First Thoughts on the WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call
The WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call has landed on my workbench, and I’m eager to see if this diaphragm call lives up to the WoodHaven reputation. I’ve used countless calls over my decade in the field and in the outfitting business, and the promise of unique tones and versatile sounds has certainly piqued my interest. This call is designed to produce everything from the loudest yelps to the softest purrs, and at a price point of $13.49, it seems like a bargain if it delivers.
I was looking for a new go-to diaphragm call that offers a unique sound, specifically something that can cut through the noise of a crowded forest during peak turkey season. Finding a call that can produce both aggressive and subtle calls is paramount.
Unboxing the Black Hornet, the initial impression is simple but well-made. The materials feel durable, and the diaphragm seems properly tensioned. Compared to my old standby, a Primos Wet Box Call and a Zink Calls Thunder Ridge slate call, the WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call aims for a different application – hands-free calling. The design is clean, seemingly prioritizing function over flashy aesthetics, a characteristic I tend to favor. My first impression is cautiously optimistic; this call has the potential to be a workhorse in my turkey vest.
Real-World Testing: Putting WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call during a late-season turkey hunt in the oak ridges of central Missouri. The weather was damp, with a light drizzle permeating the air – conditions that can often affect the performance of friction calls. I spent the morning working a stubborn gobbler that was henned up and reluctant to leave his ladies.
Initially, the call required a bit of practice to get the right mouth pressure and airflow. However, I was quickly able to produce some convincing yelps, cuts, and clucks. The sound cut through the damp air well, and the gobbler responded positively, though ultimately, he remained just out of range. No issues presented themselves during this first experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call is holding up surprisingly well. I’ve used it in varying weather conditions, from dry and dusty to humid and rainy. The latex reeds show no signs of significant wear or stretching.
Cleaning is simple – a quick rinse with water and air drying is all it takes. Compared to some of my previous diaphragm calls, which lost their tone or became difficult to use after minimal exposure to moisture, the Black Hornet seems more resilient. It is outperforming expectations for a call in its price range.
Breaking Down the Features of WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call
Specifications
The WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call utilizes a three-reed design. It combines WoodHaven’s signature Yellow latex with an additional layer of Black latex. The manufacturer states that this combination delivers a very unique tone and sound. The dimensions are typical for a diaphragm call, fitting comfortably in the mouth. No published weight specification exists.
The three-reed design, combined with the specific latex types, is crucial for generating the varied tones the call promises. This allows hunters to mimic a range of hen vocalizations.
Performance & Functionality
The WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call excels at producing a wide range of turkey sounds. The advertised ability to transition between loud and soft calls is accurate. It is capable of producing convincing yelps, cuts, clucks, and purrs.
The primary strength is its versatility. The biggest weakness is the initial learning curve for mastering the diverse range of tones. It certainly meets expectations, especially given its accessible price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, focused on sound production rather than elaborate aesthetics. The latex feels comfortable against the roof of the mouth. The weight is negligible.
The call is generally user-friendly, but it does require practice to achieve consistent and realistic sounds. Expect a brief learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on weeks of use, the WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call appears to be relatively durable. The latex shows no signs of immediate degradation. Maintenance is minimal – rinsing and air drying after use.
Given proper care, this call should last at least one to two turkey seasons. This is assuming regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call does not come with any specific accessories. As a diaphragm call, customization is limited, but some hunters might trim the reeds to alter the tone and pitch. Aftermarket call cases exist to protect the reeds during storage. The call is universally compatible with any standard diaphragm call holder.
Pros and Cons of WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call
Pros
- Versatile sound range: Capable of producing yelps, cuts, clucks, and purrs.
- Unique tone: The combination of Yellow and Black latex creates a distinct sound.
- Affordable price: Excellent value for the performance it delivers.
- Durable construction: Holds up well under repeated use and varying weather conditions.
- Easy maintenance: Simple rinsing and air drying required.
Cons
- Learning curve: Requires practice to master all the sounds.
- No included accessories: Lacks a protective case.
Who Should Buy WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call?
Perfect for: Turkey hunters of all skill levels who want a versatile and affordable diaphragm call. It’s also a great option for hunters looking for a unique sound to differentiate themselves from the competition.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who prefer friction calls (box, slate, or glass) or those unwilling to practice and master diaphragm calling techniques.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A diaphragm call holder to keep the call clean and protected in your vest. Trimming the reeds is also an option for fine-tuning the sound.
Conclusion on WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call
The WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call delivers impressive performance and versatility at an incredibly affordable price. While it requires some practice to master, the unique tones and wide range of sounds make it a valuable addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. The price is absolutely justified for the quality and performance.
I would definitely recommend this call to both novice and experienced turkey hunters. If you’re looking for a reliable diaphragm call that offers a unique sound, the WoodHaven Black Hornet Turkey Call is an excellent choice. Pick one up, practice your calls, and get ready to put some longbeards on the ground!