As the crisp fall air signals the arrival of turkey season, beginners eager to experience the thrill of hunting need the right tools to maximize their chances of success. Enter the world of turkey calls—a vital piece of equipment that can make or break your outing. Understanding how to effectively attract these elusive birds starts with selecting the best turkey calls for beginners, ensuring you can mimic their natural sounds with confidence. Whether you’re seeking a high-pitched yelp or a soft cluck, the right call can transform your hunting experience and help you connect with nature in a way that is both thrilling and rewarding.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various types of turkey calls available, from mouth calls and box calls to pot calls, each providing unique advantages for novices. Our carefully curated reviews will delve into the features, ease of use, and overall performance of the most popular turkey calls, allowing you to make an informed decision tailored to your needs. Embrace the adventure of turkey hunting with the right gear, and let the sounds of the wild guide you on your journey to becoming an accomplished hunter.
Before we start our review of the best turkey calls for beginners, here are some related products you can find on Amazon:
Overview of Turkey Calls for Beginners
Turkey hunting can be an exhilarating experience, especially for beginners eager to learn the nuances of this engaging sport. One of the most crucial skills a novice hunter must master is the use of turkey calls. These calls mimic the sounds of turkeys and are essential for luring them into range. Understanding the different types of turkey calls available can make a significant difference in a beginner’s success in the field.
There are various types of turkey calls, each with its distinct sounds and uses. The most common categories include friction calls, diaphragm calls, and electronic calls. Friction calls, like box and slate calls, are popular among beginners due to their ease of use and ability to produce a range of sounds. Diaphragm calls, while a bit more advanced, allow for hands-free operation, which is essential for managing gear while hunting. Electronic calls have gained popularity for their convenience and variety of pre-recorded turkey sounds.
When selecting the best turkey calls for beginners, it is essential to consider comfort and ease of use. A beginner should choose calls that feel natural and allow them to produce clear, effective sounds. Practicing with these calls is key to becoming proficient, as consistency in sound and timing will enhance the overall hunting experience. Listening to real turkey calls and imitating them can help develop skills more effectively.
In summary, choosing the right turkey call is vital for any beginner looking to enhance their hunting experience. By familiarizing themselves with the different types of calls and practicing their techniques, beginners can significantly increase their chances of success in the field. Investing time in learning how to use the best turkey calls for beginners can lead to more rewarding hunting expeditions.
Best Turkey Calls For Beginners – Reviews
1. Primos Hunting The Gobbler Shaker Turkey Call
The Primos Hunting The Gobbler Shaker Turkey Call is highly recommended for beginners due to its simplistic design and ease of use. This call is perfect for mimicking the sounds of a hen turkey, making it easier for novice hunters to attract gobblers. The built-in shaker mechanism ensures that you can produce consistent sounds with minimal effort, reducing the learning curve for those who are new to turkey hunting.
Additionally, the durable construction of this turkey call stands up to the rigors of outdoor use. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your hunting gear, and the design allows for quiet operation while still delivering a loud enough sound to capture the attention of nearby turkeys. Overall, the Primos Gobbler Shaker is an excellent choice for those just starting their turkey hunting journey.
2. Allen Company Turkey Call Starter Kit
The Allen Company Turkey Call Starter Kit is an excellent option for beginners who want to explore different calling techniques. This kit comes equipped with various calls, including a friction call and a diaphragm call, allowing new hunters to experiment and discover which method they prefer. The instructional materials included help users understand how to create realistic turkey sounds, making it easy to learn the basics.
Furthermore, each call in this starter kit is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The friction call features an ergonomic grip, making it comfortable to use, while the diaphragm call includes multiple reeds for versatile sound production. With the Allen Company Turkey Call Starter Kit, beginners have everything they need to start their turkey hunting experience on the right foot.
3. Hunter’s Specialties LDL Turkey Call
The Hunter’s Specialties LDL Turkey Call is an ideal choice for those new to turkey hunting due to its versatility and user-friendly design. This call can produce a range of sounds from clucks to yelps, making it suitable for various hunting situations. The adjustable tone feature allows beginners to experiment with different pitches, ensuring they can attract turkeys effectively.
