HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN Review

First Thoughts on the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN

The HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN promises a full suite of turkey calling options for hunters of all skill levels. This combo kit from H.S. Strut includes a box call, a glass call, and a diaphragm call, all designed to replicate the alluring sounds of a raspy old hen. It’s designed as a one-stop shop for turkey vocalizations, and at a price point that’s hard to ignore, it piqued my interest as a potentially valuable tool for both beginners and seasoned veterans.

My interest in the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN stemmed from a desire to consolidate my turkey calling arsenal. I was looking for a versatile set that could cover a wide range of calling situations without requiring me to carry multiple, separate calls. This kit offered the promise of adaptability and convenience, which is always welcome in the field.

Upon unboxing, the calls had a decent feel, though definitely not premium. The box call’s maple lid and cherry bottom felt reasonably solid, and the glass call appeared well-constructed. My initial impression was that the materials were adequate for the price, but the true test would be in their sound quality and durability under hunting conditions.

Compared to standalone premium box calls or custom diaphragm calls, the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN appears to be a budget-friendly option designed for versatility. I chose it over purchasing individual, higher-end calls initially because of its all-in-one approach and the desire to test the H.S. Strut’s sound profile across different call types. The deciding factor was the promise of the combo kit providing a diverse range of sounds at an affordable price.

My first impression was a mix of cautious optimism and practicality. I was eager to put the calls to the test in the field, but the budget-friendly price meant I wasn’t expecting top-tier performance. This kit, with the Raspy Old Hen sound profile across three different call types, felt like a solid starting point for the season.

Real-World Testing: Putting HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN during the spring turkey season in the hardwood forests of central Pennsylvania. The conditions varied from crisp, early morning frosts to damp, overcast afternoons. The aim was to evaluate each call type in realistic hunting scenarios.

The box call performed admirably in dry conditions, producing clear, consistent yelps and clucks. However, the glass call struggled in the dampness, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain a consistent sound. The diaphragm call, while initially tricky to master, held its own and proved effective for soft purrs and subtle tree calls.

The box call was relatively straightforward to use, requiring minimal practice to produce basic calls. The glass call had a steeper learning curve, and the diaphragm call required considerable practice to produce consistent, realistic sounds. Overall, the kit presented a range of usability, catering to different skill levels.

My initial experience was somewhat mixed. The box call was immediately gratifying, while the glass and diaphragm calls demanded more patience and practice. The glass call’s sensitivity to moisture was a definite concern, highlighting a potential limitation in certain weather conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN has proven to be a reliable, if not exceptional, set of calls. The box call has remained consistent, but the glass call still requires diligent maintenance in damp environments. The diaphragm call has become a go-to for close-range calling.

The box call shows minimal signs of wear, maintaining its sound quality and physical integrity. The glass call’s surface has become slightly more prone to scratches, impacting its consistency in generating calls. The diaphragm call, being a consumable item, has started to show signs of needing eventual replacement, but is still functional.

Cleaning the box call is simple, requiring only occasional wiping. The glass call demands more attention, needing frequent cleaning with a specialized abrasive pad and conditioning to maintain optimal sound. The diaphragm call requires rinsing after each use to prevent the build-up of saliva and bacteria.

Compared to higher-end calls I’ve used in the past, the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN offers a reasonable level of performance for the price. The box call rivals some mid-range options, while the glass and diaphragm calls fall slightly short of premium alternatives. However, the kit’s versatility and affordability make it a worthwhile investment for many hunters.

Breaking Down the Features of HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN

Specifications

  • Raspy Old Hen Box Call: Features a maple lid and a cherry bottom. This combination of wood types is intended to produce a specific tonal quality known for mimicking the sound of an older, more mature hen.
  • Raspy Old Hen Glass Call: Constructed with a glass surface for creating a clear, high-pitched sound. Glass calls are appreciated for their ability to project sound over distances and cut through wind.
  • Raspy Old Hen Diaphragm Call: A latex diaphragm call designed to produce a variety of turkey vocalizations. Diaphragm calls are known for their hands-free operation and versatility.

These specifications matter because they dictate the overall sound quality, durability, and usability of each call. The wood selection in the box call influences its resonance, while the glass surface affects the pitch and projection of the glass call. The diaphragm call’s latex material impacts its flexibility and range of tones.

Performance & Functionality

The HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN performs its job adequately, offering a diverse range of turkey vocalizations. The box call excels at creating yelps and clucks, the glass call shines with cutting calls, and the diaphragm call offers soft purrs and tree calls.

The box call’s strength lies in its consistent, user-friendly design, but it can be somewhat limited in its tonal range. The glass call provides excellent projection but is susceptible to moisture, impacting its reliability in wet conditions. The diaphragm call offers versatility, but requires practice to master.

Overall, the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN meets expectations for a budget-friendly combo kit. However, it does not exceed the performance of specialized, higher-end calls.

Design & Ergonomics

The HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN features a functional, albeit basic, design. The materials are adequate for the price, and the calls are relatively comfortable to hold and use.

The box call is user-friendly, requiring minimal practice to operate. The glass call has a moderate learning curve due to the need for proper striking technique and surface conditioning. The diaphragm call presents the steepest learning curve, demanding significant practice to produce consistent, realistic sounds.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN should last for several hunting seasons. The box call, being made of wood, requires protection from excessive moisture and impact.

The glass call needs regular cleaning and surface conditioning to maintain its sound quality. The diaphragm call is a consumable item that will eventually require replacement. All the calls are generally easy to maintain and repair with basic cleaning and minor adjustments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN comes with the three calls described. There are no additional accessories included.

There are limited customization options for the calls themselves. However, hunters can experiment with different strikers for the glass call to alter its sound profile. It is not specifically designed for aftermarket customization.

Pros and Cons of HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN

Pros

    • Versatile Combo: Offers a diverse range of turkey vocalizations with a box call, glass call, and diaphragm call.
    • Budget-Friendly: Provides a complete calling solution at an affordable price point.
    • Beginner-Friendly Box Call: The box call is easy to learn and produces consistent, quality sounds.
    • All-In-One Solution: Eliminates the need to purchase individual calls, simplifying gear management.
    • Diverse Sound Profile: Provides different call types allowing for a variety of vocalizations.

Cons

    • Glass Call Moisture Sensitivity: The glass call is susceptible to moisture, impacting its performance in wet conditions.
    • Diaphragm Call Learning Curve: Requires significant practice to master the diaphragm call.
    • Not Top-Tier Quality: Does not match the performance of specialized, higher-end calls.


Who Should Buy HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN?

The HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN is perfect for beginner turkey hunters looking for an affordable and versatile starting point. It is also suitable for experienced hunters who want a budget-friendly backup set or a convenient all-in-one solution for various calling situations.

Hunters seeking top-tier sound quality and performance should skip this product. Also, those who prefer specialized, higher-end calls may find the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN lacking in certain areas.

Essential accessories include a quality abrasive pad and conditioning solution for the glass call, as well as a diaphragm call case for hygienic storage. Modifying the striker for the glass call can help fine-tune the sound profile.

Conclusion on HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN

The HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN offers a solid value proposition for hunters seeking a versatile and affordable turkey calling solution. While it may not match the performance of premium, specialized calls, its all-in-one approach and budget-friendly price make it a worthwhile investment for many.

The price is definitely justified given the inclusion of three different call types. It offers a diverse range of calling options, without breaking the bank.

I would recommend the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN to beginner and budget-conscious hunters. Its versatility and ease of use make it a valuable tool for the turkey woods. So, grab the HSP FRICTION CALL COMBO KIT RASPY OLD HEN and get ready to call in that gobbler!


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