WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER Review

First Thoughts on the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER

The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER is a diaphragm mouth call designed specifically for turkey hunting, crafted by the renowned WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS. At a price point of $13.49, it promises versatility with its unique dual “hammer cut” design. This design is said to mimic having two batwing cuts within a single call.

I was drawn to this call because I’m always looking for that perfect sound. Specifically, I needed a versatile mouth call that could produce a wide range of turkey vocalizations, from soft clucks and purrs to aggressive cutting and yelps. The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER appeared to offer that range without requiring me to switch between multiple calls in the field.

Upon unboxing (or rather, removing it from the typical blister pack), the first thing I noticed was the call’s construction. It appeared to be well-made, and the tape felt secure. Its lightweight nature is expected for a diaphragm call, but I did carefully inspect the reeds for any immediate signs of damage or unevenness.

Compared to similar calls I’ve used in the past, like the Primos Killer B or the Quaker Boy Easy Yelper, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER stood out with its unique cut design. Those other calls are fantastic, but they’re more specialized. I chose the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER hoping it would provide a broader range of sounds and thus greater adaptability in different hunting situations.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design was intriguing, and I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promise of versatility. Would it be the all-in-one call I was hoping for, or would it fall short of the hype? Only time in the field would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER during the spring turkey season in the rolling hills of eastern Kentucky. I hunted primarily in hardwood forests, encountering varying terrain and weather conditions, from crisp, cool mornings to warm, humid afternoons. My testing involved calling to both pressured and unpressured birds.

The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER performed admirably in the mixed conditions. It was easy to produce a variety of sounds. The call was slightly affected by moisture, requiring me to dry it periodically.

The learning curve was minimal. I was able to produce convincing clucks, purrs, yelps, and cuts within a few minutes. The “hammer cut” design allowed for subtle changes in mouth pressure and tongue placement to create different tones.

After my first use, I was pleased with its versatility. It exceeded my initial expectations, allowing me to adapt to different calling situations with ease. I did notice, however, that maintaining consistent back pressure was crucial for preventing the call from sounding raspy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER has held up surprisingly well. The tape remains securely attached, and the reeds haven’t shown any significant signs of wear or cracking. It spends most of its time in my call pouch between uses.

Durability-wise, the call has proven to be quite robust. Despite being exposed to moisture and friction, it continues to function effectively. There are no visible signs of degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply rinse it with water and allow it to air dry after each use. I also store it in a call case to protect it from dust and debris.

Compared to other diaphragm calls I’ve used, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER has outperformed many in terms of versatility and ease of use. Its unique design allows for a wider range of vocalizations, and it requires less effort to produce convincing turkey sounds. It’s become one of my go-to calls in my turkey vest.

Breaking Down the Features of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER

Specifications

• Type: Diaphragm Mouth Call. Specifically designed for turkey hunting.
• Cut: Unique Woodhaven “Hammer” Cut. This allows for a wide range of turkey vocalizations.
• Material: Latex Reeds and Adhesive Tape. Common materials for diaphragm mouth calls.
• Price: $13.49. A very affordable price point.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the call’s performance and user experience. The Woodhaven “Hammer” cut is the heart of this call. It dictates the range of sounds it can produce. The latex reeds and adhesive tape determine the call’s durability and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER excels at producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations. It’s capable of soft clucks and purrs for close-range calling, as well as aggressive cuts and yelps for attracting distant birds. Its versatility is a major strength.

The main strength is its adaptability. The “hammer cut” allows you to change the sound simply by adjusting mouth pressure and tongue placement. The weakness is that it can sound raspy if not used properly.

It meets and, in some cases, exceeds my expectations. I was initially skeptical about its claim of versatility, but it has proven to be a reliable and effective call in various hunting scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER is typical of most diaphragm calls. The materials are standard, but the construction appears solid. It’s lightweight and comfortable to hold in the mouth.

The design is user-friendly. There’s a slight learning curve, but experienced callers will pick it up quickly. New callers may require some practice to master.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER should last for at least one to two hunting seasons. The reeds are the most vulnerable part, but they can be protected by storing the call in a case and avoiding excessive moisture.

Maintenance is simple: rinse with water and air dry. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Accessories and Customization Options

The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization is limited to adjusting the fit of the tape to your mouth, if needed.

Being a standard diaphragm call, it doesn’t require any specific accessories. It’s compatible with most call pouches and storage cases designed for mouth calls.

Pros and Cons of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS HAMMER