First Thoughts on the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170, more commonly known as the Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call, is a compact and affordable tool designed for the turkey hunter. Hunters Specialties is a well-known name in the hunting industry, and I was intrigued to see what they could offer in such a budget-friendly package. This call promises to produce a variety of realistic turkey sounds, enticing those elusive gobblers into range.
I was looking for a reliable and versatile call that I could easily carry in my vest without adding bulk. Slate calls have always been a favorite of mine due to their realistic sound and ability to create subtle calls when a gobbler is close. My old slate call had seen better days, so I was looking for a replacement that wouldn’t break the bank.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 was smaller than I expected, but felt solid. The slate surface appeared smooth and well-finished, and the striker felt comfortable in my hand. Its lightweight design makes it easy to hold and manipulate.
Compared to my older, larger slate call and a diaphragm call I also own, the Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call seemed more streamlined and geared towards portability. While diaphragm calls offer hands-free operation, slate calls are more forgiving for beginners and allow for a wider range of tones. I chose the Hunters Specialties slate call because it seemed like a good balance between ease of use, sound quality, and portability at an unbeatable price.
My first impression was positive. The compact size and seemingly durable construction made me eager to field-test the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 and see if its performance matched its promising appearance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 during the spring turkey season in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania. The conditions varied from cool, damp mornings to warmer, drier afternoons. I primarily used it in wooded areas with moderate undergrowth.
The call performed surprisingly well in various conditions. Even with slightly damp hands, I was able to produce consistent and clear sounds. Its smaller size proved to be an advantage, allowing for subtle adjustments and calls without excessive movement.
The Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call was easy to use right out of the package. The striker provided a comfortable grip and allowed me to create a variety of calls with minimal effort. I did notice that it took a few minutes to find the sweet spot on the slate for optimal sound.
There were no major issues after the first use, but I noticed that the slate surface seemed to attract dirt and debris. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth was necessary to maintain optimal sound quality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the turkey season, the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracks or damage to the slate or pan. The striker remains in good condition, showing only minor wear.
The call has proven to be durable enough to withstand regular use in the field. It has been subjected to bumps and scrapes without any noticeable impact on performance. I’ve even dropped it a few times without any damage.
Cleaning and maintaining the Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call is simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth after each use keeps it in good condition. I occasionally use a slate conditioning stone to refresh the surface.
Compared to my previous slate call, the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 has outperformed it in terms of portability and ease of use. It’s smaller and lighter, making it easier to carry. It’s also simpler to produce a wide range of realistic calls.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call features a compact design optimized for portability. It utilizes a slate surface known for its realistic sound reproduction. Its small size and lightweight construction are key features.
The call is designed to mimic a variety of turkey vocalizations, including yelps, clucks, purrs, and cutts. The slate material allows for subtle and nuanced sound variations. This allows the hunter to adapt to the mood of the birds.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 excels at producing realistic turkey sounds. It’s particularly effective for close-range calling and subtle adjustments. The call’s smaller size helps to minimize movement, and the ease of use helps in the field.
One strength is its ability to produce a wide range of calls with minimal effort. The slate surface allows for consistent and clear sound reproduction. A weakness is that the slate surface can be susceptible to dirt and moisture, which can affect sound quality.
The Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call meets expectations for a budget-friendly slate call. It provides reliable performance and a variety of realistic turkey sounds.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 features a simple and functional design. The compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to carry and use. The construction contributes to ease of use while hunting.
The build quality is decent for the price. The materials are durable enough to withstand regular use in the field. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 is expected to last for several seasons with proper care. The slate surface is reasonably durable, but should be protected from excessive moisture and impact. Maintaining the slate is crucial to longevity and performance.
Maintenance is simple. Cleaning the slate surface with a soft, dry cloth after each use is sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 comes with a matched striker. There are no other included accessories. Hunters Specialties focuses on a budget offering.
Aftermarket strikers of different materials (e.g., wood, carbon) can be used to alter the sound. Slate conditioning stones are also available to refresh the slate surface. These customizations can enhance the experience.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all hunters.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability.
- Produces a variety of realistic turkey sounds.
- Easy to use, even for beginners.
- Durable construction for reliable performance.
Cons
- Slate surface can be susceptible to dirt and moisture.
- No included accessories besides the striker.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170?
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 is perfect for beginner turkey hunters who want an affordable and easy-to-use call. It is also a good choice for experienced hunters who want a compact and lightweight backup call. This will appeal to the minimalist hunter.
This product may not be suitable for hunters who require a call with a greater range or volume. Those hunting in extremely wet or muddy conditions may also want a more weather-resistant option.
A slate conditioning stone is a must-have accessory to maintain optimal sound quality.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170
The Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call is a solid performer at an unbeatable price. It offers a great balance of ease of use, sound quality, and portability. This balance sets it apart.
The price is definitely justified. It’s an excellent value for beginner and experienced turkey hunters.
I would personally recommend the Hunters Specialties HS-STR-100170 to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable slate call. Grab one, head to the woods, and let the Suzie Snood Slate Pan Call do the talking!