Worth the Money? My Take on the Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call
For years, I’ve relied on a variety of tools to get the job done, whether it’s in the field, the workshop, or a controlled laboratory setting. This dedication to quality equipment extends to my passion for turkey hunting. This season, I found myself in need of a reliable diaphragm call that could produce a range of sounds, from soft clucks to sharp cutts, without breaking the bank. My search led me to the Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call. Manufactured by Hunters Specialties, this call is designed for versatility and durability.
My previous calls, while functional, had begun to lose their edge. Some produced a tinny sound, while others simply didn’t offer the nuanced tones necessary to fool a wary gobbler. I was specifically looking for a call that would provide a raspy, realistic sound and offer hands-free operation, allowing me to keep my hands free for my shotgun. The promise of a “split V style” for ultimate raspiness was particularly appealing.
Upon receiving the Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call, my initial impression was positive. The call felt well-constructed for its price point. The Neoprene Rubber material of the frame seemed durable, and the Infinity Latex for the reeds promised longevity. It felt like a solid, no-nonsense tool, a far cry from some of the flimsy alternatives I’d encountered. I had considered a few other brands, but the advertised “Power V” cut and the focus on raspy calls made this one stand out. This initial assessment offered a sense of quiet optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds were the rolling hills and dense woodlands of my local hunting grounds, specifically during the early morning and late afternoon hours of the spring turkey season. I tested the call in humid conditions, mild winds, and even after it had been exposed to a light morning dew. The Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call proved remarkably easy to get into position. Its flexible frame allowed for a comfortable, snug fit under my palate, making it intuitive to use from the very first attempt.
One pleasant surprise was how quickly I could produce a variety of sounds. A soft cluck was achievable with a gentle breath, while a more aggressive cutt required a firmer push. The promised raspiness was definitely present, especially when I pushed the reeds a bit harder to simulate an excited hen. There were no immediate issues or unexpected quirks; it performed as advertised right out of the package.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, spanning multiple hunting trips and practice sessions, the diaphragm call has held up remarkably well. It’s become my go-to for nearly every calling scenario I encounter. The Infinity Latex reeds show no signs of cracking or excessive stretching, which is a common failure point for many diaphragm calls. Even after being accidentally dropped on a dusty forest floor once, its performance remained unaffected.
Maintenance for this type of call is minimal, which is a significant advantage. A quick rinse with water after use and allowing it to air dry is all that’s needed. It’s easy to store in a small call pouch or even a shirt pocket without worry. Compared to some of my older, more expensive calls that have deteriorated with less use, this one offers impressive longevity for its modest price.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call comes equipped with several key features designed for effective turkey communication. It boasts a four reed configuration, with the standout being its Split V Cut. This specific cut is engineered to deliver an exceptionally raspy sound, crucial for mimicking distressed or excited hens. The call utilizes Infinity Latex for its reeds, a material known for its durability and consistent sound production over time, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to standard latex.
The Precision stretching of the latex in an exact 180-degree arc, locked into place, guarantees a consistent sound profile with every use. This precision manufacturing minimizes variations that can plague other calls. The call is also designed for Hands Free operation, a critical feature for hunters who need their hands readily available for their firearm. The frame is constructed from Neoprene Rubber, providing a comfortable and secure fit within the mouth.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of a turkey call is to accurately mimic turkey vocalizations, and this model excels in producing realistic sounds. The Split V Cut design indeed delivers a pronounced raspiness, making it effective for cuts, clucks, and purrs. I found it particularly good at producing those sharp, aggressive cuts that can draw a gobbler’s attention from a distance. The ability to produce softer, more subtle clucks and purrs was also present, allowing for a full range of vocalizations.
Its main strength lies in its ability to consistently produce that desired raspy tone, which is often difficult to achieve with simpler reed configurations. While it can produce a variety of sounds, it truly shines when pushing the reeds for those louder, more aggressive calls. Its functional design means that even novice callers can likely achieve a reasonable sound with practice, though mastering the nuances will take time.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call is straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use in the field. The Neoprene Rubber frame provides a soft yet firm feel against the palate, enhancing comfort during extended use. This material also contributes to the overall durability of the frame, preventing it from becoming brittle or cracking over time.
