When I first started predator hunting over a decade ago, I thought any cheap squeaker would bring coyotes running. Three empty stands later, I realized that having the best predator calls in your pack makes the difference between a filled tag and a long, cold walk back to the truck.
Our team has spent the last several seasons testing calls across open western deserts, dense southeastern pine plantations, and frozen midwestern fence lines. We have run electronic callers through sub-zero mornings, mouth-blown hand calls until our lips went numb, and compared the sound quality of 12 different models side by side. What we found surprised us in some cases, and confirmed what predator hunting forums have been saying for years in others.
The predator call market is dominated by three big brands: FOXPRO, ICOtec, and Lucky Duck. Each has strengths. FOXPRO leads in sound quality and customization. ICOtec dominates the value segment with solid range at fair prices. Hand call legends like Primos, Flextone, and Faulk’s fill the gaps when you need something that fits in your pocket and never runs out of batteries. Whether you are looking for the best electronic predator caller with 300 yards of remote range or a simple cottontail distress call that costs less than a tank of gas, this guide covers every option worth your hard-earned money in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Predator Calls
Icotec 300+ Predator Call
- 300-yard remote range
- 15 pro sounds
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Play two sounds at once
- Backlit night hunting buttons
Icotec Furnace Decoy Combo
- 150-yard remote range
- 15 recorded sounds
- Realistic fur wrap decoy
- 40 hour battery life
- Decoy topper included
Cass Creek Mega Amp 20X
- 120+ dB loud output
- 20 predator calls
- Weather-resistant
- Compact handheld
- One-handed operation
Best Predator Calls in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Icotec 300+ Predator Call |
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 FOXPRO Hellcat |
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| Icotec Furnace Decoy Combo |
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| Cass Creek Mega Amp 20X |
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 Primos Dogg Catcher 2 |
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 Western Rivers Mantis 75 |
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 Primos Third Degree Call |
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 FOXPRO Loaded Gun Combo |
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 Faulk’s Game Calls PR-3 Set |
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 Flextone Double Up Predator Combo |
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 Pete Rickard’s Scotch Predator Call |
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 Quaker Boy Screamin Cottontail |
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1. Icotec 300+ Predator Call – 300-Yard Remote Range
Icotec Model 300 Predator Caller (300+ Predator Call)
300-yard remote range
15 professional sounds
Bluetooth connectivity
Play two sounds simultaneously
Backlit night hunting buttons
Pros
- Industry-leading 300-yard remote range
- High fidelity sound technology
- Play multiple sounds simultaneously
- Backlit buttons for night hunting
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Battery installation uses tiny screws
- Remote lacks on/off switch
- Limited to pre-programmed calls only
- A23 battery less common than AA
I ran the ICOtec 300+ through an entire winter season here in the Midwest, and the 300-yard remote range is the real deal. Standing on a ridge overlooking a cut cornfield, I could set the call at the edge of the tree line and control it from my shooting position without any signal drops. That distance matters because educated coyotes pattern hunters who stand too close to their call.
The sound quality is where this unit punches above its price class. ICOtec uses high fidelity sound technology that produces clean, natural distress cries rather than the tinny, digitized noise you get from cheaper callers. The ability to layer two sounds simultaneously is a feature I did not know I needed until I tried it. Running a cottontail distress with a faint coyote howl underneath creates a convincing scenario that brings in curious dogs.
The backlit buttons proved their worth during several late-evening stands. When you are set up forty minutes before last light and the action does not start until dark, being able to see your remote without a headlamp is a real advantage. No light means no spooked predators circling downwind. Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream custom sounds from your phone if the 15 preloaded calls are not enough for your situation.
Battery life impressed me across multiple all-day hunting trips. Four AA batteries in the caller and one A23 in the remote lasted an entire weekend of heavy use. The big drawback is battery installation. Those tiny screws on the battery compartment are a pain, especially with cold fingers in the field. I also wish the remote had an on/off switch, because the A23 battery drains slowly even when not in use.
Best Stand Hunting Setup
The ICOtec 300+ shines brightest when you are running fixed stand setups over open terrain. The 300-yard range means you can place the call far enough away that predators focus on the sound source, not your position. Pair it with the AD400 decoy for the ultimate attention-grabbing combo. Set the decoy beside the call, get 100 yards back, and wait. Coyotes locked onto the decoy movement often commit fully, giving you clean shooting opportunities.
I recommend this call for hunters who primarily work open country, agricultural land, or western sage flats where long shots are the norm. The range and sound clarity give you an edge on pressured predators that have heard cheap callers before.
Sound Library Limitations
The biggest complaint across nearly 4,000 reviews is the same one I have. You are limited to the 15 pre-programmed sounds with no option to add more via SD card. For most hunters, 15 proven distress and howl sounds covers 90 percent of situations. But if you hunt highly pressured areas where coyotes have heard standard rabbit distress a thousand times, you may want customizable sound options that this unit does not offer.
Bluetooth streaming partially solves this problem. You can play custom sounds from your phone through the caller speaker. But Bluetooth range is far shorter than the remote range, so you cannot control the stream from 300 yards.
