First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call promises to be the easiest and best-sounding elk call on the market. Hunters Specialties aims to deliver a realistic estrus whine with a simple squeeze. As an experienced hunter, I’m always seeking tools that simplify and enhance the hunting experience, and this call intrigued me with its promise of ease of use and tuneability. The question is, can it live up to the hype?
I was searching for a compact, reliable, and easily manipulated call that could accurately reproduce the sounds of an estrus cow elk. The Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call claims to offer just that, so I decided to give it a try. My initial impression upon unboxing was that it looked a bit basic, but its compact size and squeeze bulb design were appealing. It reminded me of a child’s toy, but I held onto the hope that it would perform like a professional tool in the field.
Compared to diaphragm calls (which require significant practice) and tube calls (which can be bulky and awkward), the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call stood out for its simplicity. I’d previously used a Primos Hyper Lip Single, which offers versatility but can be challenging to master consistent cow calls, and a Carlton Calls Cow Talk elk call, which sounded good, but I found too bulky. I chose the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call because its design seemed more intuitive and easier to use in the heat of the moment.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the build quality seemed basic, I was eager to see if its ease of use would translate into effective calling in the field. If it delivers on its promise of authentic sounds with minimal effort, the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call could be a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call during a late-season elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was cold and dry, with temperatures hovering around freezing. This call was tested in a situation where silence and proper sound projection are important.
The call was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. I was able to produce convincing estrus whines and calf calls within minutes. The ability to tune the call using the tone slots was also a nice feature, allowing me to adjust the pitch to match the specific sounds I was trying to imitate.
There were no immediate issues, although the plastic seemed a bit fragile in the cold. The sound, however, was initially quite impressive, eliciting a response from a distant bull on my second calling sequence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call held up surprisingly well. While the plastic body did show some minor scratches and wear, it continued to function flawlessly. I mostly utilized it on weekend hunts, but I made sure to keep it clean and dry.
The durability proved adequate, though I wouldn’t want to subject it to excessive abuse. The rubber bulb remained pliable and responsive, and the tone slots stayed securely in place. I’ve kept it stored in my hunting pack in a protected side pocket.
Maintenance was simple: I occasionally wiped it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous experience with more complex diaphragm calls, the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call definitely wins in terms of ease of maintenance. It certainly outperformed my expectations for a call in this price range, giving me confidence while hunting.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call is specifically designed for elk hunting. It is manufactured by Hunters Specialties, a well-known name in hunting accessories. The call is designed to mimic the sound of a cow elk in estrus to attract bulls during the mating season.
Key specifications include: it being designed for Elk, and the easy squeeze operation. The relatively compact size makes it easily packable. These specifications matter because they directly influence the call’s effectiveness and usability in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call excels at producing convincing estrus whines and calf calls. It’s simple operation reduces user error, making it consistent. The ability to tune the call adds another layer of versatility.
A major strength is its ease of use, even for beginners. One potential weakness is the plastic construction, which might not be as durable as some higher-end calls. However, overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a call in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The call features a simple, functional design with a squeeze bulb and adjustable tone slots. The materials used are primarily plastic and rubber. The light weight and compact size make it easy to carry and manipulate.
The call is very user-friendly, requiring virtually no learning curve. The ergonomics are good, although some might prefer a more substantial feel in the hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call should last for several seasons with proper care. The plastic construction is reasonably durable, though not indestructible. It’s very easy to maintain, simply needing an occasional wipe-down.
Repair may not be feasible if the bulb or body cracks, but replacements are readily available and inexpensive.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call does not come with any specific accessories. Customization options are limited to adjusting the tone using the built-in slots. However, the call is compatible with lanyards for easy carrying.
No major modifications are possible, and aftermarket accessories are not typically used with this type of call. It is designed as a standalone unit for simplicity and ease of use.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call
Pros
- Easy to Use: Simple squeeze operation requires minimal practice.
- Tunable: Adjustable tone slots allow for a variety of cow and calf calls.
- Effective: Produces realistic estrus whines that attract bulls.
- Compact & Lightweight: Easily carried in a pocket or pack.
- Affordable: Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Plastic Construction: May not be as durable as higher-end calls.
- Limited Customization: No aftermarket accessories.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call?
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call is perfect for beginner to intermediate elk hunters looking for an easy-to-use and effective call. It’s also great for experienced hunters who want a simple, reliable backup call. Those who appreciate compact gear will also find this appealing.
Hunters who demand the highest level of realism and durability might want to consider a more expensive diaphragm or tube call. If you need a product that can withstand heavy abuse, this might not be the best choice. A lanyard is a must-have accessory to keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call
The Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call is a solid performer that delivers on its promise of ease of use and realistic sound. While it may not be the most durable call on the market, its affordability and effectiveness make it an excellent value. At $29.89, the price is easily justified for a call that can significantly improve your elk hunting success.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a simple and effective elk call. Pick up the Hunters Specialties Estrus Squeeze Me Elk Cow Call and get ready to call in that trophy bull!