First Impressions of Bone Collector The Provocateur
The Bone Collector The Provocateur box call arrives promising a blend of elegance and effectiveness, a testament to Bone Collector’s commitment to quality. As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve handled countless calls, but the promise of realistic, two-toned yelps capable of cutting through windy conditions piqued my interest. This call aims to provide the experienced hunter with an elegant and nasty sounding solution for tough weather.
I was seeking a box call that not only produced authentic turkey sounds but also possessed a refined aesthetic – something I wouldn’t mind showcasing. The Bone Collector The Provocateur seemed to strike that balance, unlike some purely utilitarian options on the market.
Unboxing The Provocateur, I immediately appreciated the glossy finish highlighting the natural mahogany grain of the box and the contrasting walnut lid. The ergonomic shape felt comfortable in my hand, suggesting extended use wouldn’t be a chore. Comparing it to my older slate call and a mass-produced plastic box call, the Bone Collector option clearly stood out as more sophisticated and promising higher sound quality. The weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, a sign of quality materials.
My first impression was excitement tinged with cautious optimism. Box calls can be finicky; I hoped The Provocateur would live up to its promise of realistic sounds and wind-penetrating performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector The Provocateur to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with The Provocateur was a spring turkey hunt in the rolling hills of Kentucky. The wind was gusting, a common challenge for diaphragm and friction calls, making this a perfect testing ground for its touted wind-cutting capabilities. The call felt natural in my hand.
Initially, I needed a few minutes to find the sweet spot, but soon I was producing clear, resonant yelps and clucks. The sound carried well despite the wind, and to my delight, a tom responded from across the ridge. This gave me confidence in the Bone Collector The Provocateur.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use across various hunts and practice sessions, The Provocateur has proven remarkably reliable. The finish still looks new, and the sound quality has remained consistent. The mahogany and walnut construction shows no signs of wear, despite being subjected to damp mornings and dusty afternoons.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use keeps it in top condition. It outperforms my previous box call, producing more realistic sounds with less effort. This positions it as a mainstay in my hunting vest.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector The Provocateur
Specifications
The Bone Collector The Provocateur boasts a one-piece mahogany box construction, paired with a walnut lid. This combination of materials is known for its resonance and durability, providing a rich, authentic sound.
The Provocateur’s key feature is its custom tuning, allowing it to produce realistic 2-toned yelps, clucks, and cutts. This is particularly effective on windy days when other calls might struggle.
Performance & Functionality
The Provocateur performs exceptionally well in producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations. Its ability to cut through wind is a significant advantage, ensuring calls reach distant gobblers even in challenging conditions. The consistent sound quality and ease of use make it a reliable tool for both novice and experienced hunters.
The only slight weakness I observed was the sensitivity of the lid adjustment; too tight, and the sound becomes muffled; too loose, and it loses its crispness. However, once dialed in, The Provocateur exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The mahogany box and walnut lid are aesthetically pleasing, offering a touch of elegance rarely found in hunting gear. The ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand, allowing for prolonged use without fatigue.
The glossy finish is both attractive and functional, providing a good grip even in wet conditions. There is a minimal learning curve. Most users should be able to produce realistic sounds with minimal practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of mahogany and walnut ensures long-lasting durability. With proper care, this call should last for many seasons. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and minimal adjustments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector The Provocateur does not come with additional accessories. It is primarily designed as a standalone unit.
Given its design, customization options are limited to potentially refinishing the wood or adding a lanyard for easier carry. It is compatible with standard call conditioners and cleaners to maintain optimal sound quality.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector The Provocateur
Pros
- Produces realistic, two-toned yelps, clucks, and cutts, effectively mimicking a wild turkey’s vocalizations.
- Its mahogany and walnut construction not only looks elegant but also ensures lasting durability.
- Custom-tuned for optimal performance, it excels even in windy conditions.
- User-friendly design makes it easy to produce consistent, quality sounds, even for beginners.
- Provides a quality sound that carries well, which is critical for reaching distant gobblers.
Cons
- The lid adjustment can be sensitive, requiring careful fine-tuning to achieve optimal sound.
- Limited customization options may disappoint hunters seeking to personalize their gear.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector The Provocateur?
The Bone Collector The Provocateur is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels who appreciate quality craftsmanship and authentic sound. It’s particularly beneficial for those hunting in areas prone to windy conditions.
Hunters seeking extreme customization or those strictly on a budget might want to explore other options. A lanyard or small bag for carrying it might be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Bone Collector The Provocateur
The Bone Collector The Provocateur is more than just a turkey call; it’s a piece of finely crafted equipment that delivers exceptional performance. The price is justified by its superior sound quality, durability, and elegant design.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any turkey hunter looking to elevate their game. Invest in The Provocateur; you won’t be disappointed.