How to Buy a Turkey Call

Buying a turkey call is an important step towards a fruitful hunting season. Whether buying a custom turkey call or a simple commercial unit, calls come in many shapes and sizes. There are even plans available to build a homemade unit to suit a hunter's needs. Here are a few tips on how to buy a turkey call.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Determine what kind of turkey call works best for the season. Box calls can be made of wood and utilize a wooden lid that slides across the open box to create sound. Aluminum box calls allow the hunter to use the box in inclement weather.
2. Chose a model that has an unlimited range of calls. Wooden box calls can emit a cutting or cackling call, yet clucking and purring is not as easy. These calls are best when calling a turkey and waiting for it to call back. It is not the best to use when the turkey is in close range.
3. Use a slate call by sliding a striker across a plate made of slate, glass or aluminum. Different strikers can produce different calls. Keep a supply of different strikers around for a varied turkey vocabulary.
4. Try a diaphragm call. These are the most popular turkey calls, yet are the most difficult to learn for beginners. These particular calls are placed in the roof of the mouth, and the tongue is placed in front of the call to produce the sounds. This type of call also allows free use of the hands while calling.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use box calls when the turkey is in plain view. Turkeys have much better eyesight than humans and will spook at any unnatural movement.
• When calling a turkey, never call too loudly as this may spook the bird as well. If a turkey is calling back and coming closer, lower the call to confuse the bird and hide the hunter's location.
• Use extreme caution when hunting to prevent serious injuries.