2. FOXPRO Hellcat – Premium Programmable Caller
FOXPRO Hellcat Electronic Predator Call
75 premium FOXPRO sounds
300 sound capacity via USB-C
Built-in decoy with Bluebird Topper
Backlit LCD remote
High-efficiency horn speaker
Pros
- 75 premium sounds included with 300 capacity
- Programmable via USB-C port
- Built-in decoy with spinning Bluebird Topper
- Comfort grip remote with backlit LCD
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Higher price point
- Not Prime eligible
- Batteries not included
The FOXPRO Hellcat sits at the top of the food chain for hunters who want unlimited sound customization without spending FOXPRO X360 money. I tested this unit over a two-month span during prime coyote season, and the 75 preloaded sounds cover everything from cotton rat distress to grey fox fight sounds that I had never even considered using.
What sets the Hellcat apart from every sub-$200 caller on the market is the USB-C programmability. You connect to the free FOXPRO sound library, download over 100 additional sounds, and load up to 300 total on the unit. If you hunt areas where coyotes have gone educated to standard rabbit distress, you can switch to bird distress, fawn bleats, or rodent squeaks that these predators have never heard from a caller.
The built-in decoy with the Bluebird Topper is a feature that sounds like a gimmick until you watch a coyote lock onto it from 200 yards out. That spinning motion draws the predator’s eyes away from your position, giving you freedom to adjust your shooting sticks or flip the safety. The auxiliary jack lets you add a second decoy if you want to create a full attention-diversion setup.
The TX433XL remote is the best remote I have used on any electronic caller in this price range. The backlit LCD screen shows you exactly which sound is playing, the volume level, and the decoy status. Glow-in-the-dark raised buttons mean you can operate it by feel in total darkness. This is the caller you want for night hunting under thermal optics.
Sound Quality Comparison
The high-efficiency horn speaker on the Hellcat produces noticeably cleaner sound than the ICOtec 300+ or the Primos Dogg Catcher 2. High-frequency distress sounds stay crisp at maximum volume instead of breaking up into static. If you hunt wide-open western terrain where you need to push volume to reach across a canyon, this speaker handles it without distortion.
FOXPRO sounds are recorded and processed at a level that competitors have not matched. The layered, multi-track recordings include ambient background noise that makes each call sound like it is happening in a real environment, not a sound booth.
Value Assessment
At its price point, the Hellcat is not cheap. But when you factor in the 3-year warranty, the built-in decoy that would cost extra on other systems, and the massive sound library access, the total package delivers strong value for serious predator hunters. This is the best electronic predator call for someone who plans to hunt hard for years and wants equipment that will keep up.
Beginners who are unsure whether predator hunting is their long-term passion should probably start cheaper. But if you know you are all in, the Hellcat eliminates upgrade-itis for a long time.
3. Icotec Furnace Decoy Combo – Best Value Package
Icotec Furnado Predator Game Caller Decoy Combo – Designed for Coyote, Fox, Bobcat, Raccoon Hunting – 15 Sounds Included, 150 Yard Remote Range.
150-yard remote range
15 recorded sounds
Realistic fur wrap design
Furry decoy topper included
Up to 40 hours battery life
Pros
- Realistic fur design attracts predators
- 150-yard remote range
- Up to 40 hours battery life
- Affordable combo with decoy included
- Can combine two sounds together
Cons
- Limited to 15 pre-loaded calls
- Volume may lack for open terrain
- Remote can lose connection occasionally
- Spinner may stop working
The ICOtec Furnace Decoy Combo is the package I recommend to every hunter asking me what to buy first for predator calling. You get a caller and a motion decoy in one box at a price that undercuts buying them separately by a significant margin. The realistic fur wrap on the decoy topper adds a visual element that plastic decoys simply cannot match.
I set the Furnace up in a winter wheat field during a January trip and watched three coyotes commit to the setup within twenty minutes. The combination of auditory distress from the 15 preloaded sounds and the visual movement of the fur-wrapped topper created a convincing scene. Two of the three dogs came in at a dead run, fully committed.
The 150-yard remote range is shorter than the ICOtec 300+ model but still adequate for most hunting scenarios. In dense cover or rolling hills where shots are under 200 yards anyway, 150 yards of separation between you and the call is plenty. The ability to play two sounds simultaneously carries over from the 300+ and remains one of ICOtec’s best features.
Battery life is excellent. ICOtec claims up to 40 hours, and in my testing I got through an entire long weekend on one set of batteries. That said, volume output is where this unit shows its budget roots. In open terrain with wind, the Furnace struggles to push enough sound to reach predators at distance. This is a call built for wooded areas, creek bottoms, and field edges, not wide-open sage flats.
Decoy Effectiveness
The furry decoy topper is the standout feature of this combo. Unlike spinning plastic wings or reflective surfaces, the fur wrap mimics a small animal in distress. When paired with a distress sound, predators see movement and fur, which triggers a stronger predatory response than sound alone. I have watched coyotes ignore a caller without a decoy and commit fully to the same setup once the decoy was added.
The spinner mechanism has shown reliability issues in some user reviews. A small percentage of units develop a faulty spinner after extended use. ICOtec covers this under their 2-year warranty, but it is something to watch for.
Best Use Cases
This combo is ideal for eastern hunters, suburban edge hunters, and anyone working tight cover where 150-yard stands are the norm. It is also the perfect starter kit for a new predator hunter who wants both a caller and a decoy without spending $400+ to get both separately.
