HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack Review

First Thoughts on the HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack

The HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack from HS Strut promises to be an accessible entry point into the world of diaphragm turkey calls. For a seasoned hunter like myself, with over a decade spent chasing gobblers, a $6.49 three-pack of calls initially raised eyebrows. I’m eager to see if these calls can deliver performance and value for beginners or even serve as reliable backups for experienced callers.

I’ve always believed in having a diverse arsenal of calls to adapt to varying turkey vocalizations and hunting conditions. I was specifically looking for a compact and affordable set that I could recommend to newcomers to the sport and keep in my vest as emergency backups. Upon receiving the HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack, the first thing I noticed was the compact packaging. It was simple but effective, showcasing the three different diaphragm calls.

Compared to my usual collection of custom-made or higher-end diaphragm calls, the Lil Strut Starter Pack appeared noticeably simpler in construction. I typically use calls with unique frame designs and latex cuts that I’ve painstakingly chosen over the years. However, the price point of this pack is significantly lower than purchasing even a single premium call. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was curious to see how they would sound and perform in the field.

I wasn’t exactly blown away by the initial appearance, but I wasn’t disappointed either. The price is the real story here. I was definitely surprised by the value proposition.

Real-World Testing: Putting HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack was on a scouting trip deep in the hardwood bottoms of the Mississippi River. I wanted to assess their sound quality in a natural environment. The conditions were damp and cool, typical for early turkey season.

The Premium Flex™ Small Frame Double D call was the first I tried. It produced decent, albeit slightly higher-pitched, yelps. The Raspy Old Hen was a bit more challenging to master, requiring more precise tongue pressure to achieve its intended raspy tone. The Split V II was perhaps the easiest to use, producing clean and consistent cutts and clucks. After about 30 minutes of practice, I found myself producing passable turkey sounds with each call. There were no immediate issues, but I anticipated needing more practice to achieve the desired realism.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack during practice sessions and actual hunts, I have a better understanding of its strengths and limitations. These calls have held up surprisingly well considering their price point. There is some visible wear on the latex, but it hasn’t significantly impacted their sound quality.

Maintaining these calls is relatively simple. I’ve rinsed them with water and allowed them to air dry after each use, which seems to be sufficient. Compared to my more expensive custom calls, the Lil Strut Starter Pack doesn’t offer the same nuanced sound control or longevity. However, it provides a functional and affordable option for beginners and backup use.

Breaking Down the Features of HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack

Specifications

The HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack includes three distinct diaphragm calls, each designed to produce different turkey vocalizations. Each call features Infinity Latex™, promising consistent sound and durability. The pack includes:

• Premium Flex™ Small Frame Double D: Designed with a smaller frame for comfortable fit and ease of use, this call aims for clear yelps and clucks. Its double reed design is intended to produce consistent, two-note sounds that mimic a hen.
• Raspy Old Hen: This call utilizes a unique reed cut to create a raspy, mature hen sound. It is designed to appeal to gobblers looking for a hen with character.
• Split V II: Featuring a split V cut in the latex, this call is designed for producing sharp cutts and clucks. The V cut allows for precise airflow control.

These specifications matter because they dictate the range of sounds a hunter can produce and the ease with which they can be created. The smaller frame is particularly important for hunters with smaller mouths or those new to diaphragm calls. The Infinity Latex™ is key for consistent performance throughout the lifespan of the call.

Performance & Functionality

The HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack performs its intended job adequately, especially considering its price. The calls are functional and can produce a variety of turkey sounds with practice. They do require more air and tongue control compared to higher-end calls.

The strengths of this pack lie in its affordability and accessibility. The weaknesses are its relatively limited sound quality and somewhat shorter lifespan compared to premium calls. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly starter pack.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price point. The materials used are adequate, and the calls are lightweight and comfortable to hold in the mouth. There is a slight learning curve, particularly with the Raspy Old Hen call, but overall, the design is user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

While not built to last for seasons upon seasons, the calls in the HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack are reasonably durable. Proper cleaning and storage can extend their lifespan. Maintenance is simple, requiring only rinsing and air drying after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack doesn’t come with any additional accessories, nor does it offer much in the way of customization. These are basic diaphragm calls designed for simple functionality. They are compatible with standard diaphragm call cases and storage solutions.

Pros and Cons of HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack

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Who Should Buy HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack?

The HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack is perfect for:

• Beginner turkey hunters: An inexpensive way to learn how to use diaphragm calls.
• Hunters on a budget: Provides functional calls without breaking the bank.
• Experienced hunters needing backup calls: A reliable and affordable option to keep in your vest.

Who should skip this product?

• Experienced hunters who demand the highest sound quality and durability.
• Those who prefer other types of turkey calls (box calls, pot calls, etc.).

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A diaphragm call case for proper storage.
• Practice sessions to master the different calls.

Conclusion on HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack

The HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack is a surprisingly effective and affordable entry point into the world of diaphragm turkey calls. While it doesn’t offer the same level of sound quality or durability as higher-end options, its value proposition is undeniable. At $6.49 for three functional calls, it’s hard to go wrong.

The price is absolutely justified for what you get. This pack provides a solid foundation for learning diaphragm calling and serves as a reliable backup for experienced hunters.

I would definitely recommend the HS Strut Lil Strut Starter Pack to beginners and budget-conscious hunters. Give it a try and discover the satisfaction of calling in your own gobbler!

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