There are two types of turkey calls: the kind hunters use to mimic the sounds turkeys make and the kind used to locate a bird’s position. Both are essential in the successful pursuit of wild turkey. Diaphragm (or mouth) calls and friction (slate/pot and box) calls are used to imitate a turkey’s vocalization. A locator call mimics the sound of other birds, which in turn causes the turkey to shock gobble and hopefully reveal his general location. Within these categories, you’ll also find wing bone calls (mouth calls made from the wing bones of turkeys), push-button calls (which use the friction of wood rubbing together to make sound), and various novelty calls. A call alone is no guarantee you’ll bag a bird every time, and not every hunt needs a call to be successful. Nevertheless, it takes a combination of woodsmanship, calling skills, and practice to use a call correctly and effectively.
BEST ALL-AROUND BOX CALL
- Lightweight
- Premium hardwoods
- Limited lifetime service guarantee
- Higher price than many box calls
Key Specs
- Material: Sapele body and Purpleheart striking paddle
- Call Type: Box
Primos is known for its quality turkey calls and products, so it came as no surprise to me that I found this call to be one of my favorites. It’s made from premium hardwoods (a Sapele body and a Purpleheart striking paddle), and its tones range from soft yelps to a variety of mid-tone and loud, resonating yelps. I found the two cut-out thumb grooves ideal for positioning the call for different sounds. When I cannot seem to get a response from any other turkey call in my vest, I can usually get one from the Gabriel.
- Quality design
- Glass is more challenging to learn on
Key Specs
- Material: Walnut and cherry wood laminate, diamond wood striker
- Call Type: Slate/pot
Glass-surface calls are often the most challenging pot calls to get consistent sounds from, especially for those new to pot calls. I was surprised by how easy this glass call was to use. After roughening the surface with a pumice stone, I was able to make the perfect yelps and cuts using the diamond wood striker. The call is lightweight (about 5 ounces) and sits well in your hand. The walnut and cherry wood laminate is attractive, and the Dixie Hen inlaid photo makes this a beautiful call.
