Every year the number of the turkey hunters increases. Such activity as turkey hunting requires skills and practice to stand out among other hunters. Purchasing the call of a high-quality is one of the major tasks. The turkey call makes it easier to attract a bird using special language. There is no doubt that it should be the call that produces authentic sound and easy to use, so you definitely succeed in hunting a turkey. Our list of the best 10 turkey calls will help you to figure out what types of the calls exist and what call suits you better.
Best Turkey Call — 2021 Reviews And Top Picks
- Primos Hunting 272 Friction Call, Turkey Starter Pack
- Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 2 inches
- Suitable both for the proficient hunters and the beginners
- Primos Hook-Up Magnetic Box Call
- Dimensions: 14 x 7 x 2 inches
- Can be used in the harshest conditions
- Primos Hunting Hook Hunter Turkey Mouth Call
- Dimensions: 7 x 3.2 x 1 inches
- Each call produces its own perfect sound
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The item contains a pack collection of calls that are suitable both for the proficient hunters and the beginners. You get a mouth diaphragm call combined with a double-sided box call, as well as a wood striker with a slate call, in one purchase. The kit comes with a storage case as well. The wide variety of calls allows providing various sounds, adjusting them to the hunting strategy. The product is appealing in terms of price: it’s pretty low for the whole package of turkey calls. Since the calls are compact, they are convenient to carry and won’t require much space. The kit is also lightweight. The set includes one chalk stick for a box call.
We like
The product includes a wooden striker, as well as a Sonic Dome slate call. Sonic Dome slate call with the striker is combined with bat cut diaphragm mouth call and a bag that holds all of the items.
we dont like
This product is pretty small in comparison to the other call items on the market. In addition, the calls are not sustainable in terms of rain and snow resistance.
PROS
- Easy to use
- Realistic turkey noises
- The 3-pack of calls for one purchase
Cons
- High pitch box call
- 20-30 minutes to tune the box and slate call
Such a light call like this one has not only an incredible design but also can be used in the harshest conditions. The call is easy-to-use, so the experienced hunters and newcomers can utilize it. The magnetic lid, which automatically applies the right amount of pressure, ensures the perfect sound. The ultra-strong magnet firmly holds a paddle at the ideal angle for yelps, purrs, and cuts. The paddle can be removed for silent carry, if necessary. It also comes with a gobble band that can imitate gobblers well. The innovative design makes the call stand out from other models. The product is compact and lightweight.
We like
This call includes a patented magnetic hinge. Its design allows a good tension for natural and authentic sounds such as purrs, yelps and cutts. The magnet makes the paddle to be on its place, but it can be also removed for comfortable and less noisy transportation. It also has a gobble strap.
we dont like
Comparing this Primos call to others, its construction is bigger than usual and not portable enough.
PROS
High-quality materials;
Magnetic hinge;
Easy to use;
Removable paddle;
Cons
Big construction;
Primos has been producing calls and other hunting gear for many years and has manufactured high-quality products. Purchasing this set of the Primos calls(two mouth calls per kit), you have a chance to experience the perfect sound. The tool delivers a great variety of vibrations that aren’t limited to turkey hunting only. The hook hunter model with ghost cut is rather easy-to-use. It requires little air to produce sound and is ideal for kee-kee and purrs. It has premium gauge reeds and hand-made cuts. The unique custom design makes the call stand out from Primos and other company’s models. The price is rather low.
We like
The green call comes out to be universal call and produces more aggressive sound while the blue one is better to use for purrs and kee-kee as it requires not so much air. Soft tapes seal perfectly in the mouth.
we dont like
It may not feat your mouth as they come large and have to be cut.
PROS
Ghost cut;
Spike cut;
Ideal for purrs;
Cons
Requires adjustments;
This call represents high quality and strong material to use in all weather conditions and environments. The latter is guaranteed as it was tested in the most severe weather conditions. It’s produced from the Pennsylvania Slate. This is a contributing factor to high durability and, consequently, long years of service. The call is easy to use and produces the most authentic turkey sounds. The set includes one hardwood striker and a conditioning pad. It comes at a reasonable price.
We like
The call provides such tones as purr, cluck and yelp. It is easy to use and does not need to be adjusted. The call was also tested to stand the harshest environments.
we dont like
You have to learn how to use this call properly and practice to produce perfect sound.
