Call judging criteria?

[Jrkimbrough]

Could someone explain the judging process?  Are calls judged mainly on sound?  How much do aesthetics, craftmanship, etc come into play?

I was under the impression calls were judged 50/50....looks and sound. But have been told otherwise by a few individuals

Thanks

[ChesterCopperpot]

I don't know if all callmaking competitions follow the same guidelines but the NWTF lays out their criteria for the Grand Nationals in each category. It's here in the rules section. Just look at the division and then the specific category. They list the criteria for each category, usually five things, as well as the weight placed on each of those five criteria. https://customcalls.nwtf.org/?action=rules

[gergg]

I believe everything influences them, even if it isn't one of the listed criteria. I say that as I have had them leave comments on my calls relative to characteristics not on the judging card.

[EZ]

In the "Hunter Division" they are basically judged by the sound, the ease of use and the range of notes produced. Looks should have nothing to do with it.

In the "Decorative Division" they are judged on the looks, craftmanship, theme etc. I think they have to run but they don't have to run well.