Additionally, the construction of the LDL call is both lightweight and durable, making it easy to carry without fear of damage. The call’s straightforward mechanism allows even the least experienced hunters to produce effective sounds quickly. Overall, the Hunter’s Specialties LDL Turkey Call is a solid investment for beginners looking to improve their calling skills and increase their chances of a successful hunt.
4. Primos Hunting Jack in the Box Turkey Call
The Primos Hunting Jack in the Box Turkey Call is a unique and entertaining option for beginners. This box call is easy to use, providing a simple yet effective way to attract turkeys with its realistic sounds. By simply sliding the paddle back and forth, users can create an array of turkey calls without needing extensive experience, making it a fantastic choice for novice hunters.
Moreover, the Jack in the Box design adds an element of fun to the calling experience. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand the elements while remaining functional over time. The combination of ease of use and effectiveness makes the Primos Jack in the Box Turkey Call a valuable tool for those just starting in the world of turkey hunting.
5. Quaker Boy Easy Yelper Turkey Call
The Quaker Boy Easy Yelper Turkey Call is perfect for beginners who want to master the art of yelping. Its simple design allows novice hunters to easily produce high-quality yelp sounds with minimal practice. The call is made from durable materials, ensuring it can endure rough conditions while still delivering consistent performance on each outing.
Additionally, this call features a lightweight and compact design, making it easy to carry on long hunts. Its user-friendly operation ensures that even those with no prior experience can quickly become proficient in making realistic turkey sounds. The Quaker Boy Easy Yelper is a reliable choice for beginners looking to enhance their turkey hunting skills and attract more birds effectively.
Why Do People Need to Buy Turkey Calls for Beginners
For those looking to embark on the rewarding journey of turkey hunting, having the right tools is crucial. One of the most essential tools in a turkey hunter’s arsenal is a turkey call. These devices mimic the sounds of turkeys and are instrumental in luring them within shooting range. Beginners, in particular, stand to benefit from using turkey calls, as these tools not only enhance their hunting experience but also increase their chances of success in the field.
Learning to use turkey calls can be intimidating for newcomers. However, purchasing a beginner-friendly turkey call can provide a significant advantage. These calls are often designed to be user-friendly, allowing novice hunters to produce realistic turkey sounds with little practice. Moreover, investing in the best turkey calls for beginners can help hunters learn the various types of calling techniques, such as yelps, clucks, and purrs, which are essential for attracting wild turkeys.
Additionally, using turkey calls fosters a deeper understanding of turkey behavior. As beginners hone their calling skills, they become more attuned to the nuances of turkey communication. This knowledge can lead to better decision-making during hunts and improve overall success. By engaging with the environment and experimenting with different calls, new hunters can develop a greater appreciation for wildlife and its sounds, enriching their outdoor experience.
Finally, turkey calls serve as a social tool within the hunting community. Many beginners find themselves seeking advice and mentorship from more experienced hunters. Using calls can facilitate conversations about techniques, strategies, and experiences. As they share their challenges and successes with others, beginner hunters can forge connections that further enhance their passion for turkey hunting, making the activity not just about the hunt itself, but also about camaraderie and shared interests.
Types of Turkey Calls: A Detailed Look
Turkey calls come in various styles, each designed to mimic different sounds that wild turkeys make during their natural behaviors. Understanding the types can greatly enhance a beginner’s calling strategy. The primary types of turkey calls include box calls, pot calls (or friction calls), diaphragm calls, and wing bone calls. Each type has its unique method of sound production and uses different techniques to create realistic turkey sounds.
Box calls are often favored by beginners because of their ease of use. They consist of two wooden pieces that create sound when one is scraped against the other. This simplicity allows new hunters to produce an authentic clucking sound without much practice. Pot calls, on the other hand, involve a wooden or ceramic surface that you strike with a peg. They are versatile and can produce a wide range of sounds, from soft purrs to loud yelps.
Diaphragm calls are a bit more challenging to master as they require the user to place the call in their mouth and use air control to produce sound. However, they are the most portable and can be very effective once learned. Lastly, wing bone calls, made from turkey wing bones, can offer a unique and appealing sound but are rarely recommended for those just starting due to the skill needed to use them effectively.
