What is the best elk call? That’s a question that many hunters have asked themselves at some point. If you’re one of those people, then this guide should help answer your questions and recommend the perfect call to use on your next hunting trip! We’ll discuss what you need to know about different types of calls and how to choose which one will work best for you.
An elk call is a type of hunting call that is used to imitate the mating calls of bulls and cows. Elk calls can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, or metal. They are usually handheld devices that have one or more reeds inside them. When you blow into the mouthpiece of the call, air travels through the reeds and causes them to vibrate. This creates sound waves that mimic the vocalizations of an elk.
There are several different types of elk calls on the market, and each one has its own unique features and capabilities. Some calls make basic sounds that replicate the cries of bulls and cows, while others allow you to create more complex tones and patterns. Knowing which call to use in different situations can be the difference between bagging an elk and going home empty-handed.
Best Elk Calls Reviewed
The Primos Elk Hunter’s Master Pack is an all-inclusive package that contains everything you need for a successful elk call season. It features two of the company’s most popular elk calls, including a Rebel Gator Call and BullFrog Deer/Elk Call with three reeds each. The pack also includes four different decoys: one snow goose, one Canada goose, one mallard drake and one wood duck.
A total of eight calling cards are included in this set to make it easier than ever to create realistic sounds on your own without having to spend extra money buying them separately when they run out! A carrying case makes it easy to take these items anywhere you want so there will never be any excuses not to have the perfect elk call when you need it.
The Primos Elk Hunter’s Master Pack is available on Amazon for around $60. It’s a great investment for anyone who wants to up their success rate during the next elk hunting season!
- Comes with two of Primos’ most popular elk calls
- Includes four different decoys
- Carrying case included
- Eight calling cards included
- None identified
The Primos Terminator Elk Call has been proven to be very successful in luring elk, making it one of the best on the market today. This call features a solid construction that will hold up well over time and come through any weather conditions you may encounter while hunting. The sound quality is superb; three reeds allow for loud calls as well as soft ones if semi-aggressive calling is needed.
In addition to its performance during actual hunts, this product also excels at practice sessions: two extra mouthpieces are included so there’s no need to spend money ordering them separately when you want to try something new or make sure your skills are top notch before heading out into the field with an unfamiliar call! A soft carry bag is also included.
Additionally, this product has received high marks from those who have used it: the overwhelming number of positive reviews and the fact that so many hunters choose to purchase this item again when they need a replacement or an additional call speak volumes about its quality!
- Solid construction
- Superb sound quality, with three reeds for a wide range of calls
- Includes two extra mouthpieces and a soft carry bag
- High marks from users
- None found!
The Primos Hoochie Mama Elk Call is a great choice for those just starting out in the world of elk hunting, or as an addition to your collection if you’re already familiar with its high quality. It features three reeds that give it plenty of volume and variety, while keeping sounds clear at even long distances.
It also has a solid construction which will hold up well over time; this call was designed so that hunters can use it repeatedly without worrying about damaging any part of the product! A soft-sided carry bag is included: simply throw everything into one place when packing up after practice sessions or before heading off on hunts and keep things organized during transport. The price tag makes this item very affordable for such a versatile piece of equipment.
- Affordable
- Durable and reliable construction
- None!
The Carlton’s Calls by Hunters Specialties Mac Daddy Elk Call with Infinity Reed is a great option for those looking for an elk call that can do it all. This product was designed to create the perfect sounds for any hunting situation, from close-up encounters to long range calling. It features a built-in reed system which provides plenty of volume and realism, and its unique shape makes it easy to hold and use even when your hands are wet or cold.
It also comes with an instructional DVD that will teach you how to use the call effectively in any scenario; this is a great resource for beginners who want to make sure they get the most out of their purchase. The price tag might seem a bit high, but this is a quality product that will last for years. It’s also worth mentioning that it comes with a money back guarantee, so if you don’t like the call or feel like it doesn’t meet your needs, simply return it and get your money refunded.
- Loud and clear
- Easy to hold even when wet or cold
- Expensive
The Primos Elk Select is another great option for those looking for an all-in-one elk call. This product was designed to reproduce the four most common elk calls – bugle, clatter, mew and whine – so you can always sound like a pro whether you’re calling in close or far away. It also features an ergonomic design that makes it easy and comfortable to hold, even when your hands are cold or wet.
