RE: mouth calls
A good beginner mouth call would be any clear reed type. One without multiple layers of latex, notches or cuts. A clear double is a good choice and can be very effective. They require less air and can be played both soft and loud.
I also find aluminum frame calls are much easier to play than the plastic frame variety. Unlike plastic, they can be bent slightly to better fit the contour of your mouth. Just don't bend them so much as to relax the reeds drastically. This can have an adverse effect on the calls sound. A little slack will produce rasp, which can be a good thing, but too much will sound flat out washed.
I have 20 or so mouth calls on hand at the beginning of Spring season... out of which 5 or 6 go into the woods with me. Pick ones that appeal to you and start out slow as not to get discouraged. Mouth calls are some of the best turkey talkers on the market. Stick with it and you won't be disappointed.