PROS
Suits all environments;
Made of high quality Pennsylvania slate;
Conditioning pad;
Hardwood striker;
Cons
Difficult to master it;
Primos turkey call features high-quality equipment and design, along with good materials to provide brilliant performance. It allows you to produce yelps, clucks and purrs easily. The sound is authentic and loud. The call performs in severe weather conditions and able to attract even gobblers. The turkey pot call kit includes a custom striker, which makes a hunter stand out among others. Although such a call isn’t very compact, it’s pretty light.
We like
The call comes with a conditioning kit and in handy so you may recondition the slate whenever you use hence to provide the perfect sound. The call represents the mix of South America hardwood and Pennsylvania slate. The sounds of the call are loud enough and can be used on the short or long distances.
we dont like
The call does not come with the case for conditioning pad.
PROS
Natural sounds;
Conditioning set;
Lucky Strike;
Cons
No case for conditioning;
This call includes everything that every hunter needs for a successful and excellent performance. The flip sided design is a determining factor for improved convenience. It allows changing the tone and sound with minimum movements and little equipment. The slate side is ideal for short-range calling and produces deep, mellow sounds, while the glass one creates high-pitch tones that are perfect for a long-range. The diamond wood striker is waterproof and has an internal resonator. The latter contributes to a higher-authenticity sound. The set includes a piece of sandpaper.
We like
The flip-sided design allows hunter to change the tone easily. The glass side of the call produces tones on the solid volume so it works well-enough on the long distance or windy day. The call includes a diamond wood striker upon. It is absolutely waterproof with the internal resonator to make vibrations within the slate surface and to provide natural sound. The call has a grip around the edges so it stays in your hand for sure, and can be used along with the gloves.
we dont like
It does not come with the cleaning solution.
PROS
Anti-slipping grip;
Echotech Diamondwood Striker;
Glass and slate surfaces;
Easy to use;
Cons
Cleaning solution not included;
It is not a mouth call but an electronic device that provides the easiest operation you may find among hunting gear. The tool produces five sounds that are already pre-recorded: cluck, yelp, assembly, kee-kee, and purr. They are authentic yet fit better a close-range hunting strategy. The EZ thumb dial allows making an immediate interrupt to stop the sound. The call is compact and small; therefore, it can be easily carried even in a pocket. It fits well in the palm of a hand and can be controlled by one hand only. There is a lanyard loop to hang it. The call requires three standard AAA batteries to operate for hours.
We like
The call includes 5 calls: cluck, yelp, kee-kee, assembly and comeback calls. The call also includes the external speaker. You can attach the call to the belt with the clip. The grip over the call makes it safe to keep in the hand. The volume of the call is adjustable.
we dont like
If you increase the volume too much the sound is not natural as it should be.
PROS
Batteries are included (3AAA);
5 calls in 1;
Belt clip;
External speaker;
Cons
Problems with the volume;
This locator call turns out to be one of the cheapest and lightweight calls. Every hunter can afford to get it. The variety of sounds and weather resistance makes the call to be good equipment. It can produce strong, natural long-range sounds even in bad weather conditions. The tool is compact and can be easily stored and transported in a turkey vest or pocket. It’s light as well: the weight is a bit more than 1.5 ounces. It produces distress cries, come-here, gathering, and fighting calls. The tone is authentic due to the raspier sounding reed. It’s necessary to adjust the reed on your own before usage.
We like
The call produces fighting, distress cries, gathering and come here sounds. It resists any weather conditions and the harshest environments. The call can be used for the long ranges and in the field.
we dont like
The base of the call which connected to the tube is made of plastic that is not very reliable. After purchasing the call, it requires some adjustments to use item properly.
PROS
Suits all weather conditions;
Works for long distances;
4 sounds to produce;
Cons
Plastic construction;
Requires adjustments;
The Double Gobble is a great item to make the gobblers come in. It provides the ability to produce Jake or Mature Gobble easily! The reason for that is an attached tube below the mouthpiece. The sounds can be produced in two ways: one-handed way (by shaking) to imitate Jake gobbles, and two-handed (pump) – mature gobblers. This lets you choose an appropriate sound production option according to the hunting style. It provides sufficient sounds for a turkey to respond. The easy-to-use tool is available for a low price. It’s extremely light – only 0,8 ounces – and compact. The call is two-colored: black and green.
We like
You can use the call in two ways: by mouth or by a hand. For Jake gobbles you have to shake it which is one-hand operation and for mature gobbles, it requires a pump that is a two-handed operation. The call also includes a patented silence cap.
we dont like
It requires enough skills to operate the call right. Some claims that the volume of the call is not high.
