One of the most common questions I get from turkey hunters is: Should I go with a two reed batwing or a three reed batwing? The answer isn’t as simple as one being better than the other—it all comes down to your calling style, hunting preferences, and experience with a mouth call.
Both the two reed batwing and the three reed batwing have their strengths, and understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your hunting setup. Let’s break it down.
Two Reed Batwing: Soft and Controlled Calling
The two reed batwing has been one of my go-to calls for a long time, and for good reason. This call shines when it comes to soft, subtle calling, making it ideal for close-range encounters and early-morning setups when turkeys are still on the roost.
Here’s what I love about the two reed batwing:
- Great for soft calling – If you prefer finesse over volume, the two reed allows you to produce soft, realistic yelps and clucks with ease.
- Versatile – While it’s perfect for soft calling, you can still get aggressive when needed, though it won’t be quite as loud as a three reed.
- Smooth rollover – The ability to roll yelps over cleanly at a soft level makes this a great choice for hunters who like to keep their calling natural and controlled.
A two reed batwing, like The "ACE", is perfect for hunters who want a lighter call that can still get the job done without overpowering their setup. It’s especially useful when turkeys are close, spooky, or when you need a little finesse to seal the deal.
Three Reed Batwing: Power and Aggression
If you’re looking for volume and intensity, the three reed batwing might be the better choice. With the added reed, you get a stronger backbone for aggressive yelping, cutting, and high-energy calling.
Here’s why hunters love the three reed batwing:
- Louder and more powerful – This call is built to cut through the wind and carry sound over longer distances.
- Ideal for aggressive calling – If you like to challenge a gobbler with strong yelps, sharp cuts, and demanding calls, the three reed delivers.
- Handles soft calling well, too – If you’re experienced with mouth calls, you can still finesse the softer tones when needed.
The three reed batwing is a great option for hunters who like to call aggressively, whether they’re competing with a vocal hen or trying to strike up a stubborn gobbler from a distance.
Check out our collection of two and three reed batwing calls
So, Which One Should You Choose?
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong answer—it all comes down to what fits your calling style and hunting situation.
- If you prefer soft, controlled, finesse-style calling, go with the two reed batwing.
- If you want power, volume, and sharp aggression, the three reed batwing is the way to go.
- If you’re unsure, try both! Experimenting with different calls is the best way to find the one that works for you.
Finding the right call is a personal journey, but once you discover what fits your style, you’ll have the confidence to bring gobblers into range when it matters most.
Which call do you prefer? Let me know in the comments! 🦃