There’s nothing quite like the thrill of calling in a gobbler during turkey season. And when it comes to turkey calls, a good slate call is hard to beat. It’s versatile, easy to learn, and can produce a wide range of realistic turkey sounds. A bad one, though, will just frustrate you and spook the birds. So, I’ve tested a bunch of slate calls to help you find one that’ll actually bring those Toms running.
Here’s a quick rundown of my top picks:
- Primos The Freak Slate Call: Best overall for its ease of use and realistic sound.
- H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce Slate Call: Great compact option for beginners.
- WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal Slate Call: Premium sound and craftsmanship for serious hunters.
- Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call: Budget-friendly option that still delivers good sound.
- Flextone Tail Feather Slate Turkey Call: Innovative design for consistent performance in all weather conditions.
Top 5 Best Slate Call For Turkeys Reviews
1. Primos The Freak Slate Call
The Primos The Freak is designed with a pot made of glass over slate, giving it a unique sound profile. It’s known for its ability to produce incredibly realistic purrs, clucks, and yelps with minimal effort. I found it particularly easy to strike and control, even when I was shaking from the cold and excitement.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to use, even for beginners.
- ✅ Produces realistic and versatile turkey sounds.
- ✅ Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
Cons:
- ❌ May be a bit louder than some hunters prefer in close quarters.
- ❌ Striker material can affect sound quality, requiring some experimentation.
- ❌ The glass surface can be susceptible to scratches if not properly cared for.
Verdict: If you want a slate call that’s easy to pick up and start using right away, the Primos The Freak is an excellent choice. It’s a great all-around performer that won’t break the bank.
2. H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce Slate Call
The H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce is a compact slate call that’s perfect for hunters who like to travel light. Its small size doesn’t compromise its sound quality, delivering clear and consistent tones. I like to keep it in my vest pocket for quick access, even when I already have other calls on me.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and lightweight design.
- ✅ Delivers clear and consistent turkey sounds.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
Cons:
- ❌ Smaller size might be harder to hold for some users.
- ❌ Sound projection may not be as loud as larger calls.
- ❌ Limited tonal range compared to some higher-end options.
Verdict: The H.S. Strut Lil’ Deuce is a solid pick for beginner turkey hunters or anyone who values portability. It’s a reliable call that won’t take up much space in your gear bag.
3. WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal Slate Call
The WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal is a premium slate call known for its exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship. The combination of a crystal surface over a cherry pot produces incredibly crisp and realistic turkey sounds. This call is designed for the serious turkey hunter who demands the best.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior sound quality and realism.
- ✅ Beautiful cherry wood construction.
- ✅ Excellent responsiveness and control.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point compared to other slate calls.
- ❌ Crystal surface requires careful handling to avoid damage.
- ❌ May require more practice to master its full potential.
Verdict: If you’re willing to invest in a top-of-the-line slate call, the WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal is worth the splurge. Its exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship will help you take your turkey hunting to the next level.
4. Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call
The Quaker Boy Hurricane is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on sound quality. It’s designed to produce a wide range of turkey sounds, from soft purrs to loud yelps. For the price, it’s hard to beat its versatility. I remember using one of these years ago when I was just starting out and had a blast with it.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Produces a variety of turkey sounds.
- ✅ Durable construction for reliable performance.
Cons:
- ❌ Sound quality may not be as refined as higher-end calls.
- ❌ Striker may require some tuning for optimal performance.
- ❌ Pot material isn’t as high-end as other options.
Verdict: The Quaker Boy Hurricane is a great choice for hunters on a budget who still want a reliable and versatile slate call. It’s a solid performer that will get the job done without breaking the bank.
5. Flextone Tail Feather Slate Turkey Call
The Flextone Tail Feather Slate is a unique call that stands out from the crowd. It features a special design that helps keep the call dry, ensuring consistent performance in all weather conditions. This is especially useful if you hunt in areas with unpredictable weather like I do.
Pros:
- ✅ Weather-resistant design for consistent performance.
- ✅ Produces realistic and clear turkey sounds.
- ✅ Comfortable and ergonomic grip.
Cons:
- ❌ May require some practice to get used to the unique design.
- ❌ Sound projection may not be as loud as some traditional slate calls.
- ❌ The design can feel a little bulky for some users.
Verdict: The Flextone Tail Feather Slate is a solid choice for hunters who want a reliable call that can handle any weather conditions. Its unique design ensures consistent performance, even when it’s wet outside.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right slate call can seem overwhelming, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Material: Slate calls typically consist of a pot (the base) and a striker. The pot can be made of various materials, including slate, glass, crystal, wood, and aluminum. Each material produces a different sound, so experiment to find what you like best.
- Striker: The striker material also affects the sound. Common materials include wood, carbon, and acrylic. Again, experiment to find what sounds best to you and the turkeys in your area.
- Ease of Use: If you’re a beginner, look for a call that’s easy to learn and control. Some calls are more forgiving than others, making it easier to produce consistent and realistic sounds.
- Sound Quality: Listen to sound samples or, even better, try the call in person to assess its sound quality. Look for a call that produces clear, realistic turkey sounds that match the tones you’re trying to create.
- Weather Resistance: If you hunt in areas with unpredictable weather, consider a call that’s designed to perform well in wet conditions. Some calls have special features to keep the striking surface dry.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best way to hold a slate call?
A: Hold the call in your non-dominant hand, with your fingers slightly curled around the edge of the pot. This will give you a good grip and allow the sound to resonate properly.
Q: How do I condition a slate call?
A: Roughen the slate surface with sandpaper or a conditioning stone to create friction. This will help the striker grip the surface and produce better sound. Do this periodically to maintain optimal performance.
Q: What kind of sounds can I make with a slate call?
A: Slate calls are versatile and can produce a wide range of turkey sounds, including yelps, clucks, purrs, cuts, and kee-kees. With practice, you can master these sounds and use them to call in gobblers.
Q: How do I keep my slate call from getting wet?
A: Store your call in a waterproof bag or container when not in use. If it does get wet, wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Some calls have special features to keep the striking surface dry.
Conclusion
Finding the best slate call for turkey hunting is a personal journey. What works for one hunter might not work for another. The Primos The Freak stands out for its ease of use, while the WoodHaven Cherry Classic Crystal offers premium sound. Consider your budget, hunting style, and desired sound quality to make the right choice. Good luck, and happy hunting!
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