The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve used countless turkey calls. When I first saw the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey, manufactured by Cass Creek, I was intrigued by the promise of a multi-call system at such an accessible price point. I’ve always believed in the value of having a variety of calls to adapt to different scenarios, and this seemed like a cost-effective way to achieve that.
I needed a reliable and versatile turkey call system for the upcoming spring season. The existing calls in my kit were either too specialized or showing their age. Upon unboxing the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey, I immediately noticed its compact and seemingly rugged design. The molded plastic felt solid in my hand, and the call labels were clear and easy to read.
Compared to my slate call or diaphragm calls, the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey offered a different approach. It’s simpler to use initially than a diaphragm, and potentially more versatile than a dedicated slate or box call for a beginner. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The product seemed well-built for its price, and I was eager to see how the various calls performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cass Creek Ergo Turkey to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey during a scouting trip in the oak-hickory forests of central Missouri. The weather was cool and damp, typical for early spring. The Ergo Turkey was easy to use right out of the box. I cycled through the calls to get a feel for their individual sounds.
The clucks and purrs sounded relatively realistic. The yelps were a bit higher-pitched than I prefer, but still within an acceptable range. I did notice that the sound carried well in the damp air. After a couple of hours of practicing, I felt comfortable enough to use it during the upcoming hunt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the turkey season, the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the plastic housing from being carried in my vest pocket. However, the call mechanisms still function smoothly. Cleaning is straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use.
Compared to my high-end custom calls, the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey doesn’t quite match the realism or tonal quality. However, for its price point and ease of use, it’s a surprisingly effective tool. It definitely outperformed my expectations for a budget-friendly multi-call system.
Breaking Down the Features of Cass Creek Ergo Turkey
Specifications
The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey is a molded plastic call designed to produce five different turkey vocalizations. These include:
- Clucks: Low-volume notes for close-range communication.
- Yelps: Louder calls to attract turkeys from a distance.
- Assembly Call: A hen’s call to gather her brood.
- Kee-Kee: A young turkey’s lost call.
- Purr: A confidence call for close encounters.
These variations in vocalization allows a hunter to adapt their calling to specific situations, such as attracting a tom with yelps or reassuring wary birds with soft purrs. The Ergo Turkey is lightweight and designed for one-handed operation. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or vest.
Performance & Functionality
The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey performs adequately in producing the five advertised calls. The clucks and purrs are convincing enough to fool birds at close range. The yelps, while a bit high-pitched, are still effective at drawing attention. The assembly call and kee-kee call offer additional options for specific scenarios.
The main weakness is the overall tonal quality. A trained ear can discern the difference between these calls and those produced by more realistic diaphragm, slate, or box calls. However, for beginners or hunters on a budget, the Ergo Turkey is a functional and affordable tool. It meets expectations for its price point, offering a variety of calls in a simple package.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey features a molded plastic housing that is both lightweight and durable. Its ergonomic design allows for easy one-handed operation. The call buttons are clearly labeled and require minimal pressure to activate.
The design is user-friendly. Even someone with limited experience using turkey calls can quickly learn to produce the different vocalizations. The build quality is adequate for its intended use.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic housing of the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey is surprisingly durable. It can withstand being bumped around in a vest pocket or backpack. Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it clean with a damp cloth after each use. Given its construction, the call should last for several seasons with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. It is a self-contained unit designed for simplicity and ease of use. This keeps the cost down and appeals to hunters looking for a straightforward calling solution.
Pros and Cons of Cass Creek Ergo Turkey
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Easy to use, ideal for beginners.
- Offers five different turkey calls in one unit.
- Durable and lightweight design.
- Compact and easy to carry.
Cons
- Tonal quality not as realistic as higher-end calls.
- No customization options.
- Yelps can sound a bit high-pitched.
Who Should Buy Cass Creek Ergo Turkey?
The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey is perfect for beginner turkey hunters. Those on a budget will find it a valuable and versatile tool. This call would also be useful for experienced hunters seeking a backup or supplementary call system.
Hunters who prioritize absolute realism and tonal perfection might prefer higher-end diaphragm, slate, or box calls. Those seeking customization options should also look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories for the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey include a lanyard for easy carrying. A small cleaning cloth is also a good addition.
Conclusion on Cass Creek Ergo Turkey
The Cass Creek Ergo Turkey is a surprisingly effective and affordable multi-call system. While it may not match the tonal quality of higher-end calls, it offers a variety of useful vocalizations in a durable and easy-to-use package. For $20.99, the price is absolutely justified.
I would personally recommend it to beginner turkey hunters. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a versatile and budget-friendly calling solution. If you’re looking to bag your first gobbler without breaking the bank, give the Cass Creek Ergo Turkey a try.