The package says to use the pad or paper. I used some scotch brite type pad that came with another call, but it didn't rough it up much. Should I use sandpaper or the primos stick's rock-type surface or will that hurt it? It is too soft and whines because the striker slides on it and doesn't grip it.

Thanks!

The only slate I use is the "Crystal Freak" by Primos. I don't like aluminum calls or strikers. Just my opinion though.
Trae

My problem over and over with slate, crystal and now aluminum is the same. They all whine pretty quick after scuffing it up.

Doug,

Get a medium grit emory cloth, or use 180/220 grit sandpaper. In my experience, you can not rough up aluminum or glass too much (well, in the realm of common sense at least).

I only use the Scotch brite pad for slate, which is softer and hence, needs less abrasion to create an uneven surface.

EDIT> you say your calls are whining...are your strikers getting glossed over? Have you tried switching to an acrylic/synthetic striker to see if it's the striker or the call?

I don't have an Aluminator, but I've got a Black Magic aluminum call. All I've ever used is a scotch-brite pad. I don't think you've got to roughen up aluminum all that much to get them to work. Just take the polish off.

I have two wood strikers that get glossed over just like you say, and try to sand them. It works for a while. I also have some plastic/synthetic ones. I like the hollowed out kind better than the ones with the whole bottom solid for not whining. But the wood does sound good on the aluminator.

I got some good advice from someone in here who is a big aluminator fan and will work on callingover the next few days.