The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call Made a Bold First Impression
Like many seasoned hunters, I’m always searching for that edge, that one subtle advantage that can turn a frustrating day in the field into a triumphant one. The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call, manufactured by Zink, promised to be just that – a versatile and affordable call capable of producing a range of turkey vocalizations. I was particularly drawn to its double reed design and the “ghost cut” notch, which supposedly allows for everything from high-pitched kee-kees to raspy yelps.
My usual slate call had become cumbersome, and I needed something more compact and adaptable for the upcoming spring turkey season. I was also looking to refine my calling techniques. I had been eyeing other mouth calls, particularly those from Primos and Flextone, but the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call’s price point and purported versatility sealed the deal.
The packaging was simple and functional, and upon opening it, the call itself appeared well-constructed. The reeds were neatly aligned, and the tape felt secure. My initial thought was, “This tiny thing can produce all those sounds?” I was eager to put it to the test.
Compared to my old single-reed diaphragm call, the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call felt different against the roof of my mouth. I was initially a little intimidated, but also intrigued. My first impression was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call during the opening weekend of spring turkey season in the rugged hills of eastern Kentucky. The weather was unpredictable, fluctuating between damp mornings and dry afternoons. This presented a perfect opportunity to gauge its performance in varied conditions.
The first few attempts at yelping were, frankly, embarrassing. My calls sounded more like strangled cat noises than seductive turkey talk. After about an hour of practice, though, I started to get the hang of it. The double reed design required a different air pressure and tongue placement than I was used to.
The initial struggle aside, I found the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call surprisingly easy to use once I adapted to the technique. It did take some experimentation to find the sweet spot for different calls.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, both in the field and during practice sessions, the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of the tape peeling or the reeds becoming warped. I store it in a small, airtight container to protect it from moisture and dust.
Cleaning is relatively simple. After each use, I rinse it with warm water and let it air dry completely. This helps to prevent the buildup of saliva and bacteria, which can affect the sound quality and longevity of the call. Compared to some of the more elaborate calls I’ve used in the past, like a pot call with strikers that need conditioning, the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call is incredibly low maintenance.
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of care. It outperforms my old diaphragm call in terms of the range of sounds I can produce.
Breaking Down the Features of Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call
Specifications
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call features two pieces of thin .003″ latex. This allows for a wider range of tones and pitches. A “ghost cut” notch is present through the top reed. The ghost cut aids in producing different calls.
The call is designed for both spring and fall turkey hunting. Its compact size makes it easily portable and concealable. These features allow the call to be used in a variety of hunting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call excels at producing a diverse range of turkey vocalizations. With practice, it can accurately mimic yelps, clucks, purrs, kee-kees, and whistles. The “ghost cut” indeed aids in achieving a more realistic and raspy sound.
The call’s strength lies in its versatility. Its main weakness is the learning curve for inexperienced mouth call users.
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call ultimately meets expectations for its price point. I have come to rely on it as a versatile tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call is constructed from high-quality latex and durable tape. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods.
The call’s small size allows it to fit discreetly in the mouth, minimizing movement and maximizing concealment. There’s a definite learning curve involved in mastering the proper air pressure and tongue control needed to produce realistic sounds. The design is simple but effective.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call should last through multiple hunting seasons. The latex reeds are susceptible to tearing or warping if not handled carefully.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply rinse the call with warm water after each use and allow it to air dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call does not come with any additional accessories. However, there are no customization options available for the call itself.
The nature of the call prevents additional customization. It is not compatible with accessories.
Pros and Cons of Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call
Pros
- Versatile: Capable of producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations, making it suitable for different hunting situations.
- Affordable: Priced at just $5.99, the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call offers excellent value for money.
- Compact & Lightweight: Easy to carry and conceal, allowing for minimal movement and maximum discretion.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality latex and durable tape, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Realistic Sound: The “ghost cut” notch helps produce a raspy and authentic turkey sound.
Cons
- Difficult Learning Curve: Requires practice and patience to master proper air pressure and tongue control.
- Potential for Reeds to Tear: The latex reeds can be susceptible to damage if not handled carefully.
Who Should Buy Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call?
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call is perfect for both beginner and experienced turkey hunters looking for a versatile and affordable call. It’s also a great option for hunters who prefer mouth calls over other types, such as pot calls or box calls.
Those who are unwilling to dedicate time to practicing and mastering the technique of using a mouth call should skip this product. Hunters who prefer louder, more aggressive calls might also find the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call to be too subtle.
A lanyard to keep the call easily accessible is a must-have accessory. A small, airtight container for storing and protecting the call is also recommended.
Conclusion on Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call
The Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call is a surprisingly effective and versatile turkey call that delivers excellent value for its modest price. While it does require some practice to master, the ability to produce a wide range of realistic turkey vocalizations makes it a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal.
The price is definitely justified, considering the call’s performance and durability. It stands tall as a reliable tool.
I would absolutely recommend the Zink Lost Lady Mouth Call to anyone looking for an affordable and effective turkey call. So, go out there, practice your calling, and get ready to bag that big tom!