Let’s Talk About Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor is a mouth call designed to mimic the raspy vocalizations of mature bull elk. Crafted by Woodhaven Calls, a respected name in hunting calls, this call promises ease of use and realistic elk sounds.
I’ve spent countless hours in the elk woods, and a consistent challenge has been replicating the specific “shred-like” sounds that coax in those wise old bulls. This year, I wanted to specifically test a call that could consistently produce raspy, long-range elk sounds without requiring a lung-busting amount of air.
My initial impression upon receiving the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor was positive. The call felt well-constructed, and the layering of the different colored reeds was visually appealing. It appeared to be a well-made call ready to be tested.
Compared to my usual diaphragm calls from Primos and Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls, the Raspy Red Reactor seemed less intimidating due to its unique reed configuration. The Primos calls often require significant practice to avoid squeaks, and the Rocky Mountain calls, while producing excellent sounds, can be a bit air-hungry. I was hoping the Raspy Red Reactor would offer a more user-friendly experience while still delivering realistic elk vocalizations.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of apprehension. The call looked promising, but the proof would be in the sound and ease of use in the field. I couldn’t wait to try and test it out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place during a scouting trip in the high country of Colorado’s Flat Tops Wilderness. I was specifically targeting areas where I knew mature bulls congregated during the rut. The weather conditions were mixed, with cool mornings and sporadic rain showers throughout the day.
The Raspy Red Reactor performed surprisingly well in the diverse weather conditions. It didn’t seem overly affected by the moisture. The call was easy to use right out of the package. I could immediately produce basic cow calls and some initial attempts at the “shred-like” sound the call was designed for.
There weren’t any significant issues initially, but I did notice that the call required a bit more precision in tongue placement than some of my other calls. It became clear that mastering the nuances of the Raspy Red Reactor would require some practice to achieve its full potential.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use during both scouting and hunting, the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the reeds. It still produces consistent sounds.
Maintenance is simple. I usually rinse the call with water after each use and allow it to air dry. This keeps the reeds clean and prevents any build-up of saliva or debris. This simple process has helped maintain its performance.
In comparison to my previous experiences with other elk calls, the Raspy Red Reactor offers a unique blend of user-friendliness and realistic sound. It doesn’t quite outperform my high-end custom calls in terms of tonal complexity, but it’s significantly easier to use and more consistent in producing a raspy sound right out of the package. The call does perform better than expected.
Breaking Down the Features of Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor
Specifications
Type: Mouth Call. This allows for hands-free operation.
Material: Soft red tape/latex. The soft tape ensures a comfortable fit. The latex reeds are the source of the sounds.
Color: Red/yellow/pale yellow. This color combination distinguishes the call and its layering configuration.
Other features: 3 reed call w/ thin top yellow reed, 2 clear bottom reeds, completely unique cut on the top reed delivers calling versatility, cutts & cackles. This unique cut allows for a wide range of elk sounds.
Other features2: Set by hand, pressed and cut to shape and then kept cool until ready for shipping, uses premium reed materials and best latex, great performance. These features indicate the attention to detail in manufacturing.
Dimension: 1.00 x 2.85 x 4.00. These are the call dimensions.
Height: 1.0000. This represents the call’s height.
Width: 2.8500. This shows the call’s width.
Length: 4.0000. This indicates the call’s length.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s sound quality, ease of use, and overall performance. The reed configuration and material quality are crucial for producing realistic elk vocalizations. A well-made call with proper dimensions ensures a comfortable fit and consistent sound production.
Performance & Functionality
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor performs its job exceptionally well, specifically in producing raspy cow and bull elk sounds. It is reliable and relatively easy to use, with a comfortable fit in the mouth.
The call’s strengths lie in its ability to create realistic “shred-like” sounds and its user-friendly design. The primary weakness is that mastering advanced techniques and subtle tonal variations requires dedicated practice. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor demonstrates good build quality, utilizing premium reed materials and comfortable tape. It’s lightweight and fits comfortably in the mouth, allowing for extended calling sessions without fatigue.
The call is user-friendly, although some practice is needed to master advanced techniques. There is a slight learning curve for beginners who are new to diaphragm calls.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used and the quality of construction, the Raspy Red Reactor should last for at least one to two hunting seasons with proper care. I’ve used some of the same mouth calls for multiple seasons, and I anticipate this one will last for a good while.
Maintaining the call is simple: rinse with water after use and allow it to air dry. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures to prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor does not come with any specific accessories. This is a standalone mouth call.
Customization options are limited, as it is a pre-made, hand-tuned call. However, some hunters might experiment with trimming the reeds slightly to fine-tune the sound to their specific preferences.
Pros and Cons of Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor
Pros
- Produces realistic raspy elk sounds.
Cons
- Requires practice to master advanced techniques.
Easy to use right out of the package.
Durable construction.
Comfortable fit.
Affordable price point.
Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor?
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels who want a reliable and easy-to-use mouth call. It is beneficial for both beginners and experienced callers.
Hunters who prefer highly customized calls or those seeking extreme tonal complexity might want to explore other options. Hunters looking for a specialized sound will want to explore their options.
A call carrying case or lanyard would be a must-have accessory to keep the call clean and readily accessible in the field. A diaphragm call case is a must.
Conclusion on Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor is an excellent elk call that delivers on its promise of producing realistic raspy sounds with ease. It’s a well-made, durable, and affordable option for hunters of all skill levels.
At a price of $15.99, the value proposition is exceptional. It is offering high-quality sound and reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of some premium custom calls.
I would absolutely recommend the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Raspy Red Reactor to anyone looking for a user-friendly and effective elk call. If you’re ready to add a raspy edge to your elk calling arsenal, give the Raspy Red Reactor a try. You won’t be disappointed.