The COYOTE HOWLER CALL Made a Bold First Impression
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL from an unknown manufacturer arrives unassuming, packaged more for function than flash. Its purpose, however, is anything but subtle: to mimic the sounds of distress and challenge the very predators that stalk the wild. I found myself drawn to it seeking a more intimate connection with the hunt, a way to engage with coyotes on their own terms, moving beyond rifles and scopes.
For years, I’ve relied on electronic callers. They get the job done, but something always felt missing. I craved the challenge and the organic feel of a mouth-blown call. The COYOTE HOWLER CALL, with its promise of both rabbit distress and coyote vocalizations, seemed like the perfect bridge between convenience and pure hunting artistry. Opening the package, I was immediately drawn to its simplicity. This call is basic.
This is not some fancy, multi-piece contraption. I had previously experimented with diaphragm calls, finding them finicky and difficult to master consistently in the heat of the moment. This COYOTE HOWLER CALL, with its bite-down design, offered a different approach. The build quality is basic, molded plastic.
It feels robust enough to withstand the rigors of field use. Compared to a higher-end Primos or Flextone predator call, which focus on mimicking a wide range of sounds with adjustable reeds, this COYOTE HOWLER CALL is laser-focused on its core function: rabbit distress and coyote howls. I chose this call over those more complex models for its supposed simplicity and ease of use, hoping to spend less time fiddling and more time calling. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if its promise of simple effectiveness would translate to real-world success.
Real-World Testing: Putting COYOTE HOWLER CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the COYOTE HOWLER CALL occurred on a frosty morning in the high desert of eastern Oregon. This is prime coyote country. The rolling sagebrush hills and juniper breaks offered a perfect backdrop for testing its effectiveness. I settled into a concealed position overlooking a vast canyon, the wind gently in my face, and took a deep breath.
The initial attempts at mimicking rabbit distress were, to put it mildly, comical. The call requires a specific bite pressure and release to achieve the desired sound, and my first few tries produced more of a strangled squeak than a convincing cry. However, after about 15 minutes of practice, I began to find the sweet spot. I was creating a somewhat believable rabbit-in-distress sound. I had an issue with consistency.
The wind picked up, making it difficult to control the call and project the sound effectively. But, I persevered. After about an hour of intermittent calling, a coyote finally appeared. It emerged from a distant draw, ears perked, and trotted directly toward my position. The coyote came within 75 yards.
It was a testament to the call’s potential, even in the hands of a novice caller. Despite the initial excitement, the coyote hung up, seemingly unsure of the source of the sound. It eventually circled downwind and disappeared back into the brush. My inexperience in using the call likely contributed to the coyote’s hesitation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in varying conditions, the COYOTE HOWLER CALL has proven to be surprisingly durable. It’s small enough to easily fit in a pocket or lanyard. There are no moving parts to break or jam. The plastic construction has withstood exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperature fluctuations without any signs of cracking or warping.
Cleaning is also simple. I simply rinse it with water and let it air dry. Compared to the electronic callers I’ve used in the past, which require careful battery management and protection from the elements, the COYOTE HOWLER CALL is remarkably low-maintenance. While it hasn’t completely replaced my electronic caller, it has become a valuable tool in my arsenal.
It allows me to add a more nuanced and personal touch to my calling sequences. The call hasn’t outperformed my electronic caller in terms of sheer numbers of coyotes attracted. However, it has provided a more rewarding and engaging hunting experience. The simple pleasure of coaxing a response from a wary predator using only my breath and a small piece of plastic is unmatched.
Breaking Down the Features of COYOTE HOWLER CALL
Specifications
- Type: Mouth-blown predator call.
- Intended Use: Mimicking rabbit distress and coyote howls.
- Material: Molded plastic.
- Operation: Bite-down and release mechanism.
- Price: $8.49.
The bite-down and release mechanism is central to the call’s operation. The user bites down on the call and varies pressure to create rabbit distress sounds. Releasing the bite while exhaling allows the creation of coyote howls and yelps. The low price point makes it accessible to virtually any hunter or outdoor enthusiast.
Performance & Functionality
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL’s performance is directly tied to the user’s skill and practice. Mastering the subtle nuances of bite pressure and breath control is essential for producing realistic and convincing sounds. When used correctly, the call can effectively mimic both rabbit distress and coyote vocalizations. However, it has a limited range of sounds compared to more sophisticated callers.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and portability. The weaknesses are that the call’s effectiveness hinges entirely on the user’s ability to learn and replicate the sounds needed to attract coyotes. With time and practice, the call can become a valuable tool for attracting predators. It’s definitely not a replacement for electronic callers.
Design & Ergonomics
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL’s design is minimalist and functional. The molded plastic construction is lightweight. The call is durable enough to withstand the rigors of field use. Its ergonomic design allows for comfortable and secure use, even with gloved hands.
There is a definite learning curve associated with mastering the call. It requires practice and experimentation to find the optimal bite pressure and breath control. But, with patience and persistence, even novice callers can learn to produce convincing sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL is designed for long-lasting durability. The plastic construction is resistant to cracking, warping, and damage from exposure to the elements. Cleaning is also simple and straightforward. A quick rinse with water is all that’s typically required to remove dirt, mud, or saliva.
The lack of moving parts further contributes to its durability. There is nothing to break, jam, or require replacement. With proper care and maintenance, the COYOTE HOWLER CALL can provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL comes with no accessories. There are also no available customization options. Its design is simple and fixed. The call is intended to be used as-is. This lack of customization options may be a drawback for some users.
They might prefer the ability to fine-tune the sound or add dampeners for different conditions. The simplicity of the COYOTE HOWLER CALL aligns with its focus on ease of use and portability. It’s a tool designed for hunters who value simplicity and reliability over extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of COYOTE HOWLER CALL
Pros
- Affordable: At under $10, it’s an accessible entry point for predator calling.
- Durable: The simple plastic design is tough and long-lasting.
- Portable: Small and lightweight, easily carried in a pocket.
- Versatile: Capable of mimicking both rabbit distress and coyote howls.
- Engaging: Offers a more personal and challenging hunting experience.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Requires practice and skill to master.
- Limited Sounds: Cannot produce the wide range of sounds offered by electronic callers.
- No Customization: Offers no options for adjusting sound or tone.
Who Should Buy COYOTE HOWLER CALL?
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL is perfect for budget-conscious hunters looking to add a new dimension to their predator calling. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a hands-on, challenging hunting experience. It is well-suited for experienced callers who want to supplement their existing repertoire with a simple, portable option.
This product is probably not for those seeking instant results or who prefer the convenience of electronic callers. Those unwilling to dedicate the time and effort required to master the call should also avoid this product. A lanyard for easy carrying is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on COYOTE HOWLER CALL
The COYOTE HOWLER CALL is a surprisingly effective and affordable tool for predator hunting. Its simplicity is both its greatest strength and its biggest limitation. While it lacks the sophisticated features and extensive sound libraries of electronic callers, it offers a more engaging and challenging hunting experience.
The price is certainly justified. It provides access to a potentially effective calling method at a minimal cost. I would recommend this call to hunters seeking a simple, durable, and portable way to connect with the wild. Be prepared to put in the practice time, but the rewards can be well worth the effort. Give the COYOTE HOWLER CALL a try and discover the primal satisfaction of coaxing a coyote with your own breath.