Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 Review

First Thoughts on the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167

The world of hunting calls is a crowded one, filled with gadgets promising to give you the edge. That’s why I was intrigued by the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167, or the Closing Time Slate Pan Call. Hunters Specialties has a long-standing reputation in the hunting industry. This simple slate call promises realistic turkey sounds in a user-friendly package.

As an experienced hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve used everything from box calls to diaphragm calls. I was looking for a reliable and easy-to-use slate call that could consistently produce quality turkey sounds in various hunting conditions. Slate calls can be particularly effective in close-range situations, offering a subtle and realistic sound that doesn’t spook wary birds.

Upon receiving the call, my initial impression was positive. The slate surface felt smooth and well-finished, and the striker appeared to be of decent quality. The weight was comfortable in hand, suggesting a build that could withstand some rough handling in the field.

I’ve used other slate calls from brands like Primos and Quaker Boy in the past. The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 stood out due to its seemingly straightforward design and a price point that felt accessible. I was hoping this call would offer a blend of quality sound and ease of use that could make it a go-to option in my turkey hunting arsenal.

My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could a relatively inexpensive slate call truly deliver the authentic turkey sounds needed to fool a mature gobbler? I was eager to put the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 to the test and find out if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 came during a spring turkey hunt in the rolling hills of southern Missouri. I set up near a known roosting area, hoping to call in a gobbler at first light. The morning air was damp and cool, typical for that time of year.

The call performed admirably under these conditions. It produced clear, crisp yelps and clucks that resonated through the woods. I found the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 relatively easy to use. It required minimal effort to produce realistic sounds.

I did encounter one minor issue: the slate surface seemed slightly slick when wet. This made it a bit more challenging to maintain consistent contact with the striker. Otherwise, my initial experience was positive. I was impressed with the call’s sound quality and ease of use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during the turkey season, the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 continued to perform reliably. The slate surface showed no signs of cracking or chipping. The striker remained in good condition.

The call held up well to the rigors of hunting. It was frequently carried in my vest pocket, exposed to dirt, moisture, and the occasional bump against trees and rocks. Cleaning was simple. I only needed a dry cloth to wipe down the slate surface after each use.

Compared to some of the higher-end slate calls I’ve used, the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 held its own in terms of sound quality and durability. While it might not have the nuanced tones of a custom-made call, its consistent performance and ease of use made it a valuable tool in my turkey hunting arsenal. It definitely outperformed my expectations given the price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167

Specifications

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 Select Closing Time Slate Pan Call features a traditional slate surface mounted on a wooden pot. This pot is designed to amplify the sound produced by the slate. It also comes with a matched wooden striker.

The call weighs approximately 4 ounces. This makes it light and easy to carry in a hunting vest or pack. It is specifically designed for producing realistic turkey sounds.

The slate surface is carefully selected to produce a wide range of turkey vocalizations, including yelps, clucks, purrs, and kee-kees. The matched striker is crafted from hardwood and is designed to create optimal friction against the slate surface. This is important for producing consistent and realistic sounds.

Performance & Functionality

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 performs its job effectively. It produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds that can attract gobblers from a distance. The call is relatively easy to use. Even beginners can quickly learn to produce convincing yelps and clucks.

The call’s strength lies in its consistency and ease of use. It is a reliable option for hunters of all skill levels. A potential weakness is its performance in very wet conditions. The slate surface may become slippery, reducing its effectiveness.

Overall, the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 meets and exceeds expectations for a slate call in its price range. It provides a reliable and user-friendly platform for producing realistic turkey sounds.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 features a simple and functional design. The wooden pot is comfortable to hold in the hand. The slate surface is smooth and well-finished.

The call feels durable and well-built. It should withstand the rigors of regular use in the field. There is minimal learning curve. The call is intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 appears to be durable. The materials are of good quality. With proper care, it should last for many seasons.

Maintenance is simple. Wiping the slate surface with a dry cloth after each use is sufficient. Occasionally, you may need to scuff the slate surface with sandpaper to maintain optimal friction.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 comes with a matched wooden striker. There are no additional accessories included.

Customization options are limited. However, you can experiment with different strikers made from various materials, such as carbon or glass. This can slightly alter the sound of the call. The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 is generally compatible with most standard slate call strikers available on the market.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167

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Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167?

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 is perfect for beginner turkey hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use call. Experienced hunters who appreciate a reliable backup call will also find value in this product. This call is great for hunters who primarily hunt in dry conditions.

Hunters looking for a high-end, custom-made slate call with nuanced tones should skip this product. Hunters who frequently hunt in very wet conditions might want to consider a call with a more water-resistant surface.

A must-have accessory is a piece of sandpaper for scuffing the slate surface to maintain optimal friction.

Conclusion on Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 Select Closing Time Slate Pan Call is a solid choice for turkey hunters seeking an affordable, user-friendly, and reliable call. It consistently produces realistic turkey sounds. It is a good option for beginners and experienced hunters alike.

The price of $27.49 is justified by the call’s performance, durability, and ease of use. It offers excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100167 to anyone looking for a dependable slate call without breaking the bank. It’s a great addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. Get yours today and experience the thrill of calling in a gobbler with this excellent slate call!

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