RE: blodgett turkey calls
I have both the slate and glass and love them both! His strikers aren't too shabby either.
The Blodgett's are some of the most versatile friction calls you'll ever find, they are as loud as any call I've ever run, yet can be toned down to sweet-talk a gobbler right into your lap. Definitely some of my favorites.
You meantioned calling contests. They're definitely worthy of the contest stage, I won a local contest 2 years ago with my Tough Country (slate).
Good luck,
Tyler