Slate Calls
Also known as pot calls, slate calls feature a round surface (made of slate, glass, or aluminum) and a striker, which is typically made of wood, carbon, or acrylic. By striking the surface with the striker in various patterns and pressure levels, you can produce a wide array of turkey sounds. Slate calls are versatile and ideal for hunters who want to mimic different turkey vocalizations. Practice various techniques, such as yelping, cutting, and purring, to become proficient with a slate call.
Diaphragm Calls
Diaphragm calls, or mouth calls, are small devices that fit inside the hunter's mouth. They consist of a horseshoe-shaped frame, a latex reed, and a thin piece of plastic called a skirt. By manipulating air pressure and tongue movement, hunters can create a variety of turkey sounds. Diaphragm calls offer the advantage of hands-free operation, which is particularly useful when a turkey is approaching. However, they have a steeper learning curve and may require more practice to master.
Locator Calls
Locator calls are used to elicit shock gobbles from turkeys, which helps hunters pinpoint their locations. Common locator calls include crow calls, owl hoots, and coyote howls. These sounds do not mimic turkey vocalizations but instead trigger a reflexive response from gobblers, allowing hunters to identify their position without revealing themselves as potential predators. Practice using locator calls at different volumes and intervals to effectively locate turkeys during your spring hunt.