First Thoughts on the Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call, brought to you by Primos, promises to cut through the noise and bring those bulls running. With its acrylic construction and open reed design specifically tuned for long-range calling, it aims to be the elk hunter’s secret weapon. This call isn’t about subtle nuances; it’s about raw power and projecting realistic cow and calf sounds across vast distances.
My elk season last year was a frustrating exercise in auditory limitations. I could hear bulls responding to other hunters, but my calls seemed to fall short, unable to reach those distant animals. I needed a call that could deliver the goods at extreme ranges, hence my interest in the Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the solid feel of the acrylic barrel. It’s denser than the plastic calls I’m used to, hinting at improved sound projection. The open reed looks simple enough, and the call feels comfortable in my hand, ready for action.
I considered the Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Bully Bull Extreme and the Elk Reaper Game Calls Raging Bull before settling on the Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call. While the Bully Bull boasts similar volume, the Primos felt more controlled. The Raging Bull seemed more focused on bull sounds, whereas I needed a versatile cow and calf call for my hunting style.
My initial impression is cautiously optimistic. I’m eager to see if it lives up to its long-range claims and delivers the volume and realism I’m seeking. Will it bring the elk in, or will it join the pile of calls that promise more than they deliver?
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call was in the rugged mountains of Western Montana. I was hunting a large basin known for holding elk but also notorious for strong winds that can easily drown out calls. The wind howled, but I pressed on, hoping the Tramplifier could overcome the environmental hurdle.
The call performed admirably despite the challenging conditions. I was able to produce clear, loud cow and calf mews that carried surprisingly well against the wind. The ease of use was apparent immediately; even with the wind buffeting me, I could reliably produce the desired sounds with minimal effort. I blew several series of calls and waited.
To my surprise, within about 20 minutes, a young bull appeared on the ridge above me. It was drawn in by the realistic cow sounds of the Tramplifier. Though it wasn’t the mature bull I was after, the experience solidified my initial positive assessment of the call’s capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of hunting in various terrains and weather conditions, the Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call has proven its worth. The acrylic barrel has held up well to the rigors of the backcountry, showing no signs of cracking or damage despite being subjected to extreme temperatures and rough handling. It’s a call that can withstand the abuse that hunting gear often endures.
Maintaining the call is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with water after each hunt is typically all that’s needed to keep it in optimal working condition. The reed hasn’t required any adjustments or replacement so far, indicating its durability and quality construction. It performs consistently hunt after hunt, year after year.
In comparison to other open reed calls I’ve used, the Primos Tramplifier stands out for its combination of volume, ease of use, and durability. Previous calls often required constant tuning or would falter in wet conditions, problems I haven’t encountered with this Primos model. It outperforms my older calls and has quickly become a staple in my elk hunting arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call
Specifications
- The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call features a premium acrylic barrel. This material is known for its durability and resonant qualities, contributing to the call’s volume and sound clarity.
- It utilizes an open single-reed design, which allows for achieving the higher pitches characteristic of cow and calf calls. Open reed calls typically offer more versatility and control over the produced sounds.
- The Tramplifier is specifically designed for long-range calling. It is engineered to project sound effectively over significant distances.
- The call produces accurate estrous cow calls, a sound known to be highly effective in attracting bulls during the rut. These estrous sounds are key in bringing in mature bulls looking for cows ready to breed.
- It’s designed to be easy to blow, minimizing the learning curve for both novice and experienced elk hunters. Consistent results are achievable with minimal practice.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call excels at its primary job: reaching elk at long distances with realistic cow and calf sounds. Its loud and clear tone cuts through wind and other environmental noise, increasing the chances of attracting distant bulls.
One of its strengths is its ease of use. Even beginners can quickly learn to produce convincing cow and calf calls with minimal practice.
A potential weakness is its limited versatility; it’s primarily designed for cow and calf sounds and might not be the best choice for hunters who prefer to focus solely on bull bugles and growls. It doesn’t quite capture the deep, guttural sounds of a mature bull as authentically as specialized bull calls. However, it excels at what it’s designed to do.
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call meets and often exceeds expectations for a long-range cow and calf call. Its performance has been consistently reliable in various hunting situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call features a durable acrylic barrel. The barrel provides a solid feel and comfortable grip.
The call is relatively easy to use, even for beginners. The open reed design allows for a good degree of control and modulation of the sounds produced.
The design is practical, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. It’s built for performance and durability in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The acrylic construction ensures a long lifespan. The call can withstand the rigors of elk hunting.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick rinse with water after use is usually sufficient to keep the reed clean and functioning properly.
The simple design minimizes potential failure points. The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call is designed to last for years with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call does not come with a wide range of accessories. However, its open reed design makes it relatively easy to replace the reed if needed, though after a full season of use, I haven’t needed to do so.
While there aren’t many customization options specifically designed for this model, the standard size of the call allows it to be used with lanyards from various brands. Using a lanyard keeps the call readily accessible.
The Primos website and other retailers offer a variety of elk hunting accessories that can complement the call, such as diaphragm calls for creating bull sounds. Combining the Tramplifier with a quality diaphragm call broadens your calling capabilities.
Pros and Cons of Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call
Pros
- Excellent Long Range Projection: Projects realistic cow and calf sounds effectively over long distances.
- Easy to Use: The open reed design is simple to learn and use, even for beginners.
- Durable Acrylic Construction: Withstands the rigors of hunting in various conditions.
- Realistic Estrous Cow Calls: Produces accurate sounds that attract bulls during the rut.
- Minimal Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain for long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Limited versatility: It’s primarily suited for cow and calf sounds, not bull bugles or growls.
- Sound can be affected if reed gets too wet, requiring a quick blow to dry it out.
Who Should Buy Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call?
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call is perfect for elk hunters who prioritize long-range calling and realistic cow and calf sounds. It’s also an excellent choice for beginner elk hunters looking for an easy-to-use and reliable call. Experienced hunters who need a dedicated long-range cow call will find it valuable.
This product might not be ideal for hunters who prefer to focus exclusively on bull sounds. Hunters who require a call that produces a wide range of elk vocalizations might also prefer a different option, or one that is used in conjunction with the Tramplifier.
A must-have accessory is a quality lanyard to keep the call readily accessible. Also, pairing it with a diaphragm call for producing bull sounds would create a more versatile calling setup.
Conclusion on Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call
The Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call is a powerful tool for any elk hunter looking to reach distant animals with realistic cow and calf sounds. Its ease of use, durability, and impressive sound projection make it a standout product in its category.
The price of $36.49 is justified by its performance and build quality. It offers excellent value for money compared to other long-range elk calls on the market.
I would absolutely recommend the Primos Tramplifier Open Reed Long Range Elk Call to anyone serious about elk hunting. It’s a reliable and effective call that has earned a permanent place in my hunting pack. Don’t let another elk season pass you by; get the Primos Tramplifier and bring those bulls running!