Best Turkey Hunting Calls

Finding the best turkey hunting calls shouldn’t be a guessing game when a trophy tom is on the line. Every hunter understands the frustration of silent woods, but selecting effective mouth calls or friction calls can change your luck instantly. Imagine the heart-pounding thrill as a thunderous gobble echoes nearby, drawing that legendary bird into range. We’ve reviewed professional gear to help you master the spring season. Let’s select your next secret weapon.

Top 7 Turkey Hunting Calls:

7: Duck Commander Hootie Owl Locator Call

 

 

When it comes to shock-gobbling birds at morning, the Duck Commander Hootie Owl is the greatest entry-level finder.The sun rises, and you still have no idea where the gobblers have taken up residence. It ruins your morning to walk around blind.Put a stop to speculation with the Hootie.One option is a realistic barred-owl tone, which can be used to mimic roosted toms’ startled gobbles even when cadence is poor.Afterwards, a broad volume range: use a firm push to reach from ridge to ridge, or a gentle blow to avoid trees in the area.

The last feature is a lanyard hole and a one-handed grip; you may attach it to your vest and use it whenever the bird has to be located.Downside: the plastic body has a very little weight. Clarity is not as high as with premium personalized calls. There is just one kind of owl—no great horned.This roost-finder is ideal for dawn hunters who need speed. Clients seeking a locator capable of detecting multiple species are not our target.

 

6: H.S. Strut Premium Flex 4-Pack Mouth Calls

 

 

If you’re looking for an affordable mouth call set, go no further than the H.S. Strut Premium Flex 4-Pack. Buying cuts one at a time allows for months of trial and error, while mastering mouth calls takes weeks.No more guessing with this four-pack.A quartet of cuts: Lil’ Strut for far-off yelps, Sickle for cutts, Deuce for raspy range, and Smokin’ Gun for kee-kees.Finally, for those just starting out in the sport, the Premium Flex frame offers one of the most user-friendly diaphragms.

Lastly, the shape remains intact even after cold sitting, so there won’t be any twisted reeds from a single rainy morning.One drawback is that some people find the tape to be too stiff right out of the package. Out of storage unit. Custom calls last longer than reeds.Most suited for: hunters who have never used a mouth call before. Not recommended for: seasoned callers with a good sense of timing.

 

5: H.S. Strut Cookie Cutt’R Tracer Slate Pot Call

 

 

One of the greatest slate pot calls for beginners is the H.S. Strut Cookie Cutt’R Tracer.You have to know where to brush a pot to make its call sound like a real hen. It takes most rookies a full season to get the hang of things.I fixed that with the Tracer cap.Start with the detachable Tracer lid that features eye-catching engraved patterns. Each time you match the lines, you’ll hear clucks, yelps, and purrs.The following is the sound that turkeys hear every day in the woods: the gentle, raspy hen tones produced by slate striking a surface.

At last: an injection-molded pot that is more durable than its wooden counterpart—one that can withstand a fall from a logging road without breaking.Downside: slate must be conditioned prior to every hunt. Not many hunters invest in Striker because it isn’t premium. A cap can make a rattling sound when worn with a vest.Ideal for: people who are sick of guessing strike position, first-pot-call buyers. No, that’s a glass surface—not for hunters who seek deep, raspy bass.

 

4: H.S. Strut Smokin’ Gun Slate Pan Call

 

 

Hunting enthusiasts in search of a loud pot call can consider the H.S. Strut Smokin’ Gun Slate Pan Call.Tiny, inexpensive pots can startle a cautious tom from forty yards away. That Smokin’ Gun is making more noise.For mornings with a lot of wind and large trees, it’s the best option.First, a stress-relieved walnut hardwood pan—unlike cheaper pots, it will not deform when exposed to extreme temperature changes.After that, a slate striking surface—which produces rich, raspy hen tones and is more windproof than a tiny budget pot—is next.

At long last, the package includes an H.S. Strut striker that has been fine-tuned by the factory; all you have to do is take it out and start calling; there’s no assembly required.Downside: Before every hunt, you need to condition the slate with sandpaper. Whispering — avoid near birds. More room required than a 3-inch planter.Ideal for: hunters battling wind on open woods and ridges. Tight blinds or callers seeking subtlety should not use this.

 

3: ESH Turkey Mouth Calls 3-Pack

 

 

The ESH Turkey Mouth Calls 3-Pack is the top-tier diaphragm set designed for hunters who have progressed above the beginning level.The reeds become softer, the wounds become duller, and the bird loses believing in stock mouth cries after a few hunts.An ESH call can maintain its tone.To begin, we have three hand-cut diaphragms: the True Hype batwing-with-rasp, the React reverse combination, and the Long Spur inverted batwing.The next step is a three-reed stack design that requires very little air to play—long sequences without becoming breathless or losing pitch.

Lastly, everything is hand-assembled and tested. Each reed is carefully examined before shipment to ensure that your vest does not receive any poor calls.Downside: the learning curve is greater compared to softer starter reeds. We need to trim the tape. One slim case cannot accommodate three calls.When you want significant loudness from your mouth call, this is the best option for hunters. Warning: this is not the place for first-timers; start small and save money.

