Jon, I started learning short reed this spring, bought quite a few calls on ebay, take the plunge, get a good instructional video or CD, (I got Breakthrough II). I found one that was very user-friendly. It's called Mack Daddy. Central Flyway Game Calls. You can find them at www.callemclose.com. Not every call made will "fit" you correctly, this one worked well for me. Where in New York are you? I hunt the Finger Lakes every year. PM me. I can help get you started.