Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call
As an equipment specialist with over a decade navigating diverse environments, from sterile labs to rugged workshops and demanding field applications, I’ve developed a keen eye for tools that perform. My quest for a reliable turkey call led me to the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call. This particular call promised a blend of professional-grade performance and user-friendliness, a combination I often find elusive in specialized gear.
The catalyst for this purchase was the upcoming spring turkey season; my old slate call had finally given up the ghost after years of hard use, and I needed a replacement that could handle nuanced calls in various terrains. I had considered a few other brands, but Woodhaven’s reputation for handcrafted quality and their focus on real-world hunting scenarios tipped the scales.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The cherry wood body felt substantial and smooth in hand, while the crystal striking surface radiated a promising sheen. It immediately conveyed a sense of purposeful design, built for function rather than mere aesthetics. My first reaction was a quiet satisfaction, a feeling of having acquired a tool that understood its intended purpose.
Real-World Testing: Putting Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call to the Test
My primary testing grounds for this friction call were the dense woods and open fields surrounding my rural property, simulating typical hunting environments. I spent several early mornings testing its range and versatility, attempting to replicate various hen sounds to gauge its effectiveness. The call was consistently exposed to morning dew, a light dusting of dry leaves, and the general wear and tear of being clipped to a vest and handled repeatedly.
The learning curve for this particular model was surprisingly minimal. While I have experience with friction calls, the unique end cap adjustment system and the pronounced ridge system required a brief period of familiarization. However, once I understood how to manipulate the end cap to fine-tune the pitch, it became incredibly intuitive.
A minor quirk I noticed early on was the sensitivity of the crystal surface to humidity. On particularly damp mornings, the call required a slightly firmer touch to produce its full range of sounds. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was a noticeable difference compared to drier conditions, reminding me that even the best gear can be influenced by the elements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After weeks of consistent use throughout the spring turkey season, the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call has proven to be a robust and reliable performer. It has been my constant companion on numerous hunts, enduring everything from long hikes through brush to being tucked away in my vest between calling sequences.
Durability has been excellent; there are no visible cracks, delamination, or significant scuffs on the cherry wood body, even after being accidentally bumped against tree trunks a few times. The crystal surface remains exceptionally responsive, showing no signs of degradation or loss of acoustic quality. The included surface conditioning kit has been simple to use, a quick rub-down before each outing ensuring optimal friction.
Compared to previous friction calls I’ve owned, this Woodhaven call truly stands out. It maintains its tone and volume far better than many mass-produced options, and its ability to produce a wide spectrum of sounds without needing excessive pressure is a testament to its superior design. Its performance has consistently matched and often exceeded my expectations for a call in this price bracket.
Breaking Down the Features of Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call is a masterclass in acoustic engineering for turkey calling. Its design prioritizes both performance and adaptability, allowing hunters to mimic a wide range of hen vocalizations.
Specifications
The core of this friction call is its Cherry wood body and crystal striking surface. This combination is crucial for its acoustic properties, with the cherry wood providing a warm, resonant base and the crystal offering a bright, clear tone.
It features a distinctive end cap adjustment system, a key innovation that allows for subtle pitch modifications without compromising back pressure. This is a significant advantage, as it provides fine-tuning control over the call’s output.
The call boasts a heavy ridge system on its surface. This design means that minimal downward pressure is required to produce rich, complex sounds, making it exceptionally easy to control for nuanced calling.
There is also mention of extra surface area and a heavier ring, which contribute to deeper, more resonant notes. This feature is particularly beneficial for producing those coveted low-frequency yelps and clucks that can travel long distances.
The concave bottom of the call is another important design element. It contributes to a balanced feel in hand, enhancing control and comfort during extended calling sessions.
The product also comes with a surface conditioning kit, two hand-matched strikers, and a surface lid. These additions ensure the call remains in optimal condition and ready for immediate use.
The listed dimensions of 1.40 x 6.75 x 10.65 inches provide a sense of its physical presence, suggesting a substantial yet manageable size for hunting. The weight (implied by dimensions and material) feels balanced, not overly heavy nor insubstantial.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this friction call is to accurately mimic the sounds of a hen turkey, and it excels at this. It produces everything from soft, subtle clucks and purrs to loud, aggressive yelps and cutts with remarkable clarity. The transition from high-pitched front-end notes to raspy, drop-off sounds across the shelf is incredibly smooth.
