First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call promises to deliver realistic elk vocalizations, from mature cow moos to high-pitched estrus bleats. As an experienced hunter, I’m always on the lookout for tools that can give me an edge in the field, and this call caught my attention with its claimed ability to produce both low-end nasal sounds and high-pitched attraction calls. Does it live up to the hype, or is it just another piece of gear gathering dust in my pack?
I was primarily looking for a versatile elk call. One that could handle various calling scenarios throughout the rut.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the custom walnut-and-maple wood barrel with the elk antler design. It’s visually appealing and feels solid in hand, suggesting a focus on both aesthetics and durability. Compared to cheaper, all-plastic calls, the Boss Cow Call immediately feels like a step up in quality. While I’ve used diaphragm calls extensively in the past, I wanted something that would project sound over longer distances without requiring as much finesse. The Primos Hyper Lip Single, a diaphragm call, is great for close-in work, and the Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Bully Bull Extreme, a bugle tube, is phenomenal for aggressive bull sounds, but I felt I was missing a dedicated, easy-to-use cow call.
My initial excitement stems from the potential versatility and user-friendliness of this open-reed design. I’m hoping it proves to be a reliable and effective tool in my upcoming elk hunts, helping me to draw in those elusive bulls.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place during a scouting trip in the high country of Colorado, where elk are known to frequent. The weather was typical for that altitude – cool and crisp in the morning, warming up to mild temperatures by midday.
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call was surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. I was able to produce convincing cow sounds with just a few practice blows. While mimicking a cow elk, a small herd perked up but quickly moved away, suggesting I need to hone the subtleties of its sounds, but the sound quality and volume were promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during pre-season scouting and early season hunts, the Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call has proven to be a durable piece of gear. The wood barrel shows no signs of wear, even after being exposed to rain and the occasional bump against rocks.
Cleaning is a breeze – simply wiping down the reed and barrel after use keeps it in optimal condition. Compared to some of the more finicky diaphragm calls I’ve used, the Boss Cow Call is refreshingly low-maintenance. It has become a reliable part of my elk hunting kit.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call boasts several notable specifications. These include an open-reed design, a custom walnut-and-maple wood barrel with a textured elk antler design, and an adjustable notched frame. The call is designed to produce loud, mature cow moos and bleats, as well as high-pitched estrus vocals and low-end nasal sounds.
The open-reed design allows for easy manipulation of the sound, while the adjustable notched frame lets you set your desired sound without accidental movement. The Manufacturer is Hunters Specialties, known for their hunting gear. The color of the call is green. It is designed specifically for calling in cow elk.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call performs admirably in its intended role. The ability to produce a wide range of cow sounds is a major advantage.
The adjustable notched frame is a clever feature, allowing you to lock in your preferred sound setting. However, mastering the subtleties of each sound requires practice and experimentation. Overall, the Boss Cow Call meets my expectations as a versatile and user-friendly elk call.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boss Cow Call is excellent, with the wood barrel providing a comfortable and secure grip. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry in a pack or on a lanyard.
The open-reed design is relatively intuitive to use, though achieving realistic sounds takes practice. The lanyard is useful for keeping the call readily accessible.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call appears to be built to last. The wood barrel is resistant to wear and tear, and the reed is easily replaceable if needed.
Maintaining the call is simple – a quick wipe-down after use is usually sufficient. The durable design and easy maintenance make it a reliable tool for extended use in the field.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call comes with a lanyard. This allows for easy access and prevents loss in the field.
Unfortunately, there are limited customization options for the Boss Cow Call. The reed is replaceable, but the barrel and frame are not designed for modification.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call
Pros
- Versatile Sound Production: The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call excels at producing a wide range of elk vocalizations, from high-pitched estrus bleats to low-end nasal sounds. This makes it adaptable to various calling scenarios.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the nuances of elk vocalizations with the Boss Cow Call requires practice and experimentation. It’s not a magic bullet for instant success.
Durable Construction: The custom walnut-and-maple wood barrel is not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly durable. It can withstand the rigors of hunting in harsh environments.
User-Friendly Design: The open-reed design and adjustable notched frame make the Boss Cow Call easy to use, even for novice callers.
Effective Sound Projection: The call projects sound well over long distances. This allows you to reach elk that might be further away.
Affordable Price: At $26.59, the Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call offers excellent value for its performance and durability.
Limited Customization: The call has limited customization options beyond replacing the reed. Hunters who prefer to modify their calls extensively may find this restrictive.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call?
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels. Those seeking a versatile, durable, and easy-to-use call will find it an invaluable tool.
This product is also great for hunters wanting to add another call to their arsenal without breaking the bank. It offers solid performance without requiring the learning curve of a diaphram call.
Hunters who prefer highly customizable gear or those expecting instant success without practice should skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be a reed replacement kit to ensure longevity and consistent performance.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call
The Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call is a well-designed and effective elk call that offers excellent value for its price. Its ability to produce a wide range of realistic elk vocalizations, combined with its durable construction and user-friendly design, make it a standout product in its category.
The price of $26.59 is justified by the call’s performance, durability, and versatility. It outperforms many other calls in a similar price range.
I would personally recommend the Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call to any elk hunter looking to improve their calling game. It’s a reliable and effective tool that can help you bring in those trophy bulls. Add the Hunters Specialties Boss Cow Call to your hunting arsenal and get ready to experience the thrill of calling in elk like never before!