Imagine this: you’re out in the woods, the sun is just starting to peek over the trees, and you hear it – the gobble of a tom turkey. You want to answer, to bring that magnificent bird closer, but you’re fumbling with your gear, unsure which call to use. Does this sound familiar? For many hunters, choosing the right mouth turkey call can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. There are so many different sounds, materials, and brands, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with a call that just doesn’t sound right.
The truth is, the perfect mouth call can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating day. It’s the sound that can draw a wary tom right into your lap. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one will produce that convincing cluck, yelp, or whine? You want a call that’s easy to use, sounds realistic, and helps you connect with those elusive birds.
That’s exactly why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the different types of mouth calls, what makes them effective, and how to pick the one that best suits your hunting style. We’ll break down the confusing jargon and help you confidently select a call that will have those turkeys talking back. Get ready to improve your turkey calling game!
Our Top 5 Mouth Turkey Calls Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mouth Turkey Calls Detailed Reviews
1. Hunters Specialties Strut Realistic Sounds Premium Flex Four Turkey Diaphragm Mouth Calls Combo
Rating: 9.0/10
Calling in a gobbler just got a whole lot easier with the Hunters Specialties Strut Realistic Sounds Premium Flex Four Turkey Diaphragm Mouth Calls Combo. This 4-pack of mouth calls is designed to give turkey hunters the edge they need. Each call is crafted to produce a variety of realistic turkey sounds, from long-range cuts to soft tree yelps, making it a versatile tool for any hunting situation.
What We Like:
- Easy to blow, making it great for beginners and experienced hunters alike.
- Produces a wide range of realistic turkey sounds for different calling scenarios.
- The Premium Flex frame is comfortable and maintains its shape for consistent sound.
- Moisture-resistant construction helps the calls last longer.
- This combo offers excellent versatility to match your hunting needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While easy to blow, mastering every sound may take some practice.
- Availability might be limited depending on the season.
This Hunters Specialties mouth call combo is a must-have for any serious turkey hunter. It provides the realistic sounds and versatility needed to increase your chances of success in the woods.
2. Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Stinger Pro Series Red Wasp Mouth WH013
Rating: 9.4/10
The Woodhaven Calls Stinger Pro Series Red Wasp Mouth WH013 is a turkey call designed to help you bring in those big gobblers. It’s known for its realistic sounds that mimic an old, experienced hen. This call can produce a variety of vocalizations that are sure to get a tom’s attention.
What We Like:
- It’s great for making raspy cutts and yelps.
- It helps you call in those gobblers.
- The call is very raspy and bold, just like an old hen.
- It produces sharp, crisp cutts and cackles.
- It also makes raspy yelps that sound very natural.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the bold sound takes a little practice to master.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, making it harder to find.
This Woodhaven Stinger Pro Series call is a powerful tool for any turkey hunter. If you want to sound like a mature hen and increase your chances of a successful hunt, this call is a solid option.
3. Primos Hunting Primos The Lucy Hen House Series Turkey Mouth Call
Rating: 9.1/10
The Primos Hunting Primos The Lucy Hen House Series Turkey Mouth Call in Green (PS1267) is designed to help you connect with wild turkeys. Primos Hunting is known for making top-quality game calls. This turkey call is built by hunters, for hunters. It features a special 3-reed bat cut design. This makes it a great choice for calling in longbeards.
What We Like:
- It produces a wide range of sounds, from soft yelps to loud cuts.
- The call has a strong yet flexible plastic frame.
- This frame fits your mouth well.
- It keeps its shape after each use, so it’s ready when you are.
- There’s a “lady” in the Hen House for every calling situation.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some hunters might find the learning curve a bit steep to master all the sounds.
This call offers great versatility for any turkey hunter. It will help you make realistic turkey sounds to attract gobblers.
4. FOXPRO Crooked Spur Turkey Mouth Call Combo 3 Diaphragm Calls Included
Rating: 8.9/10
Unleash your inner turkey hunter with the FOXPRO Crooked Spur Turkey Mouth Call Combo. This set gives you three different calls to mimic a variety of turkey sounds. They are made right here in the USA to help you bag that gobbler.
What We Like:
- Made in the USA for quality you can trust.
- Offers a wide range of sounds with different reed setups.
- Includes three distinct calls: Black V-Cut, Orange Batwing, and Gray Double.
- Each call is handmade and stretched for great sound.
- Unique colors make it easy to grab the right call quickly.
- Prophylactic and latex materials create superior sound.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires careful maintenance to keep them sounding their best.
- Heat and sunlight can damage the calls, so you need to store them properly.
This combo pack provides hunters with the tools needed for realistic turkey calls. With proper care, these calls will be a valuable asset for many hunting seasons.
5. ESH Turkey Mouth Calls 3-Pack – Realistic Diaphragm Turkey Calls for Hunting – High-Volume 3-Reed Turkey Mouth Calls for Beginners and Pros
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to up your turkey hunting game with the ESH Turkey Mouth Calls 3-Pack. This set gives you three different calls, each designed to make realistic turkey sounds that will attract gobblers. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been hunting for years, these calls are made to help you succeed.
