Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call Review

What Makes the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call Stand Out?

For years, I’ve relied on a diverse array of tools across countless environments, from the sterile hum of a laboratory to the rugged embrace of the wilderness. When it came to perfecting my turkey calling repertoire, I found myself in need of a new primary slate call. My previous workhorse had finally succumbed to an unfortunate drop, leaving a void that needed filling. I had heard whispers about the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call, a model that promised a unique blend of realism and versatility, and the manufacturer’s reputation for crafting quality hunting gear piqued my interest.

First impressions upon unboxing were solid. The Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call possesses a satisfying heft, hinting at the solid materials used in its construction. The natural walnut pot felt smooth and well-finished, and the frosted crystal surface over glass immediately signaled its potential for nuanced sound production. It felt like a tool built to perform, not just to look good.

I briefly considered a couple of other well-known slate call brands, one known for its aggressive cut and another for its mellow tones. However, the combined description of this Bone Collector model—mentioning both soft and loud calling capabilities—along with the intriguing diamond wood striker, swayed me towards this particular option. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it could live up to its advertised potential in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call to the Test

My initial testing grounds were twofold: my backyard for initial sound shaping and then the dense woods of my favorite turkey hunting property during the pre-dawn light. I wanted to see how this pot call handled everything from soft clucks and purrs to loud, aggressive yelps and cuts designed to cut through distance and terrain. The non-glare finish proved itself immediately, avoiding any unwanted reflections in the early morning sun, a small but appreciated detail.

Over several weeks of regular use, including multiple early morning hunts and practice sessions, the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call demonstrated remarkable resilience. It withstood being tucked into vests, occasionally brushed against branches, and even a light shower without any apparent detriment to its sound or material integrity. The frosted crystal surface remained consistent, and I experienced no issues with moisture affecting its performance, unlike some other calls I’ve used.

Compared to my previous calls, both budget-friendly and higher-end, this Bone Collector model offered a fantastic balance. It was significantly easier to coax realistic hen sounds out of this call than many other slates I’ve tried, especially the softer purrs and contented clucks that can often be tricky. The durability and ease of maintenance—a simple wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually all that’s needed—made it a reliable companion.

First Use Experience

My first real outing with the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call was on a crisp April morning, the air still carrying the bite of winter. I was positioned in a familiar stand, the woods silent except for the distant crow calls. I started with a soft series of clucks, and the sound that emerged was surprisingly clear and natural, a good sign that it would draw attention without sounding artificial.

The frosted crystal surface over glass design truly allows for a wide range of vocalizations. I found it particularly responsive to lighter pressure, producing subtle, realistic purrs that are crucial for luring a hesitant hen closer. When I applied more pressure and swept the diamond wood striker with more force, it produced loud, attention-grabbing yelps and sharp cuts that would easily carry across open fields.

There were no major surprises or quirks initially, which is always a relief with new gear. The diamond wood striker felt comfortable in my hand, offering a good grip even with slightly damp fingers from dew. The overall ease of use was impressive; it felt intuitive, and I was able to transition between different calling sequences without much conscious effort.

Extended Use & Reliability

After roughly two months of consistent use, often multiple times a week during the peak turkey season, the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call continues to perform admirably. The frosted crystal surface shows only the faintest of micro-scratches, almost imperceptible, and has not impacted its acoustic properties in the slightest. The walnut pot has developed a subtle patina from handling, which only adds to its character.

Durability has been excellent. I haven’t noticed any cracks in the pot, no stiffness in the striker, and no degradation in the call’s ability to produce clear, distinct sounds. The non-glare finish remains intact, a testament to the quality of the materials and manufacturing.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down after each use is sufficient to keep it in top condition. I store it in a dedicated call pouch within my vest, protecting the surface from undue stress. Compared to some plastic or cheaper composite calls that can warp or become unresponsive in extreme temperatures or moisture, this slate call has held up remarkably well. It’s certainly outperformed some entry-level models I’ve used in the past, offering a more authentic sound profile.

Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call

Specifications

The Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call is constructed with a walnut pot, providing a natural, resonant base for sound production. This is paired with a frosted crystal surface over glass, a combination designed to offer versatility in tone and volume. The call comes with a diamond wood striker, known for its density and durability, which contributes to its ability to create a wide range of sounds.

The non-glare finish is a practical addition, crucial for hunters who need to remain undetected. While the product description doesn’t provide specific dimensions for the striker itself, the overall call measures approximately 11 inches in length, 7 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in height, with a weight of 0.43 lb. These dimensions make it a substantial yet manageable call to handle in the field.

