Quaker Boy Split Quad Review

The Quaker Boy Split Quad Made a Bold First Impression

Turkey hunting. It’s a passion that runs deep, a dance with nature that demands respect, skill, and the right tools. Among those tools, the diaphragm call stands out as a critical instrument for mimicking the alluring sounds of a hen, drawing those elusive toms within range. My pursuit of the perfect call led me to the Quaker Boy Split Quad, a seemingly unassuming diaphragm call promising a range of realistic turkey vocalizations.

Years of experience in the field taught me that a turkey call is more than just a piece of latex and tape. It’s a conversation starter, a way to speak the language of the woods. I needed a call that could produce convincing yelps, clucks, and purrs, and the Quaker Boy Split Quad with its four reeds piqued my interest. Unboxing the call was a simple affair, a small package holding what looked like a straightforward, no-frills design.

The feel of the call in my mouth was immediately familiar, yet subtly different from my usual single or double reed calls. Its thin profile suggested it would sit comfortably, allowing for nuanced control over airflow and reed vibration. Compared to calls like the Woodhaven Ninja Crystal or Primos Hook Up, the Quaker Boy Split Quad appeared less flashy, more focused on function over form. I chose the Quaker Boy Split Quad because of Quaker Boy’s reputation for producing quality, affordable calls, and the promise of versatility with its multiple reeds. Initial impressions were cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if this unassuming call could truly deliver the range and realism I sought.

Real-World Testing: Putting Quaker Boy Split Quad to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Quaker Boy Split Quad was on a crisp spring morning in the Missouri Ozarks. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and blooming dogwood, and the woods were alive with the sounds of gobbling toms. I settled into a comfortable position against a large oak, tucked into the shadows, and began to experiment with the call.

The initial sounds were rough. It took a few minutes to find the sweet spot, the precise combination of tongue pressure and airflow that produced a convincing yelp. Once I found it, however, the Quaker Boy Split Quad came alive. It responded surprisingly well in the damp conditions, with only minimal moisture affecting sound quality. The call did take some getting used to. The four reeds required a different approach than my familiar two-reed calls, demanding more precise control of airflow.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of hunting with the Quaker Boy Split Quad, it has proven to be a reliable, though not flawless, performer. The call has held up surprisingly well to repeated use, showing no signs of significant wear and tear. A quick rinse and air dry after each hunt has been sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.

Compared to my previous go-to diaphragm call, the Quaker Boy Split Quad offers a wider range of tones, but requires more skill to master. While its initial learning curve was steeper, the versatility it provides makes it a worthwhile addition to my turkey hunting arsenal.

Breaking Down the Features of Quaker Boy Split Quad

Specifications

The Quaker Boy Split Quad is a diaphragm turkey call designed to mimic the sounds of a hen turkey.

  • It features four reeds, a design intended to produce a wide range of realistic turkey vocalizations.
  • It is constructed from thin, flexible latex reeds stretched across a frame, held together by tape. The call weighs virtually nothing, adding negligible bulk to any hunter’s kit.
  • As a mouth call, it does not have specific dimensions like barrel length or magazine capacity. Rather, it is designed to fit comfortably in the roof of the mouth, allowing the user to manipulate airflow and tongue pressure to create different sounds.

These specifications are significant because the number and thickness of the reeds directly impact the call’s sound quality, range, and ease of use. Four reeds offer the potential for more complex and realistic sounds but require greater control.

Performance & Functionality

The Quaker Boy Split Quad performs its primary function – mimicking turkey sounds – reasonably well. It is capable of producing convincing yelps, clucks, purrs, and even kee-kees, allowing for a diverse range of calling strategies. Its strengths lie in its ability to create subtle, realistic sounds, particularly soft purrs and clucks that can be incredibly effective at close range.

However, it is not the loudest call on the market. Experienced callers will appreciate the subtle nuances attainable with the Quaker Boy Split Quad.

Design & Ergonomics

The Quaker Boy Split Quad features a simple, functional design. The materials used are basic, but the construction seems solid enough for a diaphragm call at this price point. Its thin profile ensures a comfortable fit in the mouth, minimizing interference and allowing for clear vocalization.

There is a slight learning curve involved, particularly for those accustomed to single or double reed calls. Practice is essential to master the nuances of airflow and tongue pressure required to produce consistent, realistic sounds.

Durability & Maintenance

Diaphragm calls are inherently delicate, and the Quaker Boy Split Quad is no exception. With proper care, however, it should last for at least one season of regular hunting. Maintenance is simple: rinse with water after each use, allow to air dry, and store in a cool, dry place.

Avoid excessive stretching or bending of the reeds, as this can damage them and affect the call’s sound.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Quaker Boy Split Quad does not come with any additional accessories. As a diaphragm call, customization options are limited. Experimenting with different cuts to the reeds is possible, but it requires a steady hand and a good understanding of how the call works.

It is compatible with most standard diaphragm call holders and cases, allowing for convenient storage and transport.

Pros and Cons of Quaker Boy Split Quad

Pros

  • Versatile sound production due to the four-reed design. This allows for a wider range of turkey vocalizations.
  • Affordable price point makes it accessible to hunters of all budgets. Its low cost encourages experimentation without significant financial risk.
  • Comfortable fit in the mouth, facilitating extended calling sessions without fatigue. Thin profile ensures minimal interference.
  • Produces realistic soft purrs and clucks, ideal for close-range calling. These subtle sounds can be highly effective on pressured birds.
  • Good moisture resistance compared to some other diaphragm calls. Maintains sound quality even in damp conditions.

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve compared to single or double reed calls. Requires more practice and precise control.
  • Not the loudest diaphragm call on the market. Better suited for close-range calling or situations where subtlety is key.


Who Should Buy Quaker Boy Split Quad?

The Quaker Boy Split Quad is perfect for experienced turkey hunters looking to expand their calling repertoire with a versatile and affordable diaphragm call. It’s also well-suited for hunters who appreciate subtle, realistic sounds and prefer close-range calling. Its low price makes it a good option for beginners willing to invest the time and effort to master the four-reed design.

Hunters who rely on loud, aggressive calling tactics or those who prefer simpler, easier-to-use calls may want to skip this product. This product is best suited for callers that wish to add subtle tones to their bag of tricks.

Must-have accessories include a diaphragm call case to protect the reeds and a comfortable lanyard for easy access in the field.

Conclusion on Quaker Boy Split Quad

The Quaker Boy Split Quad is a solid, affordable diaphragm call that offers a surprising amount of versatility for its price. It’s not the easiest call to master, but the potential for producing realistic turkey sounds is definitely there. While it’s not without its limitations, the Quaker Boy Split Quad provides a good value proposition for hunters seeking to expand their calling capabilities without breaking the bank.

The price is certainly justified by the quality of sound it provides. I would recommend it to experienced hunters looking for a new challenge and beginners willing to put in the practice time. Add the Quaker Boy Split Quad to your hunting vest and start speaking the language of the turkey!


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