 

2: Primos Heartbreaker Turkey Box Call

 

 

The Primos Heartbreaker is the greatest premium two-sided box call since it has two separate hen voices.Most hunts are covered by pot and mouth calls, but they can’t mimic a real hen’s ability to roll a high cry into raspy bottom-end.Yes, a box call will. There are two perspectives and voices in the Heartbreaker’s performance.To begin, a mahogany box with two sides; strike one side to make a high-pitched young hen sound, and strike the other side to make a raspy old hen sound.After that, each Heartbreaker is meticulously hand-tuned in the factory to ensure that the laser-engraved purple heart lid sounds just perfect.

Last but not least: a sturdy, one-piece mahogany body; season after season of cold-morning carry won’t cause the glue joints to rattle away.Drawback: prior to each hunt, it must be chalked to prevent screeching. Much heavier than a box with just one side. Tight blinds are overwhelmed by the volume.This calls to open-timber hunters who change their hen voices mid-call. Those seeking a minimalistic sound should not listen to this.

 

1: Primos Hook-Up Magnetic Box Call

 

 

The most lenient premium box call available—the Primos Hook-Up Magnetic Box Call.Your once-perfect cut becomes a shriek when the tension changes, the paddle slips, and every other box goes out of tune.That is entirely resolved by the Hook-Up.To start, there’s no need to chalk, adjust, or estimate since the unique rare-earth magnetic hinge maintains the ideal tension on the paddle with each stroke.Second, you won’t need any rubber bands or taping to silently transport the detachable paddle because it simply lifts off the magnet.

Thirdly, the integrated Gobble Band encases the paddle, transforming it into a dual-purpose gobble finder and a call all in one.Downside: the list’s most costly call. It is heavier than a regular box due to the magnetic hinge. Too loud for roman shades.Who it’s best for: Die-hard turkey hunters who are sick of fighting their box for breakfast. Those on a tight budget or who just want to call twice a year may consider looking elsewhere.

 

Things to Consider Before Buying a Turkey Hunting Call:

There’s a lot to weigh when choosing the right turkey hunting call. Understanding different types, materials, and your calling technique will enhance your success in the field. This guide will help you make an informed decision that matches your hunting style and environment.

Traditional Friction-Based Box and Pot Calls

Box and pot calls feature friction-based designs that enable varied sound pitches. Box calls are typically louder and easier to operate, while pot calls allow for softer, more intricate sounds that can beckon wary turkeys.

Air-Activated Diaphragm and Mouth Calls

Diaphragm calls require minimal movement, making them perfect for stealthy situations. They can produce realistic turkey sounds but demand practice for accuracy and consistency.

Mouth calls offer hands-free convenience and are compact for easy carrying. Although they might be tricky for beginners, mastering them can greatly enhance your calling repertoire. Focus on airflow and adjust your tongue position to create a variety of sounds, crucial for mimicking turkey vocalizations accurately.

Reliability and Volume vs. Learning Curve

Choosing a call with reliable volume can enhance your hunting experience, but be prepared for a potential learning curve. Some realistic calls require practice to master, which might deter less experienced hunters. Balancing sound quality with ease of use is key to your success in the field.

Hands-Free Capability and Portability Concerns

Prioritizing hands-free capability can significantly improve your hunting efficiency. Portable calls allow for easy movement and maneuverability, which is important when tracking turkey. Evaluate what suits your style while ensuring the call remains convenient during your outings.

Hands-free options, such as diaphragm calls or electronic calls, enable you to keep both hands available for your weapon or gear. While these models can enhance your mobility, be aware of their size and weight. A lightweight and compact design can make transporting your calls easier, allowing for stress-free trips into the woods.

Assessing Tone Consistency and Pitch Control

Testing a call involves producing different sounds to determine its tonal range. Adjust the call while listening for any inconsistencies in pitch or clarity that could affect your effectiveness in the field.

Verifying Build Quality and Material Durability

Examine the materials used in the call’s construction. A durable call should withstand temperature fluctuations, moisture, and wear from regular use in various environments.

A closer look at a call’s buildup provides insight into its reliability. Materials like hardwood or high-quality plastics tend to offer better acoustics and longevity, making them worth considering for long-term performance during hunting seasons.

Matching Call Selection to Hunting Terrain

Selecting calls that match your hunting terrain can significantly improve your success. Open fields may require louder calls, while wooded areas benefit from softer, more subtle sounds. Adapting your selection to match the environment ensures better communication with nearby turkeys.

Considering Weather Resistance and Maintenance

Choose calls designed to withstand various weather conditions to maintain performance during your hunt. Options made from durable, water-resistant materials require less upkeep and last longer in the field. Investing in high-quality components minimizes frequent replacements.

Regular maintenance extends the life of your turkey calls significantly. Cleaning them after each use prevents buildup that can affect sound quality. Storing calls properly in protective cases also guards against moisture and physical damage, ensuring they remain in optimal condition for your next outing.

Final Words

From above, you should consider sound quality, ease of use, and type of call before purchasing a turkey hunting call. Each factor impacts your hunting success. Test various options to find the best fit for your calling style and preferences. Quality and performance can significantly enhance your experience in the field.