Let’s Dive into Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo
The Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo promises to bring versatility and range to your elk calling setup. From the Long Ranger’s aggressive, high-pitched locator calls to the Fight’n Cow’s ability to mimic everything from a cow elk fight to subtle estrus sounds, this combo seemed like a solid addition to my arsenal. Having spent over a decade in the field guiding hunters and calling in elk, I’ve seen firsthand how critical the right call can be for success.
What led me to these calls was the need for a wider range of vocalizations in my calling strategy. I needed something that could reach out and touch distant bulls while still having the finesse to close the deal with subtle sounds. The Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo looked like it could fill both those roles.
Out of the package, the calls felt lightweight and functional. The adjustable bands on the reeds were a welcome sight, promising some degree of tonal customization. Compared to my diaphragm calls, these open-reed calls were refreshingly simple and straightforward. I chose this combo over individual diaphragm calls hoping for increased range and tonal adjustability without requiring extensive practice.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to get these calls out in the field and see if they could live up to the hype, or if they would end up another dusty tool in the gear closet.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a scouting trip in the high country of Colorado, about 10,000 feet up. I was specifically targeting areas known for holding elk, but with limited visibility due to thick timber. The Long Ranger was my go-to for reaching out across valleys. It performed admirably in the crisp mountain air, projecting a high-pitched cow call that definitely carried.
The performance in varied conditions was a bit of a mixed bag. While the calls worked well in dry conditions, moisture from my breath or light rain significantly impacted the tone and volume. It took a bit of fiddling with the adjustable bands to compensate. The ease of use was generally good; even without extensive prior experience with open-reed calls, I was able to produce realistic elk sounds relatively quickly.
The biggest surprise was the sensitivity to moisture, which required frequent drying and adjustments to maintain consistent sound quality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo throughout the hunting season, I have a better grasp of their strengths and weaknesses. They held up reasonably well physically, with no visible signs of cracking or damage to the plastic bodies. However, the reeds required occasional cleaning to prevent sticking and maintain optimal sound.
In terms of durability, the calls are reasonably robust, but I wouldn’t subject them to extreme abuse. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, involving simple cleaning with water and adjusting the reed bands as needed. Compared to diaphragm calls, these require less frequent replacement, but the tonal consistency is more susceptible to environmental conditions.
Overall, the Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo perform adequately, but I’ve found that the tonal quality doesn’t surpass my best diaphragm calls.
Breaking Down the Features of Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo
Specifications
The Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo includes two open-reed elk calls designed for different vocalizations. The Long Ranger is designed for aggressive, high-pitched long-distance calls. The Fight’n Cow is designed for a range of sounds from aggressive cow fights to soft estrus calls. Both calls feature adjustable bands on the reed for tonal variation.
Manufacturer: Hunters Specialties
Species: Cow Elk
The adjustable bands are crucial because they allow you to fine-tune the calls to mimic different elk vocalizations and adjust for varying weather conditions. The open-reed design provides a more direct and arguably louder sound than diaphragm calls, which can be advantageous in windy conditions or across long distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Long Ranger effectively cuts through wind and distance, making it suitable for locating bulls in expansive terrain. The Fight’n Cow, while versatile, requires more practice to master the subtle nuances of estrus calls. A key strength is the combo’s ability to cover a broad range of elk vocalizations, providing flexibility in different hunting scenarios.
The primary weakness is the susceptibility to moisture, which can significantly alter the sound and require frequent adjustments. The combo meets expectations for range and versatility, but falls slightly short in terms of consistent tonal quality compared to higher-end diaphragm calls.
Design & Ergonomics
The calls are constructed from lightweight plastic, making them easy to carry and handle for extended periods. The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic appeal. They feel comfortable enough in hand, though the plastic construction lacks the premium feel of some higher-end calls.
The simple design minimizes the learning curve, allowing even novice elk callers to produce reasonably realistic sounds quickly. Adjusting the reed bands is straightforward, enabling easy customization of the tone.
Durability & Maintenance
With reasonable care, the Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo should last several hunting seasons. The simple design reduces the risk of mechanical failure, but the reeds will eventually require replacement. Maintenance is easy, involving cleaning with water and occasional adjustments to the reed bands.
Replacing the reeds is a simple process, and replacement reeds are readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The combo does not come with any additional accessories beyond the two calls themselves. Customization is limited to adjusting the reed bands to alter the tone. While there are no direct accessories specific to these calls, they can be used in conjunction with other elk hunting gear, such as bugles and decoys.
The calls are not designed for extensive modification, but their compatibility with standard lanyards allows for convenient carry and access.
Pros and Cons of Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo
Pros
- The Long Ranger call offers excellent range, effectively projecting cow calls across long distances, helpful for locating distant bulls.
- The Fight’n Cow call provides versatile vocalizations, allowing for both aggressive and subtle cow sounds.
- Easy to use, even for novice elk callers, minimizing the learning curve.
- Adjustable reed bands allow for tonal customization to mimic different elk vocalizations and adapt to changing conditions.
- The low price point makes it an affordable option for hunters on a budget.
Cons
- Susceptible to moisture, which can significantly alter the sound and require frequent adjustments.
- The plastic construction feels less premium and less durable than higher-end calls.
- Tonal quality, while adequate, doesn’t match the realism of top-tier diaphragm calls.
Who Should Buy Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo?
The Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo is perfect for beginner to intermediate elk hunters looking for an affordable and versatile calling system. It is especially useful for those hunting in open terrain where long-range calling is essential. It’s a decent starter kit for those wanting to explore open-reed calls without a major investment.
Those who prioritize absolute tonal accuracy and are willing to invest in higher-end diaphragm calls should skip this product. Hunters in consistently wet or humid environments might find the moisture sensitivity too frustrating.
A lanyard for convenient carry is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo
The Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo offers a reasonable level of performance and versatility at an attractive price point. While not without its limitations, particularly its sensitivity to moisture and somewhat less-than-premium construction, it provides a functional and accessible elk calling system for novice to intermediate hunters.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. You receive two calls that cover a wide array of elk vocalizations.
I would recommend this combo to beginner elk hunters or those looking for an affordable backup calling system. Give the Hunters Specialties Long Ranger & Fight’n Cow Combo a shot, and see if it brings success to your next elk hunt!