First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm
The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm isn’t just another elk call; it’s a potential game-changer for hunters of all skill levels. Developed by Wayne Carlton and Hunters Specialties, this diaphragm call boasts a unique “tone trough” designed to simplify elk calling and produce realistic sounds with less effort. Intrigued by the promise of ease of use and superior sound quality, I eagerly anticipated field-testing this innovative call system.
As an experienced elk hunter, I’m always on the lookout for tools that can give me an edge in the field. Diaphragm calls are essential, but mastering them can be challenging. The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm seemed like a solution to improve consistency and reduce the learning curve for newer hunters.
The Elk Arsenal comes as a four-pack, including a Single Reed, Cow & Calf (1½ reeds), Double Reed, and Triple Reed Tone Trough. Upon opening the package, the calls looked well-constructed, and the Premium Flex frame felt sturdy. The Infinity Latex reeds appeared thin and responsive.
I’ve previously used diaphragm calls from Primos and Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls, both reputable brands. The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm stood out because of the tone trough design, which none of my other calls have. I picked this kit hoping the tone trough would provide consistent sound quality.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed promising, and the materials felt high-quality. I was eager to get into the field and see if the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm during an early-season archery elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The conditions were typical for that time of year: cool mornings, warm afternoons, and occasional light rain. I focused primarily on the Cow & Calf call, as that is my preferred initial calling setup.
The tone trough did seem to make a difference in ease of use. I found it easier to produce consistent cow calls with less air pressure than with traditional diaphragm calls. The sound quality was generally good, though it took some experimentation to find the sweet spot for each call.
I did have some initial difficulty getting a consistent bugle with the single reed call. It took a bit of practice to find the right tongue and air pressure combination. However, after about an hour of practice, I could produce convincing bugles.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the hunting season, the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm calls held up remarkably well. The Infinity Latex reeds proved to be surprisingly durable. There were no signs of tearing or degradation.
Cleaning the calls was simple. Rinsing them with warm water after each use kept them in good condition. I stored them in a small, breathable container to prevent mildew growth.
Compared to my previous diaphragm calls, the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm offered a slight improvement in ease of use and consistency, especially for cow calls. The reeds lasted longer than some of my other calls, making them a worthwhile investment. While they did require practice for accurate bugles, the potential offered by the tone trough technology was evident.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hunters Specialties.
- Species: Elk.
- Country of Origin: USA.
- These specifications highlight the quality and targeted use of the product.
- Equipped with a Premium Flex frame to ensure consistent fit and stretch. The Premium Flex frame is vital because it ensures a snug fit and allows for consistent sound production across multiple calls.
- Tone Troughs sound chamber produces the highest pitched elk bugles and most authentic, nasally cow calls. The Tone Trough is the heart of this call system, simplifying use and creating quality, realistic sounds.
- The Elk Arsenal 4-Pack includes the Single Reed, Cow & Calf (1½ reeds), Double Reed, and Triple Reed Tone Trough elk diaphragm calls. The four-pack provides versatility for different calling scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm performs admirably, especially in producing cow calls. The tone trough design makes it easier to create consistent and realistic sounds, which is crucial for attracting elk. The ease of use is a major strength.
The single reed bugle call requires practice to master, but the other calls in the pack are relatively easy to use. One area for improvement would be clearer instructions or a tutorial video on how to get the most out of the bugle call. Overall, this product exceeds expectations for ease of use and sound quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm is excellent. The materials used are durable and comfortable in the mouth. The Premium Flex frame is flexible enough to conform to different mouth shapes while still maintaining its structure.
The design is user-friendly, with the tone trough providing a clear and consistent airflow channel. While there is a slight learning curve for the bugle call, the other calls are intuitive to use, even for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm should last for several hunting seasons. The Infinity Latex reeds are more durable than traditional latex, resisting tearing and degradation. Regular cleaning and proper storage will extend the life of the calls.
Maintaining the calls is simple: rinse them with warm water after each use and store them in a breathable container. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm comes as a complete set, including four different calls to cover a range of elk calling scenarios. There are no specific customization options for the call itself, but users can experiment with different mouth positions and air pressures to achieve different sounds. The Premium Flex frame is designed for universal fit.
The call is compatible with most standard diaphragm call cases and storage solutions. Because it is a diaphragm call, there are no optics, grips, or barrels associated with this product.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm
Pros
- The Tone Trough design makes it easier to produce consistent and realistic elk sounds.
- The Infinity Latex reeds are durable and long-lasting.
- The Premium Flex frame ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
- The four-pack provides versatility for different calling scenarios.
- The calls are easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- The single reed bugle call requires practice to master.
- The price might be a bit high for beginners who are unsure if they will stick with elk hunting.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm?
The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels. It’s especially beneficial for beginners who are struggling to master traditional diaphragm calls. Experienced hunters will also appreciate the ease of use and consistent sound quality.
Hunters who are on a tight budget or who only hunt elk occasionally might want to consider a less expensive option. Also, if you are a seasoned professional who has mastered standard elk calls, this offering may not deliver a dramatic improvement. A diaphragm case is a must-have accessory for protecting and organizing the calls.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm
The Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm is an innovative and effective elk calling system that simplifies diaphragm call use. The tone trough design makes it easier to produce consistent and realistic sounds, especially for cow calls. While the single reed bugle call requires some practice, the overall value and ease of use make this a worthwhile investment.
At $8.49, the price is justified, considering the quality of the materials and the potential for increased success in the field. The durable reeds and versatile call selection further enhance the value.
I would definitely recommend the Hunters Specialties Elk Arsenal Tone Trough Elk Diaphragm to any elk hunter looking to improve their calling game. Give these calls a try, and experience the difference the tone trough can make. Get out there and call in that bull!
