Good question there Highknob!I know guys that would swear that there isn't anything better than a custom made call.As far as the beauty and workmanship of the call I would have to agree.But as far as them sounding so much better than some of the mass produced calls I'd have to disagree.To me duck calls are the same way.Just my opinion but really what makes a good call is what it sounds like not how many hours it took to make or how pretty it is.Dont get me wrong I've heard some of the sweetest custom made calls around these parts,but I think some of the most popular calls on the market made by well known manufacturers sound every bit as good.I've been in I dont know how many turkey calling contests including the grand nationals and most guys were using mass produced calls with a few making minor adjustments to them.I have a couple of custom calls myself,but my field grade twin hen made by the late Ben Rogers Lee is what goes to the woods with me.