First Impressions of Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call
The Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call, crafted by Bone Collector, immediately strikes me as a tool designed for the mobile turkey hunter. It’s compact size and promise of a “BIG sound” are intriguing, especially for someone like me who values both portability and performance in my calling instruments. Having spent over a decade chasing gobblers across diverse terrains, I’m always on the lookout for gear that can offer versatility and reliability without weighing me down.
My motivation for acquiring the Booger Bottom Box Call stemmed from a need for a compact, easily carried call that doesn’t compromise on sound quality. I’ve grown tired of lugging around bulky box calls that clang against everything in my pack. The promise of pocket-sized convenience with the projection of a larger call was undeniably appealing.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was its size and the feel of the materials. The cherry lid over the poplar box gives it a classic look, and it feels solid in my hand. The compact design is genuinely pocket-friendly, a definite plus. My initial thought was whether such a small instrument could truly deliver the promised volume and realistic turkey sounds.
I considered other compact box calls, such as the Primos Lil’ Hot Box and the HS Strut Mini Box, but the Bone Collector’s reputation for quality and the unique combination of cherry and poplar swayed my decision. I also liked the promise of it being hand-tuned, a detail that often translates to better sound quality. I was cautiously optimistic and eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call during a spring turkey hunt in the rolling hills of Eastern Kentucky. The weather was typical for that time of year – a mix of damp mornings and warm afternoons. I mainly used it from concealed positions along field edges and within hardwood forests.
The call performed surprisingly well in these varied conditions. The cherry lid moved smoothly across the poplar box, even with a bit of morning dew present. I found it easy to produce a variety of calls, from soft yelps to more aggressive cuts and clucks. There was a slight learning curve in mastering the pressure and angle required for different sounds, but I quickly got the hang of it.
My initial surprise came from the volume the Booger Bottom generated, considering its small size. It wasn’t ear-splitting, but it carried well through the woods. There were no immediate issues, and I managed to call in a couple of hens and even coaxed a gobbler into strutting range, though he ultimately hung up just outside of shotgun range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the spring turkey season, the Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call has held up admirably. The cherry lid shows no signs of warping or cracking, and the poplar box remains structurally sound. A few minor scratches are visible from being carried in my vest pocket, but these are purely cosmetic.
Maintaining the call has been simple. I occasionally wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or moisture. I have yet to apply any chalk or conditioner, as the sound remains consistent. Compared to some of my other calls that require frequent maintenance, the Booger Bottom is remarkably low-maintenance.
It outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and portability. I’ve always relied on larger, more expensive calls in the past, but the Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call has proven that big sound can come in a small package. It has quickly become my go-to call for situations where mobility and ease of use are paramount.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call
Specifications
- The Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call features a cherry lid over a poplar box. This combination is known for producing clear and resonant tones.
- It measures 5 inches in width, 2.75 inches in height, and a mere 13 mm in length (thickness), while weighing only 0.28 oz. These compact dimensions and light weight make it exceptionally easy to carry.
- The call is hand-tuned. This ensures a consistent and realistic sound right out of the box.
- The manufacturer is Bone Collector. They are known for their quality hunting calls and equipment.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the call’s portability, ease of use, and sound quality. The compact size makes it ideal for run-and-gun hunting. The hand-tuned construction ensures that it produces realistic turkey sounds that can effectively attract birds.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call excels at producing a variety of turkey vocalizations. It creates convincing yelps, clucks, cuts, and purrs.
Its strength lies in its ability to produce clear, crisp sounds with minimal effort. The main weakness is that experienced callers might find its compact size slightly limiting in terms of the complexity of sounds they can produce compared to larger, more resonant box calls. However, it certainly meets and even exceeds expectations for a call of its size and price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The cherry and poplar wood are well-finished, and the call feels solid and durable.
It’s incredibly user-friendly. The compact size fits comfortably in the hand, and the smooth action of the lid makes it easy to produce consistent sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its solid construction, the Booger Bottom Box Call should last for many seasons with proper care. It requires minimal maintenance – simply keeping it clean and dry is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call does not come with any additional accessories. Due to its simple design, there are no real customization options. It’s designed to be used as-is, which speaks to its ready-to-hunt nature.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call
Pros
- Exceptional Portability: Its compact size makes it incredibly easy to carry in a pocket or vest.
- Clear, Crisp Sound: The cherry and poplar construction produces realistic turkey sounds that carry well.
- Ease of Use: It’s simple to master, even for beginners.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of hunting.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Limited Sound Complexity: Experienced callers might find it less versatile than larger calls.
- No Customization Options: Cannot be modified or accessorized.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call?
The Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call is perfect for turkey hunters who prioritize portability and ease of use. It’s an excellent choice for run-and-gun hunters, beginners, and anyone looking for a reliable backup call.
Those who demand the most complex and nuanced turkey calls might find it somewhat limiting. Hunters who prefer customizable calls should also consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a small lanyard to attach it to your vest to prevent loss. Otherwise, it’s ready to go right out of the box.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call
The Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call is a surprisingly effective and remarkably portable turkey call. Its clear, crisp sound and ease of use make it a standout choice for hunters of all skill levels.
At a price of $36.99, the value proposition is undeniable. It offers performance comparable to more expensive calls while remaining incredibly compact and easy to carry.
I would absolutely recommend the Bone Collector Booger Bottom Box Call to anyone looking for a reliable and portable turkey call. If you’re tired of lugging around bulky calls or want a simple, effective option for run-and-gun hunting, this is the call for you. Get yours today and experience the big sound in a small package!