The Thunder Yelper Made a Bold First Impression
Turkey hunting has always been more than just a sport to me; it’s a tradition passed down through generations. The thrill of the hunt, the challenge of calling in a wary tom, and the satisfaction of a successful harvest are experiences I cherish. So, when I first heard about the Thunder Yelper from flextone, promising a simple yet effective way to create seductive hen sounds, I was immediately intrigued.
I’ve always struggled with diaphragm calls. I needed a handheld call that would consistently produce realistic yelps without requiring the constant practice of a mouth call.
Unboxing the Thunder Yelper, I was struck by its compact design and lightweight feel. The molded plastic felt durable, and the double-sided sound chamber seemed well-constructed.
Compared to other friction calls I’ve used in the past, like slate or glass calls, the Thunder Yelper stood out due to its ease of use. Slate calls can be finicky with moisture, and glass calls sometimes require a specific striker angle. The Thunder Yelper promised consistent sound with minimal effort, which was a major selling point for me.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this simple-looking call really deliver on its promise of easy, realistic hen sounds? Only time and a trip to the woods would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thunder Yelper to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Thunder Yelper was a heavily wooded area in Central Texas, known for its dense population of Eastern wild turkeys. I tested it during both early morning and late afternoon hunts, in varying weather conditions. The temperatures ranged from a chilly 45 degrees Fahrenheit in the morning to a mild 65 degrees in the afternoon.
The Thunder Yelper proved incredibly easy to use right out of the package. The Flex It technology allowed me to produce a range of soft yelps with minimal effort. I was able to create consistent and realistic hen sounds without the frustration I often experience with other types of calls.
There were no immediate issues. The call worked flawlessly, producing consistent sound even in slightly damp conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Thunder Yelper in various hunting scenarios, I can confidently say that it has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite being carried in my vest pocket during multiple hunts. The molded plastic construction seems quite durable.
Cleaning the Thunder Yelper is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any dirt or debris. It has consistently outperformed my expectations.
Compared to previous experiences with more complex or delicate turkey calls, the Thunder Yelper has proven to be a reliable and user-friendly option. Its consistent performance and ease of maintenance make it a valuable addition to my hunting gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Thunder Yelper
Specifications
The Thunder Yelper is a handheld mouth call designed for producing soft to mid-range hen turkey sounds. It utilizes Flex It technology and a double-sided sound chamber. The call is constructed from molded plastic and is designed for easy operation.
The Flex It technology allows for variable tones and yelps. The double-sided sound chamber amplifies the sounds produced, making them more audible to distant turkeys.
Performance & Functionality
The Thunder Yelper excels at producing soft, seductive hen yelps, clucks, and purrs. The realistic sound quality is particularly effective for luring in wary toms at close range. Its strength lies in its ease of use and consistent sound production.
While the Thunder Yelper is excellent for soft to mid-range calls, it may not be the best choice for producing loud, aggressive cutts or fighting purrs.
The Thunder Yelper met my expectations and quickly became one of my go-to calls for close-range turkey hunting scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The molded plastic construction of the Thunder Yelper feels durable and lightweight. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a vest pocket or lanyard. The call is comfortable to hold and operate, even with gloves on.
The Thunder Yelper is exceptionally user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple design and molded plastic construction, the Thunder Yelper should last for many seasons with proper care. It requires minimal maintenance.
A quick wipe-down after each use is usually sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thunder Yelper does not come with any additional accessories. However, its simplicity lends itself well to being paired with other calls for a more varied sound presentation. There are no customization options available for the call itself.
The Thunder Yelper is compatible with any standard lanyard for easy carry.
Pros and Cons of Thunder Yelper
Pros
- Produces realistic soft to mid-range hen sounds.
- Extremely easy to use, even for beginners.
- Durable molded plastic construction.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy carry.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Not ideal for loud, aggressive calls.
- Limited sound variation compared to more complex calls.
Who Should Buy Thunder Yelper?
The Thunder Yelper is perfect for beginner turkey hunters looking for an easy-to-use and effective call. It’s also an excellent option for experienced hunters who want a reliable call for producing soft, seductive hen sounds at close range. This call is great for hunters needing a dependable backup call.
Those who prefer to create a wide range of turkey sounds, including loud cutts and fighting purrs, might want to consider a diaphragm call or a combination of different call types.
A lanyard for easy carry is a must-have accessory. Pairing it with a slate or glass call can provide a more complete sound repertoire.
Conclusion on Thunder Yelper
The Thunder Yelper is a remarkably effective and user-friendly turkey call that delivers on its promise of easy, realistic hen sounds. Its simple design, durable construction, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced hunters.
The price of $12.49 is absolutely justified. It’s a steal for the quality and performance you get.
I would definitely recommend the Thunder Yelper to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use turkey call. Give the Thunder Yelper a try this season and experience the thrill of calling in a gobbler with its seductive hen sounds. You won’t be disappointed.