Ever heard the beautiful, clear sound of a slate call? It’s a sound that can bring a gobbler right into your lap! But if you’re a turkey hunter, you know that choosing the *perfect* slate call can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack. There are so many different types, made from all sorts of materials, and each promises the best sound. It’s enough to make your head spin!
Picking the wrong slate call can lead to frustrating days in the woods with no results. You want that authentic turkey sound, but how do you get it? This is where we come in. We’re going to break down exactly what makes a great slate call and what you should look for.
By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to choose a slate call that will help you fill your tag. We’ll guide you through the different materials, shapes, and striker types, so you can feel confident walking into any store or browsing online. Get ready to find the slate call that will make your next hunt unforgettable!
Our Top 5 Slate Calls Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Slate Calls Detailed Reviews
1. Primos Hunting Rare Breed Slate Turkey Pot Call
Rating: 8.9/10
The Primos Hunting Rare Breed Slate Turkey Pot Call is a fantastic tool for any hunter. Its durable wood construction and thoughtful design allow you to create a variety of realistic turkey sounds. This call is built to help you bring in that gobbler you’ve been after.
What We Like:
- The wood cup and sound board create rich, authentic turkey calls.
- It comes with a one-piece striker, making it ready to use right away.
- You can make high-pitched yelps, sharp cuts, and soft clucks by moving your striker along the outer edges of the call.
- For deeper, more resonant tones, simply move the striker towards the middle of the call.
- It’s designed for both men and women hunters.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some hunters might prefer a call with multiple strikers for even more sound options.
- While the wood is durable, some may wish for an even more rugged material for extreme conditions.
This call offers versatility and quality for hunters. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their turkey hunting success.
2. Hunters Specialties Camo Cutt’R Slate Mossy Oak Bottomland Pot Call – Realistic Turkey Vocals Pot Game Call
Rating: 8.7/10
Unlock your turkey hunting potential with the Hunters Specialties Camo Cutt’R Slate Mossy Oak Bottomland Pot Call. This call is designed to help you sound like a real turkey, getting you closer to that gobbler you’ve been tracking.
What We Like:
- The Mossy Oak Bottomland camo pattern helps you hide in the woods so turkeys don’t see you.
- You can choose between a slate surface for soft sounds or a glass surface for louder, sharper sounds.
- It comes with different strikers: a hickory striker for traditional sounds and a carbon striker for calls that carry far.
- You can make all sorts of turkey sounds, from soft purrs to loud yelps, to trick different turkeys.
- A lanyard eyelet lets you keep the call handy on your gear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description doesn’t mention if the strikers are interchangeable or if only one type comes with each call option.
This call offers great flexibility for any hunting situation. It’s a solid tool for any hunter serious about bringing home a gobbler.
3. Primos Hunting Primos Hensanity Molded Slate Turkey Pot Call
Rating: 9.4/10
The Primos Hunting Hensanity Molded Slate Turkey Pot Call is a fantastic tool for any turkey hunter. It’s built to help you make all the right turkey sounds. You can change the sounds to attract gobblers. This call helps you sound like one hen or even a whole group of hens. It’s made by hunters, for hunters, so you know it’s designed to work well in the field.
What We Like:
- You get great tone control for yelps, clucks, cuts, and purrs.
- The molded tone ports let you easily adjust the sound and volume.
- It sounds like multiple hens or the exact sound a gobbler likes.
- The Pennsylvania slate surface is very easy to use and responds well.
- It comes with a sturdy one-piece striker.
- Primos Hunting is a trusted brand for game calls.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some hunters might find the molded design less traditional than a classic pot call.
- Mastering the tone ports might take a little practice for beginners.
This call offers excellent versatility and is a reliable choice for hunters. It’s a great way to improve your turkey calling skills and increase your chances of success.
4. Woodhaven Cherry Classic Series Friction Turkey Call
Rating: 8.8/10
The Woodhaven Cherry Classic Series Friction Turkey Call is a fantastic tool for hunters. It’s crafted from cherry wood. This call lets you make a wide variety of turkey sounds. You can create high, sweet notes. You can also make a deep, raspy sound. This makes it sound very realistic. It even comes with a Surface Conditioning Kit. This kit helps you keep the call in top shape. It also has a Surface Saver Lid. This protects the call when you are not using it.
What We Like:
- It produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds, from high and sweet to deep and raspy.
- The cherry wood construction feels good in your hand.
- It includes a Surface Conditioning Kit to maintain its performance.
- The Surface Saver Lid protects the call and keeps it ready for action.
What Could Be Improved:
- International customers should be aware that products sold from abroad might have different terms, labeling, or instructions.
- The “absolute drop off” sound might take some practice to master.
This call offers great versatility for any turkey hunter. It’s a solid option for adding realism to your game.