PROS
Mouth and hand gobbling;
One and two-handed operation;
Silencer cap;
Suits all weather conditions and environments;
Cons
Difficult to operate;
Not loud enough;
This call is made from walnut and poplar wood to deliver authentic sounds. It replicates soft clucks, purrs, cackles, and tree talk. The hardwood guarantees long years of service, without getting worn out even after extensive usage. However, the construction may not be as reliable as it should be. The call is compact and small: it can be placed even in a pocket. It’s extremely lightweight – even slightly less than 0.5 ounces. The tool can be easily operated with one hand. It allows you to keep the other hand on your gun as turkey approaches, so you won’t miss it, while you will be trying to take the call off. The set includes the push-button turkey call and a piece of chalk, which helps to make the sound smoother.
We like
The call is made of the high-quality material. It is easy to use and does not need any adjustments. The fingertip control provides soft cluck, yelp, and purr.
we dont like
The construction may be not so reliable as it should be.
PROS
Made of walnut hardwood;
Easy to use;
Includes chalk;
Cons
Not reliable construction;
Types of the Calls
Box Call
Generally, it requires two hands to make a sound. Nevertheless, some can be made with one hand. Usually, it’s a wooden rectangular, hollow box with arched sides and is attached to the top paddle. To produce sounds, you need to scrape the paddle against slightly arched sides. Depending on the angle, you can produce yelps, clucks, gobbles, etc. For example, lightly rubbing and stroking of the paddle across the lip, leads to yelping.
Keep in mind that the sound quality is highly dependent on the shape of the box’s sides. Another disadvantage is that wooden models aren’t suitable for rainy weather. The moisture destroys the sound. It’s better to look for a waterproof alternative.
Push-Pull Call
It allows you to provide realistic yelp, cackle, purr, and cut. This call is similar to a box one. The difference is that it creates vibrations by pushing/pulling the striker plate. All you need to do is rhythmically push or tap the button to provide different sounds. For instance, slow but firm push until the rod vibrates leads to purring.
An easy-to-use with one hand, the push-pull call produces a limited amount of sounds. Another disadvantage is moisture sensitivity: even a small rain is able to silence the call.
Pot (Slate) Call
It includes the base of the call and the striker. The slate is usually made of the slate while the striker is plastic. Unlike the other calls, this one is a bit difficult to operate and takes some time to learn how to use it correctly.
Usage difficulty is compensated for by a wide variety of sounds when mastered. To provide sound, pressure the pot with the striker. Experiment with the angles, rhythm, and amount of pressure for different sounds. Unlike others, this call isn’t afraid of wet weather. It requires both hands to operate.
Diagraph or Mouth Call
It’s a small, U-shaped tool with latex or rubber reeds. They vibrate because of the forced air that creates sound. Lightweight and waterproof calls are hands-free, allowing you to aim and call at the same time.
It is hard to master. Although a basic sound is created by deep blowing through the call, you need to work the jaw up and down to experiment with vibrations.
Electronic Call
An electronic device that stores recorded sounds. A modern easy-to-use tool that takes up just one hand. There are different models: basic tools with pre-recorded sounds, or digital devices where you can upload any recording. A mere button push makes it work.
The main disadvantage is legislation: it’s prohibited in some states. Also, many hunters consider such calls to be unfair hunting practices.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Learning Curve. If you are a beginner, it’s better to use a simple model – a friction turkey call. It includes tools like push/pull, pot, or box calls. They don’t require much practice to master several sounds. An electronic call is a care-free option. However, check if it’s allowed in your state.
- Season. Adjust the call choice to the season. It must be able to produce the necessary vibrations. For example, in spring – the breeding season – male turkeys can be lured out by hen calls. During the fall, they are pretending to be a gobbler yelps. For that, produce a coarse cluck and three slow-paced yelps after.
- Time of Day. If you prefer to hunt in the evening, choose the turkey call that will produce clucks, purrs, and soft yelps. For that, a pot call is an excellent solution. Increase the volume of the yelps at dawn, to attract a male in the spring. A powerful box call will facilitate the process.
- Type of calling. Each call pattern has a different purpose. They can excite, make asleep, or disclose the location of the bird. For example, putting is a primary alert of danger. It’s better used when you are ready to shoot as the tom will suddenly stop and go out of strut.
Usage of Turkey Calls
Before starting the hunt, check whether your call package is full. Some models require additional equipment to perform well. This includes the calls with the striker, which needs chalking. You need to chalk the bottom of the box to produce sharp natural sounds.
