The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL Made a Bold First Impression
As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve tested countless elk calls over the years. So, when I saw the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL advertised, I was intrigued. Could a diaphragm call priced under $10 really deliver authentic, mellow cow elk sounds?
My quest for the perfect elk call is ongoing, aiming for a call that offers both versatility and ease of use in various hunting scenarios. My main issue was replicating consistent, realistic cow calls without excessive jaw movement. I hoped this diaphragm call could be a solution.
Upon receiving the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL, I was immediately struck by its simple design. The latex seemed thin, almost delicate, but I was eager to see if this translated to a realistic sound. The “Palate Plate” design was also intriguing, promising easier control and reduced gagging. It looked promising, especially compared to some bulkier calls I’ve used.
I’ve used calls like the Primos Hyper Lip Single and the Bugling Bull Game Calls Palate Plate series. While effective, they can be a bit bulky and require more precise mouth positioning. The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL stood out with its minimalist approach and focus on a comfortable fit. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The price point made me question the longevity, but the design suggested it might offer something different in terms of ease of use and sound quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL occurred during a scouting trip in the high country of Colorado. I was specifically targeting areas known for holding elk cows and calves. The weather was cool and damp, with a light rain falling intermittently.
The initial learning curve was minimal. The Manufacturer, Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls, suggests placing the call far forward, and this proved crucial for consistent sound production. At first, the calls were a bit raspy, but adjusting the pressure and airflow quickly yielded softer, more realistic cow sounds. The “Palate Plate” design genuinely seemed to mitigate gagging, a common issue I face with diaphragm calls.
After about 30 minutes of practice, I was able to produce a variety of convincing cow calls. The elk were active, responding to my calls within a short period of time. One minor issue arose: the latex seemed to become slightly slippery when wet, requiring more frequent adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL has held up surprisingly well. There is some visible wear on the latex, but it hasn’t significantly affected the sound quality. I’ve used it in dry, dusty conditions, as well as in freezing temperatures, and it has consistently performed.
Durability-wise, the call is showing minor signs of wear and tear. The latex has stretched slightly, but this is expected with repeated use. Maintenance is simple. I rinse it with water after each use and allow it to air dry. This prevents the buildup of saliva and prolongs the life of the latex.
In comparison to previous diaphragm calls I’ve used, the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL offers a similar level of performance. However, its ease of use and comfortable fit are definite advantages. It has become a staple in my elk hunting arsenal, consistently producing effective cow calls that attract elk.
Breaking Down the Features of ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL
Specifications
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL is a diaphragm elk call designed for producing soft, mellow cow elk sounds. It features two small cuts in the latex that contribute to the unique sound profile. The call incorporates the “Palate Plate” design, which is intended for placement further forward in the mouth. This design aims to prevent gagging and provide easier control over the latex.
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL is designed for ease of use and comfort. The Palate Plate, positioned against the roof of the mouth, stabilizes the call. The specific cuts in the latex are crucial for creating the desired mellow tones. This design enhances realism and effectiveness in attracting elk.
Performance & Functionality
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL excels at producing soft, realistic cow elk sounds. Its mellow tones are particularly effective in close-range calling scenarios. The “Palate Plate” design allows for consistent sound production with minimal effort.
The call’s strength lies in its ability to create subtle, enticing cow calls. One weakness is its limited range compared to bugle tubes or other more aggressive calls. It meets expectations for producing realistic cow sounds, but it may not be ideal for long-distance calling.
Design & Ergonomics
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL features a simple, minimalist design. It’s constructed from thin latex and a molded plastic “Palate Plate.” The call is lightweight and comfortable in the mouth.
The user-friendly design makes it easy to learn and use, even for beginners. The forward placement of the call reduces the likelihood of gagging. This enhances comfort during extended calling sessions.
Durability & Maintenance
While the latex is thin, the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL is reasonably durable. With proper care, it should last for at least one hunting season. Regular cleaning and proper storage are essential for prolonging its lifespan.
Maintenance is straightforward. Rinsing with water after each use and allowing it to air dry is sufficient. Replacing the latex may be necessary after extended use, depending on frequency and intensity of calling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for this particular call. However, it can be used in conjunction with other elk calls, such as bugle tubes or cow calls, to create a more varied sound profile.
While the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL doesn’t offer many options, it can easily integrate with other calls from brands like Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls to increase the odds of elk attraction.
Pros and Cons of ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL
Pros
- Produces realistic, mellow cow elk sounds.
- “Palate Plate” design minimizes gagging and enhances comfort.
- Easy to learn and use, even for beginners.
- Lightweight and comfortable in the mouth.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Limited range compared to other types of elk calls.
- Latex may require occasional adjustment.
Who Should Buy ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL?
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL is perfect for elk hunters who specialize in close-range calling. It’s especially useful in areas with dense cover, where soft, subtle calls are more effective. This call is also ideal for beginner elk hunters who are new to using diaphragm calls.
Hunters seeking long-distance calling capabilities should skip this product. They would be better served by investing in a bugle tube or a more aggressive cow call. A must-have accessory is a call case or lanyard to protect the latex and keep the call readily accessible.
Conclusion on ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL
The ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL is an excellent diaphragm call for producing realistic, mellow cow elk sounds. Its “Palate Plate” design enhances comfort and ease of use, making it a great choice for beginners. The price is more than justified by its performance and functionality.
I would personally recommend the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL to any elk hunter looking for a reliable and effective cow call. If you’re ready to improve your elk calling success with realistic and subtle sounds, give the ROCKY MTN MELLO MOMMA DIA ELK CALL a try. You might be surprised at how effective this simple call can be in bringing those big bulls running.