First Impressions of Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series is a turkey call that promises to deliver a full range of turkey vocalizations with minimal effort, crafted by three-time National Champion Matthew Presley. This caught my attention because I’m always on the lookout for a call that’s both easy to use and capable of producing realistic sounds. A call that doesn’t require a ton of air to operate is also crucial for long days in the field.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a diaphragm call that consistently produces the sounds I need without sounding raspy or requiring Herculean lung capacity. I hoped this call would bridge the gap between ease of use and realistic turkey sounds, offering versatility in a compact package. My gear bag is overflowing with calls, but the promise of a call designed by a champion, one that could do it all, was too enticing to ignore.
Upon receiving the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series, my initial impression was favorable; its construction felt solid for such a lightweight item. It’s a 3-reed call, and the reeds seemed well-aligned and properly tensioned. Comparing it to my old Primos calls and a newer Woodhaven call, the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series felt lighter and potentially more comfortable to wear for extended periods. I chose this one because of Presley’s reputation and the claim of its versatility.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality seemed good, and the design hinted at ease of use, but the true test would be in the field. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another call destined for the bottom of my hunting vest?
Real-World Testing: Putting Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series on a spring turkey hunt in the Missouri Ozarks. The weather was typical for spring: damp, with temperatures fluctuating between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the day. I primarily hunted hardwood ridges and creek bottoms.
The call performed admirably in the damp conditions; the reeds didn’t stick or become waterlogged as quickly as some of my other calls have in the past. It was easy to produce a clear front-end yelp, just as advertised. I appreciated the minimal air required, especially after several hours of hiking and calling.
Initially, I struggled to achieve the full range of sounds described in the product description. It took some practice to get the clucks, cuts, and purrs sounding realistic. After about an hour of practice, I was able to consistently produce convincing calls.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series has held up remarkably well. There is minimal wear and tear on the reeds. The frame has retained its shape and integrity.
Cleaning is simple: I just rinse it with water after each hunt and let it air dry. I’ve noticed no degradation in sound quality or performance over time. Comparing it to my previous diaphragm calls, the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series has proven to be more durable and easier to maintain.
It has quickly become one of my go-to calls. Its reliability and ease of use have made it a valuable tool in my turkey hunting arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Dead End Game Calls
- Design: 3-reed diaphragm call, designed by three-time National Champion Matthew Presley. This emphasizes its expert design and multi-reed construction.
- Features: Produces a clear front end yelp, requires little air to run, capable of producing entire range of turkey vocabulary. These features are crucial for a versatile and effective call.
- Weight: 0.04 oz. This incredibly lightweight design contributes to comfort during long hunts.
- Width: 2.75 in.
- Height: 0.88 in.
- Length: 5 in.
These specifications are important because they indicate a lightweight, compact call that’s designed for versatility and ease of use. The focus on requiring little air is particularly appealing for hunters who spend long periods calling.
Performance & Functionality
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series performs exceptionally well, especially when it comes to producing realistic yelps. It’s easy to achieve a clear and consistent sound, even for beginners.
While the call claims to produce the entire range of turkey vocabulary, mastering all the sounds does require practice. With dedication, however, it is possible to achieve realistic clucks, cuts, purrs, and kee-kees. The main strength is its ability to create clear yelps with minimal effort, while the main weakness lies in the learning curve required to master the entire range of sounds.
The call mostly exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of ease of use and realistic yelps. It does take time to fully utilize its versatility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series features a simple, functional design. The lightweight construction makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
There’s minimal learning curve for producing basic yelps, but mastering the full range of calls takes time and practice. The call is user-friendly for those with some experience using diaphragm calls.
Durability & Maintenance
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series appears to be quite durable. After a full season of use, the reeds still sound great.
Maintenance is simple: rinse with water and air dry. The call should last for several seasons with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no readily available customization options for diaphragm calls beyond potentially trimming the reeds, a task best left to experienced callers.
The call is compatible with standard diaphragm call holders. Aftermarket accessories are generally not applicable to diaphragm calls.
Pros and Cons of Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series
Pros
- Clear Front End Yelp: Produces realistic yelps with minimal effort.
- Requires Little Air: Less strain on the diaphragm, ideal for long calling sessions.
- Versatile: Capable of producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations (with practice).
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Easy to wear for extended periods in the field.
- Durable: Holds up well to repeated use and cleaning.
Cons
- Requires practice to master the entire range of turkey vocabulary.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series?
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels, but especially beneficial for:
- Beginners looking for an easy-to-use call that produces realistic yelps.
- Experienced hunters who want a versatile call that requires minimal air.
- Hunters who prioritize lightweight and comfortable gear.
Hunters who are unwilling to practice and refine their calling techniques should skip this product. It requires some effort to master all the turkey vocalizations.
Must-have accessories include a diaphragm call holder. Also recommended is a call conditioning kit to prolong the life of the reeds.
Conclusion on Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series
The Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series is a well-designed and effective turkey call. Its ease of use, versatile sound capabilities, and lightweight construction make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s gear.
At $12.95, the price is definitely justified. It provides excellent value for the performance and durability it offers.
I would definitely recommend the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series to any turkey hunter looking for a reliable and versatile call. It is an excellent tool for both beginners and experienced callers alike. Add the Dead End Game Calls Matthew Presley Signature Series to your arsenal and experience the difference a quality call can make this turkey season!