It comes with a handy carrying case which makes it easy to take with you on your next hunting trip, and the price tag is very reasonable compared to some of the other options on the market. Overall, this is a great choice for anyone who wants an affordable, durable elk call that can do it all.
The Primos Elk Select is another great option for those looking for an all-in-one elk call. This product was designed to reproduce the four most common elk calls – bugle, clatter, mew and whine – so you can always sound like a pro whether you’re calling in close or far away. It also features an ergonomic design that makes it easy and comfortable to hold, even when your hands are cold or wet.
- Affordable
- Ergonomic design. It is comfortable to hold and easy to use, even when your hands are cold or wet.
- May be too basic for some hunters.
If you’re looking for the highest quality elk call on this list, look no further than the Raging Bull Palate Plate Diaphragm Elk Call. This is a high-end product that was designed to produce incredibly realistic calls with every use. It utilizes advanced technology and features three different chambers so it can recreate bugles as well as grunts and rasps of either bull or cow elk depending on which side you choose.
The mouth hole is also extra wide, allowing more air through at once – resulting in louder calls, while still maintaining great tone. Many hunters say they are able to mimic sound like animals do in the wild thanks to these audio capabilities. All together, this makes one of easiest products to use, while still being able to produce great sounds.
- Very realistic call
- Three chambers for extra realism
- Wide mouth hole allows for louder sounds and better tone
- Prone to damage if not handled carefully
This is another great option for a high-end elk call. The Hunters Specialties Carlton’s Calls Rowdy Bull Bugle Elk Call has top of the line sound quality and realistic sounds that are sure to attract attention from even wary bulls. It features three unique chambers, including one chamber with a tongue piece specifically designed for cow moans and bugles – making it easy to mimic both sexes of elk.
The other two chambers include natural latex reeds which can create raspy grunts or intimidating growls at either end, adding versatility when you need several distinct calls in one kit (or on your next hunt). This particular model also comes with an all-weather molded case so it’ll stay safe while in your backpack.
This elk call is made from a high-quality polymer that ensures longevity of the product and lets it absorb more sound than many other calls on the market. It’s also easy to clean, which means you can spend less time cleaning up after yourself in between each use and more time scouting for game or out enjoying the hunt.
- High quality sound and realistic calls
- Three unique chambers for varied sounds
- All weather molded case
- Easy to clean
- More expensive than other options on the market.
The Primos Imaka Da Bullcrazy Call is a unique, handmade elk call that delivers some of the highest quality sounds you can find. It features three chambers and includes latex reeds just like many other premium calls on the market. The difference with this model is in its construction: it’s made from wood rather than plastic or foam-based materials which makes for a much more realistic sound without sacrificing any volume (or range).
This particular kit comes with an all weather molded case so you won’t have to worry about damaging your new toy while out in nature – even if temps drop down below freezing overnight! Most users report being impressed by how loud their calls are able to get despite not having been broken in yet, and the richness of the tone is sure to bring in even the wariest bulls.
- Handcrafted from wood for a more realistic sound
- Loud and clear even when wet or cold
- Comes with an all weather molded case
- May be too rich of a tone for some users
The Hunters Specialties Carlton’s Calls Boss Cow Elk Call is a very different product from the Imaka Da Bullcrazy; it features an adjustable reed system that allows you to play low notes, high notes and even growls. The call itself is constructed of foam so there are no latex reeds to worry about becoming damaged or requiring replacement – this particular model also comes with two additional chambers for added range.
The included instructional DVD provides some useful information on how best to use your new toy in order to reap maximum benefits, though many users report being able to figure out the basics without any trouble at all once they get started! This elk call can be used effectively by hunters who prefer stalking over still hunting as well due its ability to produce a variety of sounds, from bugles and catch-up calls to cow moans.
- Excellent for stealthy hunting
- Includes instructional DVD
- Not effective at producing bugles or catch up calls
What to look for in the right elk calls
There are three main types of elk calls on the market: bugles, rattles, and bleats.
