Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm Review

First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm

The Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm is a call system that promises to bring Wayne Carlton’s original color-coded diaphragm system to the modern hunter. Marketed towards both beginners and experienced elk hunters, this pack includes four distinct diaphragm calls, each designed to produce a specific range of elk vocalizations.

As someone who spends a considerable amount of time in elk country, always striving to improve my calling game, I was intrigued by the promise of a comprehensive, easy-to-use system. Years of using various elk calls have taught me the importance of versatility and reliability, prompting me to seek a system that offers both.

Unboxing the Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm, I immediately noticed the calls came in a durable plastic case, which is essential for protecting them in the field. The aluminum frames felt sturdy and the color-coded system seemed intuitive. This initial impression made me eager to see how these calls would perform in real hunting scenarios.

Having used Primos and Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls diaphragms extensively, I was curious to see how the Hunters Specialties calls would compare in terms of sound quality and ease of use. I ultimately chose the Alumni Pack because of its promise of being beginner-friendly, comprehensive, and built on a well-established system. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The real test would come in the field, under the pressure of a live hunt.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm during an early season archery elk hunt in the high country of Colorado. The varying terrain and weather conditions provided an ideal environment to assess the calls’ performance.

I utilized each call in the pack, from the Beginner Red to the Herd Bull Triple Reed, in different scenarios trying to mimic actual calling situations. The Beginner Red Single Reed was easy to use, producing convincing cow/calf sounds, even for a novice caller.

The Super Blue Double Reed allowed for transitions from cow calls to moderate-range bugles, proving its versatility. The Herd Bull Triple Reed, while requiring more practice, produced impressive, deep-tone bugles that carried well.

However, during a light rain, I noticed a slight decrease in sound quality as moisture affected the latex. This was a manageable issue, but something to be mindful of.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of constant use, the Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm has proven reasonably durable, though requires attention to maintenance. The aluminum frames have held their shape, and the calls remain functional.

However, the Infinity Latex shows signs of wear, with some fraying around the edges; this requires careful cleaning and storage to prevent further degradation. Regular cleaning and drying are essential to maintaining the calls’ performance.

Compared to my previous experience with other diaphragm calls, the Hunters Specialties diaphragms require slightly more frequent tuning and care to maintain optimal sound quality. Overall, the system performs adequately but necessitates diligent maintenance to maximize longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm

Specifications

The Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm features four distinct diaphragm calls, each designed for specific elk vocalizations.

• Beginner Red Single Reed: Intended for cow/calf and young bull sounds.
• Super Blue Double Reed: Designed for cow calls and mid- to long-range bugles.
• Herd Bull Triple Reed: Engineered for deep, nasally cow calls and loud, deep-tone bugles.
• Cow & Calf: A call specifically tailored for replicating cow and calf sounds.

The calls are constructed with moisture-resistant Infinity Latex and an aluminum frame for custom fitting.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the range and quality of elk sounds that can be produced, while the aluminum frame ensures a comfortable fit within the user’s mouth, contributing to consistent and accurate calls.

Performance & Functionality

The Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm performs its job reasonably well, providing a comprehensive range of elk vocalizations. Accuracy depends greatly on the user’s skill and practice.

The system’s strength lies in its versatility, allowing hunters to transition between different calls to mimic various elk behaviors. However, the moisture sensitivity of the latex can be a weakness, requiring hunters to take precautions in wet conditions.

The pack largely meets expectations, offering a solid entry point into elk calling, although experienced callers may find the individual call quality slightly below that of premium single diaphragms.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm is acceptable, with the aluminum frames feeling sturdy and the Infinity Latex providing a decent seal. The weight is negligible, making it comfortable to carry in the field.

The system is relatively user-friendly, particularly with the color-coded design aiding in call selection. However, mastering each call requires dedicated practice.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm should last at least a full hunting season, possibly longer with careful storage and maintenance. Cleaning the diaphragms after each use and storing them in a dry environment are crucial.

The calls are not designed to be easily repaired, and replacing the latex is often more cost-effective than attempting to repair it. This means that while the frames are durable, the consumable latex is what will ultimately determine the lifespan of each call.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm comes with a durable plastic call case for storage and protection. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options are limited to adjusting the aluminum frame for a more comfortable fit. While the calls are not directly compatible with accessories from other brands, the diaphragms can be used in conjunction with other calling techniques and systems.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Alumni Pack Aluminum Frame Elk Diaphragm