E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call Review

Unboxing & First Thoughts on the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call

As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, I’m always on the hunt for tools that can genuinely make a difference in the field. My search recently led me to the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call, a predator call designed to emulate the sounds of various animals. My primary need was a reliable vocalization tool for observing wildlife behavior in controlled, yet realistic, scenarios, and this call promised a potent solution.

I was specifically looking for a call that offered a range of sounds and was known for its durability and ease of use. While I considered a few other brands, the reputation of E.L.K., Inc. for crafting effective calls in the past made this one stand out. The promise of using “Power Bands,” a technology borrowed from their successful elk calls, piqued my interest in its potential for versatile sound production.

Upon receiving the package, my initial impression was one of practical simplicity. The call felt solid in hand, with a robust construction that suggested it could withstand considerable use. It came with a retractable lanyard, a protective cap, and two extra bands, indicating a thoughtful approach to user experience and longevity.

My first reaction was one of cautious optimism. The materials felt appropriate for its intended purpose, and the inclusion of spare parts suggested a company that understood the rigors of field use.

Real-World Testing: Putting E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began in a secluded section of private woodland, a controlled environment mimicking its intended use for wildlife observation and interaction studies. I tested the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call during early morning and late evening, periods when predator activity is typically high. The goal was to elicit responses from local wildlife, observing their reactions to the different vocalizations this call could produce.

The call performed admirably in these initial conditions, responding well to changes in my breath pressure and lip placement to alter the pitch and intensity of the sounds. It was remarkably intuitive; after a few minutes of experimentation, I could reliably produce a range of distinct sounds. I was particularly impressed by how quickly I could transition between different calls without fumbling.

One slight surprise was the volume; it was indeed powerful, living up to its “Power Howler” name. This meant I had to be mindful of over-exposing wildlife to excessive noise, a common pitfall with potent calls. I did notice that prolonged, intense blowing could lead to slight puckering around the mouthpiece, but it didn’t affect sound quality.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, spread across various days and different weather conditions – including light mist and cooler temperatures – the call has held up remarkably well. It has become a go-to piece of equipment for my behavioral observation sessions, proving its reliability. I’ve taken it on several excursions into more rugged terrain, and it has endured bumps and occasional drops without any visible damage.

There are no signs of premature wear. The mouthpiece remains firm, the bands are still taut, and the retractable lanyard has proven surprisingly robust, retracting smoothly even after frequent use. Compared to some generic calls I’ve used in the past, which often develop cracks or lose their acoustic integrity quickly, this call feels built to last.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient. Storing it with the protective cap on prevents dust and debris from accumulating in the sound channels, and the spare bands are easily accessible should the originals ever degrade, though that seems unlikely in the near future.

Breaking Down the Features of E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call

Specifications

The E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call is a compact and lightweight device, measuring 2 inches in length and 2.3 inches in width, with a height of 7.7 inches. It weighs a mere 0.15 ounces, making it incredibly portable and unobtrusive to carry. This diminutive size and feather-light construction are crucial for anyone who spends extended periods in the field, as it adds virtually no burden to one’s gear.

The call is designed for predator species, a broad category that can include anything from coyotes to foxes. Its core functionality stems from its innovative use of “Power Bands,” a design element borrowed from the manufacturer’s successful elk calls. These bands are instrumental in shaping the acoustic properties of the call, allowing for a greater range of pitches and tones.

The inclusion of a retractable lanyard is a practical touch, ensuring the call is always within reach and less likely to be misplaced. A protective cap is also provided, which is vital for maintaining the integrity of the mouthpiece and internal components, safeguarding against damage and debris accumulation. Lastly, the inclusion of two extra bands demonstrates E.L.K., Inc.‘s commitment to the longevity of the product, offering immediate replacements should the original bands wear out over time.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call excels at producing a compelling range of sounds that can attract predators. Its ability to mimic various vocalizations, from sharp yips to deep howls, is impressive and directly attributable to the “Power Band” system. This system allows for nuanced control over the sound, enabling users to tailor their calls to specific situations or target species with considerable accuracy.

