Is the Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass All Talk?
The Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass is a compact friction turkey call, designed to mimic a wide range of turkey vocalizations. Made by Quaker Boy, it promises versatility with its small glass surface and a lightweight plexi-striker. I was on the hunt for a more compact and easily concealable friction call that could still produce a broad spectrum of sounds, as my usual slate call felt a bit bulky in the vest. Initial impressions upon unboxing were positive; the glass surface felt smooth and consistent, and the included “Feather Lite” plexi-striker felt surprisingly sensitive. I had been considering a few other friction calls, but the advertised realism and the specific mention of a lightweight striker swayed me towards this model. My first thought was a quiet optimism that this might be the solution for those tight hunting situations where every bit of space counts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in a quiet corner of my workshop, away from any distracting ambient noise. I spent about an hour experimenting with different striker angles and pressures, attempting to replicate yelps, clucks, and purrs. The call responded well, producing clear tones that varied effectively with subtle adjustments. I did notice that the plexi-striker, while light, required a slightly firmer grip than I was accustomed to for delicate purrs. There were no immediate issues, but the learning curve for fine-tuning purrs with this specific striker was evident.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of a couple of turkey seasons, this friction call has become a consistent companion. It has endured the usual bumps and jostles of being carried in a hunting vest, and even a brief encounter with some light dew on a foggy morning. The glass surface has remained remarkably consistent, with no significant scratches or wear from regular use with the plexi-striker. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe with a dry cloth after use and occasional cleaning with the included abrasive pad has kept it in good working order. Compared to some of my older, more expensive slate calls, this glass call has held its tune remarkably well, offering a reliable performance without needing constant conditioning.
Breaking Down the Features of Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass
Specifications
The Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass features a small, glass surface call with an accompanying “Feather Lite” plexi-striker. It is designed for turkey species and falls under the Friction call type. The manufacturer is Quaker Boy, and the call is typically presented in a Black color. Its dimensions are listed as approximately 8.75×5.75 inches, though this likely refers to the packaging or a broader set.
These specifications translate to a call that is compact and easy to handle. The glass surface is known for producing clear, high-pitched tones, ideal for cutting through wind and distance. The “Feather Lite” plexi-striker is designed to be lightweight, aiming for sensitivity and ease of manipulation, which is crucial for executing a variety of turkey sounds. This focus on a smaller footprint means it doesn’t take up excessive space in a hunting vest, a significant advantage for mobile hunters.
Performance & Functionality
This friction call excels at producing sharp, clear yelps and cutting clucks, which are essential for attracting gobblers from a distance. The glass surface allows for a good range of volume, from loud cutting calls to softer, more subtle sounds. However, mastering soft purrs and intricate clucks requires a delicate touch with the “Feather Lite” plexi-striker. While the striker is light, achieving those very subtle, nuanced sounds can be a bit more challenging than with a wooden striker on certain other call surfaces. It meets the expectation for a versatile friction call but demands practice for its full range of vocalizations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass prioritizes portability and ease of use. Its compact size makes it comfortable to hold and operate with one hand, leaving the other free for a firearm or bow. The smooth glass surface feels consistent to the touch, and the acrylic striker is well-shaped for a comfortable grip. The inclusion of an abrasive cleaning pad is a thoughtful touch, ensuring the calling surface remains in optimal condition. The overall build feels sturdy enough for field use, though the glass, by its nature, requires a degree of care.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the glass surface of this call is quite robust against scratches from the striker. However, like any glass product, it is susceptible to breakage if dropped directly onto a hard surface. The acrylic striker shows minimal signs of wear, even after consistent use. Maintenance is straightforward: the included abrasive cleaning pad effectively removes any residue or minor surface imperfections that might affect sound quality. A simple wipe-down after each use is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass comes with a crucial accessory: the “Feather Lite” plexi-striker. This striker is specifically chosen to complement the glass surface and is integral to its performance. Additionally, an abrasive cleaning pad is included to help maintain the calling surface. There are no other significant customization options inherent to the call itself, as its primary function is as a friction call. However, experienced callers might experiment with other strikers, though the included one is designed for optimal balance.
Pros and Cons of Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass
Pros
- Produces clear and loud yelps and clucks, effective for long-range calling.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and conceal.
- The “Feather Lite” plexi-striker offers sensitivity for various tones.
- Includes a useful abrasive cleaning pad for surface maintenance.
- Relatively durable glass surface that holds up well to regular striker contact.
Cons
- Achieving very soft purrs and nuanced clucks requires significant practice with the included striker.
- The glass surface is inherently fragile and can break if dropped on a hard surface.
- May not offer the same depth of tone as some larger or more complex friction calls.
Who Should Buy Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass?
This friction call is an excellent choice for turkey hunters who prioritize portability and ease of use. It’s ideal for those who hunt in dense woods or move frequently, where a bulky call can be a hindrance. Beginner turkey hunters will find its straightforward operation beneficial, though they should be prepared to practice for softer sounds. Hunters looking for a secondary call to supplement their primary or for situations where space is extremely limited would also do well with this model. Those who need absolute silence and the most subtle purrs possible in all conditions might consider pairing it with a different striker or exploring other call types. I’d also recommend a small, padded pouch for storage to protect the glass surface.
Conclusion on Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass
The Quaker Boy Magic Touch Glass delivers a solid performance for its size and price point, offering a capable friction call that’s easy to pack and use. Its ability to produce sharp, clear calls is undeniable, making it a valuable tool for many hunting scenarios. While achieving the most delicate vocalizations requires a practiced hand, the overall versatility and the quality of the included “Feather Lite” plexi-striker make it a worthwhile acquisition. For its price of $34.39, this call offers good value, especially considering its compact design and reliable sound production. I would recommend this friction call to any hunter seeking an effective, lightweight, and easily managed option for calling turkeys, with the caveat that mastering its subtler nuances is key.