Let’s Talk About Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call, crafted by Bone Collector, promises to be more than just a crow call. It’s advertised as a dual-purpose tool, capable of not only attracting crows but also eliciting gobbles from distant turkeys. Having spent years in the field, I’m always skeptical of “do-it-all” products, but the reputation of Bone Collector and the allure of a handcrafted wooden call piqued my interest.
What drew me to this particular call was the promise of realism. Many calls on the market sound artificial, alerting wary birds instead of attracting them. The claim of hand-tuning and enhanced sound projection made this one stand out.
Upon receiving the call, the first thing I noticed was its lightweight feel and the natural grain of the wood. It felt good in the hand, substantial without being cumbersome. Compared to cheaper plastic calls I’ve used in the past, this immediately felt like a step up. I passed on a polycarbonate call for this, because of the natural sound of wood.
Initially, I was excited by the prospect of a truly versatile call. However, I was also a little apprehensive about whether it could genuinely live up to the hype. Would it be a jack-of-all-trades, master of none? Only field testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call during an early spring scouting trip in the Appalachian foothills. The weather was damp and overcast, perfect crow-calling conditions. I positioned myself on a ridge overlooking a valley known for its both crow and turkey populations.
The first few calls produced a surprisingly realistic sound. The tone was rich and raspy, mimicking the distinct caw of a crow. I tested different calling sequences, from aggressive fighting calls to softer gathering calls. To my surprise, it worked. A small group of crows responded within minutes, circling overhead and investigating. I even got a distant gobble, though I can’t definitively attribute it to the call.
The call was easy to use, requiring minimal practice to produce convincing sounds. However, I did find that precise breath control was necessary for optimal results. A little bit of spit or moisture in the call can throw the tone off.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during scouting and predator control outings, the Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call has held up remarkably well. The wooden construction shows no signs of cracking or warping. It has remained consistent in tone and responsiveness.
I make sure to clean and dry the call after each use to prevent moisture buildup and maintain its sound quality. A quick wipe with a clean cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to some of the cheaper calls I’ve used in the past, the Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call is significantly more reliable and produces a much more realistic sound. It outperforms synthetic calls in both tone and range.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call
Specifications
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call boasts several key specifications:
- Material: Crafted primarily from wood, offering a natural sound resonance. Wood calls tend to create a warmer, deeper sound than plastic calls.
- Species: While classified for turkey, it’s designed for dual use as a crow call. This could save space in a hunter’s pack.
- Hand Tuned: Each call is individually tuned to ensure realistic sound production. This tuning can be more precise than mass-produced calls.
- Enhanced Sound Chamber: Designed to project sound over long distances. A well-designed sound chamber will amplify sound without distortion.
These specifications are crucial for achieving realistic calls and attracting wary birds from a distance. The hand-tuned aspect is particularly important, ensuring each call produces a consistent and convincing sound.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call performs exceptionally well as a crow call. Its realistic sound effectively attracts crows, making it a valuable tool for scouting and predator control. I found it easy to coax in curious flocks.
The call also works surprisingly well as a turkey locator call, eliciting gobbles from Toms in the distance. It may not replace a dedicated turkey call for close-range work, but it’s a useful tool for locating birds.
One minor weakness is its sensitivity to moisture. Excessive saliva can temporarily affect the tone. However, this is easily remedied by drying the call.
Overall, the Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call meets and often exceeds expectations for a dual-purpose call. It is a well-crafted and effective tool for both crow and turkey hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call features a simple yet effective design. The wooden construction feels comfortable in the hand and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
The call is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a pocket or lanyard. Its simple design requires no complicated adjustments or setup.
There is a slight learning curve to mastering different crow and turkey calling techniques. However, the call itself is easy to use and responsive.
Durability & Maintenance
The wooden construction of the Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call suggests a reasonable lifespan with proper care. It should withstand regular use in the field.
Maintenance is simple: keep it clean and dry. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity.
Replacing any specific internal components might be challenging. However, with reasonable care, the call should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with standard lanyards for easy carrying.
There are no readily available customization options for this particular call. But, an experienced woodworker might be able to modify the sound chamber slightly to alter the tone.
A hunter might choose to pair this crow call with other predator calls. This is for a comprehensive calling setup.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call
Pros
- Realistic Sound: Hand-tuned for authentic crow and turkey calls.
- Dual Purpose: Functions effectively as both a crow and turkey locator call.
- Durable Construction: Made from wood for longevity and a natural feel.
- Easy to Use: Simple design with minimal learning curve.
- Long Range: Enhanced sound chamber projects sound over distance.
Cons
- Sensitivity to Moisture: Excessive saliva can affect the tone.
- Limited Customization: Few options for personalizing the call.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call?
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call is perfect for hunters who want a versatile tool for scouting and attracting both crows and turkeys. It’s also ideal for predator control enthusiasts who need a reliable crow call.
This product might not be the best choice for hardcore turkey hunters who prefer dedicated, specialized turkey calls. Additionally, beginners might prefer a less expensive plastic call to practice on before investing in a hand-tuned wooden call.
A lanyard is a must-have accessory for keeping the call readily accessible. Consider a diaphragm turkey call in addition to this call.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call
The Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call is a well-crafted and effective dual-purpose call. Its realistic sound and durable construction make it a valuable tool for any hunter or outdoor enthusiast.
At $37.91, the price is justified by the quality of construction, realistic sound, and dual functionality. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about crow or turkey hunting.
I would definitely recommend the Bone Collector Classic Swagger Wood Crow Call to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile calling tool. It is a valuable addition to any hunting pack and a testament to the craftsmanship of Bone Collector. Go give it a try; you might be surprised by the results!