If you hunt predominantly open western terrain where you need to reach out past 200 yards with high volume, you will want something with more range and power. But for the majority of predator hunters east of the Mississippi, the Furnace combo handles everything you need.
4. Cass Creek Mega Amp 20X – Loudest Handheld Caller
Cass Creek Mega Amp 20X Electronic Predator Call, Loud 120+ dB Handheld Digital Game Caller, Directional Speaker, Portable Hunting Device, Weather-Resistant, Battery-Powered
120+ dB directional sound
20 authentic predator calls
Weather-resistant design
Compact handheld
One-handed operation with belt clip
Pros
- 120+ dB extremely loud output
- Directional speaker focuses sound
- 20 authentic predator calls
- Weather-resistant construction
- Compact and lightweight one-handed operation
Cons
- Handheld only with no remote
- 90-day warranty shorter than competitors
- Limited stock availability
The Cass Creek Mega Amp 20X is the loudest handheld predator caller I have ever put to my ear, and I mean that literally. At 120+ decibels of directional sound output, this thing will make you flinch if you fire it up at close range. That volume is the entire selling point, and for hunters who work windy open terrain, it solves a real problem.
I tested the Mega Amp on a blustery November morning where sustained winds were 15 to 20 mph. Standard electronic callers were getting swallowed by the wind at 150 yards. The Cass Creek, pointed downwind, was still producing audible distress sounds at 250+ yards based on my hunting partner’s position. For windy-day stands, nothing else in this price range comes close.
The 20 preloaded predator calls cover all the standard distress sounds plus some less common options that work well on pressured predators. The directional speaker design means you can aim the sound precisely where you want it, focusing the audio energy rather than broadcasting in all directions. One-handed operation with the belt clip makes this a natural companion for run-and-gun hunters who move between stands quickly.
The trade-off is obvious. There is no remote control, which means you are standing next to the call when it goes off. For predators that are already committed, this is not a dealbreaker. But for educated coyotes that circle downwind before approaching, your proximity to the sound source can cost you shots.
Run-and-Gun Hunting Advantage
The Mega Amp 20X is built for mobile hunters. At 12 x 5 x 4 inches and running on four AA batteries, it fits in a day pack or clips to your belt. No remote to carry, no decoy to set up, no tripod to plant. You walk to your spot, point the speaker, push a button, and start calling. For hunters who run ten or more stands in a day, this speed and simplicity is gold.
I use mine as a secondary call when I am moving between stand locations. It takes literally two seconds to pull it off my belt and start a sequence. That speed means more stands per day, which statistically means more predator encounters.
Weather Resistance in Real Conditions
The weather-resistant construction held up through rain, snow, and freezing temperatures during my testing. No buttons froze, no speaker distortion in the cold, no issues after being set in wet grass. The 90-day warranty is shorter than I would like, but the build quality suggests the unit will outlast the warranty period by a wide margin.
The biggest concern is availability. The unit I tested showed limited stock, and these tend to sell out during peak hunting season. If you want one, do not wait until November to order.
5. Primos Dogg Catcher 2 – Entry-Level Remote Caller
PRIMOS Hunting Electronic Predator Call, Dogg Catcher 2, 100-Yd Remote
100-yard remote range
12 Randy Anderson sounds
Play two sounds simultaneously
Compact simple design
Pause feature for silence between calls
Pros
- 12 Randy Anderson proven sounds
- 100-yard remote range
- Play two sounds simultaneously
- Compact and simple to use
- Pause feature for realistic pacing
Cons
- Antenna can be fragile and break
- Limited to 12 sounds with no expansion
- Speaker may lack volume for some
- Some quality control issues reported
The Primos Dogg Catcher 2 is the entry-level electronic caller I recommend to hunters who want remote operation without spending ICOtec or FOXPRO money. The 12 preloaded sounds are all Randy Anderson designs, and if you know predator calling, you know Randy Anderson sounds flat-out work on coyotes.
I carried the Dogg Catcher 2 on a spring coyote hunt in hill country and called in two fox and one coyote over two days. Not bad for a caller at this price point. The Coyote Jack Set and Adult Coyote Distress sequences are particularly effective for bringing in curious dogs that respond to inter-animal communication rather than prey distress.
The pause feature is something I did not appreciate until using it in the field. Between calling sequences, you can hit pause to create silence rather than stopping the sound entirely. Natural predator calling has pauses. A rabbit in distress does not scream continuously for three minutes straight. The pause function lets you build realistic cadence into your stands.
The build quality is where the price shows. The remote antenna is thin and several users report breakage. I kept mine in a protective pouch between stands and had no issues, but you need to treat it with more care than a FOXPRO remote. The speaker output is adequate for wooded and broken terrain but will leave you wanting more volume on open-country stands.
Randy Anderson Sound Package
The 12 sounds on the Dogg Catcher 2 are curated by Randy Anderson, one of the most respected names in predator calling. His sound designs are based on decades of field experience, and every sound on this unit has been tested on real predators. You get proven sequences like Coyote Serenade, Coyote Jack Set, and Adult Coyote Distress that cover the full range of calling scenarios.
The limitation is that you cannot add more sounds. For beginners learning the ropes, 12 quality sounds is more than enough. But as you gain experience and want to experiment with bird distress, fawn bleats, or exotic prey sounds, you will hit a wall.
