The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL Made a Bold First Impression
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL, manufactured by Primos, promises to replicate the enticing sounds of an estrus cow moose, drawing in bulls during the rut. It’s an open-reed design, specifically engineered to be freezeproof, a crucial feature for northern hunts.
My quest for a reliable moose call began after several frustrating seasons of relying on less-than-convincing vocal imitations and bulky diaphragm calls. Diaphragm calls often failed me when the temperatures plummeted, and my own voice simply lacked the necessary guttural depth. The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL‘s promise of freezeproof performance and realistic sound reproduction immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, the call felt robust and well-constructed. The “hose in horn” design was intriguing, clearly aiming for a specific acoustic output. I compared it to a diaphragm call from Elk Reaper Game Calls and a tube-style call from Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls. The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL felt more compact and purpose-built for moose, whereas the others seemed more versatile but potentially less specialized.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The call felt solid, and the design seemed promising, but the true test would be in the field, attempting to lure in a lovesick bull. It came across as a specialized piece of equipment for a very specific hunting scenario.
Real-World Testing: Putting PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL during the early days of the rut in the vast wilderness of Northern Maine. The weather was crisp, with morning temperatures hovering just above freezing – perfect conditions to test the “freezeproof” claim. I used it along the edges of bogs and near known moose travel corridors.
The call performed admirably, producing deep, resonant moans that carried well through the timber. It did take a few minutes to get the hang of the open-reed design, but once I found the sweet spot, the sounds were impressively realistic. There were no issues with freezing, even after extended exposure to the cold.
After the initial calling sequence, I had a young bull respond to the call but he wasn’t a shooter. I believe my sound was somewhat convincing considering the response.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL remains a staple in my moose hunting pack. The call shows some minor cosmetic wear from being bumped around, but it is holding up well. It has held up very well through snow, rain, and freezing temperatures.
Maintenance is simple; I just wipe it down after each use to remove any moisture or debris. Comparing it to my previous experiences with diaphragm calls that would frequently fail due to moisture or cold, the PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL is a clear winner in terms of reliability and consistency. Its reliability during the rut has made this my go-to Moose call.
Breaking Down the Features of PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL
Specifications
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. Its most notable feature is the open-reed style, ensuring consistent sound production even in freezing conditions. The unique “hose in horn” design is specifically engineered to reproduce the deep guttural moans of estrus cow moose.
The call comes with an instructional CD, providing guidance on reproducing estrus moans and imitating bull grunts. The call is constructed of durable plastic materials. It is relatively lightweight and easy to carry in a hunting pack. These specifications are crucial for hunters who need a reliable and realistic call that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL excels at its primary function: attracting moose during the rut. The open-reed design allows for nuanced control over the tone and volume of the call, enabling hunters to create a range of estrus vocalizations. Its freezeproof design ensures consistent performance even in sub-zero temperatures.
The primary weakness lies in the learning curve associated with the open-reed design. It requires some practice to master the proper technique for producing realistic sounds. However, the instructional CD helps to mitigate this issue. The call meets and exceeds my expectations for a specialized moose call.
Design & Ergonomics
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL is designed with functionality in mind. The horn shape is comfortable to hold and allows for projecting the sound effectively. The plastic construction is durable and lightweight.
The call is relatively user-friendly. The instructional CD provides clear guidance on how to use the call effectively. With practice, hunters can quickly learn to produce convincing moose vocalizations.
Durability & Maintenance
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL is built to withstand the rigors of the hunt. The plastic construction is durable and resistant to impacts and abrasions. Proper care will extend the call’s lifespan considerably.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Wiping the call down after each use is sufficient to keep it in good working order. The open-reed design is easy to clean, preventing the buildup of moisture and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL comes with an instructional CD. This aids in the learning process for new users. There are no additional customization options or accessories available directly from Primos.
The call is compatible with various lanyards. This allows for easy carry in the field.
Pros and Cons of PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL
Pros
- Freezeproof design ensures reliable performance in cold weather.
- Realistic sound reproduction effectively mimics estrus cow moose.
- Durable construction withstands the rigors of hunting.
- Relatively compact and lightweight for easy carry.
- Instructional CD aids in learning proper technique.
Cons
- Learning curve associated with the open-reed design.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL?
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL is perfect for moose hunters, particularly those who hunt in cold climates. It is also ideal for hunters who want a specialized call that produces realistic estrus vocalizations. This call offers exceptional reliability in freezing temperatures.
Hunters who prefer simpler diaphragm calls or those who are not willing to invest time in mastering the open-reed technique should skip this product.
A lanyard for easy carry is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL
The PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL is a specialized tool that delivers on its promise of realistic moose vocalizations and freezeproof performance. The $27.99 price tag is justified by its durability, reliability, and effectiveness in attracting moose. The design allows hunters to produce the sounds they need, without any sound constraints.
I would personally recommend it to any serious moose hunter who wants a dependable and convincing call for attracting bulls during the rut. So, ditch those unreliable diaphragm calls and invest in the PRIMOS MOOSE HORN COW CALL – your next moose hunt might depend on it!