The key strength of this predator call lies in its versatility and volume. It can produce sounds that cut through ambient noise effectively, reaching further than many competitor models I’ve encountered. However, this power also presents a potential weakness for beginners; the sheer volume can be overwhelming if not managed carefully, potentially scaring off wary animals rather than attracting them.

Compared to simpler friction calls or basic diaphragm calls, this unit offers a significantly broader sonic palette. It meets expectations for a predator call designed for serious enthusiasts, delivering on its promise of powerful and varied vocalizations, though it demands a learning curve to master its full potential.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call is utilitarian and robust, built with durable plastics and what feels like high-quality rubber for the sound-producing bands. Its form factor is ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the hand for extended periods of use without causing fatigue. The smooth, non-abrasive finish makes it pleasant to hold, even in cold weather.

Usability is high, particularly with the integrated retractable lanyard. This feature is a real boon for field use, allowing for quick deployment and secure storage without the hassle of fumbling with straps or clips. The mouthpiece is adequately sized and shaped for creating a good seal, which is essential for producing consistent tones.

The protective cap fits snugly and is easily removed, ensuring it doesn’t get lost. The overall construction feels solid, suggesting it can endure the rigors of outdoor use, from being clipped to a vest to being jostled around in a backpack.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call appears to be a durable piece of equipment. The materials used are resistant to cracking and wear, and the internal components, particularly the “Power Bands,” show no signs of degradation. It feels like a tool designed for repeated, long-term use in challenging outdoor environments.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick rinse with water and a thorough drying are typically all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition. I recommend using the provided cap to protect the mouthpiece from dirt and moisture when not in use, which will undoubtedly contribute to its longevity.

There are no obvious points of failure. The retractable lanyard mechanism feels secure, and the bands are designed to be replaceable, a testament to the manufacturer’s foresight regarding potential wear. I foresee this call lasting for many seasons of active use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call comes with a practical set of accessories designed to enhance its usability and lifespan. The retractable lanyard is a standout feature, providing convenience and security in the field. The protective cap is essential for maintaining the call’s integrity and keeping it clean during transport.

Crucially, the package includes two extra “Power Bands”. This is a significant bonus, as these bands are the core of the call’s sound-producing mechanism. Having spares means you can quickly replace them if they ever become worn or damaged, ensuring the call remains functional.

While there isn’t extensive customization in terms of interchangeable parts or different sound chambers, the “Power Bands” themselves offer a degree of tunable performance. By slightly adjusting their tension or position, experienced users can subtly alter the tonal quality of the calls. This implicit customization is a nod to the product’s intelligent design, leveraging a proven technology for broader application.

Pros and Cons of E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call

Who Should Buy E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call?

The E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call is ideally suited for experienced hunters, wildlife researchers, and dedicated outdoorsmen who understand the nuances of predator calling. Those who require a robust, versatile, and loud call for attracting coyotes, foxes, and other predators over longer distances will find this tool invaluable. It’s for individuals who value durability and are willing to invest a bit of time learning to master its potent capabilities.

Conversely, novice callers or those who prefer extremely simple, single-purpose calls might find this model a bit complex or overly powerful for their needs. Individuals primarily focused on very subtle or short-range calls might also find better alternatives.

For those who purchase this call, I highly recommend practicing in a controlled environment before heading into the field for serious use. Understanding how to modulate breath and lip pressure will unlock its full potential and prevent accidentally spooking your quarry. While not strictly necessary, a good quality pair of binoculars to observe wildlife reactions from a distance would be a complementary item to enhance the experience.

Conclusion on E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call

The E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call is a well-engineered piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of powerful and versatile predator vocalizations. Its robust build quality, coupled with the innovative “Power Band” system, makes it a standout tool for serious users. The inclusion of practical accessories like the retractable lanyard and spare bands further solidifies its value proposition.

At $33.99, the price is more than justified by the performance and durability this call offers. It provides a level of sonic capability and construction quality often found in much more expensive units.

I would readily recommend the E.L.K., Inc. Power Howler Call to experienced callers seeking a reliable and potent tool. For those just starting out, I advise patience and practice to fully harness its impressive capabilities. If you’re looking for a predator call that can genuinely make a difference, this one is a strong contender.