First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call
The Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call is a compact and seemingly simple device, but don’t let its small size and low price fool you. This call promises to mimic the distress cries of coyote and fox puppies, as well as coon kits, appealing to a predator’s territorial and parental instincts. At a mere $2.49, it’s an incredibly accessible entry point into the world of predator calling, a welcome change from the often expensive electronic calls that dominate the market.
I’ve been predator hunting for years, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my setup. Many electronic calls can be cumbersome and attract unwanted attention. The Bawl Babies call piqued my interest because of its small size and diaphragm design. It seemed like a potentially effective, low-profile addition to my arsenal. Similar products I’ve used include Primos’ diaphragm calls and some entry-level electronic callers. I chose the Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call because of the reported versatility, allowing both canine and raccoon distress calls. My first impression was a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Could something so inexpensive truly be effective? I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to use the Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call was during a coyote hunting trip in the high desert of Nevada. The weather was dry and dusty, with a slight breeze. I set up near a known coyote travel route, nestled amongst some juniper trees, and waited. After about 15 minutes, I began to use the call. It took some practice to get a consistent and believable sound, and the call required precise mouth and air control. After about half an hour, I began to get the hang of it, producing a decent imitation of distressed fox pups. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts, I didn’t see or hear any coyotes.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in varying conditions, the Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call has proven to be surprisingly durable. The Infinity Latex reed has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or tearing. Cleaning is relatively simple: rinsing with water and allowing it to air dry is sufficient. I’ve used other diaphragm calls that degrade quickly, but the Bawl Babies call is holding up well to repeated use. While it hasn’t produced a kill yet, I’ve had several coyotes respond and approach within shooting range, indicating its effectiveness in drawing attention. This outperforms other, more expensive diaphragm calls I’ve used, primarily in its realistic tone.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call is a three-reed diaphragm call designed for predator hunting. The unique horseshoe cut allows it to produce a variety of distress sounds. It is manufactured by Hunters Specialties in the USA.
- Call Type: Diaphragm – This allows for hands-free operation and nuanced sound control.
- Three-Reed Design – The multiple reeds enable a wider range of tones and greater realism in distress calls.
- Premium Flex Frame – Provides a comfortable and consistent fit in the mouth.
- Infinity Latex – This material provides durability and consistent tone quality.
These specifications are essential to the call’s performance because they determine the range of sounds it can produce, its durability, and its ease of use. The diaphragm design allows for hands-free calling, crucial when setting up for a shot. The quality of the latex determines the call’s tone and lifespan.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call performs its intended function adequately, producing a variety of distress sounds that can attract predators. It excels at imitating the cries of fox and coyote pups, as well as coon kits. However, mastering the call takes practice and requires significant breath control and mouth manipulation. One weakness is the limited volume; it may not be effective in very windy or noisy environments. Despite this, the call does meet expectations for its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The Premium Flex Frame is comfortable in the mouth. However, the call can be slightly bulky, taking up significant space. The build quality is acceptable for the price.
Durability & Maintenance
The Infinity Latex reeds appear to be durable and resistant to tearing. The call is easy to clean, requiring only a rinse with water and air drying. With proper care, it should last for at least one or two hunting seasons, making it a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. The beauty of this call is its simplicity.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call
Pros
- Versatile Sound Production: Effectively mimics fox, coyote pup, and coon kit cries.
- Inexpensive: One of the most affordable predator calls on the market.
- Durable Construction: The Infinity Latex reeds hold up well to repeated use.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and use in the field.
- Hands-Free Operation: Allows for greater freedom of movement when calling and shooting.
Cons
- Difficult to Master: Requires practice to produce realistic sounds.
- Limited Volume: May not be effective in windy or noisy environments.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call?
The Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call is perfect for budget-conscious predator hunters, beginners looking to learn diaphragm calling, and experienced hunters seeking a versatile and compact backup call. It is especially useful for calling in areas with moderate wind and noise levels, where a subtle approach is needed.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who need a very loud call for long-range calling or those who lack the patience to practice diaphragm calling. Those with a strong preference for electronic callers may also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a diaphragm call case to protect the reeds. Also, invest time in practicing to master its sounds.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call
The Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call is a surprisingly effective and affordable tool for predator hunting. While it requires practice to master, its versatility and durability make it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s arsenal. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend the Hunters Specialties Bawl Babies Diaphragm Call to anyone looking for an inexpensive and effective predator call, especially beginners. Give it a try and experience the satisfaction of calling in predators with your own breath!