First Thoughts on the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA mouth call, from the renowned Primos hunting company, promises to deliver realistic hen sounds for turkey hunting. At a price point of $6.99, it’s an incredibly accessible entry point for both novice and experienced turkey hunters alike. I was drawn to this call due to its reputation for ease of use and its specific focus on cutting and kee-kee runs, sounds that I’ve struggled to replicate consistently with other calls.
Unboxing the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA, the immediate impression is simplicity. The single-frame design is lightweight, and the thinness of the latex reeds is noticeable. The build quality seems adequate for the price, though the exposed reeds make me a little concerned about potential damage in the field.
I own several other diaphragm calls, including a H.S. Strut triple reed and a custom-made call from a local call maker. I chose the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA because of its advertised ease of use for kee-kees and cutting, areas where my other calls fall short. The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA promised an affordable and effective way to expand my calling repertoire.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. At such a low price point, I wasn’t expecting a miracle, but the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA’s simple design and the Primos name instilled a certain level of hope. I was excited to test its claims of producing realistic and easy-to-execute turkey sounds.
Real-World Testing: Putting PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA came during a spring turkey hunt in the oak ridges of central Pennsylvania. The weather was damp, with a persistent drizzle making conditions less than ideal. I primarily tested the call while sitting against a large oak tree, attempting to lure in a gobbler that had been responding distantly to my box call.
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA did require some initial practice to get the hang of it. The thin latex reeds are sensitive, and I found myself initially producing more air than sound. However, after about 15 minutes of experimentation, I was able to produce decent yelps, clucks, and even passable cutting sounds.
The moisture did affect the call’s performance slightly. The reeds became a little sticky, which required occasional clearing to maintain consistent sound. Despite this, the call remained functional, and I was able to produce realistic turkey sounds, ultimately drawing in a Jake to about 40 yards, though he was too young to harvest.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA on multiple hunts, it has held up surprisingly well. There is some minor wear and tear on the reeds, particularly at the edges, but this hasn’t significantly impacted the call’s performance. I try to store it in its original packaging or in a small, protective case when not in use.
Cleaning is simple. I just rinse it with water and allow it to air dry. Regular cleaning seems essential to prevent buildup and maintain sound quality.
Compared to my higher-end diaphragm calls, the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA is less versatile in terms of the range of sounds it can produce. However, for its intended purpose of producing yelps, clucks, cuts, and kee-kees, it performs admirably, especially considering the price. It doesn’t outperform my custom calls in terms of realism, but it’s significantly easier to master.
Breaking Down the Features of PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA
Specifications
- Type: Diaphragm Mouth Call
- Reeds: Three thin prophylactic latex reeds.
- Cut: Half-moon cut in the first reed.
- Frame: Single frame design.
- Sounds: Designed for medium raspy yelps, clucks, cuts, cackles, and excellent kee-kees.
The three thin reeds are critical for producing the raspy tones that mimic a hen turkey. The half-moon cut in the first reed is what facilitates the crisp cutting sounds.
Performance & Functionality
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA excels at producing the specific sounds it was designed for: cuts, cackles, and kee-kees. The medium raspy yelps are also quite convincing. The call is relatively easy to use, making it a good choice for beginners.
The main weakness is its limited versatility. It’s not ideal for producing very high-pitched, clear yelps or complex calling sequences. It meets my expectations for a simple, affordable call designed for specific turkey vocalizations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is basic but functional. The materials seem adequate for the price point. The single-frame design is lightweight and comfortable in the mouth.
The call is relatively user-friendly. With a small amount of practice, most hunters should be able to produce convincing turkey sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA should last for at least a full turkey season with proper care. The thin latex reeds are the most vulnerable component. Regular cleaning and careful storage are essential to prolong its lifespan.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply rinse with water and air dry after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA comes with no accessories. Customization is limited to perhaps trimming the reeds slightly to adjust the sound, but this is not generally recommended for beginners. It is a self-contained, ready-to-use product.
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA is designed to be used as-is. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories designed specifically for this call.
Pros and Cons of PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA
Pros
- Easy to use, especially for beginners.
- Excellent for producing cuts, cackles, and kee-kees.
- Very affordable price point.
- Compact and lightweight design.
- Produces realistic, raspy hen sounds.
Cons
- Limited versatility compared to more complex calls.
- Thin latex reeds are prone to wear and tear.
- Can be affected by moisture.
Who Should Buy PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA?
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA is perfect for beginner turkey hunters looking for an easy-to-use and affordable diaphragm call. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters who want a dedicated call for producing cuts, cackles, and kee-kees. This call is ideal for hunters focusing on close-range calling strategies in wooded areas.
Hunters seeking a versatile, high-end call capable of producing a wide range of complex turkey vocalizations should skip this product. Those hunting in extremely harsh conditions where durability is paramount might consider a call with more robust construction.
A small, protective case for storing the call is a must-have accessory. Also, consider purchasing multiple calls as backups since the reeds are prone to wear.
Conclusion on PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA
The PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA is a solid, affordable diaphragm call that delivers on its promise of easy-to-use and realistic hen sounds. While it may not be the most versatile call on the market, its focus on cuts, cackles, and kee-kees makes it a valuable addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. The price is certainly justified, making it an accessible option for hunters of all skill levels.
I would personally recommend the PRIMOS CUTTIN HEN DIA, especially to new turkey hunters. For just a few dollars, you can add a valuable calling tool to your setup and increase your chances of bagging that elusive gobbler. Pick one up and hit the woods – you might be surprised at what you can call in!