Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit Review

Let Me Walk You Through the Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit

As a seasoned gear specialist with over a decade of putting equipment through its paces across diverse environments – from rugged outdoor expeditions to precise laboratory settings and demanding field operations – I approach new gear with a critical, yet open mind. My constant quest is to find tools that not only perform but inspire confidence and enhance the experience. This led me to the Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit, a package promising a comprehensive solution for turkey hunters seeking authentic calls. The need for reliable, versatile calls became particularly apparent last spring when a crucial sequence of gobbling responses fell flat due to the limitations of my aging, single-function slate call. I was looking for a kit that offered a range of sounds and the distinctiveness needed to cut through the spring woods. First impressions upon unboxing were of a well-curated collection; the wood of the box call felt substantial, the glass call had a pleasing weight, and the diaphragm call looked precisely cut. While I briefly considered a popular, single-purpose box call from another major brand, the allure of a multi-call system at this price point for Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit was too strong to ignore. My initial feeling was one of cautious optimism, a hope that this kit could indeed deliver the nuanced vocalizations required for successful spring turkey hunting.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this combo kit took place in the familiar setting of my backyard, transitioning quickly to the early spring woods of upstate New York for actual hunting scenarios. I started by testing the sounds of each call individually, ensuring I understood their capabilities before attempting to mimic a pressured hen. The box call, with its hybrid design, offered a surprising range, from sharp, clear yelps to that coveted raspy cut. I spent about an hour working through the techniques, getting a feel for the grain of the wood and the pressure needed for different tones.

The glass pan call, when paired with its all-weather striker, produced a satisfyingly sharp cluck and a respectable yelp, though it required a bit more finesse to achieve the softer nuances. The diaphragm call, a personal favorite for its hands-free operation, immediately felt comfortable. Its two-reed design, featuring a double-split top reed, produced a good balance of rasp and pitch, which is essential for realism.

During a scouting trip, I employed the box call to test its effectiveness in open timber, and the sound carried well. Later, in thicker brush, the diaphragm call proved invaluable for producing softer clucks and purrs without revealing my position. I experienced no immediate issues with any of the calls; they were intuitively easy to use, with the box call’s attached strap proving handy for quick stowing between sets.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several weeks of active hunting and dedicated practice sessions, the Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit has held up remarkably well. The box call, despite being exposed to damp morning air and the occasional jostle in my pack, shows no signs of warping or compromised sound quality. The maple lid still glides smoothly against the cherry bottom, producing consistent tones.

The glass pan call has been equally resilient. Its custom-molded pan has maintained its consistency, and even after repeated strikes with the carbon striker, it shows no visible damage or degradation in sound. The striker itself has held up well, with no chipping or fraying.

The Premium Flex diaphragm call, a critical component for me, has been particularly impressive. The Infinity Latex has proven its durability, maintaining its elasticity and seal even after numerous uses in varying humidity levels. The water-resistant tape has also held up, preventing the reeds from sticking together – a common frustration with lesser diaphragm calls. Cleaning each call is straightforward; the box and glass calls can be wiped down easily, and the diaphragm call requires a simple rinse. Compared to some older, single-function calls I’ve relied on, this combo kit offers superior versatility and durability for its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit

Specifications

The Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit is a thoughtfully assembled package designed to provide hunters with multiple sound-producing options. The centerpiece is the Raspy Old Hen box call, a unique hybrid boat-paddle design constructed from a one-piece cherry bottom and a maple lid. This specific design is engineered to produce high-pitched front-end notes for yelps, alongside raspy, high-pitched cutting sounds, making it a versatile tool. Crucially, it is also fully waterproof, ensuring reliable performance even in wet hunting conditions. An attached elastic strap is included for quiet transport when on the move, preventing unwanted noise.

Complementing the box call is the Raspy Old Hen glass friction pan call. This call features custom-molded pans for enhanced consistency across a wide range of turkey vocalizations, from soft yelps to loud, excited cutting. It comes supplied with an all-weather carbon striker, which is important for consistent sound production regardless of humidity. The third component of the kit is the Premium Flex Raspy Old Hen diaphragm call. This is a two-reed call designed with a double-split top reed to achieve excellent rasp coupled with a higher pitch. It utilizes Infinity Latex, which Hunters Specialties claims is the most consistent and durable latex available for diaphragm calls. The tape used on this diaphragm call is water resistant and designed to last an entire hunting season. The kit is priced at $49.79, offering a cost-effective entry into multiple call types.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of this combo kit is to produce authentic turkey sounds, and in this regard, it largely succeeds. The Raspy Old Hen box call is the standout performer. Its hybrid design truly delivers on the promise of both clear yelps and aggressive cuts. I found it particularly effective for imitating the excited clucks and kee-kees of a subordinate hen, which can often draw in a dominant tom. The waterproof construction is not just a marketing point; it genuinely worked, allowing me to use it in a light drizzle without any discernible dip in sound quality.

