Traditional tin cloth jackets, fine over/under shotguns and beautiful cocobolo calls still have a place in many duck blinds. But for most waterfowlers of the new generation, yesterday’s classics have given way to today’s modern camo, fast-shooting semi-autos and low-maintenance acrylic calls. And now, the most extreme, hard-core duck fanatics can take things to an even more high-tech level.
Maxx Outdoors launched “Banded” this month; a new brand specializing in tactical waterfowl hunting gear. Yes, you read that correctly — tactical. With a focus on high performance and technical features, Banded’s apparel, calls, accessories, blinds and gear have been designed from scratch to stand up to the toughest conditions Mother Nature can dish out. Duck hunters are no strangers to the harshest elements and demand a lot from their gear. With new-aged technology, extensive materials testing, precise manufacturing and the ingenuity of the company’s die-hard-outdoorsmen founders, Banded delivers.
You’ll find more than 600 items in Banded’s catalog, representing 19 diverse product categories. There’s outerwear, waders, boots, hunting accessories, blinds, calls and more. Design themes of traditional military bags, tools and clothing have been incorporated into inventive stylish designs. In the name of durability, Banded has put great emphasis on eliminating, where possible, plastic hardware. You'll quickly notice the common use of metal buckles, grommets, rivets and other components.
Of special note are the patent-pending breathable knee boots, the first of their kind industry-wide. They feature SHEDS waterproof breathable construction, an all-condition tread pattern and three insulation options — uninsulated and 800 or 1,200 grams of Thinsulate.
Chad Belding of the popular “The Fowl Life” television show partnered with Banded and also produced the Fowl Life series of calls, which includes several models. I myself have been playing with the “Angry Bird” double-reed. It’s growly and aggressive with a medium volume. There are a number of models and quite a few options for goose hunters as well.
“With our diverse product offerings, there’s definitely something for everyone,” said CEO and President of BANDED, Jim Hawk III.
Bottom line — the founders of Banded are serious duck hunters first and foremost. Careful thought and detail has been put into every product to make each item as practical, comfortable and durable as possible for waterfowlers.
Banded products will be available at select outdoor retailers throughout the United States and Canada. For more information on Banded products or dealers, please visit www.banded.com.