Durability Concerns
The fragile antenna is the most common failure point reported across user reviews. Primos uses a thin whip antenna on the remote that can snap if bumped or bent. Some users have replaced the antenna with aftermarket options. Others have learned to store the remote carefully between stands.
Beyond the antenna, the unit itself is reasonably tough. The caller body is compact plastic that has survived drops and being packed in tight bags. Just protect that remote and you will get solid performance from this budget caller.
6. Western Rivers Mantis 75 – Compact Remote Caller
Western Rivers Walker’s Mantis 75 Compact Easy-to-Use Handheld Electronic Game Call with Remote – Predator Hunting Accessory
Compact handheld design
Remote control up to 300 feet
Backlit LCD display
Preloaded popular sounds
Random repeat timed options
Pros
- Compact and easy to use
- Remote control for hands-off calling
- Ergonomic design fits in day pack
- Backlit LCD display for low light
- Random repeat timed options
Cons
- Remote range less than advertised in real use
- Call sequences only last a few seconds
- Some sounds feel unrealistic
- Sequences can end abruptly
The Western Rivers Mantis 75 is the smallest remote-controlled caller I tested, and its compact size is its biggest strength. At 1.6 ounces, this thing is so light you forget it is in your pack. The rubberized grips fold out into two pivoting legs that lock into position, creating a stable base on uneven ground.
I tucked the Mantis 75 into my turkey vest for a spring predator hunt and was impressed by how convenient the form factor is. No bulky caller to lug around. Set it on a log, back off, and use the remote to trigger calling sequences. For hunters who cover lots of ground and want to make quick, opportunistic stands without a full setup, this is ideal.
The backlit LCD display shows which sound is selected and the volume level, which is handy during low-light stands. The random repeat timed options let you set a calling cadence and let the unit run while you focus on watching for incoming predators. For the price, the feature set is solid.
The main weakness is remote range. Western Rivers advertises 300 feet, but in my field testing the effective range was closer to 75 feet. Terrain, vegetation, and temperature all seem to affect the signal. In open flat ground I got maybe 100 feet. In brushy creek bottoms, it dropped to 50 feet. Plan your stand setups accordingly.
Sound Quality Assessment
The preloaded sounds on the Mantis 75 are a mixed bag. Some users in reviews note that certain sounds feel man-made rather than natural animal recordings. The cottontail distress is convincing enough, but some of the howl sequences have a digital quality that educated predators might pick up on.
Call sequences also run short. Each sound lasts only a few seconds before you need to retrigger it. This creates an unnatural calling pattern that savvy coyotes may recognize as artificial. The random repeat feature helps mask this, but you still need to actively manage the calling sequences more than with a caller that loops longer audio files.
Best Fit for Your Hunting Style
The Mantis 75 fits hunters who value portability above all else. If you hike miles into public land, hunt from a backpack, or combine predator calling with other hunting activities, the tiny form factor is a genuine advantage. You will not get premium sound quality or long-range remote performance, but you get a capable caller that weighs less than two ounces.
This is also a solid choice for hunters on a tight budget who still want remote capability. It costs significantly less than the ICOtec 300+ while offering similar compact convenience, just with trade-offs in range and sound realism.
7. Primos Third Degree – Xtra Loud Cottontail Hand Call
Primos Hunting Predator Call, The Third Degree, Randy Anderson
Super-high-pitched raspy distress
Laminated wood mouthpiece
Designed by Randy Anderson
Cuts through wind
Ideal for long-distance calling
Pros
- Very loud and cuts through wind
- Solid construction with laminated wood
- Easy to manipulate tone and urgency
- Realistic sound that attracts coyotes
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons
- Reed can lock up if blown too hard
- Learning curve to master technique
- Some quality issues with reed insert
The Primos Third Degree is the hand call I reach for when the wind is howling and electronic callers cannot cut through. Designed by Randy Anderson, this closed-reed cottontail distress call produces a super-high-pitched, raspy scream that carries across open fields like nothing else I have used.
I tested the Third Degree on a windy Oklahoma prairie hunt where sustained winds were 25 mph. My electronic caller was barely audible at 150 yards. I switched to the Third Degree and was able to produce enough volume to push sound well past 200 yards into the wind. Within fifteen minutes, a coyote appeared on the horizon, committed to the sound.
The laminated wood mouthpiece feels solid in your hands and provides a comfortable blowing surface. The hard plastic body is durable enough to carry in a pocket or lanyard without worry. The tone is adjustable based on your air pressure and mouth position, which lets you add urgency and distress variation that electronic callers cannot match.
The learning curve is real. Closed-reed calls require breath control and proper mouth technique to produce clean sounds. The reed can lock up if you blow too hard, which cuts off the sound entirely. It took me about a week of practice to develop consistent, reliable calling with the Third Degree. But once you master it, the sound quality rivals or beats electronic callers for realism.
Wind and Open Terrain Performance
The Third Degree earns its reputation as one of the best predator calls for windy conditions. The high-pitched, raspy cottontail distress frequencies cut through wind noise better than lower-pitched sounds. On days when other hunters stay home because of wind, this call gives you a genuine advantage.
I recommend this call to anyone hunting open plains, agricultural fields, or western desert terrain where wind is a constant factor. The volume and pitch combination reaches predators at distances that surprise most hunters who have only used electronic callers.
