How to Use a Slate Turkey Call: Mastering the Art of the Turkey Whisperer
The slate turkey call emulates the sounds of a hen turkey, enticing gobblers. This is accomplished by dragging or striking a striker across the textured slate surface, which must be done correctly to produce realistic and appealing turkey vocalizations.
Introduction: Why Choose a Slate Call?
The slate turkey call, also known as a pot call, is a staple in the turkey hunter’s arsenal. Its versatility allows for a wide range of turkey vocalizations, from soft purrs to sharp cuts, making it effective in various hunting scenarios. Mastering this call unlocks a new level of turkey hunting prowess, enabling you to lure in even the wariest gobblers. Unlike diaphragm calls that require significant practice to manipulate with your tongue, slate calls are considered easier to learn and produce a range of sounds with different pressures and angles.
Understanding the Slate Call: Components and Sound
A slate call is comprised of two primary components:
- The Pot (or Slate): Usually made of slate, glass, crystal, or other friction materials, this is the resonating surface. The material of the pot significantly affects the tone of the call.
- The Striker: Made of various woods, acrylic, or other materials, the striker is used to create friction against the slate to produce sound. The material of the striker also significantly impacts the sound.
The sound is produced by the friction between the striker and the slate. Varying the pressure, angle, and speed of the striker allows you to create different calls, mimicking the diverse vocabulary of a hen turkey.
Mastering the Fundamentals: The Basic Yelp
The yelp is the most basic and essential turkey call, and it’s the foundation for mastering a slate call. Here’s how to execute it:
- Grip: Hold the pot firmly in your non-dominant hand.
- Position: Place the striker tip at an angle on the slate’s surface, generally between 10 and 20 degrees.
- Motion: Apply moderate pressure and drag the striker in a short, slightly curved motion, like a small “J” or “C” shape.
- Release: Lift the striker slightly at the end of the stroke to create a break in the sound.
- Practice: Practice the yelp until you can produce a clear, consistent sound with a distinct break between notes. Vary the rhythm and tone for realism.
Expanding Your Repertoire: Other Essential Calls
Beyond the basic yelp, mastering other turkey calls will significantly increase your success. Here are a few examples:
- Purr: Apply light pressure and drag the striker slowly and smoothly across the slate to create a soft, calming purr.
- Cluck: Tap the striker sharply against the slate to produce a short, abrupt cluck.
- Cut: A series of rapid, sharp clucks, often used to get a gobbler’s attention. Create cuts by quickly and repeatedly striking the slate.
- Kee-Kee Run: A higher-pitched call, typically made by young turkeys, created by a series of rapid, high-pitched yelps.
Advanced Techniques: Realism and Variation
To truly master the slate call, focus on realism and variation.
- Practice Rhythm: Pay close attention to the rhythm of your calls. Turkeys rarely produce sounds in a perfectly uniform rhythm.
- Vary Tone: Experiment with different pressures and angles to create variations in tone.
- Mimic Real Turkeys: Listen to real turkey vocalizations and try to replicate them with your slate call.
- Use Cover Scents: Combine your calling skills with cover scents that mask your human odor from wily birds.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Several common mistakes can hinder your success with a slate call:
- Too Much Pressure: Applying too much pressure results in a harsh, unnatural sound. Use a light touch.
- Inconsistent Strokes: Inconsistent strokes produce uneven and unnatural calls. Focus on maintaining a smooth, controlled motion.
- Ignoring Slate Conditioning: Slate needs to be conditioned by scuffing it with an abrasive pad or sandpaper to create the proper texture for consistent sound.
- Lack of Practice: Like any skill, mastering the slate call requires practice. Dedicate time to honing your technique.
Slate and Striker Combinations
Different materials will produce different sounds. Finding your personal combination is part of the learning process.
| Slate Material | Striker Material | Sound Qualities |
|---|---|---|
| Slate | Wood (e.g., Hickory) | Soft, mellow, realistic |
| Glass | Acrylic | Louder, higher-pitched, piercing |
| Crystal | Carbon | Crisp, clean, versatile |
Slate Call Maintenance: Keeping it Ready
Proper maintenance is crucial for optimal performance.
- Clean the Slate: Keep the slate clean and free of dirt and oil.
- Condition the Slate: Regularly condition the slate by scuffing it with an abrasive pad.
- Store Properly: Store your slate call in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
- Protect your Striker: Keep the tip of your striker conditioned and clean.
FAQ: Deeper Insights into Slate Turkey Calls
Why is slate considered a good material for turkey calls?
Slate is favored for its natural sound resonance and ability to produce a realistic range of turkey vocalizations. Its textured surface provides excellent friction for generating realistic turkey sounds.
How do I condition a slate call?
Conditioning a slate call involves roughening the surface with an abrasive pad (like a Scotch-Brite pad) or sandpaper. This creates the necessary friction for the striker to produce sound. Do this regularly to maintain optimal performance.
What is the best way to hold a slate call for maximum sound projection?
Hold the pot firmly in your non-dominant hand, cupping your hand slightly behind the slate. This creates a resonating chamber and amplifies the sound.
How do I prevent my slate call from squeaking?
Squeaking often results from too much pressure or an improperly conditioned slate. Ensure the slate is properly conditioned and use a light touch with the striker. You may also try different striker positions and angles.
What types of wood are best for turkey call strikers?
Popular choices include hickory, walnut, and maple. Different woods produce slightly different tones, so experiment to find what works best for you and your slate.
Can weather affect the sound of a slate call?
Yes, humidity can affect the sound. Moisture can dampen the slate and reduce its resonance. Keep your call dry and consider using a slate protector in wet conditions.
What is a good starting point for learning to use a slate call?
Start with the basic yelp. Master this call before moving on to more complex vocalizations. This builds a strong foundation.
How important is it to listen to real turkeys before using a slate call?
Listening to real turkeys is crucial. It allows you to understand their natural vocalizations and replicate them more accurately with your call.
How can I make my slate call sound more realistic?
Focus on rhythm, tone, and variation. Turkeys rarely produce sounds in a perfectly uniform rhythm. Experiment with different pressures and angles to create variations in tone.
What’s the difference between a slate call and a glass call?
The primary difference is the material of the calling surface. Glass calls tend to be louder and higher-pitched than slate calls, while slate calls often produce a softer, more mellow sound.
How do I store my slate turkey call properly?
Store it in a dry place to prevent moisture damage. A call case or pouch is recommended. Never store the striker on the slate.
Is it ethical to call turkeys?
Calling turkeys is an accepted and ethical hunting practice when done responsibly and in accordance with local regulations. Ensure you are familiar with all applicable hunting laws and practice fair chase principles.