Mastering Turkey Calling Techniques
Mastering turkey calling techniques is crucial for beginners aiming to successfully attract wild turkeys. Each call type requires a different technique, and knowing how to manipulate these calls can significantly increase your success rate in the field. A good starting point is to become familiar with the basic turkey sounds: yelps, clucks, purrs, and gobbles.
To practice yelping, a beginner should focus on the rhythm and tone of the call. This sound is often associated with female turkeys and is used to communicate. Using a box call, beginners can create yelps by sliding the lid smoothly while applying consistent pressure. Practicing in different pitches will help in mimicking the subtle variations in turkey calls.
Clucking is another essential sound that turkeys use to communicate, often as a sign of contentment or to keep in touch with others in their flock. This sound can easily be performed on both box and pot calls with short and quick strokes. Purring is typically a softer sound that indicates relaxation; it requires a softer touch and more prolonging of the call’s sound. Learning when to switch between these calls is also vital, as it can help simulate the natural behavior of turkeys.
Understanding Turkey Behavior
Understanding turkey behavior is fundamental to successful calling and hunting. Turkeys exhibit a range of behaviors based on seasons, times of the day, and their social structure. Key knowledge about these aspects allows beginners to strategize their hunting efforts effectively. For instance, knowing that turkeys are most active during the early morning hours or late afternoon can help hunters plan their outings more efficiently.
During the spring mating season, male turkeys (toms) become more vocal and aggressive, seeking to attract females (hens). This is the prime time for using calls, particularly gobbles and yelps, to entice toms into the area. Understanding the pecking order and social interactions among turkeys can help beginners refine their calling techniques. For example, imitating a hen’s calls during the mating season can provoke curiosity and competition among toms.
Aside from mating behaviors, pinpointing roosting sites and feeding patterns can significantly enhance a beginner’s success. Knowing when and where turkeys tend to roost can help hunters position themselves strategically. Observing the landscape and looking for signs like tracks or droppings will also provide valuable insights into turkey behavior, leading to more successful hunting trips.
Tips for Caring for Your Turkey Calls
Proper care for turkey calls is essential for maintaining their functionality and sound quality over time. Each call type demands specific maintenance routines to ensure they perform at their best. Beginners should learn how to clean and store their calls effectively, ensuring they can rely on them during hunts.
For wooden box calls, it’s essential to keep them dry and avoid exposure to extreme humidity or temperature changes that could warp the wood. Periodic cleaning of the calling surface with a dedicated material, typically sandpaper, can help maintain a smooth sound production area. Pot calls should be cleaned after use, as moisture can warp or damage the surface material, affecting sound quality. A simple wipe with a cloth followed by storing them in a protective case will extend their longevity.
Diaphragm calls, being more sensitive, require careful handling. Beginners should remember to take out the call after each use to prevent moisture buildup. Rinsing with water and allowing them to air dry can prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure the call remains hygienic and effective. With proper care, turkey calls can provide years of successful hunting and enjoyment, making it essential for beginners to develop these good habits early on.
Buying Guide: Best Turkey Calls For Beginners
When it comes to turkey hunting, mastering the art of calling is essential for success, especially for beginners. Selecting the right turkey call can significantly enhance your hunting experience, making it easier to attract game. In this guide, we’ll explore the critical factors to consider when buying turkey calls and help you find the best turkey calls for beginners.
1. Type of Turkey Call
There are several types of turkey calls available, including box calls, pot calls, mouth calls, and trumpets. Each type has its unique characteristics and requires different levels of skill to use effectively. For beginners, box calls and pot calls are often recommended because they are generally easier to master and require less practice compared to mouth calls.
Box calls typically feature a wooden box with a paddle that produces sound by rubbing against the box’s surface. Their design makes them intuitive for beginners, allowing for a wide range of turkey sounds. Pot calls, on the other hand, use a small sound pot and a striker to create various turkey calls, providing a versatile option for new hunters seeking to mimic the sounds of real turkeys.