Learning the Technique
Mastering any hand call takes practice, and the Third Degree is no exception. Start by practicing in your vehicle or backyard until you can produce a consistent cottontail scream without the reed locking up. Focus on breath pressure. Too much air kills the reed. Too little air produces weak, unconvincing sound.
Randy Anderson has instructional videos online that demonstrate proper technique. Spend a few hours watching and mimicking his mouth positions and air pressure. The investment in practice pays off the first time you call in a coyote that you would never have reached with an electronic speaker.
8. FOXPRO Loaded Gun – 3-Call Diaphragm Combo
FOXPRO Loaded Gun Predator Mouth Call Combo For Coyote Hunting Includes 3 Diaphragm Mouth Calls
Three diaphragm calls included
Top Gun Smokin Gun Young Gun
Split-cut latex and prophylactic reeds
Produces howls barks yips distress
Great volume capabilities
Pros
- Includes three different calls for variety
- Easy to use for beginners
- Good volume capabilities
- Variety of sounds from howls to distress
- Suitable for novice and experienced hunters
Cons
- Very lightweight may feel insubstantial
- Requires practice to master different calls
- Limited 30-day warranty period
The FOXPRO Loaded Gun combo gives you three diaphragm mouth calls for less than the price of a single premium hand call. The package includes the Top Gun, Smokin’ Gun, and Young Gun, each designed to produce different coyote vocalizations. This is the set I recommend to hunters who want to learn diaphragm calling without a big upfront investment.
I spent a month practicing with all three calls before taking them to the field. The Top Gun produces realistic male coyote howls that work well for locating dogs and triggering territorial responses. The Smokin’ Gun covers standard coyote vocalizations including barks, yips, and challenges. The Young Gun focuses on pup distress and young coyote sounds that trigger maternal and protective instincts.
The split-cut latex and prophylactic reeds are easy to work with, even for beginners. Diaphragm calls sit in the roof of your mouth, leaving both hands free for your rifle. This is the biggest advantage of diaphragm calls over hand calls. You can call and shoot simultaneously without moving your hands to your face.
Volume capabilities impressed me. Once you learn proper tongue pressure and air control, these calls can produce surprisingly loud howls and distress cries. They will not match a Cass Creek Mega Amp for raw decibels, but for close-range coaxing and finishing calls, the volume is more than adequate.
Diaphragm Call Advantages
Diaphragm calls offer something no electronic or hand call can match: hands-free operation. The call sits in your mouth, and you produce sounds with tongue position and breath control. Both hands stay on your rifle. When a coyote appears suddenly at 50 yards and you need to make one last squeak to stop him for a shot, a diaphragm call lets you do it without lowering your gun.
They are also the most portable calls available. Three diaphragm calls weigh less than an ounce and fit in a tiny case in your pocket. They never run out of batteries, never freeze in cold weather, and never break if dropped.
Proper Care and Maintenance
Diaphragm calls require regular maintenance to last. FOXPRO recommends rinsing each call with a mouthwash and water mixture after use, then drying carefully and storing in a cool, dark place. Latex reeds degrade over time regardless of care, so expect to replace your calls every one to two seasons depending on usage frequency.
The 30-day warranty is short, which reflects the consumable nature of latex reed calls. Even with perfect care, latex stretches and loses responsiveness over time. Budget for replacements as part of your annual hunting gear refresh.
9. Faulk’s Game Calls PR-3 – Classic 3-Call Set
Faulk’s Game Calls Predator Call Set PR-3 BROWN
3-predator call set
Jackrabbit cottontail and squeaker
Wooden construction
Tuned natural sounds
Made in the USA
Pros
- Great set of calls for the price
- Squeaker call is highly effective
- Brought coyotes within 5 minutes in testing
- Sturdy and well made wooden construction
- Natural distress sounds that work
Cons
- No warranty
- Jackrabbit and cottontail may sound like duck calls
- Limited to three specific call types
Faulk’s Game Calls has been making predator calls in the United States for decades, and the PR-3 set is their flagship predator package. You get three calls: a jackrabbit distress, a cottontail distress, and a squeaker. All three are wooden construction, hand-tuned, and built to imitate natural prey sounds.
I tested the PR-3 set during an early season predator hunt and had coyotes responding within five minutes on my first stand. The squeaker call is the star of this set. It produces a high-pitched mouse or small rodent squeal that is absolutely deadly on close-range predators. Multiple reviewers report the same experience: the squeaker alone is worth the price of the entire set.
The wooden construction gives these calls a warm, natural tone that plastic calls struggle to replicate. There is a richness to the sound that carries well through timber and brush. Faulk’s has been tuning these calls by hand for decades, and the attention to acoustic detail shows in the finished product.
The downside is that the jackrabbit and cottontail calls require practice to produce convincing sounds. Some users report that the distress calls can sound more like duck calls if you do not use proper breath technique. These are open-reed calls that demand more skill than closed-reed designs like the Primos Third Degree.
Squeaker Call Performance
The included squeaker call deserves special mention because it is genuinely one of the most effective close-range predator tools I have used. When a coyote is locked onto your position but hesitant to close the final 50 yards, a few mouse squeaks from this call often pushes them into shooting range.
I now carry the squeaker from this set on every predator hunt regardless of which primary call I am using. It takes up zero space in my pocket and has been responsible for several harvested predators that otherwise would have hung up out of range.
