The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. Made a Bold First Impression
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. promises a big sound in a small package, targeting hunters who struggle with larger mouth calls. From the WoodHaven lineup, known for its quality turkey hunting gear, this three-pack includes the Mini Red Scorpion, Mini Yellow Ghost, and Mini Green V, all designed with smaller frames. My initial hope was that these calls would offer the versatility and realistic sounds needed to bag a gobbler, without the discomfort often associated with larger calls.
For years, I’ve struggled with diaphragm calls. The standard sizes often feel bulky and awkward in my mouth, leading to inconsistent sounds and discomfort during long calling sequences. I’ve tried modifying larger calls, but the results were never satisfactory. My goal was to find a call that provided a comfortable fit without sacrificing sound quality or realism.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the calls’ diminutive size. The small frames and thin tape construction were noticeably different from the other calls in my vest. The build quality seemed excellent, with clean cuts and tight seams, suggesting durability despite their small size. Compared to my usual slate call, the WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. seemed like a game-changer in terms of portability and hands-free calling.
I chose this set over others due to WoodHaven’s reputation for producing realistic turkey sounds and the specific focus on smaller frame sizes. I had considered a custom call maker, but the price was significantly higher, and the WoodHaven set offered three different call types to experiment with. This seemed like a good value at $34.99. My first impression was excitement tempered with skepticism. Could something this small really produce the raspy, seductive yelps needed to lure in a mature tom?
Real-World Testing: Putting WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place on a cool, damp morning in the Missouri Ozarks during the spring turkey season. I positioned myself along a ridge overlooking a known strutting zone and began with the Mini Red Scorpion. The overcast conditions and slight drizzle created an ideal setting for soft calling. Initially, I struggled to produce consistent yelps. However, after a few minutes of practice, the call started to come alive, emitting surprisingly realistic clucks and purrs.
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. performed exceptionally well in the damp conditions. The tape remained taut, and the sound quality didn’t degrade like some of my other calls. The smaller frame size required a slightly different mouth position, but once I adjusted, the calls were significantly more comfortable than larger models. There were no unexpected issues during the first use; however, the Mini Green V took some time to learn, requiring a specific air pressure and tongue placement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. has become a staple in my turkey hunting arsenal. They’ve been exposed to everything from scorching sun to torrential downpours, and they’ve held up admirably. The Mini Red Scorpion shows slight signs of wear on the tape, but nothing that impacts its sound. Cleaning is straightforward, involving a simple wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with larger, less durable calls, the WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. is a clear winner. The consistent sound quality, comfortable fit, and overall durability have significantly improved my calling success. The smaller frame also allows me to call for extended periods without experiencing jaw fatigue. This is something that previously limited my hunting strategy.
Breaking Down the Features of WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk.
Specifications
- Frame Size: These calls boast the smallest frames and tape available today. This directly contributes to enhanced comfort and suitability for individuals with smaller palates or dentures.
- Reed Construction: Each call features a two-reed design. This design balances ease of use and realistic sound production.
- Included Calls: The pack includes three distinct calls: Mini Red Scorpion, Mini Yellow Ghost, and Mini Green V. Each call produces a slightly different tone, offering versatility in calling sequences.
- Intended Use: Designed for turkey hunting. They are optimized to produce various turkey vocalizations, including yelps, clucks, and purrs.
- Price: The set retails for $34.99. This provides a relatively affordable entry point into high-quality diaphragm calls.
These specifications matter because they address specific needs within the turkey hunting community. Smaller frames offer enhanced comfort, while the variety of calls allows hunters to adapt to different situations and turkey behaviors. The price point makes it accessible to both novice and experienced hunters alike.
Performance & Functionality
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. performs exceptionally well in producing a wide range of realistic turkey sounds. The Mini Red Scorpion excels at producing raspy yelps, ideal for attracting mature toms. The Mini Yellow Ghost is versatile, capable of both soft clucks and aggressive cutting. The Mini Green V offers a higher-pitched sound, perfect for imitating younger hens.
The main strength lies in the combination of realistic sounds and comfortable fit. The only slight weakness is the initial learning curve associated with each call’s unique characteristics. However, with practice, these calls easily meet and even exceed expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. is designed with a focus on user comfort and practicality. The calls are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and store. The small frame size is particularly beneficial for hunters who struggle with larger calls.
The design is user-friendly, though some initial practice is needed to master each call’s unique sound. Once mastered, the calls become intuitive to use, allowing for seamless integration into hunting strategies. The build quality inspires confidence in their longevity.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their simple construction and high-quality materials, the WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. is expected to last multiple seasons with proper care. The tape is resistant to moisture, but it’s essential to keep the calls clean and dry when not in use. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving wiping the calls clean after each use.
If the tape becomes damaged, it can be replaced, further extending the lifespan of the call. The frame construction seems sturdy, minimizing the risk of damage during normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. comes as a set of three calls, offering immediate versatility without needing additional accessories. While there aren’t specific customization options for these calls, hunters can experiment with different mouth pressures and tongue positions to create unique sounds. The calls are designed to be used as-is, focusing on delivering realistic turkey sounds through skilled manipulation.
However, it is possible to purchase call keepers or lanyards to keep the calls readily accessible. This would be a useful addition for hunters who frequently switch between different calls during a hunt.
Pros and Cons of WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk.
Pros
- Provides a comfortable fit for hunters with smaller palates or dentures, addressing a significant need in the market.
- Offers versatile sound production, with three distinct calls suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- The realistic sound quality significantly enhances calling effectiveness.
- The compact and lightweight design makes them easy to carry and use in the field.
- Represents excellent value for money, providing three high-quality calls at an affordable price.
Cons
- There is an initial learning curve associated with mastering each call’s unique characteristics.
- The tape may require replacement after extended use, though this is a standard maintenance task for diaphragm calls.
Who Should Buy WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk.?
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. is perfect for turkey hunters of all skill levels, especially those who:
- Have smaller mouths or dentures and struggle with standard-sized diaphragm calls.
- Value realistic sound quality and versatility in their calling strategies.
- Are looking for an affordable and durable set of turkey calls.
Hunters who are already proficient with larger calls and do not experience any discomfort might not find the smaller frame necessary. This is also not the best choice for hunters looking for a completely custom call with highly specific sound characteristics. A must-have accessory is a call keeper or lanyard to keep the calls organized and readily accessible during hunts.
Conclusion on WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk.
The WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. is a game-changer for hunters who struggle with the fit and feel of standard-sized diaphragm calls. Its small frame, realistic sound quality, and overall versatility make it a valuable addition to any turkey hunter’s arsenal. The price of $34.99 is more than justified given the quality and performance of these calls.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. to anyone looking for a comfortable, effective, and affordable solution for turkey hunting. If you’ve been hesitant to try diaphragm calls due to discomfort or difficulty, this set is the perfect place to start. Don’t let ill-fitting calls keep you from filling your tag this spring – give the WoodHaven Small Frame Turkey Call 3 pk. a try and experience the difference firsthand.