Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS Review

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS Made a Bold First Impression

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS, a small frame diaphragm turkey call, promises to be a compact and affordable way to entice those spring gobblers. Hunters Specialties, a respected name in the hunting world, aims to deliver a reliable call for both seasoned pros and beginners alike. I’ve spent countless hours chasing turkeys, and I’m always looking for that edge, that subtle difference in sound that can tip the scales in my favor.

My quest for this call stemmed from a need for ultimate portability. I was tired of lugging around bulky pot calls and strikers; I needed something that could live in my vest, ready to go at a moment’s notice. The price point also played a role; at under $5, it felt like a low-risk gamble to add to my arsenal.

Upon unboxing, I was struck by its simplicity. It is a minimalist design with a small frame and seemingly thin reeds. Compared to the Primos “Hook Up” or the Quaker Boy “Easy Yelper,” the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS is noticeably smaller and less intimidating. I ultimately chose the HS-STR-05920 HS due to its compact size and affordability.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It looked almost too simple to produce realistic turkey sounds. Would this tiny call deliver the volume and realism I needed to fool a wary tom?

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to field-test the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS came during the spring turkey season in the rolling hills of Kentucky. I tested the call in a variety of scenarios, from open fields to dense hardwood forests. The weather varied from crisp, dewy mornings to humid afternoons.

The call initially proved challenging to master. It took some practice to get the right air pressure and tongue placement to produce consistent yelps and clucks. I experienced some reed lock-up initially, but adjusted my technique to mitigate the issue.

After some practice, I managed to produce some decent yelps. I found the higher frequencies a bit easier to achieve than the raspy, deep tones of an older hen. This might be a limitation for those seeking a more mature hen sound.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS held up surprisingly well. There were no signs of the reeds degrading or the frame falling apart. The call remained functional, though the initial learning curve persisted.

Durability appears to be adequate for a call in this price range. While the reeds are thin, they haven’t torn or frayed excessively. I made a point of storing the call in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage.

Maintaining the call is relatively simple. After each hunt, I gently rinsed it with water and allowed it to air dry completely. This helped to prevent the reeds from sticking together. I would rate this call a satisfactory choice for durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS

Specifications

• The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS is a small frame diaphragm turkey call. This design allows for placement inside the mouth, freeing up hands for shooting.
• The frame is constructed from a flexible material, likely latex or similar polymer. This provides a comfortable fit inside the mouth.
• The call features multiple thin reeds, typically latex. These reeds vibrate to produce the various turkey vocalizations.
• The call is designed for beginners and experienced callers alike. Its ease of use allows a wide variety of skill levels.
• The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS retails for approximately $4.49. This makes it an extremely affordable option for turkey hunters.

These specifications are important because they dictate the call’s sound quality, ease of use, and overall durability. The small frame enhances comfort. The thin reeds offer different tones and pitches.

Performance & Functionality

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS performs adequately for its price point. It produces a variety of turkey sounds, including yelps, clucks, and purrs, but requires practice to master. Its volume is sufficient for close-range calling.

Its strengths lie in its affordability and portability. Its weaknesses are a steeper learning curve compared to some other diaphragm calls and a slightly less realistic sound. It meets the basic expectations of a diaphragm call, but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS is designed with simplicity in mind. The small frame is intended to fit comfortably in the mouth, and the flexible material helps to conform to the user’s palate. Its light weight ensures it doesn’t become distracting.

The call is relatively user-friendly, but mastering it takes practice. Beginners may find it challenging to produce consistent and realistic sounds at first. Some users will take to it like a duck to water.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS should last for at least one turkey season with proper care. The thin reeds are the most vulnerable part of the call. Gentle rinsing after use and proper storage in a case will extend its lifespan.

Maintenance is minimal. Just rinsing and air drying. Replacing the call entirely is often easier and cheaper than attempting repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS does not come with any additional accessories. Due to its basic design, there are no customization options available. Users can, however, experiment with different calling techniques to achieve various sounds.

The call is not designed to be compatible with any external accessories. It is a standalone product intended for use as-is. This simplicity helps maintain its low cost.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS

Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS?

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS is perfect for beginner turkey hunters looking for an affordable entry point into diaphragm calling. It is also suitable for experienced hunters who want a backup call or a minimalist option for specific hunting situations. Youth hunters may also find the small frame more comfortable.

Those who demand the absolute highest sound quality or are unwilling to invest time in mastering the technique should skip this product. A more expensive, user-friendly diaphragm call or a pot call might be a better choice. A small case would be a must-have accessory to protect the reeds.

Conclusion on Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS

The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-05920 HS is a budget-friendly option that delivers reasonable performance. It is not the best diaphragm call on the market, but it offers good value for its low price. The price is indeed justified!

I would recommend this call to beginners or those looking for a cheap backup. Just be prepared to invest some time in practicing to achieve realistic turkey sounds. Grab one today and start practicing your yelps; Spring turkey season will be here before you know it!