HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC Review

First Thoughts on the HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC

The HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC slate pot turkey call, manufactured by Hook’s Custom Calls, represents a budget-friendly entry into the world of turkey hunting acoustics. At a mere $16.49, it promises to deliver the crucial yelps, clucks, and purrs needed to lure in that elusive gobbler. But can a call at this price point truly compete with more expensive, handcrafted options? My years of experience in the field tell me that price isn’t everything; the proof is in the pudding, or in this case, the calling.

I needed a reliable backup call. My go-to diaphragm calls are fantastic, but the weather can render them useless. I’ve been caught in too many downpours where a wet diaphragm call resulted in silence, and subsequently, no bird. I also wanted something simple for newer hunters I take out; a slate call is much easier to learn than mastering a mouth call.

Out of the box, the HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC is surprisingly lightweight. The synthetic pot feels sturdy enough, though the included striker looks pretty basic. At first glance, it appears very similar to Primos Heart Breaker Slate Call, but the Primos version has a slightly more refined striker. Compared to a high-end custom call, like those from David Halloran or Lonnie Sneed, the difference is immediately apparent in materials and craftsmanship, but those calls also come with a significantly higher price tag. My initial impression is cautiously optimistic; it’s cheap, but it might just work. It feels like a $16.49 call, but I’m hoping its performance will be much more.

Real-World Testing: Putting HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC was a spring turkey hunt in the Missouri Ozarks. The conditions were less than ideal – a damp, chilly morning with a light drizzle. Diaphragm calls were out of the question.

The call initially produced somewhat raspy tones, requiring some practice to achieve cleaner yelps. The synthetic surface proved to be less affected by the moisture than traditional slate, which was a definite plus. After some experimentation with different striker angles and pressures, I was able to produce some convincing clucks and purrs.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC has held up reasonably well. The synthetic pot shows no signs of cracking or damage despite being tossed in and out of my vest repeatedly. The striker has remained straight and true.

The calling surface requires occasional cleaning with a scouring pad to maintain consistent sound quality. Comparing it to my experiences with custom glass calls, the sound quality is noticeably different; it lacks the richness and depth of a higher-end call. However, for its intended purpose as a backup or starter call, it performs adequately.

Breaking Down the Features of HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC

Specifications

• Type: Slate Pot Turkey Call. This indicates its primary function for creating turkey vocalizations.
• Material: Synthetic Pot. The synthetic material offers increased durability and resistance to moisture compared to traditional slate or glass.
• Price: $16.49. This incredibly low price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious hunters.
• Striker: Unspecified, likely wood or synthetic. The striker’s material and construction influence the call’s sound and ease of use.
• Intended Use: Turkey Hunting. This is a specialized tool designed to mimic turkey sounds for luring birds.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s sound quality, durability, and ease of use in the field. A synthetic pot offers resistance to weather, whereas the price point suggests certain compromises in materials and construction.

Performance & Functionality

The HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC functions as expected for a basic slate call. It produces a range of turkey vocalizations, including yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts, although it may require some practice to achieve realistic sounds.

Its strengths lie in its affordability and weather resistance. Its weakness is the somewhat limited sound quality compared to higher-end calls. It meets expectations for a budget call but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC features a simple, functional design. The synthetic pot is lightweight and easy to hold.

There’s a slight learning curve involved in mastering the call’s various sounds, but it’s relatively user-friendly overall. Seasoned turkey hunters will likely find it intuitive, but newer hunters may benefit from watching some instructional videos.

Durability & Maintenance

The synthetic construction suggests decent durability. The call should withstand reasonable wear and tear in the field.

Maintenance is relatively simple; the surface needs occasional cleaning with a scouring pad to remove debris and maintain consistent sound quality. The striker will likely need to be re-scuffed periodically to ensure proper contact.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC typically comes with just the pot and striker. There are no listed included accessories.

Customization options are limited, but you could potentially experiment with different strikers made from various materials like hardwoods or acrylics to alter the call’s sound. Compatibility with other brands’ strikers is likely, but may require some trial and error.

Pros and Cons of HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC

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Who Should Buy HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC?

• Perfect for: Beginner turkey hunters, hunters on a tight budget, or experienced hunters seeking a reliable backup call for wet weather conditions.
• Who should skip this product? Hunters who prioritize premium sound quality and are willing to invest in a higher-end call.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? Experimenting with different strikers could improve the call’s sound and responsiveness. A small scouring pad is useful for cleaning the surface in the field.

Conclusion on HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC

The HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC slate pot turkey call is a solid, budget-friendly option that provides a dependable tool for novice and experienced turkey hunters alike. While it doesn’t offer the same level of sound quality as more expensive calls, its affordability and weather resistance make it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s arsenal.

The price is absolutely justified for what you get. It’s a cheap, reliable tool that can put birds in the bag.

I would recommend the HOOK’S CUSTOM CALLS SYNTHETIC to anyone looking for an inexpensive, weather-resistant turkey call, especially beginners or those needing a backup. Go give it a try; you might be surprised at the sounds you can create for such a small price.

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