The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call Made a Bold First Impression
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call is an entry-level diaphragm call designed for turkey hunting. Made by Hunters Specialties, a trusted name in hunting gear, it promises to deliver realistic turkey sounds at an affordable price. I’ve used countless calls over the years, from custom-made pot calls costing hundreds of dollars, to mass-produced box calls.
I needed a reliable, easy-to-use mouth call for a quick spring turkey hunt with limited space in my pack. I was specifically looking for something simple, pre-stretched, and ready to use right out of the package. The call’s compact size and reputation for producing consistent yelps piqued my interest.
Upon opening the packaging, the call looked deceptively simple. The yellow latex reeds appeared well-seated, and the overall construction felt sturdy for a call costing less than a cup of coffee. Compared to higher-end calls with multiple reeds and elaborate cuts, the Butski Mouth Call seemed almost rudimentary.
I’ve used Primos calls in the past and experimented with some Flextone models, but this Hunters Specialties call seemed like a more straightforward, no-nonsense option. Its price point was the deciding factor, as I was willing to risk a few dollars on a potentially great backup call. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if such an inexpensive call could actually produce convincing turkey vocalizations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was on a scouting trip a week before the season opened, in the oak and hickory hills of southern Ohio. I wanted to see how the call performed in the field and if it could handle the varying weather conditions. The morning was damp and cool, with a light fog rolling through the timber.
The call performed surprisingly well in the damp conditions. It produced clear yelps, clucks, and purrs with minimal effort. I found the call relatively easy to control, even for someone more accustomed to using pot calls.
However, the call did require a bit of practice to get the rasp and tone just right. After about 15 minutes of experimenting, I was able to consistently produce convincing turkey sounds. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked straight out of the package.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the spring turkey season, the Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call held up better than expected. I carried it as a backup call and used it frequently when I needed a quick, hands-free option. The latex reeds remained in good condition, and the call maintained its consistent tone.
There was minimal wear and tear, even after repeated use in varying weather conditions. I kept the call clean and dry between uses, which likely contributed to its longevity. Cleaning involved simply rinsing it with water and letting it air dry.
Compared to some of my more expensive diaphragm calls, the Butski Mouth Call performed admirably. While it might not offer the same nuanced tones as custom calls, it provided reliable performance at a fraction of the cost. It definitely outperformed my expectations for such an affordable option.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call is a single-reed diaphragm call designed for producing a variety of turkey vocalizations. The call features a frame made of flexible tape that conforms to the roof of the mouth. The yellow latex reed is pre-stretched and cut to produce realistic yelps, clucks, purrs, and other turkey sounds.
The call’s simple design is what makes it a useful tool for hunters of all skill levels. The material choices are all about affordability and function. The specifications are directly related to ease of use and generating turkey sounds.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call excels at producing basic turkey sounds with relative ease. The single reed design makes it less versatile than multi-reed calls. The simple build does make it user friendly for beginners.
The call’s greatest strength lies in its consistent production of yelps and clucks. Its weakness is the lack of nuanced tones achievable with more complex calls. It certainly met my expectations for a budget-friendly mouth call.
Design & Ergonomics
The call’s design is minimalist, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. The flexible tape frame is relatively comfortable in the mouth, although it may take some getting used to for first-time users. The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry and use for extended periods.
The call is user-friendly, with a short learning curve for most hunters. Some users might find the tape frame a bit bulky or uncomfortable initially. Overall, the design is practical and effective for its intended purpose.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call is reasonably durable, considering its low price point. The latex reed is susceptible to tearing or stretching over time, but with proper care, it should last for at least one hunting season. The call is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and drying.
With diligent maintenance, the call could last for multiple seasons. However, it is not as durable as higher-end calls with thicker reeds and reinforced frames. The ease of maintenance is a significant advantage for hunters who prefer a simple, low-maintenance option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call does not come with any additional accessories. There are no real customization options available for this model. Due to its low price and simple design, it’s intended to be used as is.
The lack of accessories and customization reflects the call’s budget-friendly nature. Hunters seeking more versatility and customization options should consider higher-end diaphragm calls. The lack of extra frills keeps this call simple, affordable, and effective.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to all hunters.
- Easy to use, even for beginners with little to no prior experience.
- Produces consistent yelps and clucks.
- Compact and lightweight for easy carry.
- Functions reliably in various weather conditions.
Cons
- Limited tonal range compared to multi-reed calls.
- Latex reed may tear or stretch over time.
- Lack of customization options.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call?
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call is perfect for beginner turkey hunters who are just learning to use diaphragm calls. It’s also great for experienced hunters who want an inexpensive backup call. This call is ideal for hunters on a tight budget who need a reliable and easy-to-use call.
Hunters seeking advanced tonal control and customization options should skip this product. Those who prefer pot calls, box calls, or other types of turkey calls may also not find this mouth call appealing. A small call lanyard can be a useful addition.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call
The Hunters Specialties Butski Mouth Call Wild Turkey Yellow Latex Mouth Call is a surprisingly effective and affordable option for turkey hunters. Its ease of use and consistent performance make it an excellent choice for beginners and a reliable backup for experienced hunters. At just $6.49, the price is certainly justified.
I would personally recommend this call to anyone looking for a simple, budget-friendly mouth call that produces realistic turkey sounds. It’s a great value and a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal. Pick one up today and get ready to call in that big tom this spring!