The glass pan call is a solid performer, though it demands a bit more practice to master. While it can produce a wide spectrum of sounds, achieving the very subtle, soft yelps requires a delicate touch. Its strength lies in producing louder, more attention-grabbing sounds, which can be useful for cutting through dense cover or getting a response from a distant bird. The included carbon striker is responsive and works well with the glass surface.

The Premium Flex diaphragm call is excellent for its intended purpose. The double-split reed design provides that essential rasp that many turkey calls lack, and combined with the Infinity Latex, it produces clean, sharp hen sounds. It’s incredibly convenient for those situations where you need to have both hands free to manage your shotgun or hold your ground.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of each call in the Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit reflects a focus on functionality and user experience. The Raspy Old Hen box call feels substantial and well-built in the hand. The one-piece cherry bottom provides a solid foundation, and the maple lid offers a smooth surface for creating sound. The hybrid boat-paddle shape is comfortable to hold and manipulate, and the attached elastic strap is a thoughtful touch for quick access and noise reduction.

The glass pan call, with its smooth glass surface and perfectly formed pan, feels professional. The all-weather carbon striker is lightweight and balanced, fitting comfortably in the hand. Its simple design makes it easy to grip and strike with precision.

The Premium Flex Raspy Old Hen diaphragm call excels in ergonomics. The tape is smooth against the roof of the mouth, and the latex reeds are flexible yet firm. The cut of the reeds is precise, which is crucial for producing clear, distinct sounds without air leakage or unwanted backfires. Overall, the materials and construction across all three calls suggest a product built for the rigors of hunting, not just for display.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the durability of the Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit appears to be very good, especially considering its price point. The box call, with its fully waterproof construction, has demonstrated resilience against moisture, a common enemy of wooden calls. I anticipate it will hold up well for seasons to come, provided it’s stored properly when not in use.

The glass pan call is inherently durable due to its material, and the carbon striker is also known for its toughness. I’ve experienced no chipping or degradation in the striker’s surface, which is a testament to its quality. The diaphragm call, featuring Infinity Latex and water-resistant tape, is designed for longevity. While diaphragm calls are consumables to a degree, this particular model feels like it will last a full season or more with proper care, which involves keeping it clean and dry. Simple maintenance, such as wiping down the box and glass calls with a dry cloth and storing the diaphragm call in its protective case, will go a long way in preserving their performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

This combo kit’s primary value lies in its inclusion of three distinct types of turkey calls, offering a comprehensive sound-making arsenal without the need for additional purchases. The included accessories are integrated into the design: the elastic strap on the box call for quiet transport, and the all-weather carbon striker for the glass call. There are no significant customization options for these specific calls as they are designed for optimal performance out of the box. However, the versatility of the kit means you can choose which call best suits the specific situation, location, and turkey behavior you encounter, effectively customizing your sound strategy.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit

Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit?

This Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit is an ideal purchase for entry-level to intermediate turkey hunters who are looking for a versatile and cost-effective way to expand their calling arsenal. It’s perfect for those who are just starting out and want to experiment with different call types to see what works best for them in their local terrain. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters who might want a reliable backup set or are looking to replace older, worn-out calls without breaking the bank.

However, seasoned turkey hunters who already possess a deep repertoire of high-end, specialized calls might find the performance of the glass call slightly less refined than premium single-function calls. Those who demand absolute silence and perfect pitch in every single call should also consider the potential learning curve for the glass pan. For optimal use, I’d recommend pairing this kit with a good quality shotgun, appropriate camouflage, and a solid understanding of turkey behavior. A small notebook to jot down what sounds work best in different situations could also prove invaluable.

Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit

The Hunters Specialties Raspy Old Hen Combo Kit delivers exceptional value and a comprehensive suite of tools for the aspiring and developing turkey hunter. The combination of a genuinely effective, fully waterproof box call, a capable glass friction call, and a high-quality diaphragm call makes this kit a standout in its price bracket. While the glass call might require a bit more dedication to master its subtler nuances, the overall performance of the entire package is impressive, offering authentic sounds that have a proven track record in the field. The durability of the materials, particularly the Infinity Latex in the diaphragm call, suggests a longevity that belies its affordable cost.

For any hunter looking to enhance their calling success without a significant financial outlay, I would absolutely recommend this combo kit. It strikes a perfect balance between performance, durability, and price, providing a robust foundation for creating convincing hen vocalizations in the spring woods. It’s a kit that doesn’t just meet expectations; it comfortably exceeds them for its intended audience, offering a genuine pathway to more effective turkey hunting.