If the call' s two adjustment controls are not set optimally. you do get all kinds of bad sounds, tones, and pitches. It takes some trial and error; usualy the knob control needs to be between 3.5 and 4 on the scale. The barrel adjustment needs to be relatively tight but not tightened all of the way. If the " piston" starts to bind on the stroke, open the rig up and lubricate it with Vaseline. Unscrew the barrel and make sure that the diaphragm is oriented correctly. It can rotate a little as you turn the barrel adjustment and screw up the sound. When properly adjusted, the call makes some pretty sweet yelps with a lot of rasp that really excites the gobblers. Lohmans also sells for the rig some alternate multiple reed diaphragms that give even raspier sounds. Yes, it' s a bit touchy, but it has worked wonderfully for me. Get it back out, play with the above factors, and give it another try. Bob Dale