How to Care for Your Turkey Call: Keeping It Tuned, Tough, and Ready for the Woods
| By The Hardwood Collective
Whether you’re running one of our Workhorse walnut slates or a spalted tamarind stunner from the Heritage Line, a well-maintained call can be the difference between calling in a long-beard or walking out empty-handed. In this post, we’ll break down the basics of turkey call care — simple steps you can follow to keep your pot call sounding crisp and clean from early season through late spring.
Why Call Maintenance Matters
Your call is a tool. And like any good tool, it performs best when it’s taken care of. Dirt, oil, moisture, and even overuse can affect tone, volume, and rasp. Whether you hunt hard or just want your call to last a lifetime, regular upkeep is key.
Step 1: Keep It Clean
Slate & Crystal Surfaces
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Use a green Scotch-Brite pad or 220–400 grit sandpaper to lightly scuff the surface in a circular motion. This removes oil, moisture, and buildup.
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Never use water. Moisture can deaden the sound and warp the surface over time.
Strikers
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Clean striker tips with fine sandpaper to restore grip and texture.
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For laminated or exotic wood strikers, avoid dropping them or exposing them to excessive humidity.
Step 2: Recondition the Surface
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Over time, your slate or crystal may get polished from use — and that kills friction.
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Rough it up lightly before each hunt. Think of it like tuning your instrument before a show.
Pro Tip: Use a conditioning stone or a piece of chalkboard chalk to mark your sweet spot for consistent calls every time.
Step 3: Store It Smart
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Keep your call in a dry place. Use the provided pouch or a soft cloth inside your vest.
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Don’t store it with your striker rubbing against the surface — friction over time will wear both out.
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Never leave it in a hot truck or wet pack. Wood moves with moisture and heat, and even the best calls can warp.
Final Thoughts
Every call that leaves our bench — whether it’s a $65 Workhorse or a $130 custom — is made to last. But durability starts with you. Taking a few minutes to clean, scuff, and store your call right can extend its life for seasons to come.
Have a question about a specific call, striker, or surface combo? Shoot us an email or a DM on Social Media. We’re always here to help you keep your calls tuned, tough, and deadly.