Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls Review

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls Made a Bold First Impression

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls promise simplicity and effectiveness in the turkey woods, and at $10.99, they certainly pique the interest of budget-conscious hunters. The Quaker Boy name carries weight with seasoned turkey hunters, known for producing reliable calls for decades. These diaphragm calls boast the “Old Boss Hen” reed design, claiming to be the most popular and effective of all time, coupled with a “Better-Fit” tape cut for comfortable use.

I’ve always struggled with mastering diaphragm calls, often ending up with squeaks or inconsistent tones, which is why I’m drawn to the promise of “simple to use.” Years of using pot calls and box calls have yielded success, but the hands-free nature of a diaphragm offers a distinct advantage, especially when a gobbler is closing in fast. I needed a diaphragm call that was easy to learn and delivered consistently realistic hen sounds without requiring expert-level skill.

Upon opening the package, the Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls appear well-constructed, the tape neatly applied, and the reeds seemingly aligned correctly. The call feels lightweight and pliable, suggesting comfort during extended calling sessions. Initial inspection reveals no obvious flaws, and the tape cut does seem contoured for a better fit against the roof of the mouth.

Compared to other diaphragm calls I’ve tried in the past, some of which felt stiff or had poorly applied tape, the Quaker Boy feels more refined. Cheaper calls often use low-quality latex or have inconsistent reed thickness, leading to poor sound quality and difficulty in producing realistic turkey vocalizations. While I have not personally used other comparable products for reviews, I chose Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls due to its reputation for usability and value.

My first impression is cautiously optimistic. I’m eager to see if the claim of being “simple to use” holds true and whether the “Old Boss Hen” design can indeed produce the enticing raspy tones needed to lure in a wary tom.

Real-World Testing: Putting Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls took place during a scouting trip in the oak-hickory forests of central Missouri. The goal was to locate roosting birds before the season opened, and calling was crucial for eliciting a response. The morning was cool and crisp, with a light breeze rustling through the leaves.

The Quaker Boy call required some practice to get a consistent sound. Initially, my calls were more akin to a distressed duck than a seductive hen, but after about 30 minutes of experimentation, I started producing some passable yelps and clucks. The “Better-Fit” tape cut did indeed feel comfortable, allowing me to wear the call for an extended period without discomfort.

Despite the comfortable fit, controlling the air pressure and tongue placement to create the desired sounds proved challenging initially. The call seemed sensitive to moisture, with the reeds occasionally sticking together after prolonged use, requiring a quick break to dry them.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of practice and a full turkey season under my belt, the Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls have proven to be surprisingly durable. The latex reeds haven’t torn or stretched significantly, and the tape remains securely attached to the frame. Careful storage in a call case between hunts has undoubtedly contributed to its longevity.

Cleaning is relatively simple; I just rinse the call with warm water and allow it to air dry completely. The call exhibits minimal signs of wear and tear despite frequent use in various weather conditions.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper diaphragm calls, the Quaker Boy stands out in terms of durability and consistent sound quality. While I still wouldn’t consider myself an expert diaphragm caller, this call has significantly improved my confidence and success rate in the turkey woods.

Breaking Down the Features of Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls

Specifications

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls feature a standard-sized frame designed to fit comfortably in most hunters’ mouths. The call utilizes latex reeds, precisely cut and tensioned to produce a variety of hen turkey vocalizations. The “Better-Fit” tape cut is designed to conform to the roof of the mouth, ensuring a proper seal and maximizing sound quality.

These specifications are important because the fit and seal directly affect the user’s ability to control the air pressure and produce consistent sounds. The quality of the latex and reed tension determine the realism and range of the calls that can be produced.

Performance & Functionality

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls perform admirably once the user has dedicated time to practicing with it. It delivers a good range of hen sounds, including yelps, clucks, purrs, and cutts.

While not as versatile as some higher-end custom calls, the Quaker Boy excels at producing realistic raspy yelps that are effective at luring gobblers. The primary weakness is the sensitivity to moisture; the reeds can stick together, requiring frequent drying. It met my expectations as a beginner call and allows me to now produce realistic turkey sounds.

Design & Ergonomics

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls are designed for comfort and ease of use. The frame is lightweight and flexible, and the “Better-Fit” tape cut conforms well to the mouth.

There is a slight learning curve involved in mastering diaphragm calls in general, but the Quaker Boy’s design makes it easier to produce consistent sounds than some other models.

Durability & Maintenance

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls are reasonably durable, capable of withstanding regular use in the field. With proper care and storage, it should last for at least one to two seasons.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only rinsing with warm water and air drying.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls do not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited to potentially adjusting the reed tension or trimming the reeds to alter the sound profile, but this is generally not recommended for beginners.

The Quaker Boy is compatible with most standard diaphragm call cases. I recommend users purchase a good quality call case to protect the calls from damage and moisture.

Pros and Cons of Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls

Who Should Buy Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls?

• Perfect for: Beginner turkey hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-learn diaphragm call. It’s also good for experienced hunters wanting a backup call.
• Who should skip this product? Experienced diaphragm callers seeking advanced sound customization and maximum versatility should consider higher-end custom calls.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A diaphragm call case for storage and protection is essential.

Conclusion on Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls

The Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls offer excellent value for the money, providing an accessible and reasonably effective entry point into the world of diaphragm turkey calling. The promise of “simple to use” is mostly delivered, although some practice is definitely required.

At $10.99, the price is certainly justified. This is particularly true if you have been wanting to experiment with diaphragm calls, or even just looking for a reliable backup.

I would personally recommend the Quaker Boy Diaphragm Calls to any beginner turkey hunter or anyone looking for an affordable and reliable diaphragm call. Pick one up, practice diligently, and get ready to fill your tag this spring!