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Turkey season is a thrilling time, but getting that gobbler within range can be tough. A good mouth call, sometimes called a diaphragm call, can be a game-changer. It allows you to call hands-free, mimicking the sounds of a hen to lure in that tom. I’ve used a bunch over the years, and some are definitely better than others. So, let’s look at some top-notch mouth calls that can seriously improve your turkey hunting success.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Primos Wet Box Turkey Call: Great for all weather, easy to use, consistent sound.
- H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce Turkey Call: Compact design, high-pitched tones, ideal for close-range calling.
- Quaker Boy Easy Yelper Turkey Call: User-friendly, realistic yelps, good for beginners.
- WoodHaven Ninja Crystal Turkey Call: Versatile sound, durable crystal surface, excellent for various calling styles.
- Flextone Funky Chicken Turkey Call: Unique raspy sound, flexible frame, effective for stubborn gobblers.
Top 5 Best Mouth Turkey Calls
1. Primos Wet Box Turkey Call
The Primos Wet Box is designed to perform consistently, even in damp conditions. Its weatherproof construction ensures reliable calls every time. It’s a simple, effective box call perfect for beginners and experienced hunters alike.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to use, even when wet
- ✅ Produces consistent and realistic yelps
- ✅ Durable construction for long-lasting performance
Cons:
- ❌ Sound quality might not match higher-end calls
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky to carry compared to diaphragm calls
- ❌ Limited sound variety compared to slate or glass calls
Verdict: The Primos Wet Box is a solid choice for hunters needing a reliable, weatherproof call that’s easy to use. It’s especially good for beginners or those hunting in wet environments.
2. H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce Turkey Call
The H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce is a compact mouth call designed to produce high-pitched, realistic hen sounds. Its smaller size makes it comfortable to use and easy to control. It’s a great option for hunters who prefer a more subtle calling approach.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces crisp, high-pitched yelps
- ✅ Comfortable and easy to control
- ✅ Excellent for close-range calling
Cons:
- ❌ May require some practice to master
- ❌ Not as versatile as some multi-reed calls
- ❌ Sound might not carry as far in windy conditions
Verdict: The Lil’ Deuce is perfect for hunters looking for a small, easy-to-use mouth call that excels at close-range, high-pitched hen sounds. It’s a good choice for those who like to call subtly.
3. Quaker Boy Easy Yelper Turkey Call
The Quaker Boy Easy Yelper is designed with beginners in mind, offering a user-friendly way to produce realistic turkey yelps. Its simple design makes it easy to learn and control. This call is a great starting point for new turkey hunters.
Pros:
- ✅ Very easy to learn and use
- ✅ Produces realistic yelps with minimal effort
- ✅ Affordable and widely available
Cons:
- ❌ Limited sound variety compared to more advanced calls
- ❌ May not be as durable as higher-end options
- ❌ Sound quality might not be as refined as premium calls
Verdict: The Quaker Boy Easy Yelper is an excellent choice for beginners wanting a simple, effective call that’s easy to master. It’s a great way to start learning turkey calling.
4. WoodHaven Ninja Crystal Turkey Call
The WoodHaven Ninja Crystal is known for its versatile sound and durable crystal surface. This call can produce a wide range of turkey vocalizations, from soft purrs to loud yelps. The crystal surface ensures consistent sound quality and long-lasting performance.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds
- ✅ Durable crystal surface for consistent performance
- ✅ Excellent for both soft and loud calling
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a striker to operate, which adds an extra piece to carry
- ❌ Crystal surface can be affected by moisture if not properly maintained
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other pot calls
Verdict: The WoodHaven Ninja Crystal is a top-tier choice for experienced hunters seeking a versatile and durable call that can produce a wide range of realistic turkey sounds. It’s an investment that will pay off in the field.
5. Flextone Funky Chicken Turkey Call
The Flextone Funky Chicken is designed to produce a unique, raspy sound that can entice stubborn gobblers. Its flexible frame makes it easy to control and produce a variety of calls. If you’re looking for something different, this might be it.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces a unique, raspy sound that attracts turkeys
- ✅ Flexible frame for easy control
- ✅ Effective for calling in call-shy gobblers
Cons:
- ❌ May take some practice to master the unique sound
- ❌ Not as versatile as some other diaphragm calls
- ❌ Sound might not appeal to all hunters
Verdict: The Flextone Funky Chicken is a great choice for hunters wanting a unique, raspy sound to lure in those stubborn gobblers that ignore more traditional calls. It’s worth trying if you’re looking for something different.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right mouth turkey call can feel overwhelming. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Reed Count: More reeds generally mean more rasp and a wider range of sounds. Single-reed calls are easier to learn, while double and triple-reed calls offer more versatility.
- Frame Size: A comfortable fit is crucial. If the frame is too big or small, it will be difficult to control and produce consistent sounds. Experiment with different sizes to find what works best for you.
- Material: Latex is the most common material for reeds. Different thicknesses and cuts will produce different sounds. Some calls also use prophylactic material, which can offer a different tone.
- Sound Quality: Listen to sound samples online before you buy. Consider the types of sounds you want to produce, such as yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts.
- Skill Level: Beginners should start with easier-to-use calls, like single-reed or box calls. More experienced hunters can explore more complex multi-reed diaphragm calls.
- Practice: No matter which call you choose, practice is essential. Use a mirror to watch your mouth movements and experiment with different air pressures and tongue positions.
- Consider a Variety: Many experienced hunters carry multiple calls to adapt to different situations and turkey behavior.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best way to learn how to use a mouth call?
A: Start by watching online tutorials and practicing in front of a mirror. Focus on controlling your air pressure and tongue movements. Practice regularly, even when you’re not hunting.
Q: How do I keep my mouth calls clean?
A: Rinse your calls with warm water after each use. Avoid using soap or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the reeds. Store them in a cool, dry place.
Q: How long do mouth calls last?
A: The lifespan of a mouth call depends on how often you use it and how well you care for it. With proper care, a good mouth call can last for several seasons. Replace your calls when the reeds become worn or the sound quality deteriorates.
Q: What are the essential turkey calls I should learn?
A: The yelp is the most fundamental call. Also, learn the cluck, purr, and cut. These calls will allow you to communicate with turkeys in various situations.
Q: How do I prevent my mouth call from slipping?
A: Make sure the call fits snugly against the roof of your mouth. Some hunters use denture adhesive to help hold the call in place. Keep your mouth dry to prevent slipping.
Conclusion
Finding the right mouth turkey call can make a huge difference in your hunting success. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter, there’s a call out there that can help you bag that gobbler. Consider your skill level, the type of sound you want to produce, and the hunting conditions you typically face. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different calls until you find the perfect fit. Good luck, and happy hunting!
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