Traditional Craftsmanship Value
Faulk’s calls appeal to hunters who appreciate traditional craftsmanship. These are not mass-produced plastic calls. Each one is wooden, hand-finished, and individually tuned. The fact that they are made in the USA adds to the appeal for hunters who prefer domestically manufactured gear.
The lack of warranty is a concern, but at this price point for three hand-tuned calls, the value is still strong. If you take care of wooden calls by keeping them dry and stored properly, they will last for many seasons.
10. Flextone Double Up Predator Combo – Flexible Design
Flextone Hunting Realistic Predator Sounds Easy-to-Blow Flexible Design Double Up Predator Combo Game Calls
Coyote Rage and Dying Rabbit calls
Flexible elastomer construction
Tone bulb for added realism
Squeeze bell volume control
Easy to blow design
Pros
- Flexible elastomer design will not break
- Easy to produce natural sounds
- Good value with two calls included
- Dying rabbit call is easy to use
- Covers variety of distances
Cons
- Howler call is hard to master
- No instructions included
- Some sounds may lack realism
- No lanyard despite product images
The Flextone Double Up Predator Combo is built around a clever idea: flexible elastomer construction that will not crack or break when dropped, stepped on, or packed tightly. For hunters who are rough on gear, this durability factor is a legitimate selling point. The combo includes the Coyote Rage howler and the Dying Rabbit distress call.
I handed this combo to a hunting buddy who had never used a mouth call before. Within an afternoon of practice, he was producing convincing dying rabbit sounds. The Dying Rabbit call is genuinely beginner-friendly. The flexible exhaust bell lets you control volume by squeezing, which means even improper breath technique produces acceptable sound.
The Coyote Rage howler has a unique tone bulb at the end that adds resonance to your howls. When you squeeze the bulb while howling, it creates a natural-sounding modulation that mimics a real coyote’s vocal variations. The concept is smart, but mastering the howler takes significantly more practice than the rabbit call.
My main complaint is the lack of instructions. Flextone includes zero documentation in the package. For experienced callers this is not an issue, but for the beginners this combo is marketed toward, some basic technique guidance would be helpful. Also note that the product images show a lanyard that does not come included.
Dying Rabbit Call Deep Dive
The Dying Rabbit call in this combo is the stronger of the two by a wide margin. The flexible bell design lets you start with soft, quiet coaxing sounds for close-range work, then open up the bell for full-volume screams that reach across long distances. This versatility means one call handles both close and far calling scenarios.
I have used this Dying Rabbit call as my primary close-range predator call for two seasons. The sound is natural enough to fool pressured predators, and the squeeze-to-control-volume design lets you react instantly to incoming animals. When a coyote is coming hard, open up the volume. When it is committed and close, back off to softer sounds.
Coyote Rage Howler Learning Curve
The Coyote Rage howler is functional but challenging. Producing clean, convincing coyote howls requires precise breath control and mouth positioning. The tone bulb helps, but the learning curve is steep compared to dedicated howlers like the FOXPRO Loaded Gun diaphragm calls.
I recommend treating the howler as a bonus feature rather than the primary reason to buy this combo. If you specifically need a coyote howler, look at dedicated howling calls. But for an affordable rabbit distress call with a backup howler included, the Double Up combo delivers solid value.
11. Pete Rickard’s Scotch Predator Call – Loud and Simple
Pete Rickard’s Scotch Predator Call, Multi, One Size
Imitates rabbit distress cries
Very loud output
Easy to use design
Durable construction
Made in the USA
Pros
- Very loud and realistic rabbit distress
- Effective for calling predators and dog training
- Durable construction
- Made in the USA
- Simple to operate
Cons
- Can accidentally squawk if not stored properly
- No included case
- Limited to rabbit distress sound
Pete Rickard’s Scotch Predator Call is a no-nonsense, old-school rabbit distress call that has been bringing in predators and training dogs for decades. This is the kind of call your grandfather might have carried, and the reason it is still on the market is simple: it works. The design is basic, the sound is loud, and the construction is durable.
I tested the Scotch Call primarily for predator hunting but was not surprised to find that many reviewers use it for dog recall training. The volume this call produces is exceptional. It generates rabbit distress cries that are loud enough to reach across large fields and through dense cover. For a non-electronic call, the decibel output is remarkable.
The simplicity of the Scotch Call is its best feature. There are no batteries, no remotes, no programming, and no moving parts to break. You blow into it and it makes a loud, convincing rabbit distress sound. That is it. For hunters who want reliability above all else, this call will never let you down due to dead batteries or electronic failure.
The main concern reported by users is accidental squawking. If the call is not stored properly in your pack, it can make noise when bumped against other gear. This is not a problem during a stand, but it can spook game while you are walking between setups. A simple cloth wrap solves this issue.
Versatility Beyond Predator Hunting
Many users purchase the Scotch Call specifically for dog training rather than predator hunting. Greyhound hunters, in particular, report excellent results using this call to train recall. The loud, distinctive sound cuts through distraction and gets attention at distances that voice commands cannot reach.
This dual-purpose appeal makes the Scotch Call a good value. Even if you are not actively predator hunting, having a loud, reliable distress call for dog training or general outdoor use adds utility. The made-in-USA construction also appeals to hunters who prefer domestically manufactured gear.
