That sweet, seductive yelp can make or break your turkey season. Getting that perfect call often comes down to the instrument in your hands, and for many experienced hunters, nothing beats the classic sound of a slate turkey call. I’ve been chasing gobblers for over 20 years, and I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a great call. These calls offer a unique blend of realism and control that’s hard to match. So, if you’re looking to up your turkey hunting game, let’s explore some of the best slate calls out there. I’ll share my top picks and give you the lowdown on what to look for.
Quick Summary: Top Slate Turkey Calls
- Best Overall: The Woodhaven Cherry Classic Crystal over Slate
- Best Value: Primos Lil’ Deuce Slate Call
- Best Premium: David Halloran Crystal Mistress Slate Turkey Call
- Best Compact: H.S. Strut Lil’ Striker Slate Call
- Best for Beginners: Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call
Top 5 Best Slate Turkey Call Reviews
1. Woodhaven Cherry Classic Crystal over Slate
The Woodhaven Cherry Classic Crystal over Slate is a versatile call known for producing a wide range of realistic turkey sounds. Its combination of crystal over slate provides excellent clarity and volume, making it a favorite among seasoned hunters. This call has consistently produced great results for me over the years.
Pros:
- ✅ Produces clear, crisp calls
- ✅ Easy to use for various turkey vocalizations
- ✅ Durable cherry wood pot
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit loud for close-range calling
- ❌ Crystal surface requires occasional conditioning
- ❌ Slightly higher price point
Verdict: If you want a high-quality call that can do it all, the Woodhaven Cherry Classic is an excellent choice. It’s a workhorse that delivers consistent performance.
2. Primos Lil’ Deuce Slate Call
The Primos Lil’ Deuce is a compact and user-friendly slate call designed for easy portability and realistic sounds. It’s a great option for hunters on the move or those who prefer a smaller, more discreet call. The compact size makes it easy to pack and carry without sacrificing sound quality.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price
- ✅ Compact and easy to carry
- ✅ Produces realistic yelps, clucks, and purrs
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as loud as larger calls
- ❌ Striker quality could be better
- ❌ Limited range of tones compared to premium calls
Verdict: The Primos Lil’ Deuce is a fantastic value for the money, offering good sound quality in a small package. It’s perfect for beginners or hunters who want a reliable backup call.
3. David Halloran Crystal Mistress Slate Turkey Call
The David Halloran Crystal Mistress is a premium slate call known for its exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship. It’s designed for hunters who demand the very best in terms of realism and performance. These are handcrafted and are truly works of art.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior sound quality and realism
- ✅ Handcrafted with premium materials
- ✅ Excellent responsiveness and control
Cons:
- ❌ High price point
- ❌ May require more skill to operate effectively
- ❌ Not ideal for beginners
Verdict: If you’re a serious turkey hunter looking for a top-of-the-line call, the David Halloran Crystal Mistress is worth the investment. It delivers unmatched sound quality and performance.
4. H.S. Strut Lil’ Striker Slate Call
The H.S. Strut Lil’ Striker Slate Call is a compact and versatile call designed for ease of use and portability. It’s a great option for hunters who want a small, lightweight call that still delivers realistic turkey sounds. I’ve found it especially useful when hunting in thick cover.
Pros:
- ✅ Very compact and lightweight
- ✅ Easy to use, even for beginners
- ✅ Produces a variety of turkey sounds
Cons:
- ❌ May lack the volume of larger calls
- ❌ Striker may wear down quickly with heavy use
- ❌ Sound quality not as refined as premium options
Verdict: The H.S. Strut Lil’ Striker is a great choice for hunters who prioritize portability and ease of use. It’s a reliable call that won’t weigh you down in the field.
5. Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call
The Quaker Boy Hurricane Slate Turkey Call is a user-friendly call designed for both beginners and experienced hunters. It offers a good balance of sound quality and ease of use, making it a versatile option for various hunting situations. It’s a great starter call that won’t break the bank.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to learn and use
- ✅ Produces a variety of realistic turkey sounds
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Sound quality may not be as refined as higher-end calls
- ❌ Striker may require some conditioning
- ❌ May not be loud enough for windy conditions
Verdict: The Quaker Boy Hurricane is a solid all-around slate call that’s perfect for hunters of all skill levels. It’s a reliable and affordable option for anyone looking to add a slate call to their arsenal.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right slate turkey call can feel overwhelming, but here’s what I consider important:
- Material: Slate, crystal, and glass are common surfaces. Slate offers a mellow, realistic sound, while crystal and glass are generally louder and higher-pitched.
- Pot Material: Wood pots (like cherry, walnut, or maple) affect the tone. Denser woods tend to produce sharper sounds.
- Striker: The type of wood used for the striker also influences the sound. Experiment with different strikers to find what you like.
- Ease of Use: If you’re a beginner, look for a call that’s known for being easy to learn. Some calls are more forgiving than others.
- Sound Quality: Listen to sound samples online, if possible. Pay attention to the realism and range of sounds the call can produce.
- Hunting Conditions: Consider the terrain and weather conditions you typically hunt in. Louder calls are better for windy conditions or long distances.
- Price: Slate calls range in price from affordable to high-end. Set a budget and find the best call that fits your needs and skill level.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best way to hold a slate call?
A: Hold the call firmly in your non-dominant hand, applying light pressure to the surface. Rest the call on your fingertips to allow it to vibrate freely.
Q: How do I condition a slate call?
A: Use sandpaper or a conditioning stone to lightly scuff the surface of the slate. This creates friction and improves the sound quality. Do this periodically.
Q: What are some common turkey sounds I can make with a slate call?
A: Yelps, clucks, purrs, and cutts are the most common. Practice these sounds to become proficient with your call. YouTube is a great resource for learning different calls.
Q: How do I keep my slate call dry in wet conditions?
A: Use a call holder or a waterproof bag to protect your call from moisture. You can also apply a thin layer of wax to the slate surface to repel water.
Q: Can I use the same striker for different slate calls?
A: While you can, it’s often best to use the striker that’s specifically designed for each call. Different strikers can produce different sounds, so experiment to see what works best.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect slate turkey call is a journey, and what works for one hunter might not work for another. But, hopefully, this guide has given you a solid starting point. Consider your budget, hunting style, and skill level when making your choice. And most importantly, get out there and practice! The more you use your call, the better you’ll become at producing realistic turkey sounds that will fool even the wariest gobblers. Good luck, and happy hunting!
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