The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve used countless turkey calls. The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call from the Bone Collector line immediately caught my eye with its promise of a raspier, louder pitch designed to cut through wind. Could this unassuming diaphragm call truly live up to its name and deliver the knockout punch needed to reach those distant gobblers?
I needed a call that could handle windy spring mornings in the open fields of Kansas. My usual calls were getting lost in the gusts. The Knockout claimed to solve this, so I was eager to give it a shot.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the call’s simple, yet robust construction. The reeds felt securely layered. Compared to some of the flimsier, mass-produced diaphragm calls I’ve used, this one felt intentionally crafted. It seemed more durable than the Primos Sonic Dome and slightly more rigid than my old Quaker Boy Easy Yelper. This gave me a positive first impression.
My initial reaction was optimistic, yet cautiously so. Turkey calls can be notoriously subjective. I was eager to put it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call took place on a blustery spring morning in southern Missouri. The wind was howling across a wide-open field. This was the exact scenario for which I hoped the call would excel.
The wind resistance test was impressive. The call’s raspier tone cut through the gusts far better than my previous calls. The turkeys responded from a considerable distance, proving the call’s effectiveness in challenging conditions. It was also surprisingly easy to control the tone despite the wind.
Initially, I struggled slightly with getting the exact yelp I wanted. After about 30 minutes of practice, I quickly found the sweet spot and was producing convincing turkey sounds. There were no malfunctions or unexpected noises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting across several states, the Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call has become a staple in my vest. It has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of reed separation or damage despite consistent use and occasional accidental crushing in my pocket.
The call is easy to clean. I simply rinse it with water and let it air dry. Compared to other diaphragm calls, I haven’t noticed any significant changes in tone or performance over time. This speaks to the quality of the materials and construction.
My previous go-to diaphragm call was a custom-made call from a local craftsman. While that call sounded fantastic in ideal conditions, the Knockout has proven to be more reliable and versatile in real-world hunting situations. The Bone Collector Knockout is a clear winner for consistently challenging environments.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call
Specifications
The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call is built with a triple reed design featuring a hybrid combo cut. This cut contributes to its unique raspy sound. It is designed to produce loud, penetrating calls that can reach distant gobblers.
Chris Parrish of the Bone Collector team specifically designed the call to be effective in windy conditions. The triple reed construction allows for a wide range of turkey vocalizations. The hybrid cut gives it a distinct rasp. These specifications contribute to its ability to cut through wind and call turkeys from a distance.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call performs exceptionally well, especially in windy conditions. The call easily produces yelps, clucks, cuts, and purrs. The rasp is perfect for imitating older, dominant hens.
The strength of this call lies in its ability to cut through wind and reach distant birds. It can require some practice to master the precise mouth positioning and air pressure needed to produce consistent sounds. It more than meets my expectations for a call in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call features a simple and functional design. The diaphragm fits comfortably in the mouth. The reeds are securely attached to the frame.
The call is lightweight and unobtrusive. It presents no discomfort during extended use. It is easy to learn, even for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call is surprisingly durable for its price point. The reeds appear to be resistant to moisture damage. The construction is solid.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply rinse and air dry the call after use. This will extend its lifespan and preserve its sound quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call does not come with any additional accessories. Diaphragm calls are generally not customizable beyond individual mouth fitting and reed trimming. Compatibility with external accessories is not applicable to this type of call. However, carrying cases designed for diaphragm calls are available from various manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call
Pros
- Excellent wind penetration: The raspy tone cuts through strong winds, allowing you to reach distant gobblers.
- Versatile sound production: Produces a wide range of turkey vocalizations, including yelps, clucks, cuts, and purrs.
- Durable construction: The reeds are securely attached. The overall build quality suggests a long lifespan.
- Affordable price: Offers exceptional performance and value for the cost.
- Designed by Chris Parrish: Built with the expertise of a renowned turkey hunter.
Cons
- Requires practice: Mastering the call’s unique tone and air pressure may require some initial practice.
- Limited customization: Diaphragm calls offer minimal customization options compared to other types of turkey calls.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call?
This call is perfect for turkey hunters who frequently hunt in windy conditions or need to reach distant gobblers. It is also a great option for hunters looking for an affordable, versatile, and durable diaphragm call. Beginners willing to dedicate some time to practice can also benefit from its performance.
Hunters who prefer calls that require minimal practice or those who are looking for highly customizable options might want to consider other types of turkey calls.
A call carrier or case would be a must-have accessory to protect the call while not in use.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call
The Bone Collector Knockout Diaphragm Turkey Call is an exceptional value. It delivers on its promise of cutting through wind and reaching distant gobblers. The raspier tone and versatile sound production make it a valuable tool in any turkey hunter’s arsenal.
The price is more than justified by its performance, durability, and expert design. I would definitely recommend this call to any turkey hunter looking for a reliable and effective diaphragm call.
Don’t let the wind ruin your hunt. Get the Bone Collector Knockout and deliver the knockout punch to those stubborn gobblers!