Let’s Talk About Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call
The Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call is a no-nonsense tool designed for one purpose: to elicit the seductive, irresistible sounds that drive gobblers wild. Priced at a modest $12.99, this striker from Woodhaven Calls promises to be an accessible entry point into the world of turkey calling or a reliable backup for seasoned veterans. My journey to find this striker started with a familiar frustration: a drawer full of calls, but a yearning for simplicity and consistency.
I was looking for a striker that wouldn’t break the bank, could withstand the rigors of the spring woods, and, most importantly, produced consistent and realistic turkey sounds. So many strikers are either overpriced works of art or cheap imitations that sound like fingernails on a chalkboard. The Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call seemed to strike a balance.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was positive. The striker felt substantial, and the acrylic appeared to be of decent quality. It had a clean, functional design. Comparing it to other strikers I own, such as a custom-made bocote striker and a mass-produced maple striker, the Woodhaven felt less refined aesthetically but potentially more durable. I picked it over a slate-over-glass pot call combo I was considering primarily because of its simplicity and focus.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. This wasn’t a flashy, high-end product, but it had the potential to be a reliable and effective tool. It was the kind of tool I wanted to put to the test immediately.
Real-World Testing: Putting Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call in the oak and hickory ridges of southern Missouri during the opening week of turkey season. The weather was variable, ranging from damp mornings to dry afternoons. I paired the striker with several different pot calls: a slate-over-glass, a crystal, and a ceramic.
The striker performed admirably in all conditions. It required minimal adjustment to produce clear yelps, clucks, and purrs on each of the different surfaces. There was a slight learning curve in getting the sweet spot for consistent purrs, but after about 15 minutes of practice, it became second nature. The only slight issue was some minor slipping when used with a well-seasoned (slick) glass call in damp conditions, but nothing excessive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call has held up remarkably well. I’ve carried it in my vest pocket, exposed to dirt, moisture, and the occasional bump against trees. The acrylic shows no signs of cracking or chipping.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. Compared to my experience with wooden strikers, which require occasional sanding and conditioning, the Woodhaven is virtually maintenance-free. It definitely outperforms some of my older, more expensive strikers in terms of durability and ease of care, and it’s become a go-to choice for hunts where I anticipate rough conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Woodhaven Calls. Woodhaven Calls is known for producing a wide range of turkey calls for all experience levels.
- Species: Turkey. It is specifically designed to create sounds that attract turkeys.
It’s a simple, focused tool, designed for a specific purpose.
Performance & Functionality
The Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call excels at producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations. The acrylic material provides a crisp, clear sound that carries well in the woods. It consistently creates convincing yelps, clucks, purrs, and even cutts when paired with various pot calls.
Its strength lies in its versatility and ease of use; however, it might lack the nuanced tone of a custom-made striker. It definitely meets my expectations for a reliable and affordable turkey striker.
Design & Ergonomics
The striker’s design is straightforward and functional. The acrylic is smooth and comfortable to hold. The weight is balanced well for consistent striking, and there isn’t a noticeable learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The acrylic construction ensures excellent durability. It can withstand the elements and the wear and tear of hunting. It requires minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call doesn’t come with any accessories. However, its compatibility with a wide range of pot calls makes it highly customizable. The striker will perform differently depending on the surface of the pot call used.
Pros and Cons of Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: At $12.99, it’s an accessible option for beginners or as a backup striker.
- Durable Acrylic Construction: Withstands tough hunting conditions and requires minimal maintenance.
- Versatile Sound Production: Produces a variety of realistic turkey vocalizations (yelps, clucks, purrs).
- Easy to Use: Suitable for both novice and experienced turkey hunters.
- Compatible with Various Pot Calls: Works well with slate, glass, crystal, and ceramic surfaces.
Cons
- Some slipping may occur on slick call surfaces when wet.
- Lacks the refined aesthetic of high-end, custom strikers.
Who Should Buy Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call?
This striker is perfect for beginner turkey hunters looking for an affordable and reliable tool to learn with. It is also great for experienced hunters who need a durable backup striker for harsh conditions. Anyone needing a simple and effective call will love this.
Those seeking a highly customized, artisan-crafted striker with exceptional tonal nuances might prefer a more expensive option. Users expecting a high end striker will not be happy with this product.
Must-have accessories are a variety of pot calls (slate, glass, crystal) to experiment with different sound combinations.
Conclusion on Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call
The Woodhaven Calls Acrylic Turkey Striker Game Call is a fantastic value for the price. It offers reliable performance, durability, and ease of use in a simple package.
The $12.99 price is easily justified by its effectiveness and longevity.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable turkey striker. It’s a workhorse tool that delivers consistent results in the turkey woods. Grab one, pair it with your favorite pot call, and get ready to hear those gobbles!