PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL Review

First Thoughts on the PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL

The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL is a compact, open-reed elk call designed to mimic the sounds of a cow elk. Primos promises big results from a small package, boasting a wide range of tones and volumes. Priced at $9.99, it sits firmly in the budget-friendly category, piquing my interest as a potentially excellent value proposition.

My elk hunting experience is extensive, spanning multiple states and seasons. I was looking for a simple, reliable call that wouldn’t break the bank but could still effectively draw in bulls. The lure of a call that could transition from soft mews to aggressive cow calls with just a change in air pressure was particularly appealing.

Upon receiving the PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL, I was immediately struck by its size. It truly is compact, fitting easily into the palm of my hand. The plastic construction felt surprisingly sturdy, though clearly not as robust as some of my higher-end diaphragm calls. Compared to my diaphragm calls from Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls and my tube calls from Bugling Bull Game Calls, the Mewie Grande seemed almost too simplistic. However, sometimes simplicity is the key, especially in the heat of the moment.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The size and price were certainly appealing, but the proof would be in the calling. I was eager to see if this little call could truly deliver on Primos’s promise of big bull attraction.

Real-World Testing: Putting PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL occurred during a pre-season scouting trip in the high country of Colorado. I wanted to simulate realistic hunting conditions, so I ventured into areas known for elk activity. The terrain was varied, with dense timber patches interspersed with open meadows.

The first call I attempted was a soft, inquisitive mew. The Mewie Grande produced a surprisingly realistic sound with minimal air pressure. Transitioning to a more aggressive cow call proved equally easy, requiring only a slight increase in breath support. In the cool morning air, the sound carried surprisingly well. There were no elk responses at this time, however, the calls sounded authentic.

The one initial issue was the tendency to “stick” if my lips were too wet. I quickly learned to modulate my saliva and keep the reed relatively dry for optimal performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it extensively during archery season in both wet and dry conditions. There are no signs of cracking or structural failure despite being constructed of what appears to be a simple plastic.

Cleaning is incredibly easy; simply rinsing it with water is sufficient. Occasional use of a cotton swab to remove any debris from the reed ensures consistent sound quality. Compared to my collection of diaphragm calls that require meticulous cleaning and storage, the Mewie Grande is refreshingly low-maintenance.

The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL doesn’t outperform my high-end calls in terms of pure sound quality or nuanced vocalizations. However, its ease of use and reliability make it a valuable tool in my arsenal. During one hunt, I used the Mewie Grande to successfully call in a satellite bull that was otherwise unresponsive to my diaphragm calls. It really shines as a backup call or for hunters new to elk calling.

Breaking Down the Features of PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL

Specifications

• Compact Size: The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL is designed to be easily portable and fit comfortably in hand. This makes it convenient for carrying in a pocket or on a lanyard during hunts.

• Open Reed Design: It features an open reed, which allows for a wide range of tones and volumes. This provides versatility in mimicking different cow elk vocalizations.

• Enhancer: The call includes an “enhancer” that contributes to the call’s ability to produce both soft and loud calls. This is essential for attracting bulls from varying distances and in different scenarios.

• Easy to Blow: Minimal air pressure is needed to produce sound. This reduces fatigue and allows for extended calling sessions.

• Hands-Free Capability: The call can be used hands-free in some situations, though this depends on the user’s preference and technique. This is advantageous for hunters who need to keep their hands free for their weapon or other tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL excels at producing a variety of realistic cow elk sounds. It transitions effortlessly from soft mews and chirps to loud, aggressive cow calls with simple adjustments to air pressure. This versatility is crucial for adapting to different hunting situations and elk behavior.

Its greatest strength is its simplicity and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for beginner elk hunters. The primary weakness is that it lacks the nuance and complexity of higher-end diaphragm or tube calls. While it can produce a wide range of sounds, it might not fool a particularly wary bull in close proximity. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a call in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL is made from molded plastic, which keeps the weight down and enhances durability. The compact size is comfortable to hold and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. This is crucial for maintaining control and producing consistent sounds in cold weather.

The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There’s a slight learning curve to master the air pressure and lip placement needed to produce the desired sounds. However, with just a few minutes of practice, most hunters should be able to achieve satisfactory results.

Durability & Maintenance

The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL is surprisingly durable for its size and construction. The molded plastic is resistant to cracking and breaking, even with rough handling. This is important for ensuring the call can withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting.

Maintenance is minimal; simply rinsing with water and occasionally cleaning the reed is all that’s required. With proper care, it should last for several seasons of moderate to heavy use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL doesn’t come with any accessories. It is a standalone product designed for immediate use. This simplicity aligns with its overall design philosophy of being a user-friendly, no-frills elk call.

There are no customization options available for this call. However, it is compatible with most standard lanyards. This allows hunters to keep the call readily accessible while keeping their hands free.

Pros and Cons of PRIMOS MEWIE GRANDE COW ELK CALL