5. Primos Hunting Ol’ Betsy Slate Call
Rating: 8.6/10
The Primos Hunting Ol’ Betsy Slate Call, Multicolored is a tool designed to bring you closer to that perfect turkey hunt. Primos is known for making quality gear. They build their products to last through tough conditions. This slate call is no different. It is made for hunters of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Its design focuses on giving you the best turkey sounds possible.
What We Like:
- It’s made from the finest Pennsylvania Slate, which is a great material for making pure turkey sounds.
- Slate is easy to use, making it perfect for new hunters or those who want a simple but effective call.
- The call is designed and tested for tough hunting situations and environments, so you can rely on it in the field.
- Primos quality means you’re getting a durable product built to last.
- It fits all types of hunters, whether you hunt often or just a few times a year.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “multicolored” aspect might not appeal to everyone; some hunters prefer a more natural look.
- While slate is easy to use, mastering the nuances of turkey sounds can still take practice.
The Primos Ol’ Betsy Slate Call is a solid choice for any hunter looking for a reliable and effective call. It offers a great balance of ease of use and the ability to produce realistic turkey sounds.
Mastering the Woods: Your Slate Call Buying Guide
Why Choose a Slate Call?
Slate calls are a top choice for turkey hunters. They make realistic turkey sounds. These calls are easy to use. They are also very forgiving for beginners. Many experienced hunters still rely on them.
Key Features to Look For
- Striker Material: The striker is very important. Wood strikers are common. Different woods make different sounds. Maple is bright. Hickory has more rasp.
- Slate Surface: Look for a smooth, consistent slate surface. This helps make clear sounds. Some calls have a textured surface. This can add rasp.
- Pot Shape: The shape of the pot matters. A deeper pot can make lower, more mellow sounds. A shallower pot often makes higher, sharper sounds.
- Sound Quality: Listen to the call if you can. Does it make realistic clucks and purrs? Does it have a good yelp?
Important Materials
- Slate: Natural slate is the best. It’s durable and makes great sounds.
- Wood: The pot is usually made of wood. Popular woods include cherry, walnut, and mahogany. Each wood type can affect the sound.
- Striker Wood: Strikers are also wood. Hickory, maple, and carbon fiber are good choices.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Craftsmanship: A well-made call will sound better. Look for smooth finishes and tight seams.
- Slate Thickness: Thicker slate often produces a deeper tone.
- Striker Fit: The striker should fit snugly in the pot. A loose striker can make unwanted noise.
- Conditioning: Slate calls need conditioning. This means conditioning the slate surface. You usually use sandpaper or a conditioning stone. Proper conditioning keeps the call working well.
User Experience and Use Cases
Slate calls are great for making many turkey sounds. You can make soft clucks. You can also make loud yelps. They are good for beginners because they are easy to learn. Experienced hunters use them for their versatility. You can use them in different situations. A soft purr can attract a shy hen. A loud yelp can call in a gobbler from far away.
Practice is key. Spend time with your call. Learn how to make different sounds. Listen to real turkeys. Try to copy their sounds. Your slate call will become a valuable tool in your hunting kit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of slate call?
A: The “best” slate call depends on your preference. Many hunters like natural slate. Wood type for the pot also matters. Experimenting is the best way to find what works for you.
Q: How do I condition a slate call?
A: You condition a slate call by lightly sanding the slate surface. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a conditioning stone. This removes built-up oils and chalk. It helps the striker grip the slate.
Q: What sounds can I make with a slate call?
A: You can make a variety of turkey sounds. These include clucks, purrs, yelps, and cackles. The exact sounds depend on your striker angle and pressure.
Q: Is a slate call good for beginners?
A: Yes, slate calls are very good for beginners. They are forgiving and can produce realistic sounds with practice.
Q: What is the difference between a slate call and a box call?
A: A slate call uses a striker on a slate surface. A box call uses a striker on the lid of a wooden box. Slate calls are often easier to use for beginners.
Q: How often should I condition my slate call?
A: Condition your slate call when it starts to lose its grip. This might be after several uses or if you notice it’s not producing clear sounds.
Q: Can I use any striker with a slate call?
A: While you can use different strikers, a striker made for slate calls will work best. Different wood types will produce different tones.
Q: What does “rasp” mean in turkey calls?
A: “Rasp” refers to a rough, scratchy sound. Many turkey hunters like rasp because it sounds more realistic, especially for yelps.
Q: How do I store my slate call?
A: Store your slate call in a dry place. Keep the slate surface clean and free of debris. A call case or a soft pouch can protect it.
Q: Do different wood types for the pot affect the sound?
A: Yes, different wood types can influence the sound. Denser woods might create a brighter sound, while softer woods might produce a mellower tone.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.