First Thoughts on the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED 3-pack of mouth calls promises to be a game-changer for turkey hunters seeking versatile and realistic sounds. WoodHaven Custom Calls has a reputation for crafting high-quality calls, and “The Red” aims to deliver on that legacy. This Zone 3-pack, priced at $34.99, is designed to offer a range of tones and pitches, allowing hunters to mimic different hens and entice even the wariest gobblers.
I was on the hunt for a reliable and versatile set of mouth calls. Many hunts were blown after my old mouth calls failed or produced unconvincing sounds. The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED package caught my eye due to the promise of three distinct call types.
Upon opening the package, I immediately noticed the clean construction of each call. The reeds appeared precisely cut and carefully layered. The tapes felt secure, and the frames seemed sturdy enough to withstand prolonged use.
I’ve used Primos and Quaker Boy mouth calls in the past. I felt the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED stood out with a more premium feel and construction. It’s hard to resist the allure of a brand renowned in the turkey hunting world.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to get these calls into the woods and see if they lived up to the hype. I was also slightly apprehensive, as many calls promise the world but fall short in real-world hunting situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED in the rolling hills of Eastern Kentucky during the spring turkey season. I faced varied conditions, from crisp, cool mornings to damp, humid afternoons. I used these calls while sitting against large oaks and in ground blinds overlooking fields.
The calls performed surprisingly well under these diverse conditions. Even after getting wet, the reeds maintained their tone and didn’t swell or stick together excessively. It took some practice to master each call’s unique sound.
On my first sit, I struggled to produce consistent yelps with one of the calls. After some practice and adjusting my mouth pressure and tongue placement, I started getting the hang of it. I was rewarded with a distant gobble responding to my calls.
The calls were initially a bit stiff, but loosened up after about 30 minutes of use. The initial stiffness was the only real issue during my first outing. I believe this is common with mouth calls.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED has become a staple in my turkey hunting vest. The calls have retained their shape and tone remarkably well. I have used the same mouth calls for more than three seasons.
There were no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being subjected to repeated use and varying weather conditions. The tapes remain securely attached, and the reeds haven’t frayed or cracked. Occasional cleaning with mouthwash has been sufficient to maintain them.
These calls outperform many cheaper options I’ve used in the past. They maintain consistent sound quality and require less frequent adjustment during hunts. I feel more confident calling in wary birds with these calls compared to others I have owned.
Breaking Down the Features of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED
Specifications
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED 3-pack consists of three distinct mouth calls. Each call is designed to produce unique turkey vocalizations. The calls utilize latex reeds and are secured with durable tape.
Each call features a different reed cut and layering configuration to achieve different sounds. The dimensions of each call are approximately 2.125″ x 0.5″ x 0.125″. The compact size allows for comfortable placement in the mouth.
These specifications are critical to the performance of the calls. The reed cut determines the tone, pitch, and raspiness of the sound. The quality of the latex affects the call’s responsiveness and durability. The tape ensures the reeds remain securely in place and airtight.
Performance & Functionality
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED excels in producing a wide range of realistic turkey sounds. These sounds include clear yelps, raspy clucks, soft purrs, and excited cuts. The versatility of this 3-pack allows hunters to adapt to different hunting situations and mimic various hen vocalizations.
The main strength of this product is its versatility and the quality of sound it produces. A minor weakness might be the initial learning curve for beginners. These calls meet and often exceed my expectations for a premium set of mouth calls.
Design & Ergonomics
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED mouth calls are designed for comfort and ease of use. The tape creates a seal within the mouth, allowing for hands-free operation. The calls are lightweight and unobtrusive.
The calls are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The weight is negligible, allowing for extended use without fatigue. The build is robust enough to withstand the rigors of turkey hunting.
The calls are generally user-friendly, although mastering the different sounds requires practice. Beginners may need some time to develop the necessary breath control and tongue placement. However, with practice, the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED calls become second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED are built to last. Regular cleaning and proper storage ensure many seasons of use. The quality of the materials and construction contributes to their overall durability.
Maintenance is simple. Rinsing with mouthwash after each use and storing the calls in a cool, dry place will prolong their lifespan. Repair is rarely needed, but replacing the tape or reeds is possible with readily available materials.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED 3-pack doesn’t include any additional accessories. They come ready to use straight out of the package. There are no readily available customization options for these calls.
There is no option to adjust reed tension or replace the frame. However, some hunters may experiment with trimming the reeds to achieve slightly different sounds. The calls are generally compatible with most call holders and storage cases.
Pros and Cons of WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED
Pros
- Versatility: The 3-pack provides a wide range of turkey vocalizations.
- Realistic Sounds: Produces authentic yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts.
- Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Design: Lightweight and unobtrusive for hands-free operation.
- Trusted Brand: WoodHaven Custom Calls is a reputable name in turkey hunting.
Cons
- Learning Curve: May require practice for beginners to master the sounds.
- No Customization: Limited options for adjusting or modifying the calls.
Who Should Buy WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED?
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED is perfect for serious turkey hunters seeking versatile and realistic mouth calls. Hunters of all skill levels can benefit from the range of sounds and the quality of construction. It makes for a solid upgrade for experienced turkey hunters.
This product may not be ideal for absolute beginners who are completely unfamiliar with using mouth calls. They might want to start with a simpler, single-reed call before progressing to this 3-pack. Hunters on a very tight budget might also find cheaper alternatives, though they may sacrifice quality and versatility.
A must-have accessory is a call holder to keep the calls organized and protected. Consider a small container with mouthwash for easy cleaning. A diaphragm call case is worth considering.
Conclusion on WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED
The WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED 3-pack is a worthwhile investment for any serious turkey hunter. The versatility, realistic sounds, and durable construction make it a top-tier choice. The price of $34.99 is justified by the quality and performance of these calls.
I wholeheartedly recommend the WOODHAVEN CUSTOM CALLS THE RED to anyone looking to elevate their turkey hunting game. These calls have significantly improved my success rate in the field. Add these to your arsenal and prepare to outsmart even the wariest gobblers.