- Bugle Calls
Bugle calls are designed to mimic the loud, guttural vocalizations of bulls. They can be used to attract deer from long distances or simulate a challenge call to other bulls.
- Rattle Calls
Rattles calls consist of two or more metal balls that are attached to a handle. When you shake the rattle, the balls collide and create a sound that replicates the cries of an elk in distress.
- Bleat Calls
Bleat calls imitate the soft whines and moans made by cows during the breeding season. Cows use these sounds to communicate with each other, and by using a bleat call, you can lure them closer to your position.
The material that an elk call is made from can also play a role in its effectiveness. Here are some things to consider:
- Plastic Calls
Plastic calls are typically the cheapest and most basic type of elk call on the market. They are easy to use and often come with instructions that explain how to create different sounds. However, they aren’t as loud as other types of calls, so they may not be suitable for use in hunting situations where you need to make your presence known from a distance.
- Wooden Calls
Wooden calls are louder than plastic calls and often have a more realistic sound quality. They are also less prone to breaking, making them a good option for those who plan on using their call frequently.
- Metal Calls
Metal calls are the loudest type of elk call and can be heard from a great distance. However, they are also the most fragile, so they may not be suitable for those who plan on taking their call into rugged terrain.
Adjustability refers to the number of different sounds that a call can create. While some calls are limited in this regard, others offer more features and allow you to adjust pitch, volume, tone quality, range and other factors.
The accuracy of an elk call is determined by how closely it imitates real-life sounds made by deer herds or bucks locked in battle during mating season. Some manufacturers have done extensive research into the matter; others simply make a call and hope for the best.
Elk calls are not created equal, so do your research before buying! Study product reviews to find a model that offers the features you need at an affordable price point. Don’t purchase a noisy or cheap elk call when it is possible to get a high-quality, effective one instead.
Some elk calls come with a number of useful features that can make your life easier.
- Ear Plugs
Ear plugs are designed to provide hearing protection while you’re on stand, reducing the risk of damage from prolonged exposure to loud sound waves.
- Rods
Rods help keep moisture out of your call so it works properly in even rainy or snowy conditions.
- Reeds
These replaceable parts ensure that your call sounds authentic year after year as they wear down and need replacing occasionally.
- Etched glass window
This feature allows you to see how much air is left in the reservoir at all times so there’s no guesswork involved when recharging an empty tank before each use.
- Bull Racks
Bull racks are used to store your call and other gear on the back of a bull elk. They can be attached to any tree you find, allowing you to keep all your gear accessible at all times.
- Horn Buttons
Horn buttons attach easily to most types of wood calls with little effort, keeping them in place while also helping reduce unnecessary noise when they are not being used.
- Safety Whistle
A safety whistle allows others (or yourself) who may be hunting nearby or hiking through the area to hear that you’re there so they don’t accidentally stumble into your location by mistake.
- Ear Muffs
Ear muffs help protect both ears from damage caused by loud sound waves generated by elk calls, as well as other loud noises in the environment.
Elk Call Tips
- If you’re having trouble producing the sound you want from your elk call, try altering the shape of your mouth or lips to better match the desired tone
- Practice makes perfect! The more time you spend using your elk call, the better acquainted you will become with its nuances and capabilities
- Experiment! Don’t be afraid to try out new techniques or sounds – after all, that’s how you’ll learn what works best for you
- Be aware of your surroundings and the conditions in which you’re hunting. If it’s windy, adjust your calls accordingly – a whisper can carry a lot further than a shout in these situations!
- Elk are social animals so use this to your advantage by calling in a friend or two. You’ll have more fun, kill more elk and you can always share the meat!
- Stay calm and focused while calling. Elk can sense when a hunter is tense or nervous, so take a few deep breaths and focus on the task at hand – you’ll be rewarded with success!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Best Elk Call is one of the most important pieces in your elk hunting gear. It’s what attracts elk to you and scares them away again if necessary. If you’re not sure which calls are best, check out our reviews or tips. We have a lot of great information about the different types of call that will help you make an informed decision on which ones are right for your needs – along with where to find deals on these products! So get started today by finding out more about how it works, why it matters, and what features should be considered when buying one. You’ll never go wrong with this ultimate guide!