First Impressions of Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call promises to be an all-around turkey calling solution, bridging the gap between beginner and expert users. Bone Collector, a brand synonymous with hunting prowess, aims to deliver accurate and effective calls with this tri-combo double reed design. This particular call caught my eye due to the promise of less pressure being required, which, after years of calling, is something my embouchure appreciates.
My pursuit of the perfect turkey call is a never-ending quest. I’ve been chasing gobblers for over a decade, and I’m always searching for that edge – the call that perfectly mimics a hen’s sweet talk. I was hoping the Hotshot Mouth Call would provide that elusive sound.
Upon receiving the package, I immediately noticed the compact size and simple packaging. The build quality appears solid enough for a diaphragm call at this price point. Holding it up to the light, the reeds seem properly aligned, and the tape is securely adhered.
I’ve used a variety of mouth calls over the years, from Primos to Zink Calls. I chose the Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call primarily because of the “less pressure required” claim and the unique third cut in the half-moon reed configuration. I was curious to see if it would deliver a more nasally front end as advertised. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; diaphragm calls are finicky and require practice.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call during a recent scouting trip in the Appalachian foothills. The early morning mist hung heavy in the air, providing perfect conditions for sound testing. I tried a variety of calls, from soft purrs to aggressive cuts, to gauge its versatility.
The Hotshot performed admirably in the damp conditions, maintaining its tonal quality and responsiveness. It took a little getting used to the unique reed configuration. The “less pressure” claim held true. I could produce a decent call without straining my jaw. However, achieving consistent, clean notes took practice. After about an hour, I started to get the hang of it, producing some convincing yelps and clucks.
There were no immediate issues with the call itself, although I found it a bit challenging to control the raspiness at first.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent practice and a couple of unsuccessful hunts (through no fault of the call, I might add!), the Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call has proven to be surprisingly durable. The reeds show no signs of fraying or warping, and the tape remains firmly attached. Regular cleaning with mouthwash has kept it sanitary and fresh.
The durability is impressive for a call in this price range. A few of my previous calls from other manufacturers began to fall apart after only a few hunts.
Maintaining the Hotshot is simple. I rinse it with mouthwash after each use and store it in a small, breathable container. Compared to other diaphragm calls I’ve used, this one seems to hold its tune relatively well. Overall, the Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call is exceeding my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call
Specifications
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call features a tri-combo double reed design. It is designed for all skill levels, beginner to expert. The additional third cut in the half-moon supposedly creates a nasally front end.
- Manufacturer: Bone Collector
- Additional Features: No
- Length: 6 cm (approximately 2.36 inches)
- Height: 0.75 inches
- Weight: 0.06 lb (approximately 0.96 ounces)
- Width: 3.75 inches
These specifications are crucial for a mouth call. The dimensions dictate comfort and fit in the mouth, while the reed design directly impacts sound quality and ease of use. The lightweight design ensures that the user won’t experience mouth fatigue during long calling sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call excels at producing a variety of turkey sounds, from soft clucks and purrs to aggressive yelps and cuts. Its versatility is a major strength. The “less pressure required” design truly makes a difference. This is especially appreciated during longer calling sequences.
However, mastering the nuances of the Hotshot takes practice. New users might find it initially challenging to control the rasp and pitch. While not the easiest call for beginners, it is not the hardest either.
The call meets most expectations for a diaphragm call in this price range. It provides an acceptable sound quality and satisfactory level of ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call is designed for comfort and ease of use. The materials used are standard for a diaphragm call: thin latex reeds and adhesive tape. The overall weight is negligible, which is essential for extended calling periods.
The design is fairly user-friendly, though a slight learning curve is to be expected with any new mouth call. Proper placement and air control are crucial for achieving optimal sound quality.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hotshot appears to be constructed with decent quality materials. With proper care and cleaning, it should last for at least one to two hunting seasons. The latex reeds are the most vulnerable component.
Maintenance involves rinsing with mouthwash after each use and storing in a dry, breathable container. With care and proper storage, the Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call should offer reasonable longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Diaphragm calls are typically used as is, with no customization options. However, some users might prefer to experiment with different tape placements to adjust the fit and sound.
The call is compatible with standard mouth call cases for storage and protection.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call
Pros
- Versatile Sound Production: Capable of producing a wide range of realistic turkey vocalizations.
- Less Pressure Required: Reduces mouth fatigue, especially during long calling sessions.
- Durable Construction: Holds up well with regular use and proper maintenance.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for beginner to intermediate turkey hunters.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and store in any hunting vest or pack.
Cons
- Initial Learning Curve: Requires practice to master proper placement and air control.
- Limited Customization: No options for adjusting the reeds or frame.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call?
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call is perfect for beginner to intermediate turkey hunters looking for an affordable and versatile diaphragm call. Hunters who struggle with mouth fatigue will also appreciate the “less pressure required” design.
Hunters seeking a highly specialized or easily mastered call should explore other options. The Hotshot is not a magic bullet for calling in stubborn gobblers.
A small carrying case for storing the call between hunts would be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call
The Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call offers a solid balance of versatility, durability, and affordability. While it requires some practice to master, its ability to produce a wide range of realistic turkey sounds makes it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s arsenal.
At a price of $10.99, the Hotshot is undoubtedly a good value. It is an inexpensive way to get a mouth call with satisfactory performance.
I would definitely recommend the Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call to beginner and intermediate turkey hunters. It is a reliable and versatile call that won’t break the bank. So grab a Bone Collector The Hotshot Mouth Call and get out there and chase those gobblers!