Sound
Different sounds imply a particular hunting approach. You need to adjust your choice according to your style. Go for turkey fanning or reaping with a mouth call if you prefer to go head to head with a turkey.
Don’t abandon two-hands calls when you are hunting from the ground or a blind. You can lure out a target by gradually increasing the sound of yelping. Also, pay attention to the risk of poor sound. Wooden constructions like box or push/pull will perform poorly in wet weather.
Movement
The calls can be operated with one hand, two hands, or with the mouth only. The easy-to-use push/pull or electronic devices require minimal movement. It helps to keep your place discreet. The best alternative in terms of physical activity is diaphragm calls. It’s operated entirely hands-free.
FAQ
What Turkey Call Should Beginner’s Go for?
A beginner should choose an easy-to-use turkey call that will not restrict his movements significantly. A pull/push is an excellent solution. It’s easy to master and doesn’t require any specific skills. As it takes up one hand only, the device is a convenient option for emerging hunters. It won’t easily give away the location due to minimum physical activity.
Apart from that, it doesn’t take much time to master basic sounds like yelp, purr, cut, etc. They differ according to the rhythm and strength of the pushing. The construction is able to produce strong and natural sounds.
When Should I Change a Mouth Call?
Basically, an average period of mouth call usage time is two seasons. However, the period is highly influenced by storage conditions. It’s possible to prolong the life cycle for up to three to four seasons. It can be achieved by following the storage standards. After three to four seasons, the latex can get severely damaged; therefore, the tool will lose its efficiency in producing the sounds.
Wrong storage leads to bacteria emergence. As it’s put directly in the mouth, bacteria existence may cause diseases. In this case, it’s better to get exposed out of it immediately.
How to Clean a Turkey Mouth Call?
A turkey mouth call must be cleaned directly after the usage. Rinse the mouthpiece with clean water. Mouthwash is another decent alternative. You may even let it soak for a couple of minutes in the liquid.
After that, carefully semi-dry the tool with a paper towel. Insert a flat toothpick tip between the reed underneath and top. Leave it like that until the call is absolutely dry. Note: keep it away from the sun. Gently remove the toothpick after. Put it in a well-protected case to prevent exposure to bacteria.
How to Prolong a Turkey Mouth Call Lifecycle?
In order to prolong a turkey mouth call lifecycle, it’s vital to store the tool in a dark, cold place. The best alternative is a freezer. However, it’s possible to keep it in a cold basement. A particular case is essential for correct storage. It’s better if the container has some ventilation.
It’s advisable to put spacers between the reed and top for extra ventilation. Keep in mind to be gentle while washing, cleaning, etc. the diaphragm calls so as not to damage any material.
What Are the Basic Rules of Looking after a Diaphragm Call?
A hunter mustn’t leave a mouth call in a hot place or the sun for a long time. It leads to overall damage to the tool itself. Latex-related problems like a ripple may appear. This leads to poor sound. To fix it, try to bend the metal frame.
In order to avoid getting sick, regularly sanitize the mouth call. Soak it for 10-15 minutes in a liquid that contains 50/50 of water and mouthwash accordingly. Rinse it with water after and dry. Don’t put the tool in the case before it’s dried up to prevent mold and an unpleasant smell.
Conclusion
Nowadays, there are plenty of the turkey calls on the market. Whether you are a professional hunter or a newcomer, you should choose such gear very carefully. Use our descriptions of the items and compare them to select the one suitable call for you and your needs.
Leave a reply
Can’t quite imagine the turkey pot call dimensions IRL. Could you compare it to something?
Please, check out the video review I’ve inserted in the article. It will give you some hints regarding the size. Also, the exact dimensions of Primos Jackpot Turkey Pot Call are 9.1 x 5.6 x 1.4 inches.
How do you choose a turkey mouth call, if you have no experience using it? Is it necessary to purchase a few for beginners?
Ask a hunter friend to assist you or take a glance at my review while making your decision. Also, I would recommend listening to a turkey, making noises into the wild, or recording some. You can usually start with just one call to get experience.
I like the idea of calls made from natural materials, but I'm more used to whistles. Is it hard to master one of those old-school turkey box calls?
The only thing you will need is a little practice. The design itself and your ears will tell you what to do if you pick up a wooden box call. You will be surprised at the variety and naturalness of the sounds that it makes, so start learning, and quickly enough, you will achieve excellent results