The PITTMAN CROW CALL Made a Bold First Impression
The PITTMAN CROW CALL, a simple tool from Pittman, arrived in a plain package, belying its potential for drawing in one of the most intelligent and wary birds in the avian kingdom. I was immediately struck by its compact size and the familiar green injection molded body, a classic design that speaks to its no-frills functionality. At a mere $10.49, it promised an accessible entry point into the world of crow calling, a skill I’ve been itching to hone for years.
For years, I’ve admired the crow’s intelligence and adaptability, and I wanted to understand them better. Using a call seemed like the perfect way to interact with these birds on their own terms, perhaps even contributing to better hunting success by pinpointing their location.
Upon opening the package, the lightweight feel of the PITTMAN CROW CALL was noticeable. The green plastic felt sturdy enough, but I was eager to see how it would hold up in the field. I have used Primos and Quaker Boy calls in the past and while those are great, I always wanted to test the most affordable option. My initial thought was that the simplicity of the design was a major strength; it wasn’t trying to be anything it wasn’t.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. At this price point, I wasn’t expecting a masterpiece, but the PITTMAN CROW CALL seemed like a solid starting point. The affordability and simplicity piqued my interest, leaving me excited to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting PITTMAN CROW CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the PITTMAN CROW CALL took place on a crisp autumn morning on my family farm. I positioned myself near a woodlot known for a healthy crow population. The air was damp and cool, a typical morning for late-season deer hunting.
The call was surprisingly easy to use right out of the package. With minimal practice, I was able to produce a decent crow caw. Initially, the crows didn’t respond, but after about 15 minutes of intermittent calling, a lone crow broke from the treeline. It circled cautiously, responding with its own calls, eventually drawing in two more crows. This was encouraging, suggesting the call could indeed attract their attention.
My first experience showed promise, proving that with a little practice, I could elicit a response from the crows. However, I did find that after prolonged use, my mouth would get very dry. Also, maintaining consistency in sound was initially challenging, sometimes producing more of a squeak than a caw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, the PITTMAN CROW CALL has proven to be surprisingly durable for its price. Despite being made of injection-molded plastic, it has withstood being carried in my hunting pack and exposed to various weather conditions. There are no signs of cracking or damage.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down are all that’s needed. The call has maintained its tone and ease of use over time, which I found to be a huge surprise.
Compared to more expensive calls I’ve used, the PITTMAN CROW CALL holds its own in terms of attracting crows. While it may not have the nuanced sound of a custom-made call, its simplicity and reliability make it a valuable tool for the price. It might not outperform high-end calls in the hands of an expert, but for the average user, the difference is negligible.
Breaking Down the Features of PITTMAN CROW CALL
Specifications
- The PITTMAN CROW CALL features a green injection molded body, providing a durable and lightweight construction. This choice of material ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without adding unnecessary weight to your gear.
- It includes a lanyard, making it easy to keep the call readily accessible. This prevents loss and ensures it’s always within reach when needed.
- The call has a simple, reed-based design for producing crow sounds. This design prioritizes ease of use and requires minimal skill to operate effectively.
- Pittman lists the price point at $10.49, making it one of the most affordable crow calls on the market. Its affordability makes it an excellent option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
These specifications matter because they dictate the call’s overall usability and effectiveness. The lightweight design, durable construction, and lanyard contribute to easy handling in the field. The affordable price makes it accessible to anyone interested in trying crow calling without a significant investment.
Performance & Functionality
The PITTMAN CROW CALL performs its job effectively by producing a sound that attracts crows. While it may not have the tonal complexity of higher-end calls, it reliably produces a recognizable crow caw that elicits a response.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. However, the sound can be a bit one-dimensional. With a little practice one can produce a range of crow sounds, from distress calls to gathering calls.
For its intended purpose, the PITTMAN CROW CALL meets expectations and exceeds them given its low price point. It may not be a professional-grade instrument, but it’s a reliable and effective tool for attracting crows for hunting, wildlife observation, or pest control.
Design & Ergonomics
The PITTMAN CROW CALL features a simple, utilitarian design focused on functionality. The green plastic body is lightweight and easy to grip, even with wet hands.
The call is user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve to produce basic crow sounds. More complex calls may take practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The injection-molded plastic construction of the PITTMAN CROW CALL contributes to its durability. It seems reasonably long-lasting.
The call requires minimal maintenance; a simple rinse and wipe-down after use are sufficient. This ease of maintenance ensures it remains in good working condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PITTMAN CROW CALL comes with a basic lanyard. There are no other included accessories.
Due to its simple design, there are no customization options for the PITTMAN CROW CALL. Its core function is to produce crow sounds, and it does so effectively without needing additional modifications.
Pros and Cons of PITTMAN CROW CALL
Pros
- Extremely affordable: At around $10, it’s an accessible entry point for anyone interested in crow calling.
- Simple and easy to use: Requires minimal practice to produce recognizable crow sounds.
- Durable construction: The injection-molded plastic body can withstand outdoor use.
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to carry in a pocket or hunting pack.
- Effective at attracting crows: Reliably elicits a response from crows in various environments.
Cons
- Sound quality is somewhat basic and one-dimensional.
- No customization options.
Who Should Buy PITTMAN CROW CALL?
Perfect for: Hunters looking to locate game by listening for crow activity, wildlife observers interested in attracting crows for study, and anyone dealing with crow-related pest problems in their gardens or farms.
Who should skip this product? Serious competition callers may find the sound quality too basic. They may want to invest in a higher-end, custom-tuned call for more nuanced sounds.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A small case to protect it in your hunting pack and practice!
Conclusion on PITTMAN CROW CALL
The PITTMAN CROW CALL is a surprisingly effective and affordable tool for anyone interested in attracting crows. It may not have the refined sound of a high-end call, but it delivers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost.
The price is absolutely justified, considering its durability, ease of use, and effectiveness.
I would definitely recommend the PITTMAN CROW CALL to beginners, casual hunters, and anyone looking for an inexpensive way to interact with these intelligent birds. For the price, you simply can’t go wrong. Grab one today and start calling!