First Impressions of Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl promises to be a vital tool for turkey hunters looking to locate gobblers by eliciting shock gobbles. Woodhaven Calls is known for their quality calls, and the Ninja Owl aims to fill a specific niche in the hunter’s arsenal. My first impression is that it’s a specialized tool that, if effective, could significantly increase my chances of success in the field.
I’ve been using various turkey hunting calls for years, from box calls to diaphragms, but I wanted a reliable owl hooter to locate birds before sunrise. Many mornings I’ve sat in the dark, wishing I had a more consistent and realistic owl call to shock those elusive toms into revealing their location. I hoped the Ninja Owl would be the answer.
Upon unboxing, the call feels lightweight and solid, crafted from what appears to be durable plastic. The black color is practical for concealing movement in the woods. Its compact size is a definite plus, making it easy to carry in a vest pocket or around my neck on a lanyard.
Compared to other owl calls I’ve tried, like cheaper diaphragm calls or bulky wooden hooters, the Ninja Owl stands out for its ease of use and claimed consistency. I chose it over others because I was looking for a call that wouldn’t swell or shrink in moist conditions, as stated in the product description. The sound quality also seemed promising from online demos.
My initial excitement is high, stemming from the potential to pinpoint gobblers more effectively. If it lives up to its promise of producing realistic owl sounds, it could be a game-changer in my turkey hunting strategy. Only field testing will reveal if it truly earns its “Ninja” moniker.
Real-World Testing: Putting Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl on a pre-season scouting trip in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania. It was a damp, cool morning, perfect for checking the call’s resistance to moisture. I used it at various locations, imitating both the standard 8-note owl hoot and the barred owl’s distinct laugh.
The call performed admirably, producing clear and consistent owl sounds even with my limited experience. It required minimal practice to produce a convincing hoot. The turkeys responded in several locations, gobbling back in response to the call, confirming their presence in the area.
There were no immediate issues with the call’s performance during this first outing. I was pleasantly surprised by how easily I could produce realistic sounds. The turkeys’ enthusiastic responses indicated that the sound was indeed convincing to them.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the turkey season, the Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl has proven to be a reliable and effective tool. The plastic construction has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or warping despite being exposed to various weather conditions. It still looks like new.
The call has remained consistent in its sound production, regardless of humidity or temperature fluctuations. I’ve used it in everything from dry, crisp mornings to rainy, foggy afternoons, and it has never failed to produce a convincing owl hoot. This consistency is paramount for a successful hunting call.
Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use. It’s significantly easier to maintain than wooden calls that require occasional oiling or diaphragm calls that can tear easily. The Ninja Owl has definitely outperformed my previous owl calls in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl
Specifications
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl is constructed primarily of plastic, which contributes to its lightweight and durable design. The call is black in color, which aids in concealment while hunting. It is designed to produce realistic 8-note owl sounds and the laughs of a barred owl.
The plastic construction ensures the call will not swell or shrink in moist conditions, maintaining consistent sound quality regardless of weather. The ability to reproduce both the standard owl hoot and the barred owl laugh provides versatility in attracting turkeys, as different calls may be more effective in different areas or at different times. The black color helps conceal the call while in use, preventing wary turkeys from spotting any unnecessary movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl performs its job exceptionally well, consistently producing realistic owl sounds that elicit shock gobbles from turkeys. Its accuracy in replicating the sounds of an owl is its greatest strength. The fact that it’s easy to learn and use is also a significant advantage.
The only potential weakness is its reliance on a single type of material (plastic), which some hunters may perceive as less traditional or “natural” than wood. However, this is offset by its increased durability and resistance to moisture. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a reliable and effective owl call.
Design & Ergonomics
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl’s build quality is solid, with the plastic feeling robust and well-molded. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods. The ergonomics are simple and intuitive, requiring minimal effort to produce a convincing owl hoot.
The call is very user-friendly, with virtually no learning curve. Even novice hunters can quickly master the technique required to produce realistic owl sounds. Its straightforward design and ease of use are definite strengths.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its plastic construction, the Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl is expected to last for many seasons with proper care. The material is resistant to cracking, warping, and other forms of damage that can affect wooden calls. Its durability is a key selling point.
Maintenance is incredibly simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. There are no moving parts to lubricate or adjust. The call’s ease of maintenance further enhances its long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl doesn’t come with many accessories beyond the call itself. However, it can easily be paired with a lanyard for convenient carrying. Customization options are limited, given its simple design.
It is not really compatible with accessories from other brands, as it’s a self-contained unit. However, most hunters will find it perfectly functional as is. Its simplicity is part of its appeal.
Pros and Cons of Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl
Pros
- Produces realistic 8-note owl sounds and barred owl laughs that effectively elicit shock gobbles from turkeys. This is its primary function and it excels at it.
- The plastic construction is highly durable and resistant to moisture, ensuring consistent performance in various weather conditions. No swelling or warping like wood calls.
- It’s incredibly easy to use, requiring minimal practice to produce convincing owl sounds, making it suitable for both novice and experienced hunters. Very user-friendly design.
- Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry in a vest pocket or on a lanyard. Convenient for all-day hunts.
- Minimal maintenance is required, simply wipe it down after use. Easy to care for.
Cons
- The plastic material may not appeal to hunters who prefer the aesthetic and feel of traditional wooden calls.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl?
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels who want a reliable and easy-to-use owl call to locate gobblers before sunrise. It’s especially well-suited for hunters who hunt in areas with varying weather conditions, where moisture resistance is crucial. Hunters looking for a durable and low-maintenance owl call will also appreciate its plastic construction.
Hunters who prefer traditional wooden calls or require extensive customization options should skip this product. Those who already own a high-quality owl call may not find a significant advantage in switching to the Ninja Owl. A lanyard is a must-have accessory for convenient carrying.
Conclusion on Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl
The Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl is a highly effective and practical tool for turkey hunters. Its ability to consistently produce realistic owl sounds, combined with its durability and ease of use, makes it a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal. Its value proposition is high, considering its performance and longevity.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable owl call. Its simplicity and effectiveness are hard to beat. If you’re serious about locating gobblers before sunrise, the Woodhaven Calls Custom Calls Ninja Owl is a worthwhile investment.