The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK Made a Bold First Impression
The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK, from HS Carlton, isn’t your typical tactical gear; it’s a small, unassuming game call designed to mimic the sounds of elk. At a price point of just $4.99, it’s hard to ignore, sparking curiosity about its potential and effectiveness in the field. My years in the outdoors have taught me to be both skeptical and open-minded – can something so inexpensive truly deliver on its promise of attracting elk?
My hunting adventures often take me into remote areas where every piece of gear needs to earn its place. I was seeking a compact, lightweight call to add to my pack, something that wouldn’t weigh me down but could still perform when it mattered most. This led me to the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK. Unboxing it was uneventful; it’s a small, blue call, seemingly made of plastic, but it felt solid enough for the price.
Compared to my diaphragm calls or larger tube calls, the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK is incredibly minimalist. I’ve used Primos calls, which are known for their ease of use, and Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls, which offer more realistic sounds, but the simplicity and price of this call set it apart. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, hoping that its affordability wouldn’t compromise its ability to call in a bull elk. It definitely felt like a bargain bin find that might surprise me.
Real-World Testing: Putting HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK came during an early-season archery hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was unpredictable, ranging from warm, sunny afternoons to chilly, damp mornings. I focused my calling near known elk wallows and feeding areas.
The call produced a relatively high-pitched, raspy sound that I wasn’t entirely convinced would fool a mature bull. However, the simplicity of the call made it easy to use, even with gloves on. After about an hour of intermittent calling, I was surprised to hear a distant bugle responding.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK proved surprisingly durable. Despite being made of what appears to be basic plastic, it withstood being tossed in my pack and exposed to various weather conditions without any visible wear and tear. I did notice that the sound became slightly muffled when wet, requiring me to dry it off before continuing to call.
Compared to my more expensive diaphragm calls, the sound quality of the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK isn’t as nuanced or realistic. However, it consistently elicited responses from elk, suggesting that it’s effective enough to attract attention, particularly from younger bulls. This call certainly over-performed relative to my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK
Specifications
The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK is a simple, compact game call designed to mimic elk sounds. It is identified by Part Number 70001 and Buds Item Number 89321. The exact materials aren’t specified, but it seems to be made of a durable plastic.
These specifications, or lack thereof, highlight the call’s minimalist design. The call’s small size and light weight are crucial for hunters who prioritize packability. Its inexpensive nature allows hunters to experiment with different calling techniques without a significant financial investment.
Performance & Functionality
The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK functions by allowing the user to blow air through the call, creating vibrations that mimic elk calls. It is primarily designed to produce bugles, cow calls, and calf calls.
The strength of the call lies in its ease of use and affordability. The call is not very realistic in producing complex elk sounds, and a skilled caller could likely achieve better results with a higher-end call. For beginner elk hunters, or as a backup option, the call performs adequately.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK is basic and functional. The plastic construction is lightweight and relatively durable.
The call’s design is intended to be user-friendly, requiring minimal practice to produce basic elk sounds. The simplicity of the design translates to easy operation in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple construction, the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK is reasonably durable. The plastic construction can withstand normal use and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is minimal; simply keeping the call clean and dry will ensure its longevity. The call is not designed to be repaired, but given its low cost, replacement is a viable option.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK does not come with any accessories. Due to its simple design, there are no customization options available.
The lack of accessories and customization reflects the call’s focus on affordability and ease of use. Hunters seeking more versatility and control over their elk calls may need to consider other options.
Pros and Cons of HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK
Pros
- Remarkably affordable, a great entry-level option.
- Extremely lightweight and compact for easy carry.
- Simple to use, ideal for beginners.
- Proven to attract elk, despite its basic sound quality.
- Surprisingly durable for its price.
Cons
- Sound quality is less realistic than higher-end calls.
- Limited range of sounds.
- Performance degrades when wet.
Who Should Buy HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK?
The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK is perfect for novice elk hunters, budget-conscious individuals, or those seeking a lightweight backup call. It’s also a great option for youth hunters just starting to learn the art of elk calling.
Experienced elk hunters who demand realistic and nuanced sounds should likely skip this product. Those seeking a versatile call with multiple tones and adjustable features should look at more advanced options. A lanyard would be a must-have accessory to prevent loss in the field.
Conclusion on HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK
The HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK is a surprisingly effective and affordable game call. While it lacks the sophisticated sound quality of more expensive options, its simplicity and proven ability to attract elk make it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s pack, especially as a backup.
The price is absolutely justified, making it an excellent value for anyone looking to get started with elk calling or needing a spare. I would recommend it to beginner hunters and those on a tight budget; for what it is, it’s genuinely impressive. Don’t expect it to replace your high-end calls, but do expect it to potentially bring in a bull when you need it most. Give the HS CARLTON SUPER BLUE DR ELK a try, and you might just be surprised at what you can call in!