How the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps Surprised Me
As a turkey hunter, I’ve learned that a reliable call is as crucial as a sharp broadhead. The Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps promised a full range of turkey sounds, and I was eager to see if it delivered. My current slate call, while functional, had become a bit too specialized, struggling to produce the softer clucks and purrs that can sometimes finish a hesitant gobbler. I was looking for a versatile tool that could handle the entire spectrum of turkey vocalizations.
Upon unboxing, the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps presented a surprisingly solid feel for its price point. The slate surface appeared well-prepared, and the included striker felt comfortable in hand, hinting at potential precision. I had briefly considered a more expensive, hand-turned wooden model, but the practicality and affordability of this poly-bodied option drew me in. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – could this relatively unassuming call truly unlock a broader range of turkey talk?
Real-World Testing: Putting Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were the familiar woods behind my cabin, a place I’ve conditioned many a gobbler. I started with the basic cutting and yelps, trying to replicate the aggressive calls that often draw a tom in from a distance. The Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps produced a surprisingly sharp and loud cut, which was encouraging.
Moving to softer clucks and purrs, the poly body seemed to lend a distinct tone to the calls. I found that a slightly lighter touch on the slate surface, using the side of the striker rather than the tip, was key to achieving those subtle, realistic sounds. It took a few minutes of focused practice to get a feel for the sweet spot, but once I did, the results were promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of practice sessions and two full hunting trips, the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps has held up remarkably well. It’s endured being tossed into my vest, brushed against branches, and even a brief moment of unexpected rain. There are no visible cracks or deformities in the poly body, and the slate surface remains consistent.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a dry cloth after use is usually sufficient. For more stubborn residue, a damp cloth followed by drying works perfectly, and the striker wipes down just as easily. Compared to some of my older calls, which developed rough spots or lost their resonant qualities over time, this model seems quite durable. It hasn’t shown any signs of performance degradation, which is a significant positive for a hunter who relies on their gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps
Specifications
The Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps features a polypropylene body, which contributes to its lightweight yet durable construction. It measures 1.3 inches in height, 6.9 inches in width, and 11 inches in length, giving it a substantial but manageable size. The call weighs in at a light 0.38 lb, making it easy to carry without adding significant bulk to hunting gear.
The poly body is designed to amplify and project sound, offering a different acoustic profile than traditional wooden calls. This material choice also means it’s less susceptible to swelling or cracking from moisture. The slate surface is the primary sound-producing element, and its quality directly impacts the versatility of the calls it can generate. The accompanying heartwood striker is crucial for manipulating the slate to produce different tones and volumes.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core performance, the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps excels at producing a broad range of turkey vocalizations. Its ability to generate loud, piercing cuts is ideal for locating distant birds, while a more delicate touch with the striker allows for soft, subtle clucks and purrs that can bring a hung-up tom within range. The poly body seems to resonate exceptionally well, contributing to the clarity and projection of each sound.
The primary strength of this call lies in its versatility. It doesn’t just stick to one type of call; it genuinely allows for a spectrum from aggressive cutting to soft hen murmurs. However, one minor weakness is that achieving the absolute highest frequency of realistic purrs might require a bit more finesse than with some ultra-premium, specialized calls. Nevertheless, for its intended purpose and price, its functionality is outstanding.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps is functional and user-friendly. The polypropylene body has a slightly textured finish, which provides a secure grip even with cold or slightly damp hands, a common scenario in early morning hunts. The dimensions are well-balanced; it fits comfortably in the palm without feeling too small or too cumbersome to manipulate effectively.
The slate surface is well-integrated into the body, with no noticeable seams or rough edges that could hinder the striker’s movement. The heartwood striker is ergonomically shaped with a comfortable handle that offers good control for intricate sound manipulation. The overall build quality feels robust, suggesting it’s designed to withstand the rigors of regular outdoor use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps appears to be a durable piece of equipment. The polypropylene body is inherently resistant to impact and moisture, which are two common culprits for wear and tear in outdoor gear. I foresee this call lasting for many seasons, provided it’s treated with basic care.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down after each use to remove dirt, dust, or moisture is all that’s really required. Unlike some calls that might require scraping or re-surfacing, the slate on this model seems to maintain its integrity and responsiveness with minimal intervention. There are no obvious weak points or areas prone to failure, making it a reliable field tool.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps comes as a complete package, including the poly pot call and a heartwood striker. No additional accessories are included, nor are there immediate customization options inherent to the call itself, such as interchangeable strikers or sound boards. The primary “customization” comes through the user’s ability to manipulate the existing striker on the slate surface to produce a wide variety of sounds.
While there are no specific recommended accessories to purchase alongside this call, having a secondary striker of a different material or shape could potentially unlock even more tonal variations for advanced users. However, for its intended use, the included striker is perfectly capable and well-matched to the call.
Pros and Cons of Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps
Pros
- Excellent versatility, producing a wide range of turkey vocalizations from loud cuts to soft purrs.
- The polypropylene body offers impressive durability and resistance to environmental factors.
- The lightweight design (0.38 lb) makes it comfortable to carry on long hunts.
- Offers great value for money, providing high performance at an accessible price point.
- Simple to clean and maintain, requiring only basic care to keep it in top condition.
Cons
- Achieving the most subtle and delicate purrs might require more practice compared to specialized, high-end calls.
- No included accessories or obvious customization options beyond user technique.
Who Should Buy Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps?
The Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps is an excellent choice for any turkey hunter looking for a reliable and versatile call that won’t break the bank. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners who are learning the nuances of turkey calling and experienced hunters who need a dependable, do-it-all call for various hunting scenarios. This call is also ideal for those who prioritize durability and ease of maintenance in their gear.
However, highly experienced callers who are chasing absolute perfection in ultra-subtle purrs or specific regional dialects might find themselves wanting more specialized equipment. Those who require sterile, single-use equipment for specific regulated hunting circumstances should also look elsewhere. For most turkey enthusiasts, this call represents a solid investment.
Conclusion on Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps
The Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps is a surprisingly capable and durable turkey call that punches well above its weight class. It delivers on its promise of producing a wide array of sounds, from aggressive locator calls to the softest hen clucks, making it a valuable asset in any hunter’s arsenal. The polypropylene body and included heartwood striker work in concert to provide excellent performance and longevity.
Considering its $39.99 price point, the value offered by this call is exceptional. It strikes a perfect balance between affordability, performance, and durability, making it a highly recommended purchase for most turkey hunters. If you’re in the market for a versatile, reliable call that can handle a full day in the woods without fuss, the Strut Commander Slate On Ploy Yelps is an easy choice.