Let’s Talk About Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner is a unique tool designed by Mountain Mike’s to aid elk hunters in effectively communicating their presence while in a shooting position. At a price point of $39.99, this patented device promises to eliminate human scent and prevent direct eye contact between the hunter and the elk, offering a tactical advantage in the field. It’s an intriguing concept, especially for those who’ve struggled with spooking wary elk.
My pursuit of the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner stemmed from years of frustrating elk hunts where I felt my scent or movements betrayed my position. I needed something to add an edge, a method to present myself as a more natural part of the environment. The promise of scent elimination and eye contact reduction seemed like a game-changer.
Upon unboxing, the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner impressed me with its simple yet robust design. The tilt and pivot mechanism felt solid and well-constructed, and the included Allen wrench was a thoughtful touch. The ability to use real elk skulls adds a level of realism I wasn’t expecting.
Compared to other scent-masking or concealment methods I’ve tried, like cover scents or ghillie suits, the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner offers a more proactive approach. While scents can fade and suits can restrict movement, this positioner provides a static, consistent element of disguise. Other comparable products are hard to come by, as the positioning method is unique to Mountain Mike’s.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The concept is brilliant, but the real test would be how it performs in the field. The potential to outsmart a wary bull elk definitely has me excited.
Real-World Testing: Putting Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner during a late-season elk hunt in the high country of Colorado. The terrain was a mix of dense timber and open meadows, with a light dusting of snow. I positioned myself along a known elk travel route, using the positioner with a shed elk skull I found earlier in the year.
The conditions were challenging, with a steady breeze and temperatures hovering around freezing. Setting up the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner was relatively easy, though adjusting the tilt and pivot angle took a few minutes to find the optimal position. Once set, it held its position securely.
Initially, I was concerned about elk being spooked by the unusual sight of a skull seemingly floating in the air. However, after several hours of observation, a small herd of cows and calves approached within 50 yards without showing any signs of alarm. This was a promising start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across multiple hunts, the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. There are no signs of wear and tear on the mechanism, even after being exposed to rain, snow, and mud.
The finish on the metal components has held up well, and the single set screw remains secure. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes. The positioner easily stows in my pack when I need to move locations.
Compared to my previous hunting seasons, where I relied solely on scent control and natural camouflage, the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner has given me a noticeable advantage. Elk seem less likely to identify me as a threat, allowing me to get closer for a more ethical shot. This gives me great confidence to outperform previous hunts.
Breaking Down the Features of Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner
Specifications
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner boasts several key specifications that contribute to its effectiveness:
- Tilt and Pivot Angle: This allows for precise positioning of the elk skull, mimicking natural head movements and angles to blend seamlessly with the environment. This allows for maximum range of motion.
- Single Set Screw with Included Allen Wrench: Provides a secure and adjustable locking mechanism, ensuring the skull stays in place even in windy conditions. This allows for simple adjustments.
- Works on Real Skulls of Elk & Bigger Game Species: Designed to accommodate real elk skulls, maximizing realism and scent masking. This creates the perfect presentation.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the positioner’s ability to deceive elk. The adjustable angle allows me to match the skull’s position to the surrounding terrain, while the secure locking mechanism prevents unwanted movement that could spook game. The use of a real skull further enhances the illusion, masking human scent and providing a familiar visual cue.
Performance & Functionality
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner performs its job remarkably well. It effectively masks my presence, allowing me to get closer to elk without alerting them.
The tilt and pivot mechanism operates smoothly, making it easy to adjust the skull’s position as needed. The single set screw provides a firm hold, even in gusty winds. The positioner exceeds expectations, offering a level of concealment that I haven’t experienced with other methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner features a simple yet effective design. The materials are durable and lightweight, making it easy to carry in my pack.
The adjustment mechanism is intuitive and user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to set up and adjust. The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner has a low learning curve and works well.
Durability & Maintenance
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner is built to last. The metal components are resistant to corrosion, and the locking mechanism is robust.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner should last many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner comes with a single Allen wrench for adjusting the set screw. There are no additional accessories included, but the positioner can be used with any real elk skull or similar-sized game skull.
While there are no specific customization options available directly from Mountain Mike’s, hunters could potentially modify the skull itself, adding camouflage paint or attaching vegetation to further enhance concealment. Any elk or like sized game skull can be used.
Pros and Cons of Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner
Pros
- Effective scent masking and concealment.
- Adjustable tilt and pivot angle for realistic positioning.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Works with real elk skulls for maximum realism.
Cons
- Requires the use of an elk skull, which may not be readily available to all hunters.
- Relatively limited range of motion compared to a full elk decoy.
Who Should Buy Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner?
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner is perfect for elk hunters who are looking for a unique and effective way to improve their concealment. It is particularly well-suited for hunters who hunt in areas with high elk populations and have access to elk skulls. This is perfect for avid and experienced elk hunters.
Hunters who prefer to use full elk decoys or who hunt in areas where elk are not accustomed to seeing skulls may want to skip this product. This product is not for every type of hunter.
A must-have accessory would be a realistic-looking elk skull to use with the positioner. Also, camo paint might come in handy.
Conclusion on Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner
The Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner is a well-designed and effective tool that can significantly improve an elk hunter’s chances of success. At $39.99, the price is justified given the enhanced concealment and increased opportunity for ethical shots.
I would personally recommend the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner to any elk hunter looking for a unique and innovative edge. The value is definitely there.
Don’t let another elk season pass you by without giving yourself every advantage. Get the Mountain Mike’s Elk Positioner and experience the difference it can make!