CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL Review

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL Made a Bold First Impression

After a decade navigating the ever-evolving landscape of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve learned to approach new products with a healthy dose of skepticism and a thirst for genuine performance. The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL, from Carlton Calls, landed on my doorstep with a promise to deliver loud, mature cow moos and bleats that would supposedly drive bulls wild. I’ve used a variety of elk calls over the years, from diaphragm calls to bugles, but the allure of an open-reed call promising realistic low-end nasal sounds and high-pitched estrus vocals was too tempting to ignore.

My go-to elk call had always been a diaphragm call, requiring finesse and breath control, so I was curious if this new call could deliver similar results with a different approach. I was specifically looking for a call that would allow me to quickly adapt to changing wind conditions and varying ranges. The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL seemed to offer that versatility.

Unboxing the call, I was immediately struck by its aesthetics. The custom walnut-and-maple wood barrel, adorned with a textured elk antler design, is a welcome departure from the typical plastic or acrylic calls on the market. The build quality felt solid, and the included lanyard was a nice touch. My initial thoughts revolved around its potential to not only sound good but also withstand the rigors of the backcountry.

I’ve used Primos and Elk Nut calls previously, and while they both have their strengths, I found the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL’s combination of adjustable features and unique design more appealing. The adjustable notched frame, designed to prevent accidental movement, was a key factor in my decision. I was excited to see if it would live up to the hype in the field. My first impression was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism – it looked the part, but the real test would be its performance in the elk woods.

Real-World Testing: Putting CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to put the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL to the test came during an early-season archery hunt in the high country of Colorado. The terrain was steep and rugged, and the weather was unpredictable, ranging from warm, sunny afternoons to cold, drizzly evenings. I specifically chose this location to mimic a wide variety of conditions and terrain that I might encounter.

The call performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The open-reed design meant that moisture didn’t significantly impact its sound quality, unlike some of my closed-reed calls that can become muffled when wet. It did require a few practice runs to get accustomed to using this open reed call for the first time.

The initial learning curve was minimal, but mastering the nuances of the call took some practice. I quickly realized that subtle adjustments in my embouchure and air pressure could produce a wide range of vocalizations. The first few attempts resulted in some less-than-convincing sounds, but after an hour of practice, I felt comfortable producing realistic cow moos and bleats.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my elk hunting arsenal. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the wooden barrel or the adjustable frame, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental drop. The wood barrel feels very durable and well protected.

Maintaining the call is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The open-reed design means that it doesn’t require any special cleaning tools or solvents. I have found that storing it in a dry, breathable pouch helps prevent any moisture buildup.

Compared to some of the cheaper plastic calls I’ve used in the past, the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL is a significant upgrade in terms of both sound quality and durability. It also outperforms my old diaphragm call in terms of ease of use in windy conditions and allows me to adjust the sound more quickly when trying to locate elk at a distance. I’m impressed with how well it has held up and how consistently it produces realistic elk vocalizations.

Breaking Down the Features of CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL

Specifications

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL is an open-reed elk call designed to produce loud, mature cow moos and bleats. It features a new adjustable notched frame, which allows for precise sound adjustments and prevents accidental movement. The barrel is crafted from custom walnut-and-maple wood with a textured elk antler design. The call includes a lanyard for convenient carry.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the call’s performance and user experience. The open-reed design allows for a wide range of vocalizations, while the adjustable frame ensures that the desired sound is maintained consistently. The wood barrel not only enhances the call’s aesthetics but also contributes to its overall sound quality.

Performance & Functionality

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL excels at producing realistic and enticing elk vocalizations. It effectively replicates the high-pitched estrus vocals of a cow elk, as well as the low-end nasal sounds of an old boss cow. During my testing, I found that it consistently drew responses from both satellite bulls and mature herd bulls.

The adjustable frame is a standout feature, allowing me to fine-tune the call’s tone and volume to match the specific situation. The call meets and even exceeds expectations. It is very user friendly once familiar and consistently produces quality sounds.

Design & Ergonomics

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL’s design is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The wood barrel feels comfortable in hand and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The call is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a pocket or on a lanyard.

The textured elk antler design adds a touch of visual appeal, while the overall build quality exudes durability and craftsmanship. The learning curve is relatively minimal, especially for those with prior experience using open-reed calls. Mastering the nuances of the call takes practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL is built to withstand the rigors of the backcountry. The wood barrel is resistant to cracking and warping, and the adjustable frame is designed to withstand repeated use. The lanyard attachment point is reinforced to prevent accidental breakage.

Maintaining the call is simple. A quick wipe-down after each use is usually sufficient. I anticipate that this call will last for many seasons with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL comes with a lanyard for convenient carry. There are no additional accessories or customization options available directly from Carlton Calls. However, the standard lanyard can be easily replaced with a custom lanyard or paracord for added personalization.

While there are no direct customization options, the open-reed design allows for a wide range of vocalizations. Hunters can experiment with different embouchure techniques and air pressures to create their unique calling sequences.

Pros and Cons of CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL

Who Should Buy CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL?

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels who are looking for a reliable and effective cow call. It is particularly well-suited for hunters who prefer open-reed calls and appreciate the ability to fine-tune their vocalizations. The call is also an excellent choice for hunters on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality or performance.

Hunters who prefer diaphragm calls or who are completely new to elk calling might find the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL a bit challenging at first. However, with a little practice, anyone can learn to use this call effectively. A quality diaphragm call might be a good starting point for a beginner.

A must-have accessory for the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL is a comfortable and adjustable lanyard. This will allow you to keep the call readily accessible while keeping your hands free.

Conclusion on CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL

The CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL is a well-designed and effective elk call that delivers on its promise of producing realistic cow elk vocalizations. The adjustable frame, durable construction, and affordable price point make it an excellent value for elk hunters of all skill levels.

At a price of only $10.99, it offers incredible value. The price is definitely justified considering the quality of sound and construction.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the CARLTON CALLS BOSS COW CALL to anyone looking to enhance their elk hunting success. Pick one up and head into the elk woods with confidence. The bulls are waiting.