First Thoughts on the Spur Collector Call
The Flextone Spur Collector Call promises an easy and versatile approach to turkey calling, appealing to both novice and experienced hunters. Manufactured by Flextone Game Calls, the diaphragm call features a V-cut design, engineered to produce a range of yelps and cutts suitable for spring and fall hunts. My initial interest stemmed from the need for a user-friendly diaphragm call to improve my turkey hunting success, particularly when working with less experienced hunting partners.
I recall years spent fumbling with more complex diaphragm calls, resulting in frustrated birds and even more frustrated hunting companions. I hoped the Spur Collector Call’s simple design would offer a quick and reliable way to produce realistic turkey sounds, allowing for more effective communication with the birds and a better overall hunting experience.
Upon unboxing, the Spur Collector Call feels lightweight and unassuming. The latex seems appropriately thin and flexible. Compared to my older diaphragm calls, like the Primos Buck Roost and the Quaker Boy Easy Yelper, the Spur Collector Call seems less intimidating due to its simpler cut. I chose this call hoping that its simplicity would translate to easier use and a broader range of turkey vocalizations.
My first impression is one of cautious optimism. The low price point ($8.99) makes it a relatively low-risk investment, and I am eager to see if it lives up to its promise of ease-of-use and versatility in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Spur Collector Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Spur Collector Call took place during the spring turkey season in the rolling hills of central Pennsylvania. The weather was damp and cool, with a light drizzle adding an extra challenge to the calling conditions. I tested the call from inside a pop-up blind, attempting to lure a gobbler that was responding to calls in the distance.
The Spur Collector Call required very little practice to get the basics down. I was able to produce decent yelps within minutes. However, producing the raspy cutts proved to be more challenging, requiring a more deliberate and forceful airflow.
Initially, the gobbler responded well to the yelps, closing the distance slightly. Unfortunately, he became silent after about an hour, possibly due to the persistent drizzle or perhaps because my calling lacked the complexity and realism needed to seal the deal. The call performed adequately, but the results weren’t immediately spectacular.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the spring turkey season and into the early fall, the Spur Collector Call has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of tearing or damage to the latex. Its consistency and ease of use remain surprisingly good.
Cleaning the call is simple: just rinsing it with water and allowing it to air dry. However, keeping it in its original packaging or a dedicated call case is essential to prevent damage from other gear. Compared to some of my more expensive diaphragm calls, the Spur Collector Call might not offer the same level of nuanced sound, but it has proven to be reliable and consistent.
It hasn’t outperformed my higher-end custom calls in terms of pure sound quality. However, its ease of use makes it a go-to option for quick calling situations or when lending a call to a less experienced hunter.
Breaking Down the Features of Spur Collector Call
Specifications
The Spur Collector Call by Flextone Game Calls is a diaphragm-style turkey call designed for ease of use and versatility. Its primary feature is its V-cut reed design. This is intended to produce a range of turkey vocalizations, from clear yelps to raspy cutts.
The call is constructed from a thin latex, stretched across a frame that fits comfortably in the roof of the mouth. The single-reed design simplifies the learning curve for beginners.
Performance & Functionality
The Spur Collector Call excels at producing clear, consistent yelps, making it easy for beginners to learn the basics of turkey calling. The V-cut design provides a good balance between ease of use and sound quality. While the call is capable of producing cutts, achieving a truly realistic and raspy sound requires more practice and control.
The main strength of this call is its simplicity and affordability. Its primary weakness is its limited range compared to more complex, multi-reed diaphragm calls. The Spur Collector Call meets expectations for a basic, entry-level diaphragm call.
Design & Ergonomics
The Spur Collector Call is designed with comfort and ease of use in mind. The frame is shaped to fit snugly and comfortably in the mouth. The thin latex is flexible. This minimizes the effort required to produce sounds.
The lack of complex reed configurations contributes to its user-friendly nature. While the design is basic, it is functional and ergonomic for most users.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple construction and the nature of diaphragm calls, the Spur Collector Call is reasonably durable if properly cared for. Keeping it clean and storing it in a protective case is essential. With proper care, this call should last through several hunting seasons.
Maintenance is minimal. Rinsing with water and air-drying after use is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Spur Collector Call does not come with any additional accessories. Due to its simple, one-piece design, there are no customization options available. It is not designed to be modified or used with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Spur Collector Call
Pros
- Easy to use, making it perfect for beginners.
- Versatile, capable of producing yelps and cutts.
- Affordable price, making it accessible to all hunters.
- Lightweight and compact, easy to carry in a hunting vest or pocket.
- Consistent sound quality, providing reliable performance.
Cons
- Limited range of tones compared to more complex diaphragm calls.
- Raspy cutts require more practice and control.
Who Should Buy Spur Collector Call?
The Spur Collector Call is perfect for beginner turkey hunters who are just learning to use diaphragm calls. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters who want a simple, reliable call for backup or teaching purposes. Its ease of use makes it a good choice for youth hunters.
This product isn’t ideal for experienced hunters who demand the widest range of realistic and nuanced turkey vocalizations. No accessories are required, though a small case to protect the call is highly recommended.
Conclusion on Spur Collector Call
The Flextone Spur Collector Call is a solid, entry-level diaphragm turkey call that delivers on its promise of ease of use. While it may not offer the most complex or realistic sounds, its affordability and simplicity make it a valuable addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. The price of $8.99 is certainly justified given its functionality and durability.
I would personally recommend it to beginners and those looking for a reliable backup call. If you’re looking for an easy way to get started with diaphragm turkey calls, the Spur Collector Call is an excellent choice. Grab one and get out in the woods this spring!