Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot Review

The Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot Made a Bold First Impression

The Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot is a turkey call designed for hunters seeking realistic and versatile sound at an accessible price point. Manufactured by Bone Collector Game Calls, it boasts a Pennsylvania slate surface over a molded pot, paired with a hardwood striker. My first impression upon seeing it online was cautiously optimistic, hoping to find a reliable, no-frills call that could elevate my spring turkey hunts.

I needed a pot call that could produce a range of turkey vocalizations without requiring a masterclass in call operation. My previous experiences with glass calls were often frustrating, requiring precise angles and pressure to avoid high-pitched screeches. The promise of mellow tones and ease of use drew me to the Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot.

Upon receiving the call, I was immediately struck by its compact size and lightweight feel. The molded pot felt sturdy, and the slate surface appeared well-seated. Holding the hardwood striker, I appreciated its simple design.

Compared to my old glass pot call and a box call I sometimes used, the Bone Collector felt less intimidating. I initially favored my glass call, but its inconsistencies frustrated me; while the box call was effective, I felt its larger size was cumbersome in tight hunting situations. The Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot seemed to offer a balance of portability and controllability.

My initial reaction was a pleasant surprise. It wasn’t the most beautiful call I’d ever seen, but it felt solid and purposeful, promising a user-friendly experience. I was excited to get it into the field and see how it performed under pressure.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot to the Test

First Use Experience

I field-tested the Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot during the spring turkey season in the Missouri Ozarks. This area is known for its varied terrain and often unpredictable weather conditions. I used it in both open fields and dense hardwood forests, attempting to coax in wary gobblers.

The call performed admirably in both dry and slightly damp conditions. It maintained consistent sound quality even with a little moisture on the slate. The ease of use was immediately apparent. I was able to produce convincing purrs, clucks, and soft yelps with minimal practice.

The first morning in the field, I was able to call in a gobbler from approximately 150 yards. The subtle yelps of the Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot seemed to pique his curiosity without spooking him. While I didn’t harvest that particular bird, the experience validated the call’s potential.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot has proven to be a reliable addition to my hunting arsenal. The slate surface has shown minimal wear, and the molded pot remains structurally sound. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a soft cloth after use is typically sufficient.

The striker has also held up well. I only lightly roughed it up after a few uses. The call consistently produces the desired tones. It’s outperforming my expectations considering its low price point.

Compared to previous experiences with other calls, the Bone Collector stands out for its consistency and user-friendliness. Cheaper calls often deteriorate quickly, and more expensive options can be overly sensitive to weather conditions or user error. The Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot seems to strike a sweet spot between affordability and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot

Specifications

• Molded Pot and Sound Board: This provides a stable and consistent base for the slate surface, enhancing sound projection. The molded pot also makes the call lighter and more durable compared to traditional wooden pots.
• Pennsylvania Slate Surface: Pennsylvania slate is known for its excellent sound quality, producing realistic turkey vocalizations. The slate is crucial for creating the desired mellow tones.
• Hardwood Striker: The hardwood striker is designed to interact perfectly with the slate surface. It offers durability and contributes to the consistent sound production of the call.
• Mellow Tones: The call is engineered to produce mellow, realistic turkey sounds. This helps to avoid startling wary birds.
• Ideal for Purrs, Clucks, and Soft Yelps: This call excels at producing subtle turkey sounds, crucial for close-range calling. These are the essential sounds for luring turkeys into shooting range.
• Made in USA: The fact that the Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot is made in the USA suggests a commitment to quality craftsmanship. This offers peace of mind regarding the materials and manufacturing processes used.

Performance & Functionality

The Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot excels at producing realistic and subtle turkey vocalizations. Its performance is especially strong at close range, where soft purrs and clucks can be highly effective. The call is consistently reliable, producing the desired tones with minimal effort.

Its strengths lie in its ease of use, consistent sound quality, and affordability. A minor weakness might be its limited volume for long-distance calling in windy conditions. It more than meets my expectations given the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The molded pot design is lightweight and comfortable to hold. The slate surface is well-integrated, providing a smooth and consistent striking surface. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The molded pot is durable enough to withstand typical hunting conditions. The slate surface is relatively resistant to scratching. Maintenance is simple: keep the slate clean and the striker lightly roughed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot comes with the hardwood striker. There are no additional included accessories. The call is not designed for extensive customization. However, using different strikers can slightly alter the tone. Some hunters may prefer a different type of wood for the striker to achieve a unique sound.

Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot

Who Should Buy Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot?

• Perfect for: Turkey hunters of all skill levels who prioritize ease of use and affordability. Beginner hunters will find it easy to master, while experienced hunters will appreciate its reliable performance as a backup or specialized close-range call.
• Who should skip this product? Hunters who require extremely loud calls for long-distance calling in open areas, or those who prefer the aesthetic appeal of high-end, handcrafted calls might consider other options.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A small conditioning stone for the slate surface to maintain optimal sound quality, and a lanyard to keep the striker readily accessible are good ideas.

Conclusion on Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot

The Bone Collector Light’s Out Slate Molded Pot is an excellent value for turkey hunters seeking a reliable and user-friendly call. The price is definitely justified. It delivers consistent performance, especially at close range, making it a valuable tool for coaxing in wary gobblers.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and effective slate call. It’s a solid choice for beginners and a useful addition to the arsenal of experienced hunters. Add this call to your turkey hunting arsenal. You won’t be disappointed.