Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call Review

First Impressions of Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call arrives promising a versatile calling solution for all weather conditions. Marketed by Bone Collector, this pot call aims to deliver realistic hen sounds with its cherry pot, aluminum surface, and weatherproof hickory striker. I was initially drawn to this call because of its reputation for all-weather performance, a crucial factor during unpredictable turkey seasons.

I’ve hunted turkeys for over a decade, and weather often dictates success. I’ve used various calls – box, diaphragm, and other pot calls – but I’ve never found one that consistently performs in rain or extreme humidity. My previous experiences with moisture-sensitive calls failing at critical moments during hunts fueled my search for a reliable, all-weather option, hence my interest in the Ol Weathered Hen.

Unboxing the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call, my initial impressions were positive. The cherry pot felt solid, and the anodized aluminum surface seemed well-finished. The hickory striker had a nice weight, and the weatherproof tip gave me confidence in its durability. Compared to my slate-over-glass pot call, the Ol Weathered Hen felt more robust, and its non-glare finish was a welcome change from calls that reflect sunlight and potentially spook birds.

I also considered the Primos Wet Box call and the Zink Calls Thunder Ridge aluminum pot call. The Primos Wet Box claimed weather resistance, but its box design seemed bulky for carrying through dense woods. The Zink Calls Thunder Ridge offered a similar aluminum surface, but lacked the specific “weatherproof” striker tip touted by the Bone Collector. I chose the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call primarily for its all-weather focus and the reputation of the Bone Collector brand.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The call felt and looked well-made, but the true test would be its performance in the field. I was excited to put the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call through its paces and see if it could live up to its all-weather claims.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call occurred during a spring turkey hunt in the Ozark Mountains. The weather was typical for the region: a mix of sunshine and intermittent light rain. I used the call in a variety of scenarios, from open fields to dense hardwood forests, attempting to mimic the sounds of a lost hen.

The call performed admirably in the dry conditions, producing crisp, high-pitched yelps and clear, loud clicks. However, the real test came when the rain started. Unlike my slate call, the Ol Weathered Hen’s aluminum surface didn’t immediately become muted or require constant conditioning. While the sound did change slightly, it still produced convincing calls. I was able to effectively call in a tom despite the rain. The weatherproof striker tip maintained consistent contact with the aluminum surface, unlike traditional wooden strikers that can swell and lose their effectiveness when wet.

There was a slight learning curve in mastering the call’s nuances. Initially, I struggled to get the exact tone I wanted, but after about an hour of practice, I felt confident. The only issue I encountered was a slight “ringing” sound at certain angles, which required adjusting my hand placement to dampen.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use, the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The cherry pot shows no signs of cracking or warping, and the aluminum surface has resisted scratches and dents. I have used it in a variety of weather conditions, from freezing mornings to hot, humid afternoons.

The call has consistently performed well, even after being exposed to moisture, dirt, and dust. I have noticed minimal wear on the striker tip. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a dry cloth after each use keeps the call in top condition.

Compared to my previous slate and glass pot calls, the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and all-weather reliability. While slate offers a softer, more subtle tone in ideal conditions, the Ol Weathered Hen’s consistent performance in diverse environments makes it my go-to call. The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call has met and exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call

Specifications

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call features a cherry pot, providing a solid base for sound projection. Its anodized aluminum surface ensures all-weather performance and produces high-pitched yelps, loud clicks, and puts. The call comes with a hickory striker that is equipped with a weatherproof tip designed to maintain consistent contact in wet conditions. The non-glare finish minimizes reflection and spooking of wary turkeys.

• Weight: 0.42 lb.
• Height: 1.5 in.
• Length: 11 in.
• Width: 7 in.

These specifications are crucial to the call’s performance and user experience. The weight is light enough for easy carry, while the dimensions provide a comfortable grip and ample surface area for creating a variety of sounds. The cherry pot provides durability, while the aluminum surface delivers the call’s signature sound, making it great for cutting through wind and long distances.

Performance & Functionality

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call excels at producing a range of realistic turkey vocalizations. Its ability to create high-pitched yelps, loud clicks, and soft puts makes it versatile for different hunting scenarios. The call is particularly effective at cutting through wind and reaching distant turkeys, which is a valuable asset in open terrain.

The call’s greatest strength is its all-weather performance. The weatherproof striker tip and aluminum surface allow it to function reliably in rain, humidity, and even light snow, where slate and glass calls often fail. A minor weakness is the potential for a “ringing” sound at certain angles, which requires adjusting hand placement. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a pot call in various hunting environments.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call boasts a thoughtful design prioritizing both functionality and comfort. The cherry pot provides a comfortable grip and a balanced feel in the hand. The non-glare finish is a practical addition, preventing unwanted reflections that could spook turkeys.

While there’s a slight learning curve in mastering the nuances of the call, it’s generally user-friendly. The quality of the materials used are high, contributing to the call’s overall durability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call is built to withstand the rigors of turkey hunting. The cherry pot is resistant to cracking and warping, and the aluminum surface is durable. The hickory striker is also well-made, and the weatherproof tip should extend its lifespan.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe with a dry cloth after each use. The call’s robust construction suggests it will last for many seasons with proper care, and no specific repair options are noted as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call comes with a hickory striker featuring a weatherproof tip. The product details do not mention additional customization options. As a standard pot call design, accessories are limited to different strikers.

While there may not be specific Bone Collector branded accessories, the call is compatible with many aftermarket strikers. Experimenting with different materials (e.g., carbon, acrylic) can slightly alter the sound.

Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call

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Who Should Buy Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call?

Perfect for turkey hunters who frequently hunt in wet or unpredictable weather conditions. Also great for hunters who prefer the consistent performance of an aluminum pot call over the more delicate slate or glass options.

Hunters who prioritize maximum customization options or prefer the softer, more subtle tones of slate calls should skip this product. Also, those extremely sensitive to unwanted ringing sounds may wish to research and consider this trait when buying.

A must-have accessory would be a striker conditioning kit to maintain the rough surface and maximize the call’s sound quality over time. While the weatherproof tip is designed for durability, periodic maintenance will ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion on Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call

The Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call is a solid, reliable choice for turkey hunters seeking all-weather performance. Its ability to maintain consistent sound quality in rain and humidity sets it apart from traditional pot calls. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the potential for a “ringing” sound and limited customization options, the call’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

At $67.99, the price is justified considering the call’s durability, versatility, and all-weather reliability. The call is a solid value proposition for those who require a dependable call that performs in all situations.

I would personally recommend the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call to any turkey hunter who faces unpredictable weather conditions. It’s a valuable tool that will increase your chances of success, even when the odds are stacked against you. Invest in the Bone Collector Ol Weathered Hen Pot Call and experience the confidence of knowing your call will perform, rain or shine.