First Impressions of Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot is a promising entry into the world of turkey calls. Bone Collector, a brand known for its hunting expertise, aims to deliver a call that is both effective and accessible to hunters of all skill levels. This particular model boasts a Pennsylvania slate surface atop a molded pot, paired with a hardwood striker, suggesting a focus on producing realistic and mellow turkey sounds.
My quest for the ideal turkey call is ongoing. I’ve been searching for a pot call that offers a balance of realistic sound, ease of use, and durability for various hunting conditions. Many calls sound great in a store, but fall short in the field.
Unboxing the Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot revealed a well-constructed call. The molded pot feels solid and the slate surface appears smooth and consistent. The hardwood striker has a good weight to it, hinting at the potential for controlled and nuanced calling.
Compared to similar slate pot calls from brands like Primos or Quaker Boy, the Bone Collector Lights Out stood out due to its combination of molded pot construction and Pennsylvania slate. I was particularly interested in the potential for consistent sound quality and weather resistance offered by the molded pot. I picked this one because I wanted to see if it offers improved consistency over traditional wooden pot calls.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The materials and construction seemed promising, but the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was excited to see if the Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot could deliver on its promise of mellow and realistic turkey sounds.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot during a spring turkey season scouting trip in the oak-hickory forests of southern Missouri. I used it in a variety of scenarios, from open fields to dense timber, to assess its performance in different soundscapes. The weather was initially dry and mild, but a light rain began later in the afternoon.
The call performed admirably in the dry conditions. Its mellow tones carried well through the woods. I found that it required a little practice to master the different sounds, especially the purrs and soft yelps.
However, the rain did present a slight challenge. The slate surface became slick, requiring more deliberate and precise striker movement to produce consistent sounds. I noticed the need to keep the slate surface as dry as possible for optimal performance.
I experienced no immediate issues. The call seemed robust, and the striker felt comfortable in my hand. The only surprise was the slight learning curve required to achieve the desired sounds, particularly the subtle variations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use throughout the spring turkey season, the Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot has held up remarkably well. I have used it in both guided and solo hunts. It’s even become my go-to call for quiet mornings.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The molded pot has shown no cracks or warping. The slate surface has retained its smoothness, and the striker remains in excellent condition.
Maintenance has been simple. I typically wipe down the slate surface with a clean cloth after each use to remove any moisture or debris. I occasionally use a light abrasive pad to roughen the surface of the slate for optimal sound production.
Compared to previous slate pot calls I’ve used, the Bone Collector Lights Out has proven to be more consistent in sound quality, especially in varying weather conditions. While it may not outperform high-end custom calls, it certainly offers excellent performance for its price point. It has not disappointed.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot
Specifications
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot features a molded pot and soundboard for consistent tone. It utilizes a Pennsylvania slate surface renowned for its exceptional sound quality. A hardwood striker is included for producing mellow tones. The Call Type is a Pot Call. It’s designed by the Manufacturer, Bone Collector, with the Fabric/Material as Hardwood.
These specifications directly influence the call’s performance and usability. The molded pot offers weather resistance and consistent sound, while the Pennsylvania slate provides a realistic and mellow tone. The hardwood striker allows for precise control and nuanced calling.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot excels at producing mellow and realistic turkey sounds. It is particularly effective for creating purrs, clucks, and soft yelps, which are essential for attracting wary birds. The call’s consistency and ease of use make it a valuable tool for hunters of all skill levels.
The call’s strengths lie in its realistic sound production and user-friendliness. However, it can be slightly challenging to maintain consistent sound in wet conditions. Further refinement of the slate surface could enhance its performance in less-than-ideal weather.
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot meets expectations for a mid-range slate pot call. It offers a solid combination of sound quality, ease of use, and durability. It is a very good tool.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot features a well-designed molded pot that fits comfortably in the hand. The hardwood striker is appropriately weighted and balanced for easy manipulation. The call feels solid and durable without being overly heavy.
The call is user-friendly. The molded pot design is comfortable to hold. A short learning curve is required to master the different sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot appears to be built to last. The molded pot construction is inherently more durable than traditional wooden pots. The slate surface is resistant to cracking and chipping. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning of the slate surface and occasional roughening with an abrasive pad are all that is required. The call’s simple design makes it easy to inspect and maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot comes with a hardwood striker. There are no included accessories. Customization options are limited to experimenting with different strikers.
The call is compatible with most standard pot call strikers. Hunters can experiment with strikers made from different materials, such as acrylic or carbon, to achieve different sound characteristics. Many hunters will choose a custom striker.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot
Pros
- The Pennsylvania slate surface produces realistic and mellow turkey sounds, ideal for attracting wary birds.
- The molded pot and soundboard offer consistent tone and increased durability compared to traditional wooden pots.
- The hardwood striker is comfortable to hold and allows for precise control and nuanced calling.
- The call is relatively easy to use, making it suitable for hunters of all skill levels.
- At a price of $34.39, the call offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- The slate surface can become slick in wet conditions, requiring more deliberate striker movement.
- Customization options are limited.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot?
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels seeking a reliable and affordable slate pot call. It is particularly well-suited for hunters who prefer mellow and realistic turkey sounds, and who hunt in areas with varying weather conditions. This is a good call for new hunters.
Hunters seeking a high-end custom call with extensive customization options should skip this product. Those who hunt exclusively in dry conditions may find that traditional wooden pot calls offer similar performance at a comparable price point. Experienced callers might want a more expensive call.
A must-have accessory is a striker conditioner to keep the striker tip in optimal condition. A small piece of sandpaper or a conditioning stone is recommended. Some hunters also prefer to carry multiple strikers made from different materials to adjust the sound of the call based on the situation.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot
The Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot is a solid and reliable turkey call that offers excellent value for the money. Its Pennsylvania slate surface, molded pot construction, and hardwood striker combine to produce realistic and mellow turkey sounds that are effective in attracting wary birds. While it may not be the flashiest or most customizable call on the market, its consistency, durability, and user-friendliness make it a valuable addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal.
The price of $34.39 is certainly justified. It offers a good balance of quality and affordability.
I would personally recommend the Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot to any turkey hunter looking for a reliable and affordable slate pot call. Its performance, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. It is an excellent tool.
If you’re ready to up your turkey hunting game, give the Bone Collector Lights Out Slate Molded Pot a try. You won’t be disappointed.