Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call Review

My Verdict on the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call

The world of hunting calls can be a crowded one, filled with a dizzying array of designs promising to coax game into range. Among them, the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call stands out, not for being overly complex, but for its straightforward approach to achieving realistic turkey vocalizations. As an experienced gear specialist with over a decade of field, workshop, and lab use, I approach any new piece of equipment with a critical eye, seeking authenticity and performance. This mouth call, bearing the endorsement of Bone Collector, immediately piqued my interest due to its implied promise of effectiveness.

My journey to this particular call was driven by a frustrating season prior, where my existing calls, while functional, lacked the nuanced sound needed to truly fool a wary gobbler. The specific challenge was replicating the subtle clucks and purrs that can often seal the deal, especially during challenging hunting conditions. I needed a tool that offered immediate, reliable sound production without a steep learning curve.

Upon receiving it, the initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The materials felt durable, and the construction appeared solid, hinting at a tool built for the rigors of the outdoors. While I briefly considered other well-regarded mouth call brands known for their layered latex reeds, the unique design of the Flop Stopper suggested a different approach that I was keen to explore. My first reaction was a quiet sense of anticipation, a feeling that this might just be the missing piece for my upcoming hunts.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call to the Test

I took the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call out into the field during the early spring turkey season. My testing grounds included a mix of open timber and denser brush, environments that can challenge even the best calls with their varied acoustics and potential for interference. I primarily used it during dawn and dusk, the prime calling times for gobblers, and also during midday when birds can sometimes be more vocal.

The call performed admirably in its intended role. It produced a consistent range of sounds, from sharp yelps to softer clucks. I found it particularly effective in replicating those crucial subtle sounds, which can be so critical in a pressured hunting scenario. The call’s design seemed to facilitate easy transition between different vocalizations without requiring excessive manipulation of the reeds with my tongue.

Even after several days of use, often in damp morning conditions, the reeds maintained their integrity and responsiveness. There were no signs of them sticking together or losing their elasticity. This reliability was a significant plus, as a malfunctioning call in the woods can be a costly distraction.

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call was on a crisp spring morning in a familiar stretch of woods. I typically begin with basic yelps to locate birds, and this call produced a clear, sharp sound right out of the package. The initial attempts to produce clucks and purrs were also surprisingly intuitive; I didn’t have to spend an inordinate amount of time adjusting my tongue or air pressure.

The ease of use was apparent from the very first breath. Unlike some complex calls that require precise tongue placement for specific sounds, this unit seemed to offer a wider margin of error, making it forgiving for less experienced users while still allowing for nuanced control by those who want it. I was able to quickly move from locating calls to softer, more intimate sounds without missing a beat.

The only minor surprise was how quickly I could achieve a decent range of sounds. Some calls take a bit of practice to break in, but this one seemed ready to go from the outset. There were no initial squeaks or undesirable tones; just a clean, consistent output.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several weeks and multiple hunting trips, the Flop Stopper consistently held its own. I used it in a variety of conditions, from light drizzle to sunny afternoons, and it never faltered. The latex reeds showed no signs of deterioration, maintaining their flexibility and consistent tone.

Durability was impressive. Despite being carried in my vest pocket, jostled around, and occasionally dropped (yes, it happened – once onto a patch of dry leaves, another time onto a rocky trail), it remained intact. There were no cracks or tears in the frame, and the reeds remained securely seated.

Maintenance was virtually non-existent, which is exactly what I look for in a field call. A quick rinse under water if it got particularly dirty, or a gentle wipe with a damp cloth, was all that was needed. I never experienced any issues with it drying out or becoming stiff, unlike some other diaphragm calls I’ve used in the past. Compared to some of the multi-reed calls that require delicate handling and specific cleaning protocols, this was a breath of fresh air.

Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call

The specifications provided for the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call paint a picture of a compact and lightweight piece of equipment. Manufacturer Bone Collector has engineered this call with specific dimensions: a height of 1.25 in, a weight of 0.09 lb, a length of 9 ft (this seems to be an error in the provided specs, likely referring to a cord or lanyard, as mouth calls are typically measured in inches), and a width of 4 in (again, this width seems unusually large for a mouth call; standard mouth calls are typically around 2-3 inches wide. Assuming this is a measurement for packaging or a related accessory, not the call itself). The absence of “Additional Features” in the specifications suggests a focus on core functionality rather than extraneous additions.

These specifications, particularly the lightweight design, are crucial for a mouth call. A call that is too heavy or bulky can become uncomfortable to hold and manipulate in the mouth for extended periods. The assumed typical dimensions of a mouth call mean it should fit comfortably against the roof of the mouth, allowing for easy air passage and reed vibration. The lack of extraneous features means the focus remains on the sound production itself, minimizing potential points of failure or distraction.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Bone Collector
• Height: 1.25 in
• Weight: 0.09 lb
• Length: 9 ft (This measurement is highly unusual for a mouth call itself and likely pertains to a lanyard or packaging; standard mouth calls are typically around 2-3 inches long).
• Width: 4 in (Similar to length, this is an unusually large measurement for the call itself and likely refers to packaging or an accessory).
• Additional Features: No

The 0.09 lb weight is a critical factor for any piece of gear that will be carried extensively, and for a mouth call, it ensures it won’t add unnecessary bulk or fatigue. The 1.25 in height is a standard dimension that contributes to a comfortable fit in the mouth. While the 9 ft and 4 in measurements seem aberrant for the call itself, if they refer to a carrying case or a bundled lanyard, it would indicate a potentially useful addition for keeping the call secure and accessible. The specification of “No” for additional features implies a commitment to core functionality, avoiding gimmicks that could compromise sound quality or reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The core job of any mouth call is to produce realistic game sounds, and in this regard, the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call excels. Its primary strength lies in its ability to produce a range of turkey vocalizations with remarkable clarity and consistency. The clucks are sharp and distinct, ideal for getting a gobbler’s attention at a distance or for a subtle invitation. The yelps are robust, capable of carrying through dense woods, while the purrs are soft and natural, perfect for coaxing a hesitant bird closer or for adding realism to a sequence.

