Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green Review

First Thoughts on the Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green

The Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green promises to be a straightforward, easy-to-use tool for elk hunters looking to draw in bulls. Hunters Specialties is a well-known name in the hunting world, often providing dependable gear at accessible prices. For just under $11, it claims to reliably replicate cow elk sounds, making it an interesting option for seasoned callers and beginners alike.

My usual strategy involves a combination of bugles, diaphragm calls, and external reed calls. However, I’ve often wished for a super simple cow call to hand off to a less experienced hunting buddy or to keep in my pack as a reliable backup. Could this be the answer?

Upon unboxing (or rather, removing it from its simple packaging), I immediately noted its lightweight feel. The molded green plastic felt sturdy enough, and the included lanyard was a nice touch. It seemed simple, almost too simple.

Compared to higher-end diaphragm calls from brands like Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls or Primos, which can cost upwards of $20-$30 each, the Bull Hooker felt like a different beast altogether. The higher end calls offer a wider range of tones and volumes and require more practice to master. I chose the Bull Hooker because of its simplicity, aiming for something easily deployable by anyone, regardless of calling experience. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it felt like a no-frills tool, but the proof would be in the calling.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green on a scouting trip to my usual elk hunting grounds in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was typical for late summer: cool mornings and warm afternoons. The altitude sits around 9,000 feet.

The first attempt to use it was surprisingly easy. Pressing on the molded membrane produced a decent cow call sound without much effort. The tone was a bit raspy, but recognizable. After some practice, I was able to produce various cow sounds. Initially, I was a bit self-conscious about the basic sound quality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, primarily during pre-season scouting, the Bull Hooker held up surprisingly well. The plastic showed no signs of cracking or damage despite being tossed in my pack alongside heavier gear. Cleaning was as easy as wiping it down with a damp cloth; no intricate disassembly required.

Compared to my higher-end diaphragm calls, the Bull Hooker lacked the nuanced sounds and volume control needed for advanced calling sequences. However, its consistent and relatively foolproof operation made it a valuable tool for quick, simple cow calls, especially when my diaphragm calls were unavailable or I needed to instruct someone else. It consistently produced a recognizable cow elk sound. The simplicity is both its strength and its weakness.

Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green

Specifications

• Product Name: Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green
• Manufacturer: Hunters Specialties
• Type: Mouth-blown Cow Elk Call
• Reed Type: Internal Reed with External Molded Membrane
• Material: Molded Plastic
• Color: Green
• Accessories: Carrying Lanyard

These specifications point to a simple, durable design prioritizing ease of use. The molded plastic construction ensures it can withstand rough handling. The internal reed design contributes to longevity and consistent sound production.

Performance & Functionality

The Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green effectively produces basic cow elk sounds. It’s user-friendly, requiring minimal practice to create recognizable calls. However, the sound quality is limited compared to more sophisticated calls.

Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The main weakness is the limited range of tones and volumes achievable. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly, easy-to-use cow call.

Design & Ergonomics

The molded green plastic is lightweight and feels relatively durable. The compact size and included lanyard make it easy to carry and deploy quickly. The ergonomics are straightforward; it fits comfortably in hand and requires minimal effort to operate.

It’s a no-frills design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The green color is practical for hunting environments, helping it blend in with natural surroundings.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bull Hooker is built to last, thanks to its simple construction and durable plastic material. With basic care (keeping it clean and dry), it should withstand years of use. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down is usually all that’s needed.

There are no intricate parts to break or require specialized repair. This simplicity enhances its overall longevity and reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green comes with a basic carrying lanyard. There are no other included accessories or officially supported customization options. It is what it is: a simple, standalone cow call.

While it’s not designed for customization, the lanyard can be easily replaced with a different style or length. The call’s simplicity makes it compatible with generic lanyards or attachment clips. The lack of customization options keeps the cost down and maintains its straightforward functionality.

Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties HSWCC70163 Bull Hooker Cow Call Green