First Impressions of Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call
As an avid elk hunter with over a decade of experience, I’ve always been on the lookout for that perfect call – the one that can reach out and touch a bull’s primal instincts. That’s what led me to the Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call. This compact call promises a range of elk sounds, from the subtle calf mew to the aggressive estrus cow call, all packed into a bite-down design that keeps your hands free for the shot.
My elk hunting grounds in the Colorado Rockies demand gear that’s both effective and unobtrusive. I needed a call that wouldn’t interfere with my bow draw, and something compact enough to carry without adding extra bulk. The Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call seemed to tick those boxes.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by its tiny size. At less than two inches, it’s remarkably small! The build quality seems solid for such a diminutive device. It felt comfortable enough between my teeth.
Compared to my larger diaphragm calls and tube-style calls, the Mini Mew is significantly smaller. It’s far less cumbersome than the Primos Hyper Lip Single or the Bugling Bull Game Calls Terminator, both of which I’ve used extensively. The main appeal was its hands-free potential, something neither of my other calls offered.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could something so small really deliver the range and volume needed to call in a mature bull elk? Only time in the field would tell, but the initial impression was definitely intriguing. I was keen to see if it lived up to the promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call was during the early archery season in a high-altitude basin known for its stubborn, call-shy bulls. The weather was typical for the Rockies: crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and the ever-present threat of a sudden downpour. I tested it from various vantage points, mimicking different cow elk vocalizations.
The initial learning curve was steeper than I anticipated. Getting the right tone and volume required more practice than the product description implied. However, after some experimenting, I was able to produce convincing calf mews and some passable estrus cow sounds. The hands-free aspect was a game-changer! I could keep my bow at the ready while calling, a huge advantage when a bull responded quickly.
The biggest surprise was the call’s performance in the wind. Its small size made it susceptible to being drowned out by even a moderate breeze.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use throughout the season, the Mini Mew held up surprisingly well. The reed showed no signs of cracking or warping, and the lanyard remained securely attached. The call did require frequent cleaning. Moisture from my breath and saliva would occasionally cause the reed to stick, affecting the sound.
Despite its durability, the Mini Mew’s limitations became more apparent over time. It excelled at close-range calling, creating subtle herd chatter to reassure approaching elk. However, it lacked the volume and projection needed to reach out across larger distances or penetrate dense timber. Compared to my diaphragm calls, which can deliver piercing bugles and long-range cow calls, the Mini Mew felt underpowered in certain situations.
The Mini Mew requires diligent cleaning, but it’s a quick process involving rinsing with water and allowing it to air dry.
Breaking Down the Features of Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call
Specifications
The Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call is a compact, open-reed mouth call designed for elk hunting. It measures less than two inches in length, making it extremely portable. The manufacturer is Point Blank Hunting Calls.
The key specifications include:
- Open-Reed Design: Allows for a wide range of elk vocalizations.
- Bite-Down Style: Enables hands-free calling while keeping the call out of the way of your bowstring.
- Machine Crafted: Ensures precision and consistency in sound production.
- Lanyard Included: For convenient carrying and accessibility.
- Dimensions: 4.1 inches (Width) x 6 cm (Length) x 1 inch (Height).
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the call’s usability and effectiveness in the field. The compact size is a major advantage for hunters who prioritize mobility and minimal gear. The open-reed design dictates the range of sounds achievable, while the bite-down style caters to hands-free operation, a critical factor for bowhunters.
Performance & Functionality
The Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call performs best in close-range scenarios where subtlety is key. It excels at mimicking calf mews and soft cow calls, ideal for reassuring elk that are already in your vicinity. However, it struggles to project sound over long distances or compete with environmental noise.
Its strengths lie in its compact size and hands-free capability. The weaknesses include its limited volume and sensitivity to wind. The Mini Mew met my expectations for close-range calling, but fell short in situations requiring long-distance communication.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Mini Mew is adequate for its size and intended use. The materials are durable enough to withstand regular use, but the small size can make it slightly awkward to manipulate initially. There’s a moderate learning curve involved in mastering the different sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call should last for several seasons. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent reed sticking and maintain optimal sound quality. Repairing the call is not really feasible, as replacing the reed requires specialized tools and skills.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call comes with a basic lanyard for convenient carrying. There are no other included accessories or official customization options. The design does not lend itself to aftermarket modifications such as reed replacements or sound adjustments.
Pros and Cons of Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call
Pros
- Extremely Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and doesn’t add bulk to your gear.
- Hands-Free Operation: Allows you to keep your hands free for your bow or rifle.
- Good for Close-Range Calling: Excels at subtle calf mews and soft cow calls.
- Durable Construction: Holds up well with regular use and proper care.
- Affordable Price Point: Offers good value for its capabilities.
Cons
- Limited Volume: Not suitable for long-distance calling or noisy environments.
- Steeper Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the different sounds.
Who Should Buy Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call?
The Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call is perfect for:
- Bowhunters who need a hands-free calling option.
- Hunters who prefer a minimalist approach to gear.
- Those who hunt in areas where subtle, close-range calling is effective.
This product is not ideal for:
- Hunters who require a loud, long-distance calling solution.
- Beginners who are unfamiliar with open-reed mouth calls.
- Hunters who frequently hunt in windy conditions.
A must-have accessory would be a small cleaning brush to remove debris from the reed.
Conclusion on Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call
The Point Blank Hunting Calls Mini Mew Cow Call is a niche product that fills a specific need: hands-free, close-range elk calling. Its compact size and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to the gear of certain hunters.
At $35.39, the price is reasonable for its capabilities, but it’s important to understand its limitations. It’s not a replacement for a full-sized diaphragm or tube call, but rather a complement to them.
I would recommend it to experienced bowhunters who understand the nuances of elk behavior and the importance of subtle communication. It’s a specialized tool that, when used correctly, can give you a significant edge in close-quarters encounters. Give it a shot – you might just call in the bull of a lifetime.