Everyone learns differently (faster, slower, etc...) and for some weird reason, I had trouble learning to get a good sound out of a slate call for the longest time, therefore, I would have to say start out with a box call. Very easy to use and as long as you have chalk on the lid, it works great! Most people use 4, 5, or 6 shot when hunting turkey. If you have someone around you that knows what they are doing, ask them as many questions and learn personally from someone. If you don't know anyone (as was my case), then you will have to learn through this site and making lots of mistakes. As JW! said, it is very addictive! Best of luck!