First Thoughts on the Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call promises a potent blend of portability and performance. Marketed by the Bone Collector Game Calls brand, this call aims to offer versatility in a small package. It boasts a Pennsylvania slate surface and a poplar pot, paired with a hickory striker, all made in the USA.
I found myself drawn to this call as I’ve been looking for a reliable, compact turkey call. My usual slate call is bulky and takes up too much space in my vest. The promise of a call that delivers a full range of turkey sounds while remaining easily portable was extremely appealing.
Upon unboxing, the Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call felt solid and well-made. The poplar pot has a smooth, non-glare finish. The slate surface looks clean and ready for action. The hickory striker also feels balanced and comfortable in hand.
Compared to a larger, traditional slate call I own from Primos, the size difference is significant. The Poplar Girl’s compact form factor is immediately noticeable. I also considered a diaphragm call, but I prefer the control and versatility of a pot call, especially for softer, more nuanced sounds. My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. It looks and feels promising, but the true test lies in the woods.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call was during a scouting trip in early spring, deep in the Pennsylvania woods. The weather was damp, with a light drizzle creating a humid environment. I wanted to test its ability to produce realistic turkey sounds in natural conditions.
The call performed surprisingly well, even when slightly wet. It produced clear, crisp yelps and sharp cuts. The larger harmonic ports definitely helped amplify the sound, allowing me to call effectively without excessive force. The ease of use was also a plus; I quickly got the hang of varying my hand pressure to achieve different tones. No significant issues arose, although the striker did occasionally slip on the wet slate, requiring me to wipe it down periodically.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call during turkey season, it’s proven to be a dependable tool. The slate surface has shown minimal wear and tear, and the poplar pot remains intact. The non-glare finish is a welcome feature, preventing unwanted reflections that could spook wary birds.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth after each use keeps it in good condition. Compared to my older call, the Poplar Girl is far more convenient to carry and maintain. It hasn’t replaced my go-to call for every situation, but it’s become an invaluable backup and specialized tool for tight spots and quieter calling scenarios. It consistently delivers the sounds it promises.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call
Specifications
- The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call features a poplar pot construction. This provides a lightweight and resonant base for the call.
- It incorporates a Pennsylvania slate surface. Slate is known for producing realistic and versatile turkey sounds.
- The call comes with a 2-piece hickory striker. Hickory is a durable wood that allows for consistent contact and sound production.
- Its compact size makes it ideal for carrying in tight spaces. This is perfect for hunters who prefer a minimalist approach.
- It boasts larger harmonic ports, which enhance both soft and loud calling capabilities. This allows for flexibility in different hunting situations.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the call’s performance. The poplar pot provides a light and resonant base. This enhances the slate’s tonal qualities. The Pennsylvania slate surface ensures authentic turkey sounds. The hickory striker provides the necessary friction for producing clear and consistent calls.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call excels at producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations. It’s particularly effective for yelps, cuts, and purrs. The ability to create both soft and loud calls is a significant advantage.
The main strength lies in its versatility and portability. However, the smaller size might make it slightly more challenging for beginners to master consistent sounds. It certainly meets expectations and provides reliable performance in various hunting scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call boasts solid build quality. The materials feel durable, and the weight is comfortable for extended use.
The design is user-friendly. Even hunters with limited experience can quickly learn to produce a variety of turkey sounds. There isn’t a significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call is designed for long-lasting use. The materials are resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth will keep it in optimal condition, and replacement strikers are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call comes with a 2-piece hickory striker. There are limited customization options available directly from the Bone Collector.
However, it is compatible with many aftermarket strikers. Experimenting with different striker materials (e.g., carbon, wood blends) can alter the call’s sound. Also, various call conditioning kits are available. Using them will keep the slate surface in prime condition.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call
Pros
- Compact size makes it easy to carry in a vest or pocket.
- Pennsylvania slate surface produces realistic turkey sounds.
- Versatile – capable of producing yelps, cuts, and purrs.
- Larger harmonic ports enhance both soft and loud calling abilities.
- Made in the USA signifies quality craftsmanship.
Cons
- Smaller size might be challenging for beginners.
- Striker can occasionally slip on a wet slate surface.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call?
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call is perfect for experienced turkey hunters who value portability and versatility. It’s also well-suited for hunters who need a reliable backup call.
This call might not be ideal for absolute beginners. They may benefit from a larger, easier-to-handle pot call. A lanyard to keep the striker and call together would be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call
The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call is a well-designed and effective turkey call. It offers a compelling combination of portability, versatility, and realistic sound production.
At $23.99, the price is justified considering its features and performance. The Bone Collector Poplar Girl Compact Pot Call offers excellent value.
I would personally recommend it to experienced turkey hunters looking for a reliable and compact call. Its compact size and impressive sound quality make it a valuable addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. Add this call to your vest and experience turkey hunting in a new way!