What We Like:
- It comes with three different calls: True Hype, React, and Long Spur.
- Each call can make a variety of sounds like yelps, clucks, and purrs.
- They are easy to use, even for beginners, because they don’t need a lot of air.
- The calls are made by ESH Custom Calls, who know how to make good turkey sounds.
- They are handcrafted in the USA with strong materials for reliable performance.
- The 3-reed design makes it easier to produce those lifelike sounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- As with any mouth call, there might be a slight learning curve for absolute beginners to master perfect sounds.
This ESH Turkey Mouth Calls 3-Pack is a solid choice for any turkey hunter. You get quality, variety, and ease of use, all designed to help you call in more birds.
Mastering the Woods: Your Guide to Mouth Turkey Calls
Turkey hunting is a thrilling pursuit. A big part of success is calling the gobblers in. Mouth calls, also called diaphragms, are a popular tool. They let you make realistic turkey sounds with just your mouth and the call. This guide helps you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When picking a mouth call, several things matter.
- Reed Cut: The shape of the reed is important. Different cuts make different sounds. Batwing cuts are good for loud cuts. V-cuts are good for softer clucks and purrs. Ghost cuts make quiet sounds.
- Number of Reeds: Most calls have one to four reeds.
- One Reed: These are usually easier for beginners. They make softer sounds.
- Two Reeds: These are versatile. They can make a range of sounds.
- Three Reeds: These are great for advanced callers. They offer the most control and variety.
- Four Reeds: These are less common. They can produce very complex sounds.
- Frame: The frame holds the reeds. It helps you position the call in your mouth. Look for a frame that fits comfortably.
Important Materials
The materials used affect the call’s sound and how long it lasts.
- Reeds: Most reeds are made of latex. Some calls use prophylactic or plastic reeds. Latex is common because it’s flexible. It makes good, natural sounds.
- Frame: Frames are often made of plastic. Some are made of softer materials. A good frame stays in place. It doesn’t irritate your mouth.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way a call is made really matters.
- Hand-Tuning: Calls that are hand-tuned often sound better. This means someone carefully adjusted the reeds. This gives you more control over the sounds.
- Reed Thickness: Thicker reeds can make louder sounds. Thinner reeds are better for soft, close calls.
- Assembly: The way the reeds are stacked and secured is crucial. Poorly made calls can have reeds that stick together. This makes them sound bad. A well-made call will have reeds that vibrate freely.
- Durability: A good mouth call should last a while. If the reeds tear easily or the frame breaks, it’s not good quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Mouth calls are very versatile. They are great for all types of turkey hunting.
- Beginners: Start with a two-reed call. They are easier to learn. They can still make many of the sounds you need.
- Experienced Hunters: If you want more control, try a three-reed call. You can make soft yelps, loud cutts, and realistic purrs.
- Different Situations:
- Locating: Use loud, sharp sounds to find turkeys.
- Calling: Once you find a turkey, use softer clucks and purrs to bring it closer.
- Cutting: Short, sharp bursts of sound can excite a gobbler.
- Yelping: This is a common turkey sound. It’s used to attract hens or get a gobbler’s attention.
Mouth calls are hands-free. This means you can use your hands to hold your gun. This is a big advantage. Practice is key. Spend time learning to make different sounds. Your confidence will grow. Soon, you’ll be calling turkeys like a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Mouth Turkey Calls
Q: What is a mouth turkey call?
A: A mouth turkey call, also called a diaphragm call, is a tool used to imitate turkey sounds. You place it in your mouth and use air to make the sounds.
Q: Why are mouth calls popular?
A: They are popular because they leave your hands free to hold your gun. They also make very natural-sounding turkey calls.
Q: What does “reed cut” mean?
A: The reed cut is the shape of the latex reeds inside the call. Different cuts help you make different types of turkey sounds.
Q: How many reeds should a mouth call have?
A: Calls can have one to four reeds. One or two reeds are good for beginners. Three reeds offer more versatility for experienced hunters.
Q: What are the best materials for a mouth call?
A: Latex reeds are common and make good sounds. The frame is usually made of plastic.
Q: How can I tell if a mouth call is high quality?
A: High-quality calls are often hand-tuned. The reeds should be durable and not tear easily. The frame should be comfortable.
Q: Is it hard to learn to use a mouth call?
A: It takes practice, but many beginners find success. Starting with a two-reed call can make it easier.
Q: What different sounds can I make with a mouth call?
A: You can make yelps, clucks, purrs, and cutts, which are all sounds turkeys make.
Q: When should I use a mouth call while hunting?
A: You can use them to locate turkeys, attract them, and get them to come closer to your position.
Q: How do I store my mouth turkey calls?
A: Store them in a cool, dry place. Keep them in a case to protect the reeds.
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.