The Hands Free design is a significant ergonomic advantage. Once placed correctly, it stays put, allowing the hunter to focus on their surroundings and firearm. The internal reeds are precisely cut and positioned, ensuring they respond well to breath pressure without requiring excessive force. While the visual design is basic, its focus is clearly on performance and practical application, which is what matters most in a hunting scenario.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of this diaphragm call is a key selling point, especially given its accessible price point. The Infinity Latex material for the reeds is notably resilient. After multiple hunting outings and countless practice sessions, the reeds maintained their flexibility and tone, showing no premature signs of wear or degradation. This suggests that the call is built to withstand the rigors of regular use throughout a hunting season and potentially beyond.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After use, a quick rinse under cool water and allowing it to air dry completely is sufficient to keep it clean and prevent mold or mildew. Proper drying is crucial for preserving the latex and ensuring its longevity. There are no complex parts to worry about; it’s a single, self-contained unit designed for robust performance with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call is a self-contained unit and does not typically come with additional accessories or extensive customization options for the call itself. Its primary “customization” comes from the user’s ability to manipulate breath pressure and reed positioning to achieve different vocalizations. The Split V Cut is a fixed design element that defines its primary sound profile.
While there are no aftermarket modifications for the call itself, its compatibility with standard hunting practices is high. It fits easily into most turkey call vests or pouches. Its effectiveness relies on the hunter’s skill rather than external add-ons, making it a straightforward tool for direct application in the field.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call
Pros
- Excellent Raspy Sound: The Split V Cut delivers exceptionally raspy vocalizations, ideal for attracting wary gobblers.
- Hands-Free Operation: Designed for Hands Free use, allowing hunters to keep their hands on their weapon.
- Durable Construction: Utilizes Infinity Latex and Neoprene Rubber for a longer-lasting and more consistent call.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers exceptional value for money, making realistic turkey calls accessible.
- Consistent Performance: Precision manufacturing ensures a reliable sound profile with each use.
Cons
- Limited Sound Versatility: While good at raspy calls, it might require more skill to produce very soft, nuanced sounds compared to calls with different reed designs.
- Potential Learning Curve: Mastering the precise breath control for all desired sounds might take some practice for beginners.
- Basic Aesthetics: The design is purely functional, lacking any elaborate aesthetic features.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call?
This diaphragm call is an excellent choice for any turkey hunter looking for a reliable, effective, and affordable vocalization tool. It’s particularly well-suited for hunters who prioritize a strong, raspy sound that cuts through the woods. Beginners will appreciate its ease of use and the fact that it produces good sounds without requiring extreme skill. Experienced hunters will find it a dependable option for aggressive calling or for adding that extra touch of realism to their repertoire.
However, hunters who exclusively seek extremely soft, subtle purrs or yelps might need to supplement this call or look for models with different reed configurations. Those who prefer calls with elaborate designs or bundled accessories might find this model too basic. For maximizing its effectiveness, pairing it with practice and understanding turkey behavior is essential. A good turkey vest with a dedicated call pocket is also recommended for easy access.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call
The Hunters Specialties Power V Premium Flex Diaphragm Turkey Call stands out as a highly effective and incredibly budget-friendly option for turkey hunters. Its Split V Cut and Infinity Latex reeds deliver the authentic, raspy sounds that are often crucial for success in the field. The Hands Free design is a practical advantage that enhances hunter readiness.
For its price of $5.99, the performance and durability offered by this call are frankly astonishing. It punches well above its weight, providing a reliable tool that consistently produces quality sounds. I would absolutely recommend this diaphragm call to any turkey hunter, from the novice looking for an accessible entry point to the seasoned veteran seeking a dependable, no-frills call for their arsenal. It’s a testament to functional design and smart manufacturing, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get effective gear in the woods.