The Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned predator hunter with over a decade under my belt, I’ve blown through my fair share of diaphragm calls. There’s something deeply satisfying about coaxing a wily coyote or fox into range with nothing more than your own breath and a sliver of latex. I was initially drawn to the Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack because of the Bone Collector name; their endorsements usually carry weight.
My usual go-to has been a custom-made call, but I was intrigued by the variety offered in this affordable pack and the descriptions suggesting a wide range of vocalizations. At $14.99, it seemed like a worthwhile gamble to expand my calling arsenal.
Unboxing was straightforward, no fancy packaging, just the three calls neatly arranged. The Bell & Carlson name is synonymous with quality, and visually the calls appeared well-constructed, though slightly smaller than my usual diaphragms. They felt lightweight and comfortable against my palate. Compared to single premium calls I’ve used in the past, the Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack seemed like a cost-effective way to experiment with different tones.
I picked this pack over similar, generic diaphragm call sets largely due to the branding and the specific vocalizations promised. The names – “Heavy Howler,” “Midnight Moon,” and “Demented Mutt” – were also intriguing, suggesting distinct sound profiles. Initial impressions were positive; I was excited to put these calls to the test and see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place in the high desert of Eastern Oregon, a known coyote hotspot. The weather was crisp and cold, with a slight breeze – ideal predator calling conditions. I decided to start with the “Heavy Howler” to establish a dominant presence. It took a little getting used to, but I quickly produced loud, resonating howls that echoed across the canyons.
The “Heavy Howler” required more air pressure than I anticipated. After about 30 minutes of intermittent calling, my mouth felt a bit fatigued. I then switched to the “Midnight Moon” call. I found it much easier to control and produce raspy, enticing howls. The variability in tones was immediately apparent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use across multiple hunts, the Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack have proven to be surprisingly durable. The latex reeds have held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite frequent exposure to moisture and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning is simple; I just rinse them with water and let them air dry.
While they haven’t completely replaced my custom call (which is tuned to a specific frequency I prefer), these calls have become valuable additions to my pack. They offer a broader range of vocalizations that can be useful in different situations. The “Demented Mutt,” initially my least favorite, has become surprisingly effective for close-range calling, producing realistic distress sounds that seem to pique the curiosity of wary predators.
Breaking Down the Features of Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack
Specifications
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Heavy Howler: Great for loud Howling and Barks. It also produces Yip, Challenge, and Distress vocalizations. This call can produce prey in distress sounds.
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Midnight Moon: Moon Cut Heavy .004 top reed with light latex below. It produces Raspy Howls. Realistic howls, challenge howls, barks, and growls are also produced. This call can also produce prey in distress sounds.
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Demented Mutt: Two light reeds. Great for mid-range calling. Realistic howls, challenge howls, and barks are produced. This call can also produce prey in distress sounds.
These specifications are important because they dictate the range of sounds each call can produce. They also determine how easy or difficult the calls are to use. The varied reed configurations allow for a spectrum of vocalizations, increasing the chances of successfully luring in a predator.
Performance & Functionality
The Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack performs admirably for its price point. The “Heavy Howler” excels at long-distance calling, while the “Midnight Moon” offers a more subtle and versatile range of howls and growls. The “Demented Mutt” is surprisingly effective for mimicking wounded prey. The biggest weakness is the “Heavy Howler” requiring more air.
These calls definitely exceeded my initial expectations. I figured they’d be decent for the price, but the sound quality and durability are quite impressive.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, especially considering the price. The materials used are comfortable in the mouth and don’t cause excessive irritation, even after extended use. There is a slight learning curve involved. It takes practice to master the different tones and vocalizations.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience thus far, I expect these calls to last at least a full hunting season, possibly longer with proper care. Maintaining them is simple; just rinse with water after each use and store them in a dry place.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack don’t come with any additional accessories. They are essentially standalone diaphragm calls. Customization options are limited; you can potentially trim the reeds to alter the sound, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have experience doing so.
Pros and Cons of Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack
Pros
- Offers a diverse range of predator vocalizations in one affordable pack.
- Surprisingly durable, with latex reeds holding up well under regular use.
- The “Midnight Moon” call provides excellent raspy howls and versatile calling options.
- Compact and easy to carry in a hunting pack or vest.
- Effective for both long-range and close-range calling scenarios.
Cons
- The “Heavy Howler” requires significant air pressure and can cause mouth fatigue with prolonged use.
- Limited customization options.
- A basic instruction manual or online tutorial would be beneficial for novice callers.
Who Should Buy Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack?
These calls are perfect for beginner to intermediate predator hunters looking to expand their calling repertoire without breaking the bank. They’re also a great option for experienced hunters who want a backup set of calls or a wider range of vocalizations to experiment with. Anyone looking for custom, finely-tuned calls, or expecting top-tier performance right out of the package should skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be a call carrier or lanyard to keep the calls readily accessible in the field.
Conclusion on Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack
Overall, the Bone Collector Bell & Carlson Howler Predator Diaphragm Calls 3 Pack is an excellent value for the money. The variety of vocalizations, surprising durability, and affordable price make it a worthwhile addition to any predator hunter’s arsenal. The price is definitely justified, especially considering the quality and versatility offered.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking for a cost-effective way to improve their predator calling success. So, grab a pack, practice your howls, and get out there and put these calls to the test! You might just be surprised at what you can coax into range.