Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call Review

One Week with the Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’m always on the lookout for tools that genuinely perform. My introduction to the Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call came about during a particularly frustrating turkey season. I was struggling to get the attention of a wary gobbler, and my existing calls just weren’t cutting it. This starter pack promised a multi-faceted approach, which seemed like a smart investment for a hunter needing to diversify their calling repertoire.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of practical utility. The pack contains three distinct call types designed to simulate various turkey vocalizations. The construction felt solid, not overly fancy, but certainly robust enough for the field. I’d briefly considered a more specialized, single-type call, but the appeal of having multiple options in one package quickly won out. My immediate feeling was one of cautious optimism – could this starter set truly bridge the gap and bring those wary birds within range?

Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds were primarily the dense woods and open fields surrounding my cabin, specifically during pre-dawn and late afternoon hunting sessions. I put the Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call through its paces in conditions ranging from light mist to dry, dusty trails. The mouth call required some initial practice to get a consistent seal and pressure, but the Sonic Dome design did seem to offer a good foundation for producing clear yelps and clucks. The slate call, with its included slim striker, proved to be more forgiving for beginners, producing satisfying cuts and purrs with moderate pressure.

The double-sided box call was another element I experimented with extensively. Its dual surfaces offered variations in tone, which was useful for mimicking different hen sounds. Initially, I found the box call a bit bulky to carry discreetly, but its sound projection was undeniable. Overall, the ease of use was moderate; while the mouth call had a slight learning curve, the other two calls were quite intuitive for producing basic turkey sounds. My only initial surprise was how quickly the striker on the slate call began to show slight wear after just a few hours of vigorous use, though it didn’t significantly impact sound quality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use throughout the spring turkey season, the Primos starter pack has held up remarkably well. The calls have been subjected to numerous hunting trips, often stuffed into pockets or a vest without special protection, and have shown no significant signs of damage. The mouth call remains pliable and hasn’t developed any cracks or tears, which speaks to the quality of the latex used. Similarly, the slate call surface has resisted deep scratches, although the striker’s tip has become slightly more rounded from frequent contact.

The box call has also proven durable, with its hinges and latches remaining secure. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a dry cloth after each outing is all that’s needed to keep them in optimal condition. Compared to some single, higher-end calls I’ve used previously, this starter pack offers a surprising amount of longevity and consistent performance, especially considering its introductory price point. The variety of sounds achievable across the three calls has definitely increased my success rate.

Breaking Down the Features of Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call

Specifications

The Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call package is designed to be a comprehensive entry point for turkey hunters. It includes a Sonic Dome Mouth Call, a Sonic Dome Slate Call with a slim striker, and a double-sided box call. The manufacturer, Primos Hunting, clearly aimed to provide a versatile set suitable for both novices and experienced callers.

The mouth call utilizes layered latex reeds, a standard for producing a range of turkey vocalizations from soft clucks to aggressive yelps. The Sonic Dome feature on both the mouth and slate calls is designed to channel sound effectively, aiding in clearer and more resonant calls. The slate call itself is typically a friction-based call, requiring the striker to be drawn across its surface to create sound. The slim striker is designed for precision, allowing for a variety of sounds depending on pressure and angle. Lastly, the double-sided box call offers two distinct soundboards, usually one with a rougher surface and one smoother, to replicate different hen sounds.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function, this pack delivers a solid performance for its intended purpose. The primary job of these calls is to mimic turkey vocalizations, and across the board, they achieve this effectively. The mouth call is capable of producing clear yelps and cuts, essential for attracting gobblers. The slate call, with practice, can generate realistic purrs, clucks, and even some more complex sounds.

The box call is arguably the most straightforward for generating louder, more general turkey sounds, useful for cutting through ambient noise. The main strength lies in the combination of call types; when one type isn’t producing results, switching to another can often elicit a response. A minor weakness might be that achieving the absolute finest nuances of turkey communication might require more specialized, single-purpose calls, but for general hunting scenarios, this set is highly functional. It more than meets expectations for a starter pack, offering a good range of sounds that have proven effective in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call is focused on practicality and effectiveness rather than aesthetic flair. The mouth call is a standard design, fitting comfortably in the mouth with its layered latex reeds. The Sonic Dome adds a slight thickness, which I found helped with grip and consistent air pressure.

The slate call has a well-finished surface and a comfortably sized slim striker. It feels good in the hand, and the striker’s length allows for good control over the call’s movement. The box call is the most substantial piece; it’s a traditional design with a sturdy construction. Its double-sided nature means it’s slightly bulkier than a single-sided call, but the handle is shaped for a secure grip. Markings are minimal, as is typical for these types of calls, but the sound-producing surfaces are clearly identifiable.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a significant positive for this set. The materials used across all three calls suggest they are built to withstand the rigors of regular hunting. The latex in the mouth call has shown excellent resilience, and the slate surface of the friction call is tough. The box call construction feels robust, with no signs of loose joints or potential weak points.

Maintenance is blessedly simple for all components. After use, a quick wipe with a dry cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and moisture, preventing potential buildup or material degradation. It’s important to keep the mouth call from being crushed and the slate call free from grit that could damage the surface. For longevity, storing them in a dry place away from extreme temperatures is advisable, but they are designed for field use, so they don’t require overly delicate handling. I haven’t experienced any component failures, and the wear on the striker tip is minor and expected.

Accessories and Customization Options

This starter pack comes with the essentials needed to begin calling turkeys immediately. The key accessories are the slim striker for the slate call, which is crucial for producing specific sounds. There aren’t extensive customization options inherent to the calls themselves, as their design is fixed.

However, the modularity of a starter pack like this lies in its combination of different call types. This allows the hunter to experiment and find which call works best in different situations or for different turkey dialects. While not included, users might consider a lanyard to keep the mouth call and striker easily accessible, or a padded case for the box call if carrying it separately. The true “customization” comes from learning to master the diverse sounds each of the three included calls can produce.

Pros and Cons of Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call

Who Should Buy Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call?

This starter pack is an ideal purchase for new turkey hunters who are looking to equip themselves with a reliable and versatile set of calls without breaking the bank. It’s also a great option for intermediate hunters who want to expand their calling arsenal with different sound-producing methods. Anyone who hunts in varied terrain or faces wary turkeys that might respond better to specific types of calls will find significant value here.

Hunters who demand the absolute highest fidelity of turkey vocalizations and are willing to invest in premium, specialized calls might find this set a bit more basic. However, for general hunting success and learning the fundamentals of turkey calling, it is exceptionally well-suited. I’d recommend pairing this with a good hunting vest with dedicated pockets for calls and a reliable hunting license.

Conclusion on Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call

The Primos Hunting Friction Slate CallStarter PK1, w/3 Mouth Game Call is a highly effective and practical package that punches well above its weight class. For its price point, the value it offers in terms of versatility, sound quality, and durability is outstanding. The inclusion of three distinct call types ensures that hunters have multiple avenues to pursue a successful hunt.

I would absolutely recommend this starter pack to anyone serious about getting into turkey hunting or looking to round out their existing call collection. It’s a testament to Primos Hunting‘s commitment to creating functional gear for hunters. While mastering the mouth call takes dedication, the other two calls are ready to perform out of the box, making this a solid investment for any hunter looking to connect with a gobbler.