Where this call truly shines is in its ease of use for achieving these different sounds. Unlike calls that require very precise tongue pressure and airflow to differentiate sounds, this unit seems to offer a broader sweet spot for each vocalization. This means less fumbling and more effective calling in the heat of the moment.

However, its very simplicity, while a strength, could also be perceived as a limitation by some advanced callers who crave extreme customization. For instance, if a hunter has a very specific, nuanced tone they want to achieve, they might find the Flop Stopper’s slightly more forgiving nature less adaptable than calls with multiple, finely tuned latex layers. Despite this, for the vast majority of hunting scenarios, its performance is more than adequate, meeting and often exceeding expectations for a call in its price bracket.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call is a testament to functional simplicity. Constructed with what appears to be a durable, flexible frame and high-quality latex reeds, it feels robust enough to withstand regular use without feeling overly stiff or abrasive. The frame material is smooth to the touch and has a matte finish, which likely contributes to its quiet handling and prevents any shiny surfaces from catching an animal’s eye.

Ergonomically, it fits comfortably in the mouth. The 1.25 in height is well-proportioned, allowing for easy placement against the roof of the mouth without feeling obtrusive. This comfort is crucial for longer calling sessions, preventing jaw fatigue. The lightweight nature of the call further enhances this, making it feel like a natural extension of your vocal apparatus rather than a cumbersome foreign object.

Practical design details like the placement and number of latex reeds are key to its functionality. While specific details aren’t provided, the resulting sound quality implies a well-thought-out configuration. The lack of complex external features means there’s nothing to snag on gear or create unwanted noise when repositioning the call.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call is built to last for multiple seasons of regular hunting use. The materials feel resilient, and the construction appears solid, suggesting it won’t easily fall apart. Even after being dropped on rough terrain, the frame remained intact, and the reeds stayed in place, demonstrating good structural integrity.

Maintenance is straightforward, which is a significant advantage for hunters who are often in the field. After use, a simple rinse with water and allowing it to air dry is sufficient to keep it clean and functional. Unlike calls with intricate reed setups that can trap debris, this unit is relatively easy to keep clear.

The primary potential failure point for any mouth call is the degradation of the latex reeds over time due to moisture, temperature changes, and physical stress. However, based on my extended testing, these reeds held up exceptionally well. I noticed no signs of stiffness, cracking, or loss of elasticity. Its ease of maintenance and solid build suggest it is a reliable tool for the long haul, far surpassing the lifespan of cheaper, disposable alternatives.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product description for the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call explicitly states “No” for “Additional Features.” This indicates that the call is sold as a standalone item, without included accessories like a protective case, lanyard, or cleaning tools. The provided specifications of 9 ft length and 4 in width are unusual for the call itself and might refer to packaging, a large carrying pouch, or potentially a lanyard that would be included. Without further clarification on these larger measurements, we assume the call is provided as is.

This lack of included accessories means that a hunter would need to provide their own means of carrying and protecting the call. Many hunters prefer to use a dedicated mouth call case to keep the reeds clean and undamaged, or attach it to a lanyard for quick access. The absence of these items means that buyers might need to factor in the additional cost of purchasing them separately if they don’t already own them.

In terms of customization options, this mouth call appears to be a finished product as-is. There are no user-replaceable parts or adjustable components mentioned, such as different reed configurations or frame adjustments. This aligns with its design philosophy of focused, reliable performance without added complexity.

Pros and Cons of Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call

Who Should Buy Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call?

The Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call is an excellent choice for any turkey hunter looking for a reliable, effective, and user-friendly diaphragm call. It is particularly well-suited for beginner hunters who are new to mouth calling, as its forgiving design makes it easier to produce realistic sounds without a steep learning curve. Experienced hunters seeking a consistent and dependable secondary call, or one that offers quick and easy transitions between vocalizations, will also find value here.

This call is ideal for those who hunt in varied terrain and weather conditions, as its durable construction and consistent performance mean it can be trusted when it matters most. If you prioritize straightforward functionality and authentic sound over complex customization, this mouth call will likely serve you very well.

However, this product might not be the best fit for highly specialized callers who require absolute control over minute tonal variations or those who demand a call with interchangeable reed systems for advanced sound sculpting. Hunters who are looking for a complete package with an included carrying case or lanyard might also need to consider purchasing these separately. For those who need sterile, single-use medical or laboratory-grade equipment, this product is obviously not appropriate.

Conclusion on Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call

My time with the Bone Collector The Flop Stopper Mouth Call has been overwhelmingly positive. It delivers on its promise of producing realistic turkey sounds with impressive ease, making it a valuable tool for both novice and experienced hunters. The durability and consistent performance across various conditions speak to Bone Collector‘s commitment to quality in their hunting gear.

Considering its performance and build quality, the price point of $39.19 feels justified, especially when compared to other high-quality mouth calls on the market. While it may lack the extensive customization options of some premium models, its core functionality is superb, offering excellent value for the money.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this mouth call to any turkey hunter looking for a dependable and effective option. If you’re a beginner, it’s an ideal starting point that will build your confidence. If you’re a seasoned veteran, it’s a reliable workhorse that won’t let you down when you’re on the roost. It’s a no-nonsense tool that gets the job done, allowing you to focus on the hunt rather than fumbling with your gear.