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best turkey call

1.8K views 17 replies 17 participants last post by  talntedmrgreen  
#1 ·
I need to go buy a turkey call but am new at turkey hunting, so I was just wondering what calls you all have had the best luck with. Thanks, Muz.
 
#2 ·
Two things

I would buy a single reed mouth call first. MOst have directions on them.

Then a double reed. Work with them.

I would purchase a fair priced box call. Make sure you have chaulk as well.

Maybe would consider buying a Video tape.

I also like my aluminum slate call for windy days. Lots of good slate calls out there.
 
#3 ·
I would agree with DB and add ..

Lynch's Fool Proof box call .. very easy to use ..this is my first year hunting I have called birds in twice this year with it and got one with my bow .I have every kind of call ..this is just the most user friendly .. You will also, need an owl call and crow call .. use the owl call early in the morning like just before day light ..and use the crow call during the day to locate Toms.

It is lot's of fun . ...I had a great time this year.. enjoy..
 
#4 ·
There are some great kits

That have several calls with locator calls. Ideal for a new turkey hunter.

Sometimes this can save a guy a few bucks.
 
#5 ·
I personally like the Primos Power Crystal, awesome sound and when needed you can really turn it up and wake the woods up!!

Mouth calls will take some time to get use to, you might be better off with a box call, Lynch makes some good ones as well as Quaker Boy and their affordable. Most beginners can make a box call work and a slate/glass call.

I agree with DB and I would get a tape and see what the pros are using.

Have fun most of all, hunting turkeys is an awesome addiction!!

Lou
 
#6 ·
I think the slate/crystal caller is the easiest to use for a beginner. It is still the first call I use in the morning. Its hard to beat the tree call you can get out of one. I used a metal top this past weekend and really like the sound it produced.

If you really want to go simple get one of the push button callers. I have seen them work very well and a good start until you can mater one of the other hand calls or mouth calls.
 
#7 ·
So far I would agree with what has been said. Get a couple of single or double reed mouth calls but also lay hands on an instructional CD it will shorten the learning curve. I would also agree with a box or slate to get started on until you are good with the mouth call. You can go to places like Cabela's or Bass Pro and try them on display to see which one you can work easier and ask the guys there for some general pointers with them. They usually know how to work most of them pretty well and it can help you make a better decision as well as pick up a few basics to get you started. Also if you have any drive at all to get to work it is a great time to practice with the mouth calls without bothering others or worrying about how you sound to others.
 
#9 ·
Personally, I cant use a mouth call because I gag so much. A good box call is effective for me when turks are a long ways away and it gets their attention. But when they get close I like to use a slate call. This year I went out with my uncle and called two of them in using only a slate call. But I would try and find someone that has multiple calls to see which one would fit you better. Happy hunting
 
#10 ·
I think slate is easiest to learn and sounds great. I would try to master mouth call especially if trying to bowhunt. It's good to have your hands free. I would recommend a double reed with a split v. This will add some rasp to cover those mistakes. Many call makers have gone to the split v design, but I have tried HS Strut and Penns Wood and would recommend either one.
 
#12 ·
I started using a slate call many years ago, and have used nothing since. Easy to master, and you can get about any sound a turkey makes with one. I use a mouth call sometimes if I have to also.
 
#13 ·
I think a slate call is likely one of the easiest to use....

A box call is great also...the sounds carries a long way....

Mouth calls are not that hard...just gotta find one that fits your mouth....

I think the most important thing is to not overcall....regardless of what call you choose to use...use it sparringly and let the birds come to you! I have a hard time...I just love to keep em gobbling for some reason! lol!
 
#14 ·
I use a HS Strut Black Magic aluminum slate call. It is super easy to use. Matter of fact my 5 year old learned to use it in about 2 minutes. I agree with others about the mouth calls, I as well am learning to use these and it does take some time to master these. My brother picked up a nice beginner pack of turkey calls at WalMart for about $20,it included an owl locator, slate call, another locator call, I believe, and a beginners double reed mouth call. It was from Hunters Specialities.
 
#18 ·
Love my Primos Freak...several different strikers will make for many different sound possibilities with only one slate. I also have had very good luck with HS boxes. push-button, not so good...maybe it's me. Primos sold me on their diaphram's just because I bought thier video, which is GREAT, and with their mouth calls, i could follow along pretty well. I highly recommend the video, and the Freak is hard to beat with its one-handed operation...hold your bow with one hand and give a few last calls with the other!:wink: