First Thoughts on the ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent years immersed in the world of hunting, relying heavily on the effectiveness of my gear. Calling elk is an art, a dance between hunter and hunted, and the tools we use are paramount to success. The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL promises to deliver the sounds needed to lure in a trophy bull, and at a price point of $7.49, it’s certainly an intriguing proposition.
What drew me to the BLACK MAGIC GTP was the “Golden Tone Plate” design; a feature that ROCKY MTN claims enhances both the bugling and cow calling capabilities. I’ve been searching for a versatile diaphragm call that can produce both the aggressive challenge of a bull and the softer, more alluring sounds of a cow elk without having to switch calls. That seamless transition is critical in a fast-paced hunting scenario.
Upon receiving the ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL, I immediately noticed its simple yet seemingly well-constructed design. It felt lightweight and comfortable in my hand. The diaphragm material appeared to be of decent quality, showing no immediate signs of weakness or imperfections.
Compared to my other diaphragm calls, such as the Primos Hyper Lip Single and the Bugling Bull Game Calls Palate Plate, the BLACK MAGIC GTP felt slightly thinner and more pliable. This initially gave me hope for a wider range of tonal capabilities. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL seemed like a potentially valuable addition to my calling arsenal, especially given its affordable price.
Real-World Testing: Putting ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL on a scouting trip to the high country of Colorado, focusing on areas known to hold elk. The weather was unpredictable, shifting between sunshine and light rain, with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I wanted to test its versatility in varying conditions. The initial calling session was conducted in a small meadow surrounded by aspen trees.
I started with some simple cow mews, and the BLACK MAGIC GTP produced a reasonably realistic sound, albeit requiring more air pressure than some of my other calls. Moving on to bugles, I found it took some practice to achieve the desired deep, resonant tone. The call seemed to be more suited to higher-pitched, more raspy bugles, which might be effective for imitating younger bulls. The only issue encountered after initial use was excessive moisture buildup causing inconsistent sound.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL on various scouting and hunting trips, I have a clearer picture of its capabilities. The durability has been surprisingly good; the diaphragm has held up well with no visible tears or damage. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a rinse with water and air drying.
However, the call’s limitations became more apparent over time. While it initially produced decent cow calls, maintaining consistency proved challenging, particularly in colder weather. The BLACK MAGIC GTP requires frequent adjustments and precise mouth positioning to prevent squeaks or flat notes. Compared to calls I’ve used in the past, this call needs more maintenance in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL
Specifications
- The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL features the GOLDEN TONE Plate, which is ROCKY MTN’s proprietary frame designed to enhance tonal clarity and range. This frame is intended to make the call excel at both bull bugles and cow mews.
- It is a diaphragm call, meaning it is designed to be used hands-free inside the mouth. This allows the hunter to keep their hands free for holding a bow or rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL is intended to be a versatile call, capable of producing both bull bugles and cow mews. While it can produce a range of elk sounds, it excels more at higher-pitched bugles and less so at deep, resonant tones. It functions adequately for cow calls, but requires a fair amount of finesse to avoid inconsistent sounds.
The call’s primary weakness lies in its consistency, particularly in varying weather conditions. Its strengths are its relatively low price point and decent durability. It meets some expectations for a basic diaphragm call, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The BLACK MAGIC GTP has a simple and lightweight design. It is comfortable to hold in the mouth for extended periods.
However, the thinness of the diaphragm can make it somewhat sensitive, requiring precise mouth positioning and air pressure control. This can lead to a steeper learning curve for novice callers.
Durability & Maintenance
The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL has proven to be fairly durable despite its thin diaphragm. With proper care, it should last for at least a season or two of regular use.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving only cleaning with water and air drying after each use. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of saliva and debris, ensuring consistent sound quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL does not come with any additional accessories. Being a diaphragm call, customization options are limited to the caller’s mouth positioning and air pressure techniques.
It is compatible with lanyards for easy carrying and storage. These can be purchased separately from ROCKY MTN or other hunting supply retailers.
Pros and Cons of ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $7.49, this call is a budget-friendly option for hunters looking to experiment with diaphragm calls.
- Decent Durability: The diaphragm has proven to be surprisingly resilient, holding up well under regular use.
- Lightweight & Comfortable: Its slim design makes it comfortable to hold in the mouth for extended calling sessions.
- Versatile Sound Production: Capable of producing a range of elk sounds, including cow mews and bugles, although it excels more at the former.
- Easy to Clean: Simple maintenance with just water and air drying.
Cons
- Inconsistent Sound: The call requires precise mouth positioning and air pressure, leading to inconsistent sounds, particularly in varying weather conditions.
- Steeper Learning Curve: Novice callers may find it challenging to master the necessary techniques to produce consistent, realistic elk sounds.
Who Should Buy ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL?
The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL is perfect for novice elk hunters looking for an inexpensive entry point into diaphragm calling. It can also be a good option for experienced hunters seeking a backup call or one to experiment with different calling techniques without breaking the bank.
This product is not ideal for hunters who demand the highest level of consistency and realism in their calls, or for those who hunt in extreme weather conditions where call performance is critical. Experienced hunters looking for a reliable, all-weather diaphragm call should consider higher-end options.
A lanyard for easy carrying is a must-have accessory. Hunters may also want to consider purchasing additional diaphragm calls to broaden their sound repertoire.
Conclusion on ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL
The ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL offers a decent value proposition for its low price. It’s a functional call that can produce a range of elk sounds.
However, its inconsistent sound and steeper learning curve may deter serious or experienced hunters. The price is justified if you are on a budget and willing to practice.
I would recommend this call to beginner elk hunters. Just be prepared to invest time in mastering the necessary calling techniques. Ultimately, the ROCKY MTN BLACK MAGIC GTP DIA ELK CALL is a decent entry-level option. With consistent practice, it could potentially bring that bull of a lifetime closer. Now get out there and make some magic happen in the elk woods!