Sound Realism Assessment
The rabbit distress sound produced by the Scotch Call is convincing to predators. It has a raw, organic quality that some modern callers lose in their pursuit of digital perfection. Predators in areas with healthy rabbit populations respond well to this call because it matches the acoustic profile of actual rabbit distress they have encountered.
The limitation is that this call does one thing. It produces rabbit distress. There is no versatility for howls, bird distress, or other sound types. But if you want a loud, reliable rabbit call that never needs batteries, the Scotch Call is hard to beat for the price.
12. Quaker Boy Screamin’ Cottontail – Budget Squealer
Quaker Boy – Screamin’ Cottontail Predator Call, Multi
High-pitched cottontail screams
Close or long-range calling
Lightweight and portable
Simple blow-operated design
Under twenty dollars
Pros
- Reproduces high-pitched screams
- Effective for close and long-range calling
- Lightweight and portable
- Simple to use
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited to cottontail distress sound
- May require practice for consistent tone
- No advanced features
- Basic construction
The Quaker Boy Screamin’ Cottontail is the least expensive call on this list, and it has earned its place through pure effectiveness. For under twenty dollars, you get a hand call that reproduces high-pitched cottontail distress screams that work for both close-range and long-distance predator calling.
I keep a Screamin’ Cottontail in my pack as a backup call on every predator hunt. It weighs less than an ounce and takes up almost no space. When my primary caller’s batteries die or I want to switch from electronic to natural sound, this little call is always ready. For the price, having one in your kit is a no-brainer.
The high-pitched scream this call produces is particularly effective on bobcats. Bobcats respond to high-frequency prey distress sounds more readily than lower-pitched calls. If you are targeting cats specifically, the Screamin’ Cottontail produces the kind of sound that triggers their predatory response better than many calls costing three times as much.
This is a simple, single-purpose call. It does cottontail distress and nothing else. But cottontail distress is the single most effective predator calling sound across North America. Coyotes, foxes, and bobcats all respond to it. Having a reliable, cheap version of this call in your pocket is smart preparation.
Best as a Backup or Starter Call
I recommend the Screamin’ Cottontail primarily as a backup call or a starter call for absolute beginners. If you have never used a mouth call before and want to spend the minimum to try it out, this is your call. The technique required is straightforward, and the sound quality is good enough to call predators.
As a backup, it excels because there is nothing to break. No electronics, no moving parts, no reeds to lock up (it is an open-reed design). Blow into it and it makes sound. That reliability factor means it will work when you need it, regardless of weather, temperature, or battery status.
Technique Tips for Beginners
Open-reed calls like the Screamin’ Cottontail are actually easier for beginners than closed-reed designs. You do not need to worry about the reed locking up from too much air pressure. The sound is produced by air passing over a flat reed, and volume and pitch are controlled by breath pressure and lip position on the reed.
Start with soft, short bursts to mimic a wounded rabbit. Then graduate to longer, more urgent sequences as you gain confidence. Practice for ten minutes a day, and within a week you will be producing convincing distress sounds that will call predators.
How to Choose the Best Predator Calls for Your Hunting Style
Choosing the right predator call comes down to matching the tool to your hunting style, terrain, and target species. After testing all 12 calls on this list across multiple seasons, I have developed a clear framework for making the right choice. Here is what matters most.
Electronic vs Mouth Calls: Which Is Right for You?
Electronic calls offer remote operation, consistent sound quality, and the ability to set the call away from your position. They are ideal for hunters who work open terrain, need high volume to reach distant predators, or want hands-free calling. The trade-off is cost, battery dependence, and weight.
Mouth calls include hand calls, diaphragm calls, and open-reed designs. They are cheaper, lighter, never run out of power, and offer unlimited sound customization through breath control. The trade-off is that your hands or mouth are occupied, and sound consistency depends entirely on your skill level.
Most experienced predator hunters carry both. An electronic caller for primary stand work and a mouth call as backup and for close-range finishing sounds. The Primos Third Degree paired with the ICOtec 300+ is a combination I have run for two full seasons with excellent results.
Sound Quality and Realism Factors
Sound quality is the single most important factor in predator calling success. Cheap callers that produce tinny, digitized, or repetitive sounds educate predators quickly. Once a coyote associates a specific artificial sound with danger, that sound becomes useless in that area.
FOXPRO leads the industry in sound quality with their 32-bit processed audio files that include ambient background noise and multi-track layering. ICOtec’s high fidelity sound technology is the next tier down, still excellent but with slightly less dynamic range. Budget callers like the Cass Creek Mega Amp sacrifice some realism for raw volume.
For mouth calls, sound quality depends on the maker and the user. Faulk’s hand-tuned wooden calls produce warm, natural tones. Primos calls designed by Randy Anderson are field-tested on real predators. Your technique determines how convincing the final sound is.
Remote Range: How Much Do You Really Need?
Remote range claims on electronic callers often look impressive on paper but translate differently in the field. The ICOtec 300+ advertises 300 yards and delivers close to that in open terrain. The Western Rivers Mantis 75 claims 300 feet but realistically delivers about 75 feet in field conditions.
Terrain, vegetation, temperature, and battery charge all affect real-world remote range. Dense timber cuts range significantly. Cold temperatures reduce battery output and signal strength. A good rule of thumb is to assume you will get 60 to 70 percent of advertised range in typical hunting conditions.