2. Material and Build Quality
The material of the turkey call can significantly impact its sound quality and durability. Common materials include wood, plastic, and metal. Wooden calls often provide a richer sound, while plastic options are usually more affordable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for beginners who might not want to invest heavily at first.
When examining the build quality, look for well-constructed calls with smooth surfaces and good craftsmanship. A poorly made call may affect the sound produced, frustrating beginners. Therefore, it’s essential to find a reliable brand that guarantees quality, ensuring that your turkey call will serve you well on your hunting trips.
3. Sound Realism
For any turkey call, the ability to produce realistic sounds is crucial. A good call should accurately mimic the various vocalizations of turkeys, including clucks, purrs, and gobbles. As a beginner, you might not have a trained ear for turkey sounds, but choosing a call known for its sound realism can make a significant difference in your hunting success.
Researching user reviews or watching demonstration videos can provide insight into the sound quality of different turkey calls. Beginners can benefit greatly from calls praised for their ability to produce authentic turkey sounds, as this will help increase the chances of attracting real turkeys during a hunt.
4. Ease of Use
As a beginner, it’s vital to choose a turkey call that is easy to operate. Since turkey calling requires practice, selecting a call that demands less technique can be beneficial while you are still learning how to mimic turkey sounds. Box calls generally rank high in ease of use due to their simple design, allowing for straightforward operation with minimal learning curve.
In addition to overall usability, consider whether the turkey call comes with instructional material. Many brands provide guides or videos that offer beginner-friendly tips on how to make the most of the call. Selecting a product with additional resources can help you progress more quickly and gain confidence in your calling abilities.
5. Portability and Size
When hunting, having gear that is easy to carry is essential, especially for beginners who may find themselves traversing various terrains. The size and weight of the turkey call can affect how easily you can transport it. Compact, lightweight calls are generally more desirable for beginners who may still be figuring out their preferred hunting setup.
Some calls come with carrying cases or straps, which can enhance portability. Evaluating how the turkey call fits into your overall hunting gear can make your experience more enjoyable. Always ensure you can easily access and use your call when the moment arises, as that can be a crucial aspect of successful turkey hunting.
6. Price and Value
Budget considerations are an essential factor when selecting the best turkey calls for beginners. Prices can range significantly based on brand, type, and materials used. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is essential to find a balance between affordability and quality. Investing in a reliable turkey call can pay off in the long run, allowing for better sound production and durability.
Before making a purchase, consider comparing different products within your price range. Understanding the features and benefits of various calls can help ensure you are getting the best value for your money. Look for calls that come with warranties or satisfaction guarantees. These added benefits often indicate manufacturer confidence in their product and can provide peace of mind as you embark on your turkey hunting journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the different types of turkey calls suitable for beginners?
There are several types of turkey calls that are ideal for beginners, including box calls, pot calls, and diaphragm calls. Box calls are user-friendly as they require minimal technique—simply slide the striker along the wooden box to produce sound. Pot calls, which consist of a bowl-shaped surface and a striker, allow for various sounds and are also straightforward to use. Diaphragm calls, on the other hand, require more practice but can be very effective if mastered.
For beginners, starting with box and pot calls can provide a good foundation. These calls are generally forgiving and can help you learn the basic sounds of turkeys without the steep learning curve associated with diaphragm calls. As you develop your skills, you might want to incorporate diaphragm calls for more versatile and subtle communication with turkeys in the field.
2. How do I choose the right turkey call as a beginner?
Choosing the right turkey call as a beginner involves considering a few key factors, such as the type of call, ease of use, and the sounds it produces. Box calls are often recommended for novices due to their simplicity and loud, clear sounds. Pot calls can vary in sound quality depending on the material, so it’s a good idea to try a few different options before making a selection. You may also want to consider the terrain you will be hunting in when choosing a call.
Another important aspect is the cost; as a beginner, you might want to explore budget-friendly options to avoid a large initial investment. Look for calls that have good reviews for user-friendliness and durability. Additionally, purchasing calls that come with instructional materials or videos can be beneficial, as they provide guidance on how to produce accurate turkey sounds, further enhancing your learning experience.
