ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL Review

The ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL Made a Bold First Impression

Elk hunting is a passion that burns deep within me. The crisp mountain air, the majestic bulls, and the challenge of the hunt itself are all irresistible. Years of chasing bugles have taught me the importance of quality calls, and that’s what led me to the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL.

I needed a reliable diaphragm call that could produce both convincing cow calls and aggressive bugles, all while being easy to use and prevent gagging. Countless hunts have hinged on that perfect call, the one that pulls a bull out of the timber. The ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL promises that versatility.

Upon opening the package, I was immediately drawn to the call’s construction. The double latex design felt sturdy and well-made, the special notch cut in the latex promising a unique sound. The “Palate Plate” design was intriguing, seemingly designed to prevent the dreaded gag reflex that plagues so many diaphragm calls. It felt compact and ready for action.

Compared to other diaphragm calls I’ve used – models from Primos and ElkNut in particular – the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL stood out due to its unique notch cut and the Palate Plate design. Other calls often required excessive tongue pressure and placement adjustments, something I hoped this call would eliminate. It felt different, like Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls had truly considered the user experience.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to get into the field and see if the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL could live up to its promise. The design was unique and confidence-inspiring, leaving me excited to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a high-country meadow in the Colorado Rockies, elevation 9,500 feet. I was there for the early archery season. The weather was classic September: crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and a constant threat of afternoon thunderstorms.

I tested the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL in both wet and dry conditions. The call produced a clear, consistent sound even when slightly damp from rain or saliva. Getting used to the Palate Plate required a little adjustment. Placing it further forward in my mouth behind my front teeth felt strange at first.

The initial bugles were raspy and aggressive, just as promised. The cow calls, however, took a little more finesse. Initially, I struggled to achieve the subtle variations in tone necessary for a convincing estrus whine.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL has proven its worth, with some reservations. It has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of tearing or significant wear on the latex.

The call remains relatively easy to clean, simply rinsing it with water after use. Regular drying is crucial to prevent mold and maintain hygiene. My experience with previous calls often involved latex degradation and inconsistent sound after a few weeks of heavy use. This hasn’t been the case with the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL.

Compared to previous diaphragm calls, the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL offers a noticeable improvement in terms of sound quality and durability. However, the learning curve for achieving realistic cow calls is steeper than I initially anticipated. It is not necessarily easier to use, just different.

Breaking Down the Features of ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL

Specifications

• Built on the GTP Frame: This frame provides a comfortable and consistent fit in the mouth, aiding in sound production and minimizing gagging. This is crucial for long calling sessions.
• Double Latex Construction: The double latex layers contribute to the call’s durability and tonal range. This allows for versatile call production.
• Special Notch Cut: This notch is specifically designed to add extra excitement to cow calls and facilitate aggressive bugles. The notch helps with rasp and inflection.
• “Palate Plate” Design: This design places the call further forward in the mouth, preventing gagging and improving control. This design is meant to simplify operation.

Performance & Functionality

The ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL excels at producing loud, aggressive bugles. The special notch cut definitely enhances the rasp and volume, making it ideal for challenging dominant bulls. However, mastering the subtle nuances of cow calls requires dedicated practice.

The call’s strengths lie in its robust construction, ease of cleaning, and ability to generate powerful bugles. The primary weakness is the steeper learning curve for achieving realistic and varied cow calls. It mostly meets expectations, but it’s not a magic bullet for instant elk calling mastery.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is impressive for a call in this price range. The materials feel durable, and the GTP frame provides a comfortable fit. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry and use for extended periods.

The “Palate Plate” design is a thoughtful addition, significantly reducing the gag reflex. The learning curve is present. However, the comfort and control improvements are worth the effort.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL should easily last for multiple hunting seasons. Regular cleaning and drying are essential to prevent mold and maintain sound quality. Latex calls are consumable items; however, this one seems more resilient.

The simple design makes maintenance straightforward. There are no complicated parts or mechanisms to worry about. This call is about simple reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL does not come with any accessories. It’s a standalone diaphragm call. Given the nature of diaphragm calls, customization is limited.

However, users can experiment with different mouth pressures and tongue positions to achieve various sounds. It is compatible with various call lanyards for easy access in the field.

Pros and Cons of ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL

Who Should Buy ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL?

The ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL is perfect for elk hunters who prioritize aggressive bugling and are willing to invest time in mastering cow call techniques. It’s also an excellent choice for hunters who struggle with gagging when using traditional diaphragm calls. Beginner and intermediate elk hunters could benefit from its design.

Hunters seeking a call that produces realistic cow calls right out of the package should consider other options. This call requires patience and practice. The must-have accessory would be a call lanyard for easy access while hunting.

Conclusion on ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL

The ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL is a solid and affordable diaphragm call that delivers on its promise of powerful bugles and reduced gagging. While mastering realistic cow calls requires dedication, the call’s durability, ease of maintenance, and aggressive sound make it a worthwhile addition to any elk hunter’s arsenal. The $9.49 price is easily justified.

I would recommend the ROCKY MTN TINES UP DIA ELK CALL to hunters seeking a reliable and versatile call, especially those prioritizing bugling and struggling with gagging. This is not a “magic” call but with practice, it could be a game-changer. Pick one up, practice, and get ready to challenge some bulls!