There’s nothing quite like the thrill of calling in a big tom during turkey season. A good slate call can make all the difference, producing those sweet, seductive sounds that drive gobblers wild. I’ve used a bunch over the years, some good, some not so much. Finding the right one for your style and the conditions can feel like a game changer. So, let’s dive into some top picks that might just help you bag that trophy bird this spring.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Primos The Freak Slate Call: High-quality sound, easy to use, great for beginners.
- WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal Over Slate Turkey Call: Produces realistic tones, excellent for seasoned hunters.
- Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call: Weather-resistant design, loud and clear calls.
- H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce Slate Call: Compact size, versatile sound options, perfect for run-and-gun hunting.
- Zink Calls Power Slate Glass Over Slate Pot Call: Great volume and range, ideal for windy conditions.
Top 5 Best Slate Call For Turkey Reviews
1. Primos The Freak Slate Call
The Primos The Freak is a user-friendly slate call designed to produce a wide range of turkey sounds. It’s known for its consistency and ease of use, making it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced hunters.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces realistic yelps, clucks, and purrs.
- ✅ Easy to learn and operate.
- ✅ Durable construction for long-lasting use.
Cons:
- ❌ Sound quality may not be as refined as higher-end calls.
- ❌ Striker included could be better quality.
- ❌ May require some practice to achieve optimal sound.
Verdict: A great all-around slate call, especially suitable for beginners looking for an easy-to-use and reliable option.
2. WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal Over Slate Turkey Call
The WoodHaven Cherry Classic is a premium slate call that delivers incredibly realistic turkey vocalizations. The combination of crystal over slate creates a unique sound that gobblers find irresistible.
Pros:
- ✅ Exceptional sound quality and realism.
- ✅ Hand-tuned for optimal performance.
- ✅ Durable cherry pot construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to other slate calls.
- ❌ Requires more skill to master.
- ❌ Crystal surface can be affected by moisture.
Verdict: An excellent choice for experienced hunters who demand top-notch sound quality and realism in their calls.
3. Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call
The Quaker Boy Hurricane is designed to perform in all weather conditions. Its special surface treatment ensures consistent sound even when wet, making it a reliable choice for unpredictable hunting environments.
Pros:
- ✅ Weather-resistant design for reliable performance.
- ✅ Loud and clear sound projection.
- ✅ Easy to create a variety of turkey sounds.
Cons:
- ❌ May require more maintenance to keep the surface conditioned.
- ❌ Sound may be slightly less natural than some other calls.
- ❌ Striker material could be improved.
Verdict: A dependable option for hunters who frequently hunt in wet or humid conditions and need a call that will perform consistently.
4. H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce Slate Call
The H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce is a compact and versatile slate call perfect for hunters on the move. Its small size makes it easy to carry, while its ability to produce a range of turkey sounds makes it a valuable tool for any hunting situation.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and lightweight design.
- ✅ Versatile sound options for different scenarios.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
Cons:
- ❌ Smaller size may be harder to handle for some users.
- ❌ Sound quality may not be as rich as larger calls.
- ❌ Durability could be improved.
Verdict: Ideal for run-and-gun hunters who need a lightweight and versatile call that won’t weigh them down.
5. Zink Calls Power Slate Glass Over Slate Pot Call
The Zink Calls Power Slate is engineered for maximum volume and range. The glass-over-slate design produces loud, clear calls that can reach distant gobblers, making it a great choice for windy conditions or open areas.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent volume and range.
- ✅ Produces sharp, clear turkey sounds.
- ✅ Durable construction for rugged use.
Cons:
- ❌ May be too loud for close-range calling.
- ❌ Requires a steady hand to operate effectively.
- ❌ Sound may be less subtle than other slate calls.
Verdict: A powerful call for hunters who need to reach turkeys at long distances or cut through windy conditions.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right slate call can seem daunting, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Material: Slate, glass, crystal, and ceramic are common surface materials. Each produces a slightly different sound, so experiment to find what you prefer. Slate is generally softer and produces mellower tones, while glass and crystal are louder and sharper.
- Pot Material: The material of the pot (the base of the call) also affects the sound. Wood, acrylic, and aluminum are common choices. Wood pots often produce warmer tones.
- Striker: The striker is what you use to create friction on the surface of the call. Different materials, such as wood, carbon, and acrylic, will produce different sounds. Try different strikers with the same call to see what works best for you.
- Ease of Use: If you’re a beginner, look for a call that’s easy to learn and operate. Some calls require more practice to master than others.
- Weather Resistance: If you hunt in wet conditions, consider a call with a weather-resistant surface. Some calls are treated to repel moisture and maintain consistent sound quality.
- Sound Quality: Ultimately, the most important factor is the sound quality. Listen to sound samples of different calls and choose one that produces realistic turkey vocalizations that you like.
- Price: Slate calls range in price from affordable to high-end. Set a budget and find a call that offers the best value for your money.
FAQs
Q: How do I condition a slate call?
A: Use a sandpaper or abrasive pad to lightly scuff the surface of the slate. This creates friction and improves the sound quality. Do this periodically to maintain optimal performance.
Q: What’s the best way to hold a slate call?
A: Hold the pot firmly in your non-dominant hand, and use your dominant hand to hold the striker. Apply light pressure and move the striker in small circles or strokes to produce the desired sounds.
Q: How do I make different turkey sounds with a slate call?
A: Vary the pressure, speed, and angle of the striker to produce different sounds. Light pressure and slow strokes will create soft purrs, while heavier pressure and faster strokes will produce louder yelps.
Q: Can I use a slate call in the rain?
A: Some slate calls are designed to be weather-resistant, but most will be affected by moisture. If your call gets wet, dry it off as soon as possible and recondition the surface if necessary.
Q: How often should I replace my slate call?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a good slate call can last for many years. Replace it when the surface becomes too worn or damaged to produce quality sounds.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect slate call is a personal journey, but hopefully, this guide has given you a good starting point. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a slate call out there that can help you bring home that big tom. Consider the conditions you hunt in, the sounds you want to make, and your own personal preferences. Happy hunting!
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