3. What sounds should I learn to mimic when using a turkey call?
The primary sounds that turkey hunters often aim to mimic include clucks, purrs, yelps, and cutts. Clucks are short, rhythmic sounds that are often used by hens to communicate. Purrs are softer and typically indicate contentment or comfort within a flock. Yelps, on the other hand, are more pronounced and serve as a call for attention, often used by hens when seeking companionship from gobblers.
Learning to produce these sounds accurately is essential for effective turkey hunting. Practicing these vocalizations helps you to understand when and how to use them in various scenarios. Listening to real turkeys in the wild can also be a great way to refine your skills, as you can imitate the subtleties of their calls for a more authentic hunting experience.
4. Can I make my own turkey calls, and how?
Yes, making your own turkey calls can be a fun and rewarding project for beginners. There are numerous DIY tutorials available online that guide you through the process of creating different types of calls, such as pot calls using wood and glass or slate. For a basic pot call, you would typically need a bowl-shaped object (the pot) to serve as the soundboard, and a striker made from wood or other suitable materials.
When creating your own turkey calls, it’s essential to experiment with different materials and designs to achieve the desired sound. Each type of call will have its unique tonal characteristics based on the materials used and construction techniques. Crafting your calls allows for personalization and can deepen your understanding of how turkey calls function, making you a more effective hunter in the field.
5. How important is practice when learning to use turkey calls?
Practice is crucial when it comes to learning how to use turkey calls effectively. Like any skill, consistent practice helps you refine your technique and become more familiar with the sounds you are trying to replicate. Spending time each day practicing your calls can significantly increase your confidence and proficiency. It allows you to experiment with different tones, volumes, and rhythms, which is essential for mimicking the nuances of real turkey calls.
Moreover, practice helps you develop the ear for what sounds are considered authentic. The more you listen to real turkeys, the better you will understand their vocal patterns and how to imitate them effectively. By dedicating time to practice, you will not only improve your calling skills but also increase your chances of attracting turkeys during the hunting season.
6. Should I use electronic turkey calls as a beginner?
Electronic turkey calls can be a useful tool for beginners, offering some advantages in convenience and effectiveness. These devices typically come pre-programmed with a variety of turkey sounds, allowing you to play the sounds at the push of a button. For beginners still learning how to manually call, electronic calls can serve as a helpful resource in the field, especially if they’re struggling to produce the right sounds.
However, while electronic calls can complement your hunting strategy, they should not be relied upon exclusively. It is advantageous for beginners to learn the art of calling manually, as this not only enhances your skills but also provides a more immersive hunting experience. Many experienced hunters believe that natural calling produces more authentic results, which can be crucial in various hunting situations.
7. What should I consider when storing my turkey calls?
Proper storage of your turkey calls is essential for maintaining their sound quality and longevity. Temperature and humidity can affect the material of the calls, particularly wooden ones, so it’s important to store them in a controlled environment. Avoid keeping calls in damp areas like garages or basements to prevent warping or deterioration. Additionally, store them in a padded case or a dedicated call box to protect them from scratches, damage, and unexpected impacts.
Cleaning your calls regularly also plays a vital role in their maintenance. For pot calls, ensure the surface is free from debris, and use a soft cloth to gently wipe it down after each use. Diaphragm calls should be kept in their original packaging or a protective case to avoid contamination. These practices not only extend the life of your calls but also ensure they perform at their best when it’s time to hit the field.
Verdict
In summary, selecting the best turkey calls for beginners is essential for those looking to enhance their hunting skills and success in the field. By investing in quality calls that match your skill level and understanding their functionality, you pave the way for a rewarding and enjoyable turkey hunting experience. The reviewed products provide a variety of options tailored to help novices gain confidence and competence, ensuring that even those new to the sport can communicate effectively with these elusive birds.
Ultimately, mastering the art of turkey calling is not just about the equipment—it’s about practice and patience as well. As you start your journey with the best turkey calls for beginners, remember that every outing is a chance to learn and refine your technique. By choosing the right tools and committing to improvement, you’ll find yourself not only more successful in your hunts but also developing a deeper appreciation for the sport and the great outdoors.