The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo Made a Bold First Impression
The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo promises to be a versatile tool for any elk hunter. It’s designed to locate bulls at long distances and mimic the sounds of fighting cows to draw in curious elk.
For years, I’ve relied on a collection of diaphragm calls, but I wanted to add something different to my arsenal. I was looking for a call that could project sound over long distances and offer a more aggressive elk vocalization. This combo seemed to offer both in a compact package, promising to expand my calling capabilities without weighing me down.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the design. The calls are lightweight and appear durable, made of what seems to be a sturdy plastic. They feel comfortable in hand, and the adjustable band on the Fight’n Cow Call is a nice touch.
Compared to my traditional diaphragm calls from Primos and Hunters Specialties, the Wayne Carlton calls have a different feel. The diaphragm calls require more finesse and breath control, while these reed calls seem more straightforward to use. I was also considering the Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Bully Bull Extreme, known for its aggressive sound, but opted for the Wayne Carlton combo for its versatility. My initial impression is cautiously optimistic – excited to put them to the test and see if they live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo on a week-long elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies. The varied terrain, ranging from dense timber to open meadows, provided the perfect environment to test their capabilities.
The Long Ranger performed admirably in the open meadows, projecting clear, loud bugles that echoed through the valleys. In the denser timber, however, the sound seemed to get absorbed more easily, requiring me to use more forceful calls. The Fight’n Cow Call created surprisingly realistic cow elk fight sounds. The ease of use of both calls was a definite plus; I was producing decent sounds within minutes of practicing.
After an hour of calling, I did notice that the reed in the Long Ranger became slightly sticky, affecting the tone. I was surprised and also a little disappointed in this because I thought it would have lasted longer than just an hour. I had to take a break and clean it before it would work properly again.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during the elk season, the Long Ranger has held up relatively well. It’s definitely showing signs of wear, with some minor scratches on the exterior.
The reeds in both calls require regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance. I found that blowing air through them after each use and storing them in a dry place helps to prevent sticking and prolong their lifespan. Compared to my diaphragm calls, which can last for multiple seasons with proper care, these reed calls seem to require more frequent maintenance. Overall, the combo is acceptable, but it doesn’t outperform my high-end diaphragm calls in terms of sound quality or durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo
Specifications
- Long Ranger: A reed call designed for long-range bull location. It projects loud, clear bugles, ideal for open terrain.
- Fight’n Cow Call: A small reed call that mimics the high-pitched sounds of cow elk fighting. This call is great for drawing in curious bulls during the rut.
- Adjustable Band: The Fight’n Cow Call features an adjustable band on the reed. It allows for slight tonal variations to create more realistic sounds.
- Material: The calls are constructed from a durable plastic. This makes them lightweight and weather-resistant.
- Price: The combo retails for $12.49. This makes it an affordable option for both novice and experienced elk hunters.
These specifications are significant because they contribute to the combo’s versatility and ease of use. The Long Ranger’s design prioritizes sound projection, while the Fight’n Cow Call focuses on realistic cow elk vocalizations.
Performance & Functionality
The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo performs adequately for its intended purpose. The Long Ranger excels at projecting sound over long distances, making it effective for locating bulls in open areas.
The Fight’n Cow Call produces realistic cow elk fight sounds, which can be effective at drawing in curious bulls during the rut. However, the reeds require regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance, and the overall sound quality doesn’t match that of higher-end diaphragm calls. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly elk calling combo.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo features a simple, functional design. The calls are lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
The adjustable band on the Fight’n Cow Call is a thoughtful addition, allowing for slight tonal variations. There’s no learning curve involved; the calls are easy to use right out of the package.
Durability & Maintenance
The calls are made from a durable plastic that should withstand normal wear and tear. However, the reeds are prone to sticking and require regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance.
Replacement reeds are readily available, making maintenance relatively simple. Expect the calls to last for a season or two with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available.
The calls are designed to be used as-is, without the need for any modifications. The simplicity is a strength, as it keeps the cost down and makes them easy to use.
Pros and Cons of Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $12.49, this combo is budget-friendly. It is perfect for beginner elk hunters.
- Long-Range Sound Projection: The Long Ranger excels at projecting sound over long distances. It is ideal for locating bulls in open terrain.
- Realistic Cow Elk Fight Sounds: The Fight’n Cow Call produces realistic cow elk vocalizations. It can draw in curious bulls during the rut.
- Easy to Use: Both calls are simple to operate, requiring minimal practice. This will allow for quick success in the field.
- Lightweight and Portable: The calls are lightweight and easy to carry. This is convenient for hunters who cover a lot of ground.
Cons
- Reed Maintenance: The reeds require regular cleaning. The frequent cleaning is needed to prevent sticking and maintain optimal performance.
- Durability: The plastic construction may not be as durable as higher-end calls made from wood or metal.
Who Should Buy Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo?
The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo is perfect for beginner elk hunters. It is also great for budget-conscious hunters looking for an affordable and versatile calling option.
Hunters who prefer high-end diaphragm calls or those seeking maximum durability should skip this product.
A lanyard to keep the calls readily accessible is a must-have accessory. Also, consider purchasing replacement reeds to extend the lifespan of the calls.
Conclusion on Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo
The Wayne Carlton’s Long Ranger and Fight’n Cow Call Combo offers good value for the price. It provides a versatile calling option for elk hunters on a budget.
While the reeds require regular maintenance, and the durability may not be as high as premium calls, the Long Ranger’s long-range sound projection and the Fight’n Cow Call’s realistic vocalizations make it a worthwhile investment. I would recommend it to beginner elk hunters or those looking for an affordable backup calling option. For $12.49, it’s hard to go wrong with this combo.