First Thoughts on the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-
Turkey hunting, for me, isn’t just a sport; it’s an immersion into nature’s symphony. The pre-dawn chill, the rustling leaves, and the anticipation of that first gobble – it’s an experience that demands respect, skill, and, most importantly, the right tools. That’s why I was particularly interested in testing the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-, a name that suggests both precision and power.
I was seeking a call that offered a broad range of tones and was easy enough for any hunter to use, regardless of skill. The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-‘s description touted its user-friendly design and ability to produce clear yelps, with a subtle nasal quality to create a convincing hen imitation. A convincing call is everything.
The call arrived packaged simply, showcasing WOODHAVEN’s no-nonsense approach. Removing it from its packaging, the initial impression was positive. It felt well-constructed, and the reed alignment looked precise. Compared to my old slate call and a diaphragm call I’d been struggling to master, the HAMMER- seemed more approachable.
I’d considered other calls, including a similarly priced Primos diaphragm call and a more expensive Zink Calls crystal pot call. I opted for the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- because of the promise of an easy-to-control design with a realistic yelp. I was hoping it would bridge the gap between simplicity and effectiveness.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the HAMMER- could live up to the hype and become a reliable tool in my turkey hunting arsenal.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- during a pre-season scouting trip in the oak ridges of eastern Kentucky. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and cool, with intermittent rain showers. The goal was to locate roosting areas and get a feel for the local turkey population, but also to break in the call and see how it performed in a realistic hunting scenario.
The HAMMER- proved to be remarkably easy to use. I could produce a variety of yelps, clucks, and purrs with minimal effort. The wet conditions didn’t seem to affect the call’s performance, maintaining a consistent tone even with a little moisture. After a few minutes of practice, I was able to mimic the sounds of a hen with surprising accuracy, even managing a respectable kee-kee run.
The first real surprise was how responsive the turkeys were. A distant gobbler answered my calls almost immediately. It was a clear indication that the HAMMER-‘s tones were authentic and effective.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- during multiple scouting trips and the first few days of the hunting season, it has consistently delivered. It has held up well to regular use and exposure to the elements. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite being carried in my vest pocket.
The call requires minimal maintenance. I simply wipe it clean after each use and store it in a dry place. Compared to my experience with other diaphragm calls that often require frequent cleaning and adjustments, the HAMMER- is remarkably hassle-free.
It definitely outperforms other calls I have used in the past, especially in its ease of use and consistent tone. The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- has become a staple in my hunting vest. It is a testament to its reliability and effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-
Specifications
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- is a three-reed diaphragm call. It features a unique cut designed for ease of control. The design enables clear yelps with a nasally back end, which mimics the natural sound of a hen turkey. It is suitable for hunters of any skill level.
- Three-Reed Construction: Provides a good balance of tone and volume.
- Unique Cut: Enables consistent sound and prevents reed lock.
- Suitable for All Skill Levels: Designed to be easy to learn and master.
These specifications translate to a call that’s easy for beginners to pick up and use effectively. It is versatile enough for experienced hunters to create a range of realistic turkey sounds. The three-reed design offers a good balance of volume and tone, making it suitable for both close-range and long-distance calling.
Performance & Functionality
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- performs exceptionally well in the field. Its primary function is to mimic the sounds of a hen turkey to attract gobblers, and it excels at this task.
- Yelps: Produces clear, crisp yelps that are easily controlled.
- Clucks and Purrs: Generates realistic clucks and purrs for close-range calling.
- Kee-Kee Runs: Capable of producing kee-kee runs, albeit with a bit more practice.
The HAMMER- easily meets expectations, providing an authentic and reliable sound that turkeys respond to. Its ease of use is a major strength, allowing hunters to focus on their strategy rather than struggling with the call. The one area where it requires a bit more practice is producing convincing kee-kee runs, but even then, the results are respectable.
Design & Ergonomics
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- is designed with the user in mind. The materials used are high-quality and durable. The call feels comfortable in the mouth and doesn’t require excessive pressure to produce sound.
The design is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. Even novice callers will be able to produce convincing turkey sounds with a bit of practice. The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- is an excellent tool for a hunter with a beginner skill set.
Durability & Maintenance
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- is built to last. The reeds are securely attached and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, the call should provide several seasons of reliable use.
Maintaining the HAMMER- is simple. Just wipe it clean after each use and store it in a dry place. Avoid excessive moisture and direct sunlight. This should help extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- does not come with any additional accessories. Diaphragm calls are generally used as-is, without the need for customization.
The call is compatible with standard diaphragm call cases for storage and protection. There are no specific customization options available for the HAMMER-, but its versatility and ease of use make it adaptable to various hunting styles and preferences.
Pros and Cons of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-
Pros
- Easy to Use: Suitable for hunters of all skill levels.
- Realistic Sound: Produces authentic yelps, clucks, and purrs.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand regular use in the field.
- Consistent Tone: Maintains a consistent sound even in wet conditions.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the performance it offers.
Cons
- Kee-Kee Runs Require Practice: Producing convincing kee-kee runs takes more effort.
- No Customization Options: Limited customization options compared to pot or box calls.
Who Should Buy WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-?
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- is perfect for:
- Hunters of all skill levels looking for an easy-to-use and effective diaphragm call.
- Beginner turkey hunters wanting a call with a minimal learning curve.
- Experienced hunters seeking a reliable backup call or a versatile option for different hunting scenarios.
Who should skip this product?
- Hunters who prefer pot or box calls and are not comfortable using diaphragm calls.
- Hunters looking for highly customizable calls with adjustable tones and features.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A diaphragm call case for storage and protection.
- A call lanyard for easy access in the field.
Conclusion on WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER-
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- is an outstanding diaphragm call that delivers exceptional performance at an affordable price. Its ease of use, realistic sound, and durable construction make it a top choice for hunters of all skill levels.
The price of $13.49 is more than justified by the call’s quality and effectiveness. This is an incredible value that provides an easy-to-use, efficient tool for turkey hunting.
I would highly recommend the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER- to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile diaphragm call. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-time hunter, the HAMMER- will help you bring home the gobbler. Get yours today and experience the thrill of the hunt with confidence!
