First Thoughts on the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER, specifically the Pro Series Red Wing MTH call, arrives promising a distinct advantage in the turkey woods. Woodhaven Custom Calls is a respected name, known for producing quality calls that deliver results. For a call priced at $13.49, it immediately piqued my interest – could it truly offer professional-grade performance without breaking the bank?
My quest for the perfect turkey call is a long and winding road. Each season, I’m searching for that specific tone that will coax even the most call-shy gobbler into range. I was looking for a diaphragm call that offered versatility, capable of producing realistic yelps, clucks, and purrs.
Upon unboxing, the call felt light and comfortable against the roof of my mouth. The build quality appeared solid for the price point, with a tightly stretched reed configuration. I immediately noticed its MTH cut, which I hoped would provide the rasp and realism I crave in a turkey call.
I’ve used calls from Primos and Zink Calls in the past. I chose the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER because I was intrigued by the MTH cut and the reputation of Woodhaven. My previous calls, while effective at times, sometimes lacked the subtle nuances needed to fool pressured birds.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The price was certainly appealing, and Woodhaven’s reputation preceded it. I was eager to get into the woods and see if the STINGER could truly live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER came during the opening weekend of turkey season in the rolling hills of southern Ohio. The weather was typical for spring – a mix of sunshine and intermittent rain showers. I sat against a large oak tree overlooking a field edge, hoping to strike up a conversation with a nearby tom.
The call required a bit of practice to master the MTH cut. Initially, my yelps were a bit too high-pitched, but with some adjustments to my air pressure and tongue placement, I was able to produce more realistic sounds. I successfully called in a jake with some soft clucks and purrs.
I didn’t experience any significant issues during the first use. The call remained consistent even when slightly wet from the humidity and occasional drizzle. I was pleasantly surprised by its ease of use after a brief period of adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER throughout the spring turkey season, it proved to be a reliable and versatile call. The latex reeds held up well to repeated use, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. I kept the call stored in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage and maintain its quality.
Cleaning was simple; I just rinsed it with water and allowed it to air dry. The STINGER consistently produced realistic turkey sounds, proving effective in various hunting scenarios. Compared to my previous experiences with other diaphragm calls, the STINGER offered a better balance of realism and ease of use, especially for its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER
Specifications
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER Pro Series Red Wing MTH call is a diaphragm-style turkey call designed to mimic the sounds of a hen turkey. It features a MTH cut in the latex reeds. The exact reed configuration details are not explicitly provided, but typically MTH cuts involve multiple reeds with specific cuts to create rasp and variation.
The call is constructed with high-quality latex for the reeds and a durable frame that fits comfortably in the mouth. The light weight is a key factor for comfortable extended use during long hunts. The MTH (Mouth Tongue Hybrid) cut is designed to allow for a wide range of realistic turkey sounds.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sound quality, ease of use, and overall effectiveness of the call. A well-designed reed cut, like the MTH, is crucial for producing realistic and varied turkey vocalizations. The durable latex construction ensures that the call can withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER performs admirably in its role as a turkey call. It excels at producing realistic yelps, clucks, purrs, and cutts, essential for attracting gobblers. The strengths of this call lie in its versatility and ability to create a wide range of turkey sounds with relative ease.
The primary weakness, especially for beginners, might be the initial learning curve required to master the MTH cut. It requires practice and experimentation to find the optimal air pressure and tongue placement for producing the desired sounds. The STINGER meets expectations for a call in its price range and even exceeds them in terms of versatility and sound quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER features a simple, functional design that prioritizes comfort and ease of use. The materials used are durable and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold in the mouth for extended periods. The frame is designed to fit snugly and securely without causing discomfort.
The call is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the MTH cut may require some practice. The MTH cut allows for a wide range of tones and variations, contributing to its realistic sound.
Durability & Maintenance
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of turkey hunting. The latex reeds are resistant to tearing and cracking, ensuring a long lifespan with proper care. With proper care and storage, the STINGER should last for multiple turkey seasons.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with water and air drying. Keeping the call stored in a protective case when not in use will help to prevent damage and prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER does not come with any additional accessories. Due to its nature as a diaphragm call, customization options are limited. Users can experiment with different mouth positions and air pressures to achieve varied sounds.
It is compatible with any standard diaphragm call case for storage. Users can adjust the call to fit their specific mouth shape for optimal comfort and performance, however, this requires delicate handling to avoid damage.
Pros and Cons of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $13.49, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER offers exceptional value for its performance.
- Versatile Sound: The MTH cut allows for a wide range of realistic turkey vocalizations.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality latex reeds are built to last.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and use for extended periods.
- Realistic Tone: It produces yelps, clucks, and purrs that mimic a real hen turkey.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the MTH cut requires practice and experimentation.
- Limited Customization: Customization options are limited compared to pot or box calls.
Who Should Buy WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER?
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER is perfect for:
- Experienced turkey hunters seeking a versatile and realistic diaphragm call.
- Hunters on a budget looking for a high-quality call without breaking the bank.
- Individuals who appreciate the nuances and complexities of diaphragm calls.
Who should skip this product?
- Beginner turkey hunters who are new to diaphragm calls might find the MTH cut challenging to learn initially.
- Hunters who prefer the simplicity and ease of use of pot or box calls.
A must-have accessory would be a diaphragm call case to protect the call when not in use. Consider purchasing a call conditioning kit to prolong the life of the latex reeds.
Conclusion on WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER Pro Series Red Wing MTH call is an excellent choice for turkey hunters looking for a versatile and realistic diaphragm call at an affordable price. The MTH cut provides a wide range of authentic turkey sounds, making it a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal. The price is absolutely justified given the call’s performance, durability, and versatility.
I would personally recommend the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER to any experienced turkey hunter looking to up their calling game. While there may be a slight learning curve for mastering the MTH cut, the payoff in terms of realistic and varied turkey vocalizations is well worth the effort. Go ahead, add the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS STINGER to your vest and get ready to bring those gobblers in close!
