E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk Review

First Impressions of E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk

The E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk is a simple, compact call designed to mimic the sounds of cow elk, calves, and even wounded bulls. E.L.K., Inc. promises a versatile tool capable of bringing in elk year-round, all without the need for a separate grunt tube. For a seasoned hunter like myself, always seeking an edge in the field, this call piqued my interest immediately.

I’ve always been on the lookout for gear that is lightweight, easy to use, and effective in varied situations. Traditional diaphragm calls can be tricky to master, and bulky tubes add unnecessary weight to a pack. The promise of a pocket-sized, year-round elk communication tool made the Cow Talk Elk Talk worth exploring.

Upon receiving the call, my initial impression was one of simplicity and practicality. The build felt sturdy, and the size was indeed pocket-friendly, as advertised. Compared to my collection of diaphragm calls and larger tube-based systems, its compact nature stood out. While I considered other simpler calls like reeds, the dual-tone promise set this call apart from the others. My first thought was a hopeful, yet cautious excitement; could such a small device really deliver on its promises?

Real-World Testing: Putting E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk was during an early September scouting trip in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was variable, with warm days and chilly mornings, and the terrain ranged from dense timber to open meadows. I used the call in various settings, attempting both cow calls and calf calls in areas where I expected elk activity.

Initially, the call required some experimentation to find the right tone and volume. It took a few tries to produce consistent and realistic sounds. After a short while, I was able to manipulate the call to create convincing cow and calf vocalizations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during both scouting and the early archery season, the E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk has proven to be a reliable, albeit specialized, tool. The call itself has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being tossed in and out of my pack repeatedly. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.

Compared to my diaphragm calls, the Cow Talk Elk Talk is certainly easier to use consistently, especially in colder weather when a diaphragm can be difficult to manage. However, its tonal range is limited, and I found it less effective for producing the complex sounds of a rutting bull compared to a good diaphragm. It’s a great addition for mimicking a small group, but isn’t as convincing as other calls for simulating herd activity.

Breaking Down the Features of E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk

Specifications

The E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk boasts the following specifications:

• Manufacturer: E.L.K., Inc.
• Additional Features: Elk Call Cow Talk, No
• Species: Elk
• Length: 1 ft (although this seems like a misprint, the call is only a few inches long.)
• Width: 4 in (also seems incorrect, perhaps referring to packaging.)
• Height: 6.5 in (again, this likely refers to packaging.)

The key feature is its ability to produce both cow and calf sounds from a single, compact unit. This eliminates the need to carry multiple calls for different situations.

Performance & Functionality

The E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk performs its primary function of producing cow and calf sounds adequately. The ability to switch between the two tones by using different ends of the call is convenient. However, the sound quality isn’t as nuanced or realistic as some higher-end diaphragm calls.

The call’s strength lies in its ease of use and portability. Its limitation is the restricted range of sounds it can produce. While the product description states it can stop a wounded bull, realistically, it is most effective for attracting cows and calves.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cow Talk Elk Talk features a simple, cylindrical design. The build quality seems decent for the price point, using durable plastic. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or attach to a lanyard.

There’s no real learning curve to using this call; a few minutes of practice is generally enough to produce acceptable sounds. However, mastering the subtle variations in tone requires more practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its simple construction and durable materials, the E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk should last for several seasons with proper care. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. It is crucial to store the call in a dry place to prevent any internal moisture buildup that could affect the sound quality.

Accessories and Customization Options

The E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk doesn’t come with any specific accessories, nor does it offer any customization options. Its simplicity is both a strength and a limitation in this regard. The call is designed to be used as-is, straight out of the package.

Pros and Cons of E.L.K., Inc. Cow Talk Elk Talk