First Thoughts on the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT is a compact, single-reed deer call designed to produce mid-tone grunts and roars. Marketed towards hunters seeking a user-friendly and portable call, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT’s soft, all-rubber design and included lanyard promise both comfort and convenience in the field. For a seasoned hunter like myself, with over a decade spent chasing whitetails in diverse terrains, a dependable grunt call is non-negotiable; it’s a crucial tool for mimicking natural deer vocalizations and coaxing bucks within shooting range.
My trusty old grunt tube finally cracked after years of abuse, leaving me searching for a replacement. I needed something compact, reliable, and capable of producing a range of realistic deer sounds. I was looking for a call that could withstand harsh weather and deliver consistent performance, even when my fingers were numb with cold.
Upon unboxing, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT felt surprisingly lightweight and comfortable in hand. The all-rubber construction gives it a nice, grippy texture and seems durable enough to withstand the rigors of hunting. Compared to bulkier, harder-plastic calls I’ve used in the past, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT’s compact design is a welcome change. It’s easily packable and won’t take up much space in my vest or pack.
I considered the Flextone Bone Collector Buck Collector and the HS Strut Lil’ Deuce, both popular options. However, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT’s single-reed design and focus on mid-tone sounds appealed to me as versatile and effective for various hunting scenarios. The price point also made it an attractive choice.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The call felt good, and the rubberized design was promising. I was eager to test its sound quality and effectiveness in the field, hoping it could live up to its potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT during the early archery season in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania. The weather was typical for early October: cool mornings with a chance of afternoon showers. I used the call while sitting in a treestand overlooking a known deer trail, and later while still-hunting through a thick patch of oak and maple.
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT performed adequately in both wet and dry conditions. The rubber construction ensured a solid grip, even when my hands were damp from a light drizzle. I did notice that excessive moisture in the call could slightly alter the tone, requiring an occasional blow to clear it out. The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT was very easy to use. Its single reed design made it easy to produce a range of grunt sounds with minimal effort.
The only real issue I encountered on my first outing was controlling the volume. It took a little practice to produce softer grunts for close-range calling without startling the deer. This PRIMOS call is more suited for aggressive calling at long range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the archery and rifle seasons, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT has held up reasonably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental drop.
The rubber exterior cleans easily with a damp cloth, and the single reed design minimizes the need for extensive maintenance. I have noticed a slight fading in the color of the rubber, but this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect the call’s performance.
Compared to my previous call, which was made of brittle plastic, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT feels significantly more durable. While it might not produce the same nuanced tones as some higher-end calls, its simplicity and reliability make it a worthwhile addition to my hunting gear. It out-performs my old call in terms of durability, but not necessarily sound quality.
Breaking Down the Features of PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT
Specifications
- Compact Single Reed Design: This design allows for easy use and portability, making it ideal for hunters on the move. The single reed simplifies the call, reducing the chances of malfunction and making it easy to produce consistent sounds.
- Mid-Tone Deep Grunts and ROARs: The call is designed to produce a range of deer vocalizations, from subtle grunts to aggressive roars. This versatility allows hunters to adapt their calling strategy to different hunting scenarios and deer behavior.
- Soft All-Rubber Design: The rubber construction provides a comfortable grip, even in wet conditions, and adds to the call’s overall durability. The soft material also helps to dampen unwanted noise and vibration.
- Lanyard: The included lanyard keeps the call readily accessible and prevents it from being lost in the field. This convenience allows hunters to quickly respond to deer sightings without fumbling for their call.
Performance & Functionality
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT performs its primary function adequately, producing reasonably realistic deer grunt sounds. It’s easy to use, even for beginners, and the rubber construction provides a secure grip. However, the call’s sound quality isn’t exceptional, and controlling the volume requires some practice.
The primary strength lies in its simplicity and durability. Its weakness is in its lack of sound fidelity compared to more expensive calls. The call meets expectations for a budget-friendly option.
Design & Ergonomics
The all-rubber construction is a major plus, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT is Lightweight and easy to carry. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT should last several seasons with proper care. Cleaning is very easy, requiring only a damp cloth. There are no user-serviceable parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT comes with a simple lanyard. There are no customization options available. The call is not designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and won’t weigh you down in the field.
- Durable All-Rubber Construction: Withstands harsh weather and rugged use.
- Easy to Use: Simple single-reed design suitable for beginners.
- Affordable Price Point: An excellent value for budget-conscious hunters.
- Lanyard Included: Keeps the call readily accessible.
Cons
- Limited Sound Range: Doesn’t offer the same nuanced tones as higher-end calls.
- Volume Control Can Be Tricky: Requires practice to produce soft grunts for close-range calling.
Who Should Buy PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT?
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT is perfect for beginner to intermediate hunters looking for an affordable and reliable grunt call. It’s also a good option for experienced hunters who want a lightweight and durable backup call. Casual hunters who don’t want to invest in expensive calls will also benefit.
Hunters seeking advanced calling features or exceptionally realistic sound reproduction should skip this product. A higher end double reed system is best for that application.
A comfortable neck lanyard is a must-have accessory, but PRIMOS includes one with purchase. No modifications are necessary.
Conclusion on PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT
The PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT is a solid, no-frills deer call that gets the job done. Its compact design, durable construction, and ease of use make it a worthwhile addition to any hunter’s gear, especially those on a budget.
The price is absolutely justified for what you get. It is a solid value proposition.
I would recommend this call to beginner hunters and those seeking a reliable backup. Experienced hunters who demand the utmost realism in their calls might want to consider other options, but for most, the PRIMOS BOTTLE NECK GRUNT offers a practical and effective way to communicate with deer. Grab one today and improve your calling game!