The combination of materials and design allows this call to excel at producing a variety of turkey vocalizations, from soft, contented purrs to loud, aggressive yelps and cuts. The frosted crystal surface provides the ideal friction for the striker to create these distinct sounds, offering a wide dynamic range that is essential for mimicking different hen behaviors throughout the day. The diamond wood striker, being denser and harder than many common woods, allows for precise control and a crisp edge on the calls.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – producing realistic turkey sounds – the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call performs exceptionally well. It easily generates clear, crisp yelps that have excellent volume and carry well. The cuts are sharp and authentic, capable of cutting through ambient noise effectively.

Where this call truly shines is in its ability to produce nuanced sounds. The softer clucks and purrs are remarkably true-to-life, with a subtle rasp that is often missing in other calls. This versatility allows a caller to adapt to different turkey moods and situations, from aggressive gobblers to hesitant hens.

Its main strength lies in its dynamic range. I found it very easy to transition from soft, close-range sounds to loud, attention-grabbing calls by simply adjusting the pressure and speed of the striker. The only minor limitation I found was that achieving the absolute quietest, breathiest purr requires a very delicate touch, but this is common with most slate calls and easily mastered with practice.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call boasts a thoughtfully designed ergonomic profile. The walnut pot feels substantial and comfortable in hand, with a smooth finish that doesn’t cause fatigue during extended calling sessions. Its natural grip is enhanced by the slight curvature and weight.

The diamond wood striker is perfectly shaped, providing an excellent grip and balance. It’s not overly large or small, fitting comfortably into my palm for precise control. The textured grip on the striker, while not overtly aggressive, is sufficient to prevent slippage, even when my hands are a little sweaty.

The overall build quality is impressive, with tight tolerances between the striker and the playing surface. The non-glare finish on the exterior of the pot is a smart design choice, minimizing any visual distractions for wary birds. The visual appeal is also noteworthy, with the rich grain of the walnut and the contrasting frosted surface creating a classic, professional look.

Durability & Maintenance

This call is built for the rigors of the field, and its durability reflects that. The walnut pot is robust and resistant to cracking, and the frosted crystal surface is surprisingly resilient to scratches from the striker. The diamond wood striker is exceptionally durable and shows minimal signs of wear, even after consistent use.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After each use, a quick wipe down with a soft, dry cloth is usually all that is required to remove any chalk dust or residue from the playing surface. I have found that storing it in a dedicated call pouch helps protect it from unnecessary bumps and scrapes.

There are no obvious failure points that I’ve encountered. Unlike some calls that might develop “dead spots” over time or become less responsive due to material degradation, this Bone Collector model has maintained its acoustic integrity. It feels like a call that will last for many seasons with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call comes with a diamond wood striker. This striker is specifically designed to complement the call’s playing surface, offering optimal friction and control for a wide range of vocalizations. No other accessories are included with this particular model, as it is a self-contained calling unit.

There are no specific customization options for the call itself, such as interchangeable surfaces or different striker materials that are offered as part of the package. However, the design of the walnut pot and the frosted crystal surface are intended to provide maximum versatility on their own. Its compatibility with standard chalk used on slate calls means you can easily maintain its optimal performance without needing specialized materials.

Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call

Who Should Buy Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call?

This call is ideally suited for the serious turkey hunter who demands realism and versatility in their calling arsenal. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a call that can produce soft, intimate sounds as well as loud, aggressive calls needed to seal the deal. Experienced hunters will likely find its responsiveness and tonal range a significant asset, while intermediate callers can use it to elevate their game.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals looking for an absolute beginner, entry-level call with minimal learning curve or those on a very tight budget. If you primarily need a call for occasional use or only require loud yelps, there might be less expensive options that suffice. It’s also not the best choice for someone who needs a call that is extremely compact or requires specialized maintenance.

For those looking to maximize the effectiveness of this call, I’d recommend investing in a good quality call pouch to protect it. A small amount of slate call chalk (though often unnecessary for this surface type) or a conditioning stone might be useful for maintaining optimal friction over many years of use, depending on your specific environment.

Conclusion on Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call

The Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call is a premium turkey call that delivers on its promise of versatility and realism. Its robust construction, combined with its exceptional sound-producing capabilities, makes it a standout option for serious hunters. The ability to transition seamlessly between soft purrs and loud, cutting yelps is a testament to its thoughtful design and quality materials.

For its price of $75.99, the value proposition is strong, especially considering its durability and performance compared to many other calls on the market. It offers a sonic palette that can significantly increase your chances of success in the field. I would absolutely recommend this call to any turkey hunter looking to refine their vocalizations and connect with more birds.

If you’re in the market for a reliable, high-performing slate call that feels as good as it sounds, the Bone Collector Hazy Hen Pot Call is an excellent investment that will serve you well for seasons to come.