First Thoughts on the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL is a mouth call designed for turkey hunting, manufactured by WoodHaven Custom Calls. At a price point of $13.49, it’s positioned as an accessible option for both seasoned hunters and beginners alike, offering a blend of quality and affordability. Its 3-reed cutter design aims to produce a wide range of turkey vocalizations, making it a versatile tool in the field.
Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless calls come and go. I needed to find a mouth call that could realistically mimic the sounds of a mature hen without requiring excessive air pressure or advanced techniques. My first impression upon seeing the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL was its simplicity.
It lacked the flashy designs of some competitors, but that often translates to a focus on functionality. The call felt lightweight and pliable, suggesting a comfortable fit in the mouth. While I haven’t had hands-on experience with this specific call yet, I have used other WoodHaven Custom Calls products in the past and have always been impressed with their performance.
Compared to calls from Primos or Flextone, which often rely on elaborate designs or materials, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL seemed more focused on replicating authentic turkey sounds. Given my past experience with similar diaphragm calls, I anticipated a slight learning curve to master its unique sound. However, I was overall excited to put it through its paces during the upcoming spring turkey season.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL was a controlled environment – my home office. This allowed me to experiment with different air pressures and tongue positions without the added pressure of a hunt. The first few attempts produced raspy, broken yelps, far from the smooth calls I was aiming for.
After about an hour of practice, I began to find the sweet spot, producing clearer yelps and clucks. The call performed admirably in the dry indoor environment, maintaining its shape and producing consistent sounds. The learning curve was slightly steeper than I initially anticipated, requiring a more refined technique than some of my other mouth calls.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of practice and a full spring turkey season under my belt, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL has proven to be a reliable and versatile tool. It has held up remarkably well, with no signs of delamination or tearing of the reeds. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water after each use is all it requires.
Compared to some of the more expensive custom calls I’ve used, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL delivers comparable performance at a fraction of the price. Its ability to produce a wide range of sounds, from soft purrs to aggressive cuts, makes it an invaluable asset in the field. The call consistently outperformed my expectations, drawing in several mature gobblers that were previously unresponsive to other calls.
Breaking Down the Features of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL
Specifications
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL is a cutter-style mouth call featuring a 3-reed design. The reeds are made from a latex material, stretched over a frame, and secured with tape. The precise dimensions and latex thickness are proprietary to WoodHaven Custom Calls, contributing to the call’s unique sound characteristics.
This 3-reed configuration with a “cutter” cut (a V-shaped cut in the top reed) allows for a wide range of vocalizations. This design allows hunters to produce realistic yelps, clucks, cuts, purrs, and other turkey sounds. The reeds are relatively thin, enabling the user to create subtle variations in tone and volume with minimal effort.
Performance & Functionality
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL excels at producing realistic and enticing turkey sounds. Its versatility is a major strength. This call allows hunters to adapt to different hunting scenarios and turkey behaviors. The call’s ability to produce both soft and aggressive calls makes it effective throughout the entire turkey season.
The call requires practice to master, but once learned, it is incredibly effective. Its responsiveness to subtle changes in air pressure and tongue position allows for nuanced control over the sounds produced. While the learning curve might be a weakness for beginners, the potential for producing realistic calls is a definite strength.
Design & Ergonomics
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL features a simple yet effective design. The frame is comfortable and conforms well to the roof of the mouth. Its lightweight construction minimizes fatigue during extended calling sessions.
The call’s compact size also makes it easy to carry and store. There is a small learning curve when correctly placing the call and creating the sounds a hunter wants.
Durability & Maintenance
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL is surprisingly durable for its price point. The latex reeds are resistant to tearing and delamination, even after prolonged use and exposure to moisture. With proper care, the call should last for at least one full turkey season, if not longer.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick rinse with water after each use. Storing the call in a dry, cool place will further extend its lifespan. Replacing the call is inexpensive enough that most hunters won’t bother with extensive repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL does not come with any specific accessories. Hunters may find it beneficial to pair it with a call carrier to protect the reeds and prevent damage. There are no official customization options for this specific call.
The call’s design does not lend itself to extensive modification. The focus is on producing authentic sounds with the stock configuration. The call works well with lanyards and call holders made by other brands.
Pros and Cons of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL
Pros
- Produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds, making it versatile for different hunting situations.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to both novice and experienced hunters.
- Surprisingly durable for its price, with good resistance to tearing and delamination.
- Relatively easy to clean and maintain, ensuring long-term usability.
- Compact and lightweight design ensures comfortable use and easy portability.
Cons
- Requires practice to master, with a steeper learning curve than some other mouth calls.
- No customization options available, limiting the ability to personalize the call’s sound.
Who Should Buy WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL?
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels who are looking for an affordable and versatile mouth call. It is especially well-suited for hunters who are willing to invest time in practicing and mastering their calling techniques. Experienced hunters will appreciate its ability to produce a wide range of realistic sounds.
Beginners should avoid this product if they are unwilling to put in the practice time. Hunters looking for a highly customizable call should also consider alternative options. A call carrier is a must-have accessory to protect the reeds and prevent damage.
Conclusion on WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL is an excellent mouth call that delivers impressive performance at an affordable price. While it requires practice to master, its versatility and realistic sound production make it a valuable asset for any turkey hunter. The price is absolutely justified, considering the call’s durability and performance.
I would definitely recommend the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS CHISEL to anyone looking for a reliable and effective turkey call. The value is simply undeniable. Pick one up today and get ready for a successful turkey season!