For most eastern and midwestern hunting, 100 to 150 yards of effective remote range is plenty. For western hunting where you are calling across canyons and open sage, 300 yards or more is valuable. Match the remote range to your typical shooting distances.
Battery Life and Cold Weather Performance
Battery life matters more than most hunters realize until they are on a multi-day backcountry hunt with no way to recharge. The ICOtec Furnace Combo claims up to 40 hours of battery life, which I confirmed in testing. FOXPRO callers typically deliver 15 to 20 hours on a set of batteries. Budget callers vary widely.
Cold weather is the battery killer. At temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, battery output drops significantly. Lithium AA batteries perform better than alkaline in cold conditions. I switched all my electronic callers to lithium batteries after losing a stand to dead alkaline batteries on a 10-degree morning.
Some users on predator hunting forums report units freezing or malfunctioning in extreme cold. FOXPRO and ICOtec have the best cold-weather reliability records based on user feedback. Budget brands show more inconsistency in deep-freeze conditions.
Regional Considerations: East vs West
Eastern predator hunting typically involves shorter shots, denser cover, and more pressured game. Coyotes in the east have often been called before and are cautious. Lower volume, more realistic sounds, and shorter stands work best. The ICOtec Furnace Combo and Primos Dogg Catcher 2 are well-suited for eastern hunting.
Western hunting involves longer shots, open terrain, wind, and less pressured predators in many areas. High volume, long-range remotes, and durable construction matter more. The FOXPRO Hellcat, ICOtec 300+, and Cass Creek Mega Amp 20X excel in western conditions.
Prey species also differ by region. Eastern coyotes key on cottontail rabbits, mice, and fawns. Western coyotes respond to jackrabbit distress, prairie dog sounds, and bird distress. Choose a call with sound options that match the natural prey base in your hunting area.
Sound Selection by Species and Season
Coyote calling requires different sounds depending on the season. During breeding season in late winter, coyote vocalizations including howls, challenges, and pair-bonding sounds outperform prey distress. During pup-rearing season in spring and summer, pup distress sounds trigger protective responses from adult coyotes.
Fox calling works best with high-pitched prey distress sounds. Bird distress, mouse squeaks, and cottontail screams all effectively attract both red and grey fox. Bobcats respond to bird distress and high-frequency prey sounds played at lower volume for longer durations. Cats are patient and take longer to commit than coyotes.
The best predator calls offer enough sound variety to cover these seasonal and species-specific scenarios. Electronic callers with expandable sound libraries like the FOXPRO Hellcat give you the flexibility to adapt. Mouth call sets like the FOXPRO Loaded Gun combo and Faulk’s PR-3 set cover multiple sound types at a lower cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Predator Calls
What call attracts coyotes the best?
Rabbit distress calls, particularly cottontail and jackrabbit distress sounds, are the most consistently effective sounds for attracting coyotes across all regions and seasons. During breeding season, coyote vocalizations including challenge howls and pup distress can outperform prey sounds. The key is matching the sound to what coyotes in your area are naturally hearing and responding to.
What are the most popular brands of predator calls?
FOXPRO, ICOtec, and Lucky Duck are the three most popular brands for electronic predator calls, with Primos being the top brand for hand and mouth calls. FOXPRO leads in sound quality and programmability, ICOtec dominates the value segment, and Lucky Duck offers strong mid-range options. For traditional hand calls, Primos, Faulk’s, and Flextone are the most trusted names.
What FoxPro call is the best?
The FOXPRO Hellcat is the best overall FOXPRO call for most hunters, offering 75 preloaded sounds, USB-C programmability for up to 300 total sounds, a built-in decoy, and a premium remote with backlit LCD. For hunters wanting top-tier performance, the FOXPRO X360 with its 32-bit ultrasonic sound and 360-degree speaker system is the flagship model.
How far can a coyote hear a call?
Under ideal conditions with minimal wind and terrain interference, a coyote can hear a loud predator call from one to two miles away. In practical hunting conditions with typical wind and terrain, expect coyotes to hear electronic calls at 500 to 1,000 yards and mouth calls at 300 to 500 yards. Louder calls like the Cass Creek Mega Amp at 120+ dB extend this effective range significantly.
Are electronic or mouth calls better for predator hunting?
Both have advantages. Electronic calls offer remote operation, consistent sound quality, and hands-free hunting, making them ideal for beginners and open-terrain hunting. Mouth calls are cheaper, lighter, never need batteries, and offer unlimited sound customization through breath control. Most experienced hunters carry both, using electronic calls for primary stands and mouth calls for backup and close-range finishing sounds.
Final Thoughts on the Best Predator Calls in 2026
After months of field testing and side-by-side comparison, the ICOtec 300+ stands out as our editor’s choice for best predator calls overall. Its combination of 300-yard range, high-fidelity sound, dual-sound capability, and Bluetooth connectivity hits the sweet spot of performance and value. For hunters wanting premium sound customization, the FOXPRO Hellcat is the upgrade path. And for those on a budget, the ICOtec Furnace Combo delivers caller-plus-decoy performance at a price anyone can justify.
The best predator calls are the ones that match your hunting style, terrain, and target species. Pick the right tool, practice your technique, and spend time in the field. The predators will respond.