First Impressions of E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call promises to be the universal translator for the deer world, a pocket-sized device capable of speaking the language of all species. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless calls come and go, each promising to be the “next big thing.” The simplicity and all-encompassing claim of this call piqued my interest and demanded a thorough investigation.
My hunting grounds have always been a place of quiet observation, where understanding animal communication is key. I’ve often sought a reliable, easy-to-use deer call that could bridge the gap between human intention and deer perception. The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call seemed to offer that solution, promising to replace a bag full of specialized calls with a single, pocket-friendly device.
Upon receiving the call, I was immediately struck by its compact size; at just 6 cm long, it truly does fit comfortably in a pocket. The lightweight plastic construction felt durable enough for basic field use, though I immediately questioned how the sound quality would hold up, given its small stature. It’s unassuming, but the bold claim of working on all deer species – and even predators – definitely sets the bar high.
Compared to my collection of diaphragm calls, grunt tubes, and bleat cans, the E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call stands out for its simplicity. It is much smaller than a Primos Buck Roar or a Flextone Extractor Deer Call. While those specialized calls offer nuanced sounds for specific situations, this one aims for universality. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; could this simple tool really deliver on its grand promise, or would it be another gimmick destined for the bottom of my gear bag?
Real-World Testing: Putting E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place during an early-season scouting trip in the mixed hardwood forests of northern Wisconsin. I spent a week observing deer activity, cataloging rub lines, and identifying potential stand locations. The cool, crisp air of the early morning provided the perfect soundscape for testing the E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call.
I started with soft bleats and gradually increased the intensity, trying to simulate various scenarios: a lost fawn, a receptive doe, and even a sparring buck. Initial attempts produced a raspy, somewhat artificial sound, requiring careful manipulation to achieve anything resembling a natural deer vocalization. The call seemed to struggle in the colder temperatures, possibly affecting the resonation of the plastic. No deer responded to my initial calls, though it’s impossible to know if that was due to the call itself or simply a lack of receptive animals in the immediate area.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following months, I integrated the E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call into my regular hunting routine, using it in a variety of habitats and weather conditions. From the dense pine forests of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the open agricultural fields of southern Minnesota, the call was exposed to a wide range of environments. While the call itself showed no significant signs of physical wear and tear, its sonic performance remained inconsistent.
The plastic construction proved surprisingly durable, withstanding repeated exposure to rain, snow, and mud without cracking or breaking. Cleaning was simple; a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down with a cloth was usually sufficient to remove any accumulated debris. However, the call’s effectiveness in attracting deer remained questionable. During one late-season hunt, I attempted to use the call to lure a buck out of thick cover, but instead, I managed to attract a curious coyote.
Breaking Down the Features of E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call
Specifications
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call is a compact, manually operated deer call designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s manufactured by E.L.K., Inc. and boasts the ability to mimic the vocalizations of all deer species, as well as attracting predators.
- Manufacturer: E.L.K., Inc.
- Species: Deer
- Length: 6 cm
- Height: 0.4 inches
- Width: 2.6 inches
These specifications are important because they highlight the call’s portability and minimal weight, making it easy to carry in a pocket or pack. The small size could also be a detriment to its sound projection and overall realism. The fact that it’s advertised for attracting predators as well, suggests it doesn’t have any specific features that make it unique to deer calls.
Performance & Functionality
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call aims to replicate various deer vocalizations, including bleats, grunts, and distress calls. The user manually manipulates the call to produce these sounds.
The performance is inconsistent; achieving realistic sounds requires practice and a delicate touch, and even then, the results can be underwhelming. The call’s strength lies in its simplicity and ease of transport, however the sound quality and effectiveness in attracting deer leave much to be desired. It falls short of expectations set by more specialized calls.
Design & Ergonomics
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call is constructed from lightweight plastic, making it comfortable to hold and easy to carry. The compact size is a definite plus for portability.
The simple design requires no batteries or complex setup, making it relatively user-friendly. However, mastering the technique to produce realistic deer sounds takes time and effort, presenting a learning curve for novice callers.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction of the E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call appears to be reasonably durable, capable of withstanding normal field use. The lack of moving parts minimizes the risk of mechanical failure.
Maintenance is straightforward; cleaning requires only a quick rinse with water and a wipe-down with a cloth. Given the simplicity of the design, the call should last for several seasons with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call does not come with any accessories and offers no customization options. Its simple, self-contained design means there are no compatible aftermarket parts or modifications.
The lack of customization reflects the call’s focus on simplicity and affordability. There are no options to adjust the tone or volume.
Pros and Cons of E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call
Pros
- Easy to carry due to its compact size and lightweight design.
- Simple to use with no batteries or complex setup required.
- Durable plastic construction can withstand normal field use.
- Inexpensive and readily available.
- Versatile: claimed to attract both deer and predators.
Cons
- Inconsistent sound quality; producing realistic deer vocalizations requires practice.
- Effectiveness in attracting deer is questionable compared to specialized calls.
- Lacks customization options.
Who Should Buy E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call?
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call is perfect for beginner hunters looking for an inexpensive and easy-to-carry call. It could also be useful for casual hikers or campers wanting a simple tool for attracting wildlife.
Experienced hunters seeking nuanced and realistic deer vocalizations should skip this product. Those who demand high levels of control over their calls should invest in more specialized equipment. A lanyard for easy access would be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call
The E.L.K., Inc. Deer Talk Call offers a compelling promise: a universal deer call that’s affordable, portable, and easy to use. While it delivers on the portability and simplicity aspects, its sound quality and effectiveness in attracting deer are questionable.
At $17.99, the price is justified for what it is: a basic, entry-level call. However, serious hunters should consider investing in higher-quality, more specialized calls for better results. I would recommend it as a backup or a starter call, but not as a primary tool for serious deer hunting. If you’re on a tight budget and need something simple to carry, give it a shot, but don’t expect miracles.