First Thoughts on the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION
The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION diaphragm turkey call promises to bring the wily gobbler running with its three-reed design. At a price point of just $9.99, it’s an incredibly accessible entry into the world of turkey hunting calls. Pittman Game Calls aims to provide hunters with quality calls without breaking the bank, but does the DECEPTION live up to the hype?
I was seeking an affordable and reliable diaphragm call to add to my turkey hunting arsenal this season. My old faithful call, a custom-made model I’d used for years, finally gave out. I needed a replacement that wouldn’t empty my wallet but would still offer a realistic sound and ease of use. The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION fit the bill based on its price and the fact that it was a three-reed design, which I’ve had success with in the past.
Upon receiving the call, my first impression was that it was simple and functional. The materials felt standard for a diaphragm call, nothing exceptionally high-end, but nothing overtly cheap either. The tape seemed securely applied, and the reeds appeared to be properly spaced. Compared to more expensive custom calls, the DECEPTION certainly lacked the handcrafted feel. I chose it over a competing single-reed call because I prefer the versatility and range of sounds achievable with a multi-reed design. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping its performance would exceed its humble price.
Real-World Testing: Putting PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION during a pre-season scouting trip in the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and cool, with a light breeze. I tested its sound in a few different scenarios, including open fields and densely wooded areas.
Initially, there was a slight learning curve to getting the right sound. It took some practice to find the sweet spot for yelps, clucks, and purrs. The call performed well in the damp conditions, not becoming overly saturated or difficult to use. After about 30 minutes of practice, I was producing some fairly convincing turkey vocalizations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION during scouting and early season hunts, it has held up reasonably well. I’ve used it in varying weather conditions, including rain, and it continues to produce consistent sounds. There are some slight signs of wear on the tape after repeated use and cleaning, but nothing alarming.
Maintaining the call has been straightforward: simply rinsing it with water after each use and allowing it to air dry. Compared to my previous high-end custom call, the DECEPTION requires a little more frequent tuning. However, considering the price difference, this is an acceptable trade-off. While it doesn’t outperform my old call in terms of pure sound quality and ease of use, the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION has proven to be a reliable and functional option for its price point.
Breaking Down the Features of PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION
Specifications
The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION is a diaphragm-style turkey call featuring a three-reed design. It’s constructed with standard latex reeds and secured with waterproof tape. The approximate dimensions are 2 inches in width and 1 inch in height.
The three-reed design allows for a wider range of tones and pitches, enabling the hunter to mimic various turkey vocalizations. The waterproof tape is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the call during use in wet conditions. The compact size makes it easy to carry and store.
Performance & Functionality
The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION performs admirably for its price. It’s capable of producing convincing yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts, all essential for attracting turkeys. However, it requires a degree of skill and practice to master the nuances of each call.
The call’s strengths lie in its affordability and versatility. It’s a great option for beginners or experienced hunters looking for a backup call. The main weakness is that it may require more frequent tuning than higher-end calls to maintain optimal sound quality. It certainly meets expectations for a call in its price range but doesn’t exceed them dramatically.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION is adequate, with standard materials used in its construction. The call fits comfortably in the mouth and is relatively lightweight. The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills.
While it may not have the refined feel of a custom-made call, it’s user-friendly and requires no significant learning curve for those familiar with diaphragm calls. The tape is securely applied and doesn’t irritate the mouth during extended use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION should last at least one to two turkey seasons with moderate use. The main wear points are the reeds and the tape, which may eventually require replacement. Maintenance is simple, requiring only rinsing with water and air drying after each use.
There are no user-replaceable parts on the DECEPTION. Once the reeds wear out beyond usability, it’s time to replace the entire call.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available for this particular call. However, there are many after-market call carrying cases and diaphragm call storage solutions available.
Since it’s a standard diaphragm call, it will fit into most call pouches or storage cases designed for diaphragm calls from any brand. No specialized accessories are required or available.
Pros and Cons of PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners and budget-conscious hunters.
- Versatile three-reed design allows for a wide range of turkey vocalizations.
- Easy to maintain requiring only basic cleaning after each use.
- Reliable performance in various weather conditions.
- Compact size makes it easy to carry and store.
Cons
- Requires practice to master different turkey calls.
- May require frequent tuning to maintain optimal sound quality.
- Non-replaceable reeds mean the entire call needs replacing when worn.
Who Should Buy PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION?
The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION is perfect for beginner turkey hunters who are just learning to use diaphragm calls. It’s also an excellent option for experienced hunters who want a reliable and affordable backup call. Hunters on a tight budget or those who frequently lose or damage their calls will appreciate the low price point.
This call may not be the best choice for experienced hunters who demand the absolute highest quality sound and performance. Also, those unwilling to dedicate the time and effort to master diaphragm call techniques should skip this product. A must-have accessory for this call is a diaphragm call case to keep it clean and protected during transport and storage.
Conclusion on PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION
The PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION is a solid, budget-friendly option for turkey hunters. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive calls, it gets the job done. It offers a versatile range of sounds and performs reliably in the field.
The price is definitely justified, making it an excellent value for the money. I would recommend the PITTMAN GAME CALLS DECEPTION to anyone looking for an affordable and functional diaphragm turkey call. So, grab a DECEPTION and get out there and deceive some gobblers this season!