The Freak Nasty Call Made a Bold First Impression
The Freak Nasty Call, recommended by Michael Waddell, promises to be a game-changer in the turkey woods. With its three latex reeds and double bat wing cut, it claims to fool even the wariest gobblers, offering both aggressive calling power and seductive soft yelps. I was seeking a diaphragm call that could handle the full spectrum of turkey vocalizations.
My search began after a frustrating season where I struggled to coax pressured birds using my old, worn-out call. I wanted something versatile and reliable. The Freak Nasty Call immediately stood out because of its aggressive sound promise alongside soft calling capabilities. Upon unboxing, the Freak Nasty Call felt well-constructed, though simple in design. The latex reeds were thin but seemed securely fastened.
Compared to my older single-reed call and a friend’s custom-made four-reed, the Freak Nasty Call felt like a good middle ground in terms of complexity. I chose it over others mainly due to the Michael Waddell endorsement and the promise of versatility. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic; its price point seemed almost too good to be true.
Real-World Testing: Putting Freak Nasty Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test occurred on a scouting trip in early spring, deep in the oak-hickory forests of southern Missouri. I wanted to assess the call’s performance in a realistic setting before opening day. The weather was damp, with a light drizzle adding an extra layer of challenge. The Freak Nasty Call required a slight adjustment period.
It took me about fifteen minutes to find the sweet spot and produce consistent, clean yelps. Once I got the hang of it, the call performed admirably, even in the wet conditions. I was surprised by its ability to project sound over a considerable distance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full turkey season, spanning several weeks of dedicated hunting, the Freak Nasty Call has proven to be remarkably resilient. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear. The reeds are still intact and maintain their original tone. Cleaning is simple.
A quick rinse with water after each use seems to be all that’s needed to keep it in good working order. This call outperforms my previous diaphragm calls in terms of both durability and versatility. It provides a wider range of realistic turkey sounds than I was previously able to achieve.
Breaking Down the Features of Freak Nasty Call
Specifications
The Freak Nasty Call is a diaphragm-style turkey call featuring a three-reed latex construction with a double bat wing cut. This design is intended to produce a wide range of turkey vocalizations. Its lightweight construction ensures comfort during extended calling sessions. These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the call’s sound quality, ease of use, and overall effectiveness in attracting turkeys.
Performance & Functionality
The Freak Nasty Call performs admirably across a spectrum of turkey vocalizations, from aggressive cuts and cackles to soft yelps and clucks. It excels at producing realistic sounds that mimic a variety of hen turkeys. The call’s versatility makes it a valuable tool in different hunting scenarios.
Its strengths lie in its ability to create both loud, attention-grabbing calls and subtle, seductive sounds. It’s a call that can reach out over long distances to bring the toms in. The only slight weakness is the initial learning curve to find the optimal mouth positioning. Ultimately, the Freak Nasty Call exceeds expectations for a diaphragm call in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Freak Nasty Call is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The latex reeds are securely mounted on the frame. The overall weight is negligible. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit inside the mouth.
There is a minimal learning curve. After a few practice sessions, hunters can master the basics and begin producing realistic turkey sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The Freak Nasty Call, when properly cared for, should easily last an entire turkey season, possibly longer. The latex reeds are durable enough to withstand repeated use. Basic maintenance involves rinsing the call with water after each use and storing it in a dry place.
No specialized tools or skills are required for upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Freak Nasty Call does not come with any additional accessories. It’s a standalone product designed to be used as-is. Customization is limited, though some hunters may experiment with trimming the reeds to alter the sound.
It is also compatible with call keepers available from many brands.
Pros and Cons of Freak Nasty Call
Pros
- Produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds.
- Offers both aggressive and soft calling capabilities.
- Excellent value for the price.
- Relatively durable construction.
- Recommended by Michael Waddell.
Cons
- Requires some practice to master.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Freak Nasty Call?
The Freak Nasty Call is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. Its versatility makes it well-suited for various hunting scenarios. Hunters who appreciate high-quality gear at an affordable price will find this call particularly appealing.
Hunters who prefer highly customized or specialized calls might want to explore other options. There are no must-have accessories, but a call keeper for storage is recommended.
Conclusion on Freak Nasty Call
The Freak Nasty Call is a surprisingly effective and versatile turkey call, especially considering its budget-friendly price. The value proposition is exceptional. The quality of sound and the ability to produce both aggressive and soft calls are impressive.
I would definitely recommend it to any turkey hunter looking to upgrade their arsenal. Grab a Freak Nasty Call and get ready to fool those stubborn gobblers this season. It delivers on its promise and exceeds expectations.