THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE Review

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE Made a Bold First Impression

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE is a dedicated turkey call designed to mimic the sounds that bring those wary birds running. At $30.99, it’s positioned as an accessible entry point into the world of pot calls, promising authentic tones and ease of use. After years of relying on box calls, I was seeking a more nuanced and compact calling option, something to cut through the wind on those stubborn spring mornings.

My journey into turkey hunting started with a hand-me-down box call that sounded more like a strangled cat than a hen. While effective in some situations, I always felt I lacked the finesse needed to truly coax birds in close. The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE seemed like a good balance between affordability and potential, prompting my purchase.

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE, fresh out of its minimalist packaging, felt surprisingly solid. Its slate surface was smooth to the touch, and the pot itself, while lightweight, seemed adequately constructed. My initial impression was positive; this felt like a tool ready for the woods.

Compared to higher-end custom pot calls I’ve handled, the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE lacks the heft and refined finish. However, against mass-produced diaphragm calls or basic box calls, the slate call held its own in terms of perceived quality. I chose it over another similarly priced glass pot call because I’ve found slate to produce a wider range of tones, especially those softer, more seductive purrs.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE could deliver on its promise of realistic turkey sounds without requiring a masterclass in turkey vocalizations.

Real-World Testing: Putting THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE took place during the opening week of turkey season in the rolling hills of eastern Ohio. The weather was typical spring: cool mornings with unpredictable bursts of rain.

The slate call performed surprisingly well, even with damp conditions. I quickly learned that maintaining a clean and slightly roughened surface on the slate was key to consistent sound. Initial yelps and clucks were easily produced, though the purrs took a bit of practice. Despite the humidity, the slate maintained its responsiveness.

The only immediate issue was my own clumsiness. I accidentally scratched the slate surface against a rock, creating a slight change in the sound that required some experimentation to correct.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE has become a staple in my turkey hunting vest. The slate surface has held up remarkably well, showing only minor wear despite regular use.

The pot itself remains structurally sound, with no signs of cracking or separation. I’ve found that a quick cleaning with a slate conditioning stone after each hunt keeps the call sounding its best. Compared to my previous reliance on box calls, the slate’s ability to produce subtle, close-range calls has noticeably improved my success rate.

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE doesn’t outperform high-end custom calls in terms of sound quality and tonal range, but for its price point, it far exceeded my expectations. The durability and ease of maintenance have made it a reliable and valuable tool in my turkey hunting arsenal.

Breaking Down the Features of THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE

Specifications

  • The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE features a genuine slate calling surface. Slate is known for producing a wide range of realistic turkey vocalizations, from raspy yelps to soft purrs.
  • The pot is constructed from a durable composite material. This keeps the call lightweight and resistant to cracking in varying weather conditions.
  • The dimensions are approximately 4 inches in diameter and 1 inch in height. This compact size makes it easy to carry in a vest pocket or pack.
  • The call includes a matched striker made of hardwood. The striker’s density and shape directly influence the sound produced.
  • The MSRP is listed at $30.99. This positions it as an affordable option for beginners and experienced hunters alike.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the sound quality, durability, and ease of use. The slate surface is the heart of the call, while the pot construction and striker material determine its overall resilience and tonal characteristics.

Performance & Functionality

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE performs admirably, producing a convincing range of turkey sounds with minimal effort. Its ability to create soft, subtle purrs and clucks is particularly noteworthy.

The call’s strength lies in its ease of use and versatility; however, its sound quality is noticeably inferior to premium calls. The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE exceeds expectations in terms of value and ease of use but falls short of delivering truly top-tier sound quality.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE is solid for its price point. The composite pot is lightweight and comfortable to hold, while the slate surface is smooth and free of imperfections.

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE is exceptionally user-friendly. It requires minimal practice to produce convincing turkey sounds, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hunters.

Durability & Maintenance

The composite pot and slate surface should provide years of reliable service with proper care. The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE is designed to withstand the rigors of the field, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning to maintain its performance.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a slate conditioning stone or sandpaper to roughen the surface and remove any build-up. The striker can be lightly sanded to maintain optimal contact with the slate surface.

Accessories and Customization Options

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE typically comes with a single matched striker. There are no included accessories beyond the striker itself.

While the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE doesn’t offer extensive customization options, hunters can experiment with different strikers to alter the sound produced. Compatibility with strikers from other brands is generally good, but optimal performance is usually achieved with strikers specifically designed for slate calls.

Pros and Cons of THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE

Pros

  • Affordable price point makes it accessible to hunters of all budgets.
  • Easy to use for both beginners and experienced callers.
  • Produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds, including soft purrs and clucks.
  • Durable construction ensures years of reliable service.
  • Compact size for easy carry in a vest pocket or pack.

Cons

  • Sound quality is not as refined as high-end custom calls.
  • Limited customization options.


Who Should Buy THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE?

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE is perfect for entry-level turkey hunters who want a reliable and affordable pot call. It is also ideal for experienced hunters looking for a backup call or a versatile option for close-range calling.

Turkey hunters seeking premium sound quality and extensive customization options should skip this product. The need for a separate striker might deter some users.

A small conditioning stone for the slate surface and a striker case for protection are must-have accessories. Experimenting with different strikers might also be beneficial.

Conclusion on THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE

The THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE offers exceptional value for its price. It delivers reliable performance, ease of use, and a respectable range of turkey sounds.

The $30.99 price tag is certainly justified. It provides an excellent entry point into the world of pot calls without sacrificing quality or performance.

I would personally recommend the THUNDER RIDGE POT CALL SLATE to any turkey hunter seeking an affordable and effective calling option. Get yours today and experience the thrill of calling in that trophy gobbler!


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