First Impressions of Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack
The world of predator hunting relies heavily on the ability to mimic the sounds of prey, drawing in crafty predators for a successful hunt. The Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack promises to deliver just that, offering a trio of diaphragm calls designed to replicate various animal sounds. This combo pack aims to be a comprehensive starting point for both novice and experienced predator callers alike.
I was in the market for a compact, versatile calling system that wouldn’t break the bank when I first stumbled across this combo. Many electronic callers are bulky and expensive, which is a problem for the run-and-gun style of predator hunting I often employ in the vast, open fields of West Texas. This seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon receiving the pack, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The three calls, neatly packaged with an instructional DVD featuring Steve Criner, felt lightweight and ready for action. The Hunters Specialties brand is known for its affordable, functional gear, and this pack seemed to align with that reputation.
Compared to other diaphragm calls I’ve used in the past, like the Primos Hyper Lip Single, these calls felt slightly more flexible. I picked this combo because of its variety and its inclusion of an instructional DVD. My initial thought was optimistic, though, admittedly, a little skeptical of the quality given the price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack on a recent coyote hunting trip in the scrublands of Southern Arizona. The terrain was varied, with open plains, rocky hills, and dense brush, offering ample opportunities to test the calls in different environments. The conditions were dry and dusty, typical for that region, with a slight breeze that could carry the sound effectively.
The Primal Series Cats Meow call was the first I attempted, and I quickly realized the learning curve was steeper than expected. It took a good 30 minutes of practice to produce a convincing sound, which was frustrating initially. However, once I got the hang of it, the call proved effective at mimicking the distress cries of a feline.
The Double Talkn Dog was slightly easier to master, producing raspy barks and howls that seemed to carry well in the open areas. The Triple Dog Pounder proved to be the hardest to use. The dust did make the calls a little scratchy and needed a quick cleaning after about an hour of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack has held up reasonably well. The Infinity Latex diaphragms, while durable, do show some signs of wear and tear, particularly the edges that come into contact with the roof of my mouth. This is unavoidable, and I expect to replace them eventually.
Cleaning the calls is straightforward: a simple rinse with warm water and a gentle pat dry are sufficient. They do benefit from being stored in a cool, dry place to prevent the latex from becoming brittle. Compared to my higher-end diaphragm calls, the sound quality and consistency are noticeably less refined.
These calls don’t outperform my custom-made calls, but considering the price, they provide good value for casual hunts or as backups. I would rate the Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack about a 6/10 for the experienced user and 8/10 for the novice just starting to learn how to call predators.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack includes three diaphragm calls: the Primal Series Cats Meow (single-reed), the Double Talkn Dog (double-reed), and the Triple Dog Pounder (triple-reed). All three calls are constructed from durable Infinity Latex. Each call is designed to mimic specific predator or prey sounds.
The pack also comes with an instructional DVD featuring World Predator Calling Champion, Steve Criner. The calls are yellow in color and manufactured in the USA. The specifications matter because they determine the type of sounds the calls can produce and their overall ease of use and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Cats Meow effectively replicates feline distress sounds, which can attract coyotes and bobcats. The Double Talkn Dog offers versatile canine vocalizations, useful for challenging or attracting coyotes. The Triple Dog Pounder is intended for creating louder, more aggressive coyote sounds.
The Cats Meow excels at close-range calling, while the Double Talkn Dog works best at medium ranges. The Triple Dog Pounder is best used at longer distances in open terrain.
Design & Ergonomics
The calls are lightweight and compact, easily fitting in a vest pocket or small pouch. They are designed to be held against the roof of the mouth and blown into. The Infinity Latex material is relatively comfortable, but some users may experience slight irritation with prolonged use.
There is a definite learning curve involved, particularly with the more complex double and triple-reed calls. The instructional DVD helps, but practice is essential.
Durability & Maintenance
The Infinity Latex is reasonably durable, but like all diaphragm calls, it requires proper care. Regular cleaning and proper storage are essential to prolong its lifespan. Over time, the latex may dry out and crack, necessitating replacement.
The calls themselves are not repairable, but replacement diaphragms are readily available from Hunters Specialties. The calls are a wear item and need to be treated as such.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack includes only the three diaphragm calls and the instructional DVD. There are no specific customization options for these calls, but users can experiment with different calling techniques and mouth positions to alter the sounds they produce. The calls are designed to be a complete out of the box calling system.
Users can also purchase replacement diaphragms from Hunters Specialties if needed. Other than that, these calls are a self-contained system.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack
Pros
- Affordable price point: Excellent value for those starting predator hunting.
- Versatile sound range: Covers various prey and predator vocalizations.
- Instructional DVD: Helps beginners learn proper calling techniques.
- Compact and lightweight: Easy to carry in the field.
- Durable Infinity Latex: Offers reasonable longevity with proper care.
Cons
- Steep learning curve: Requires significant practice to master the calls.
- Sound quality not top-tier: Lacks the refinement of higher-end custom calls.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack?
The Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack is perfect for beginner to intermediate predator hunters looking for an affordable and versatile calling system. It’s also suitable for experienced hunters who want a backup set of calls or a lightweight option for run-and-gun hunting. These calls are also suited for casual weekend hunters.
Those seeking professional-grade sound quality and highly refined calling techniques may want to invest in higher-end custom diaphragm calls. Hunters that want to immediately sound like a professional should skip this pack.
A diaphragm call case or pouch to protect the calls from dirt and moisture is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack
The Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack offers excellent value for the money, providing a comprehensive introduction to diaphragm predator calling. While it requires practice and doesn’t match the performance of high-end custom calls, it’s a solid choice for beginners and casual hunters. The inclusion of an instructional DVD is a major plus, helping new users overcome the initial learning curve.
At a price of $11.95, the cost is easily justified. This is especially true considering the variety of sounds and the educational resources provided.
I would recommend it to anyone starting their predator hunting journey or looking for an affordable, versatile calling option. Pick up the Hunters Specialties Expert Edge Predator Combo Pack and start honing your skills today – the coyotes won’t know what hit them!