PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE Review

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE Made a Bold First Impression

Turkey hunting isn’t just a hobby for me; it’s a yearly ritual etched into my soul. The thrill of the chase, the crisp morning air, and the satisfaction of calling in a wary gobbler are unmatched. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for that edge, that tool that can make the difference between a successful hunt and an empty-handed return. The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE 2-reed diaphragm turkey call promises that edge.

My usual diaphragm calls were starting to lose their rasp and I needed a replacement before the spring season opener. I needed a reliable call that wouldn’t break the bank, letting me focus on the hunt, not the gear. I picked the PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE because of PITTMAN’s reputation for affordable quality. I considered Primos calls, known for their ease of use, and Quaker Boy, popular among seasoned hunters. Ultimately, the PITTMAN won due to its simplicity and value.

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE arrived in a simple blister pack. The first impression was of a clean, well-constructed call. It felt lightweight and the reeds appeared to be properly aligned. My initial thought was cautiously optimistic; at $8.99, it had the potential to be a game-changer.

Real-World Testing: Putting PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE during a pre-season scouting trip in the Ozark Mountains. The weather was damp and cool, a typical early spring morning. My aim was to simulate calling conditions and see how the call performed under pressure.

The call took a bit of getting used to initially. I had to adjust my tongue pressure and air flow to achieve the desired yelps, clucks, and purrs. It wasn’t as easy as some of the more forgiving diaphragm calls I’ve used. But after about 15 minutes of practice, I started to find its sweet spot. The SAPPHIRE produced a surprisingly realistic raspy hen sound.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a full turkey season, the PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE has proven to be reasonably durable. There were no signs of the reeds separating or the tape peeling. I kept the call in a protective case when not in use and allowed it to dry completely after each hunt.

Compared to some higher-end calls that I’ve used, the SAPPHIRE‘s longevity might be shorter with heavy use. However, at its price point, it offers a fantastic value. It delivered consistent performance throughout the season.

Breaking Down the Features of PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE

Specifications

• The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE is a 2-reed diaphragm turkey call. This configuration offers a balance between ease of use and sound quality.
• The call uses a standard frame size. This makes it suitable for most adult mouth sizes.
• The reeds are made from thin latex. This material provides the flexibility needed to create a variety of turkey vocalizations.
• The call features a basic tape construction. This keeps the reeds in place and helps to create the proper sound chamber.
• It’s designed primarily for yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts. These are the fundamental calls needed for successful turkey hunting.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sound quality and the user’s ability to produce realistic turkey vocalizations. A well-designed call with properly aligned reeds will be easier to use and will sound more convincing to a gobbler. The 2-reed design, in particular, allows for a greater range of tones compared to a single-reed call.

Performance & Functionality

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE performs its job admirably, especially considering its budget-friendly price. Once mastered, it’s capable of producing a wide range of realistic turkey sounds.

The main strength is its ability to create a raspy, realistic hen yelp. The main weakness is its initial learning curve. However, with patience and practice, this can be overcome. It definitely exceeded my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE features a simple, no-frills design. It’s lightweight and fits comfortably in the mouth.

The user-friendliness could be improved with a slightly more forgiving reed configuration. However, the basic design is effective.

Durability & Maintenance

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE seems reasonably durable for its price point. With proper care, it should last for at least one full turkey season.

Cleaning involves simply rinsing the call with water and allowing it to air dry. Replacement is a more likely maintenance procedure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE doesn’t come with any accessories. There aren’t any specific customization options for this particular call.

However, it’s compatible with standard diaphragm call cases and cleaning solutions. Aftermarket call savers can help prolong the call’s life.

Pros and Cons of PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE

Who Should Buy PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE?

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE is perfect for:

• Beginner turkey hunters who are looking for an affordable entry point into diaphragm calling.
• Experienced hunters on a budget who need a reliable backup call.
• Hunters who prefer a raspy, realistic hen sound.

Who should skip this product?

• Hunters who are looking for an extremely user-friendly call with minimal learning curve.
• Hunters who demand a call that will last for many seasons of heavy use.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A diaphragm call case to protect the call when not in use. A call saver to help prolong the lifespan of the reeds.

Conclusion on PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE

The PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE is a solid, affordable turkey call that delivers a realistic sound, but requires some practice to master. The $8.99 price is definitely justified.

I would recommend it to beginner turkey hunters or those looking for a budget-friendly backup call. Give the PITTMAN GAME CALLS SAPPHIRE a try this season and see if you can bring home that big gobbler.