Let’s Talk About Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call promises to be a key tool for any serious predator hunter. Manufactured by Bone Collector, this howler aims to deliver realistic coyote vocalizations for effective calling. After years of using various calls, both electronic and manual, I was eager to see how this traditional wood call would perform in the field.
My primary motivation for seeking out this particular call was to add a more nuanced and natural sound to my calling arsenal. Electronic calls can be effective, but often lack the subtle variations needed to fool wary coyotes. I was specifically looking for a call that would allow me to mimic the barks, howls, and pup distress calls described in the product description with a more organic tone.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive. The wooden barrel felt solid and well-crafted, conveying a sense of quality and durability. Its weight was comfortable, and the included camo braided cord seemed robust enough for field use.
I considered other diaphragm calls and some higher-end acrylic howlers, but the Bone Collector model stood out due to its combination of simplicity and perceived authenticity. It seemed like a good balance between cost and potential performance. My first impression was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism, hoping it could live up to the promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call on a multi-day coyote hunting trip in the high desert of Nevada. The terrain consisted of sagebrush flats, rocky canyons, and sparse juniper trees. I used the call in various locations, attempting different calling sequences and vocalizations.
The weather conditions ranged from clear and sunny with light winds to cold and windy with occasional light rain. The call performed adequately in dry conditions, but the wood seemed to absorb moisture in the rain, slightly affecting the tone. It took some practice to get accustomed to the open bell end, which requires a certain amount of finesse to manipulate.
Initially, I struggled to produce consistent and realistic sounds. However, after about an hour of practice, I began to feel more comfortable controlling the airflow and reed pressure. The first calling sequence resulted in a distant coyote responding with a howl, which was incredibly encouraging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call on multiple hunts, the call has held up surprisingly well. There are no visible cracks or signs of significant wear on the wooden barrel. The camo braided cord remains intact and secure.
The call requires minimal maintenance. I simply wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use and occasionally apply a thin coat of beeswax to the wood to prevent excessive moisture absorption. Compared to electronic calls that require battery changes and can malfunction, this wood call offers a simpler and more reliable option.
My previous experience with less expensive plastic calls left me disappointed with their tone and durability. This Bone Collector call, while not perfect, significantly outperforms those previous experiences in terms of sound quality and overall build. It definitely exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call
Specifications
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call features a wood barrel construction for authentic sound reproduction. The open bell end maximizes volume, allowing calls to reach greater distances. It is designed to produce a range of coyote vocalizations, including barks, howls, and pup in distress sounds.
The Bone Collector call has a hardwood color and is categorized under the “Owl” species incorrectly, which is obviously an error, as it’s for coyote calling. The inclusion of a camo braided cord provides a convenient and secure way to carry the call. These specifications are crucial for achieving realistic and effective coyote calling.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call performs well in producing a variety of coyote sounds. The open bell allows for dynamic volume control. It enables a user to modulate the call from a soft whimper to a loud, attention-grabbing howl.
Its strengths lie in its ability to mimic natural coyote sounds and its simple, reliable operation. A weakness is that it requires some practice to master and might be affected by extreme weather conditions. Overall, it meets expectations for a mid-range wood coyote howler call.
Design & Ergonomics
The wood barrel construction provides a comfortable and secure grip. The weight is balanced, and the call feels well-made. Its open bell design, although requiring practice, allows for significant control over sound projection.
The call is relatively easy to use, but beginners may require some practice to produce realistic sounds. Experienced callers will appreciate the level of control and nuance it offers. The simplicity is its strength.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call is constructed from hardwood, which should provide decent longevity with proper care. The wood barrel is susceptible to moisture, so keeping it dry and applying a protective coating like beeswax can extend its lifespan. Minimal maintenance is required, making it a practical tool for the field.
With reasonable care, the call should last for several seasons of hunting. The solid construction and lack of moving parts contribute to its overall durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call comes with a camo braided cord for convenient carry. There are no specific customization options for this particular call. Aftermarket lanyards can easily be added.
The call is compatible with standard lanyards and carrying systems. Because it’s a simple, self-contained unit, there aren’t many customization options, which aligns with its intended simplicity and reliability.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call
Pros
- The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call offers realistic coyote vocalizations thanks to its wood barrel construction.
- The open bell end allows for excellent volume control and sound projection.
- It’s a simple and reliable design with minimal maintenance requirements.
- The call provides a more nuanced sound compared to electronic calls.
- It’s relatively affordable, offering good value for the price.
Cons
- The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call requires practice to master, especially for beginners.
- The wood barrel is susceptible to moisture, potentially affecting the tone in wet conditions.
- The correct species is not listed in the product details; it is listed as “Owl,” when it should be “Coyote.”
Who Should Buy Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call?
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call is perfect for coyote hunters seeking a reliable and realistic sounding call. Experienced hunters looking to add a traditional wood call to their arsenal will also appreciate it. Hunters who value simplicity and minimal maintenance will find this call appealing.
Beginners who are not willing to invest time in learning to use a diaphragm call might want to skip this product initially. Someone reliant on electronic calls may not appreciate the nuances of a traditional howler. Those hunting in consistently wet conditions may want to consider a call made from a less absorbent material.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality lanyard for easy access and secure carry. A small container of beeswax for wood protection is also recommended.
Conclusion on Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call
The Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call is a solid and reliable option for coyote hunters seeking a traditional wood call. The realistic sound production and excellent volume control make it an effective tool in the field. While it requires practice to master and is susceptible to moisture, its benefits outweigh its drawbacks.
At $31.99, the price is justified for the quality and performance it offers. This call provides a good value.
I would personally recommend the Bone Collector The Alpha Predator Wood Coyote Howler Call to experienced coyote hunters and those willing to invest the time to learn its nuances. Add this tool to your hunting gear and experience the difference a realistic call can make!