Let’s Talk About Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call
The Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call is a budget-friendly option for elk hunters looking to replicate the sound of mature bull elk. Manufactured by Hunters Specialties, this call utilizes two reeds and a Premium Flex frame, aiming for authentic sounds and consistent performance. Let’s dive into whether this diaphragm call lives up to the hype, especially given its attractive price point of just $3.49.
I’ve always struggled with diaphragm calls; finding one that comfortably fits and consistently produces realistic elk sounds has been a years-long quest. My primary need was for a reliable and easy-to-use call that could effectively mimic the bugles and cow calls necessary for attracting elk in the backcountry. I was tired of bulky external calls and wanted something compact and readily available in my mouth.
Upon opening the package, my initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The call is lightweight and the Infinity Latex reeds appear to be well-seated in the Premium Flex frame. It felt a little flimsy compared to some more expensive calls I’ve used in the past, but the design seemed simple enough.
Compared to a Primos Hyper Lip Single and a Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Bully Bull Extreme, the Hunters Specialties call definitely felt more basic. The Primos had a more robust frame, and the Rocky Mountain call offered a unique tone adjustment system. Ultimately, I chose the Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call because of its low price and the hope that its simplicity would translate into ease of use, which is something I have struggled with in the past.
Honestly, I was a bit skeptical initially. Given the price, I wasn’t expecting a world-class elk call, but I was hoping for something functional and capable of producing realistic sounds with practice. The lightweight feel made me question its durability, but I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call during a scouting trip in the high-country of Colorado, in preparation for the upcoming elk season. The weather was variable, with crisp mornings and occasional light rain showers. I practiced with the call in different locations, ranging from open meadows to dense timber.
The call performed adequately in dry conditions, producing a decent range of tones with consistent breath control. However, in the light rain, the Infinity Latex reeds became a bit sticky, altering the sound and requiring more effort to produce clear bugles. Initially, the call took some getting used to, as I had to adjust my tongue and air pressure to avoid squeaks and flat notes. After about an hour of practice, I started to feel more comfortable with it.
The biggest surprise was the responsiveness of the reeds. Even with minimal airflow, the call produced a sound. This was a pro and a con because it meant I could easily sound like an amateur if I wasn’t careful.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular practice and a few more scouting trips, the Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the Premium Flex frame or the Infinity Latex reeds. The call still functions, but the sound quality has degraded slightly, with a less crisp tone and a tendency to require more frequent adjustments.
Durability-wise, it’s definitely not built like a tank, but it’s also not falling apart. I’ve kept it stored in a small, protective case when not in use to minimize damage. Cleaning is relatively simple; I just rinse it with water and let it air dry, but ensuring there is no saliva or moisture trapped between the reeds and the frame is critical to avoid mold.
Compared to other calls I’ve used, the Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call performs about as expected for a budget option. It doesn’t have the same sound quality or consistency as higher-end calls, but it’s a viable option for beginners or hunters on a tight budget. The call does outperform my expectations considering it’s low cost, especially if it is used sparingly and cleaned regularly.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hunters Specialties.
- Material: Infinity Latex.
- Color: Brown.
- Additional Features: Designed for Elk.
- Band/Strap Color: Brown.
- Country of Origin: USA.
These specifications are important because they dictate the sound quality and durability of the call. The Infinity Latex reeds are designed to produce realistic elk sounds. The Premium Flex frame should ensure consistent reed tension for reliable performance. The fact that it’s made in the USA might appeal to some buyers looking to support domestic manufacturing.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call is designed to mimic the bugles and cow calls of mature bull elk. With practice, it can produce a decent range of sounds, from high-pitched squeals to deeper, guttural growls. The call’s strength lies in its ability to produce loud, attention-grabbing bugles that can carry over long distances.
The weaknesses are its lack of tonal complexity and its sensitivity to moisture. The Infinity Latex reeds can sometimes stick together, resulting in inconsistent sounds, and the learning curve can be a bit steep for inexperienced callers. It meets expectations for a call in its price range; it’s not a top-tier performer but it can still effectively call in elk.
Design & Ergonomics
The call features a simple, no-frills design. The Premium Flex frame is designed to conform to the roof of the mouth for a comfortable fit. The lightweight construction is a plus for extended use, but the overall build quality feels somewhat cheap.
The call is reasonably user-friendly, but requires practice to master. The learning curve isn’t too steep, but you’ll need to spend some time experimenting with different mouth positions and air pressures to produce realistic sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call is adequate for its price point. The Premium Flex frame seems resistant to cracking or breaking, but the Infinity Latex reeds are prone to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, the call should last for at least one or two hunting seasons.
Maintenance is fairly straightforward; rinsing the call with water after each use and allowing it to air dry is essential. Storing the call in a protective case will also help to prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call doesn’t come with any accessories. Given its basic design, there aren’t many customization options available. However, some hunters might experiment with trimming the Infinity Latex reeds to alter the tone and pitch of the call.
Because the call is a diaphragm call, it should be compatible with most commercially available call holders. A separate call case is recommended to extend the life of the product.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call
Pros
- Affordable price point.
- Relatively easy to learn for beginners.
- Lightweight and compact design.
- Can produce loud, attention-grabbing bugles.
- Made in the USA.
Cons
- Sound quality isn’t as refined as higher-end calls.
- Sensitivity to moisture can affect performance.
- Durability is questionable.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call?
The Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call is perfect for beginner elk hunters looking for an affordable entry point into diaphragm calling. It’s also a good option for experienced hunters who want a cheap backup call. It is also a great option for anyone who loses mouth calls often, given the cost.
This product should be skipped by experienced hunters who demand the highest level of sound quality and realism. Hunters who frequently hunt in wet conditions might find it frustrating due to the moisture sensitivity.
A must-have accessory is a diaphragm call case to protect the call from damage and contamination. Another good accessory to purchase is a selection of other diaphragm calls to get a range of tones.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call
The Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call offers a decent value proposition for elk hunters on a budget. It’s not the best elk call on the market, but it’s a functional and affordable option that can effectively call in elk with practice. The Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call is worth the cost for beginners who do not want to commit to a very expensive call to start.
I would recommend this product to beginners and budget-conscious hunters. It’s a great way to learn the basics of diaphragm calling without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a reliable and inexpensive elk call, give the Hunters Specialties Double Reed Premium Flex Elk Diaphragm Call a try! You might be surprised at what you can accomplish with a little practice.