creates a natural "back pressure" that makes it easier to produce realistic quacks, feeds, and comeback calls. This design effectively masks minor errors in air pressure, making it an ideal choice for hunters who want to sound consistent without years of professional practice.
Beyond ease of use, these calls are remarkably versatile across varying weather conditions. While single reed calls can sometimes "stick" or lock up when moisture builds up in the tone board, double reeds are generally more resilient to the spit and condensation that accumulate during a long morning in the blind. Whether you are hunting in freezing temperatures or a humid swamp, the double reed remains a reliable tool for keeping the birds interested.
Choosing the Right Call for Your Calling Style
When selecting a call, you must first consider the environment where you spend most of your time. Open water requires a call with significant volume and "reach" to grab the attention of high-flying flocks, while tight timber hunting demands a softer, more raspy sound that doesn’t echo harshly off the trees. Understanding your local terrain is the most important factor in narrowing down your options.
Your personal calling style—whether you are an aggressive caller or prefer a more conservative approach—also dictates your choice. If you tend to blow with a lot of force, you need a call that won’t "blow out" or lose its tone under pressure. Conversely, if you are a finesse caller, look for a setup that responds well to gentle, controlled air.
RNT Hunter Series: Best for Beginners to Learn
The RNT Hunter Series is widely considered the gold standard for those just starting their journey into duck calling. Its internal geometry is specifically engineered to be user-friendly, requiring very little air to produce a clean, realistic mallard sound. You won’t find yourself struggling to find the "sweet spot" with this call, which helps build confidence during those early practice sessions in the garage.
Because it is so forgiving, it allows you to focus on learning the cadence and rhythm of duck language rather than fighting the mechanics of the call itself. If you are looking for a reliable, no-nonsense tool that will grow with you as your skills improve, this is the one to buy. It is a foundational piece of gear that belongs in every beginner’s lanyard.
Duck Commander Triple Threat: Versatile Tones
The Triple Threat utilizes a unique three-reed system that provides an incredible range of sound in a single package. This design allows you to transition from high-volume hail calls to soft, finishing chuckles with very little adjustment in your blowing technique. It is essentially three calls in one, making it an excellent choice for hunters who encounter changing conditions throughout the day.
This call is perfect for the hunter who doesn’t want to carry a dozen different instruments into the blind. Its ability to mimic the varying social sounds of a duck flock is unmatched at this price point. If you value versatility over everything else, the Triple Threat is a smart, efficient addition to your gear bag.
Zink Power Hen PH-2: Great for Timber Hunting
The Zink Power Hen PH-2 is designed specifically for the hunter who spends their time in the flooded timber or small, secluded potholes. It produces a soft, raspy, and incredibly realistic sound that mimics the natural vocalizations of a mallard hen perfectly. Because it is a double reed, it offers the control needed to "finish" birds that are already working your decoys.
This call is not intended for long-distance, high-volume calling, and that is exactly its strength. It provides the subtlety required to coax shy ducks into the kill zone without spooking them with overly loud or aggressive notes. If your hunting style is about finesse and precision, the PH-2 is an essential piece of equipment.
Buck Gardner Double Nasty: Best Value Option
Experience superior duck calling with the BGC Double Nasty. Its Spit-Tech toneboard ensures clear calls even when wet, while the hand-tuned, double-reed design delivers a raspy tone with full volume control.
The Buck Gardner Double Nasty has earned a legendary reputation for being one of the best "bang for your buck" calls on the market. It is surprisingly loud, capable of reaching out to distant ducks, yet it retains enough rasp to sound authentic at close range. It is a durable, polycarbonate call that can take the abuse of a long season without losing its tune.
For the hunter who is budget-conscious but refuses to sacrifice performance, this is the clear winner. It is robust, easy to clean, and performs well regardless of the weather conditions. You would be hard-pressed to find a more capable, versatile call at this price point.
Echo Polycarbonate Double Reed: Durable Choice
Echo is a brand synonymous with quality, and their polycarbonate double reed is no exception. It is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use, from accidental drops on hard ground to being submerged in icy water. The tone board is consistent, ensuring that you get the same reliable sound every time you put air through it.
This is the ideal call for the hunter who is tough on their gear and needs something that just works, day in and day out. It doesn’t have the flashy aesthetic of custom wood calls, but it makes up for it with sheer reliability. If you want a workhorse that will last for seasons of heavy hunting, choose this Echo model.
Haydel’s DR-85: Classic Proven Performance
The Haydel’s DR-85 is a classic for a reason: it has been fooling ducks for decades with its signature raspy sound. It is incredibly easy to blow, making it a favorite for both beginners and seasoned veterans who appreciate its simple, effective design. The call is known for its "ducky" tone, which is often described as more natural and less "mechanical" than many modern calls.
This call is perfect for those who appreciate traditional, proven gear that doesn’t rely on gimmicks. It performs consistently in a variety of environments, from marshes to flooded fields. If you want a call with a proven track record that is guaranteed to get the job done, the DR-85 is a timeless choice.
Faulk’s WA-33: Best for Open Water Calling
When you are hunting large, open water, you need a call that can cut through the wind and reach out to high-flying birds. The Faulk’s WA-33 is designed with a larger bore that allows for the volume and projection necessary for these scenarios. It is a powerful tool that commands attention when the ducks are passing at a distance.
While it is louder than the other options on this list, it still maintains the double-reed advantage of being relatively easy to blow. It is the perfect choice for the big-water hunter who needs to pull birds from a distance. If your hunting environment is wide-open and windy, this call should be your primary choice.
Tips for Maintaining Your Duck Call Reeds
Even the most durable call requires a little bit of care to maintain its performance throughout the season. After every hunt, take a moment to disassemble the call and wipe away any moisture or debris that may have collected on the reeds. Moisture can cause the reeds to stick or change the pitch of the call, which will definitely affect your success in the field.
- Avoid extreme heat: Never leave your calls on a hot dashboard, as the heat can warp the polycarbonate or wood.
- Keep it clean: A quick rinse with lukewarm water is usually enough to remove salt or grit.
- Store properly: Keep your calls in a dry, cool place during the off-season to ensure the reeds remain flexible.
Choosing the right double reed call is about matching your specific hunting environment with a tool that builds your confidence. Whether you are navigating the flooded timber or calling over vast open water, the right gear will make your time in the blind significantly more rewarding. Get out there, practice your cadence, and enjoy the pursuit of the next flight.