Its strengths lie in its versatility and ease of use. The ability to adjust pitch with the end cap is a game-changer, allowing for real-time adaptation to a turkey’s response or the surrounding environment. The heavy ridge system requires very little force, which is a huge advantage, especially when you need to make subtle sounds without spooking wary birds.
However, its sensitivity to moisture, as noted earlier, can be considered a minor weakness in extremely damp conditions. While manageable with slight adjustments in technique, it’s a factor to be aware of. Overall, it not only meets but often exceeds the expectations set by its price point and intended application.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cherry wood body of the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call is not just aesthetically pleasing; it feels good in the hand. The wood has a natural, almost exotic grain that provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with damp hands.
The ergonomics are excellent, largely thanks to the concave bottom and the thoughtfully designed shape. It sits comfortably in the palm, allowing for precise movements of the striker across the crystal surface. There was virtually no learning curve regarding how to hold and operate the call effectively.
Practical design details like the pronounced ridges on the crystal surface and the intuitive end cap adjustment mechanism significantly enhance usability. These features work in concert to make complex calling sequences achievable with minimal effort, contributing to a highly positive user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
This friction call is built to last. The Cherry wood and crystal surface are inherently durable materials, and the craftsmanship evident in its construction suggests a long lifespan under normal hunting conditions. I anticipate it will serve me faithfully for many seasons to come.
Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. The included surface conditioning kit is simple to use and effectively rejuvenates the crystal surface, ensuring consistent performance. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after use is usually all that’s needed.
Potential failure points are minimal given the robust build. The only aspect to watch out for, as with any friction call, is accidental damage to the crystal surface, though its recessed position and the protective lid offer good defense.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call comes with a useful set of accessories. This includes two hand-matched strikers, a surface conditioning kit, and a protective surface lid.
The hand-matched strikers are crucial, as they are designed to pair perfectly with the crystal surface for optimal sound production. The surface lid is a smart inclusion, protecting the sensitive crystal from scratches and dirt when not in use.
While there are no direct “customization options” in terms of altering the fundamental design of this specific model, Woodhaven offers other variations within their Cherry Classic line. For this model, the primary “customization” comes from the user’s ability to adjust the pitch via the end cap, which is a significant degree of control.
Pros and Cons of Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality: Produces a wide range of realistic hen turkey vocalizations from soft clucks to loud yelps.
- Easy to use: The heavy ridge system and balanced design require minimal pressure for excellent results.
- Adjustable pitch: The innovative end cap allows for fine-tuning the call’s tone to match specific situations.
- Premium materials: Cherry wood and crystal offer both aesthetic appeal and superior acoustic performance.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of field use, promising long-term reliability.
- Includes essential accessories: Comes with hand-matched strikers, a surface conditioning kit, and a protective surface lid.
Cons
- Sensitivity to extreme humidity: May require slightly more effort in very damp conditions.
- Price point: While justified by quality, it is a premium investment compared to basic friction calls.
Who Should Buy Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call?
This call is an ideal choice for serious turkey hunters who demand top-tier performance and versatility from their equipment. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and are willing to invest in a tool that can significantly increase their success in the field. Experienced hunters will immediately appreciate its nuanced sound capabilities, while intermediate hunters can use its user-friendly design to refine their calling skills.
Those who primarily hunt in extremely wet or humid climates might want to consider this call’s sensitivity to moisture. Additionally, budget-conscious hunters looking for a basic, no-frills friction call might find more affordable options elsewhere. However, for anyone seeking a call that can truly unlock a wider range of vocalizations and adapt to various scenarios, this Woodhaven call is a superb choice.
Complementary items that enhance the experience include a good quality turkey vest with secure call pockets and perhaps a small field towel to quickly wipe the crystal surface on particularly dewy mornings.
Conclusion on Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call
The Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call has solidified its place as an indispensable tool in my turkey hunting arsenal. Its combination of superior sound reproduction, user-friendly design, and robust construction makes it a standout product. The innovative adjustable end cap and the responsive crystal surface allow for a level of tonal control that is truly impressive.
The value proposition is strong; while it represents a significant investment, the performance and durability justify the price. It’s a tool built for results, offering an edge that serious hunters will undoubtedly appreciate.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Woodhaven Calls Woodhaven Custom Calls Cherry Classic Crystal Friction Call to any dedicated turkey hunter. If you’re looking for a call that can replicate the full spectrum of hen sounds with remarkable ease and adapt to changing conditions, this custom friction call is an excellent choice that will not disappoint.