The Story Behind the Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call
The allure of the wild, the deep woods, and the thrill of the hunt have always drawn me. For years, my gear has been a testament to countless hours spent outdoors, in workshops, and even in sterile lab environments, each piece chosen for its reliability and performance. My pursuit of authentic experiences extends to the tools that facilitate them, and when it comes to the serious business of calling game, authenticity is paramount.
This year, a specific challenge arose during my early season elk scouting trips. While I had some success with bugling tubes, I found myself wanting more nuanced control, particularly to mimic the subtle vocalizations of cows and calves that can coax a wary bull into a more advantageous position. I needed something that offered a greater range of sounds, bridging the gap between a sharp cow call and a more complex matriarchal grunt. My existing calls, while functional, lacked the versatility I was seeking, leading me to research more advanced options.
Considering alternatives like simpler reed calls or more complex diaphragm setups, I eventually landed on the Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call. The immediate impression upon unboxing was one of robust simplicity. It felt solid in the hand, a blend of durable plastic and what appeared to be well-constructed reeds. Unlike some of the more delicate, multi-part calls I’d encountered, this felt like it could withstand the rigors of the field. My initial thought was a hopeful curiosity, a sense that this might just be the versatile tool I’d been looking for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call to the Test
My initial testing grounds were the rolling hills and dense timber of my favorite elk hunting grounds during the pre-rut. The crisp autumn air was the perfect backdrop for experimenting with the Hyper Lip. I spent several hours simply practicing on the move, using it while walking through open meadows and pushing through thick brush, aiming to get a feel for its responsiveness and how it integrated into my movement.
The first real test came when I spotted a distant bull. Taking cover, I employed the Tone Converter™ to produce a soft, inquisitive cow call. The sound that emanated was surprisingly clear and carried well over the distance, drawing the bull’s attention. Later, during a more aggressive calling sequence, I switched to the double-reed configuration to simulate a louder cow sound. This proved effective in eliciting a response, with the bull letting out a curious chuckle in return. I did notice a slight learning curve in mastering the Tone Converter™’s subtle adjustments, but after about an hour of focused practice, I began to feel a good level of control over its range.
Over the subsequent weeks, this call became a near-constant companion on my excursions. It endured being stuffed into pockets, brushed against branches, and even a brief, unexpected shower. Despite the exposure, the reeds remained responsive, and the plastic body showed only minor cosmetic scuffs. Cleaning was straightforward; a quick rinse and a gentle wipe were all it needed. Compared to some of the more finicky diaphragm calls I’ve used in the past, the maintenance ease was a significant plus. It consistently performed without the need for constant adjustments or fears of damage, a stark contrast to some delicate, high-end calls that require meticulous care.
First Use Experience
The true proving ground for the Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call was out in the field during a crisp morning hunt. I had settled into a promising draw, the air alive with the sounds of the waking forest. My goal was to simulate a small group of elk moving through the area, hoping to draw a bull in closer.
I began with the Tone Converter™ engaged, producing a series of soft, inquisitive cow chirps. The sound was surprisingly realistic, carrying a natural inflection that seemed to cut through the ambient noise without sounding artificial. As I continued, I transitioned to a slightly more urgent series of calls, pushing the Tone Converter™ to its upper limits. I then switched to the open double-reed configuration, aiming for a louder, more insistent cow call. This produced a richer, louder tone that I hoped would carry further and get the attention of any nearby bulls.
I found the call to be intuitive to hold and operate. The material provided a good grip, even with slightly damp hands, and the placement of the reeds made it easy to adjust the tone and volume without fumbling. There were no obvious quirks or issues during this initial outing, which was a relief, as I’ve had previous experiences with new calls that required significant adjustment periods.
Extended Use & Reliability
As hunting season progressed, the Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call became an indispensable part of my kit. It has been used in various conditions, from damp mornings where condensation could have affected reed performance to windy afternoons that can easily carry away subtle sounds. Its ability to maintain consistent sound quality across these varying environments spoke volumes about its construction.
After numerous outings, the call shows minimal signs of wear. The plastic body is durable, and I haven’t encountered any cracks or significant damage, even after it was accidentally dropped on a rocky trail once. The reeds, while subject to natural wear over time, have remained remarkably pliable and responsive, producing clear tones without the rasp or distortion that can plague lesser calls. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of occasional rinsing with water and ensuring it’s dry before storage. This simplicity of care is a huge benefit for any hunter who values gear that just works.
Compared to my previous calls, this model stands out. I’ve owned both budget-friendly plastic calls that quickly lose their tone and more expensive, hand-tuned wooden calls that demand careful handling. The Hyper Lip strikes a fantastic balance, offering the durability and ease of use of a plastic call with a sound quality and versatility that rivals more specialized options. It has reliably produced the desired sounds, from soft calf mews to louder cow calls, proving itself a dependable tool for luring elk.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call
The Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call is designed with the specific goal of enticing elk into closer range, particularly by mimicking the vocalizations of cows and calves. Its construction focuses on versatility, allowing hunters to produce a range of sounds essential for successful elk calling. This model is built to be a workhorse, providing reliable performance in demanding outdoor conditions.
Specifications
This game call is designed for elk hunting, and its core functionality relies on its reed system and the innovative Tone Converter™. The open double-reed configuration is key to producing the deeper, louder tones associated with a matriarch cow. This aspect is crucial for cutting through ambient noise and signaling intent to a bull.
The Tone Converter™ is a significant feature, allowing for more subtle matriarch cow calls. This component offers a finer degree of control over the sound, enabling the hunter to replicate a wider spectrum of vocalizations, from soft mews to more complex grunts. This adaptability is what makes the call valuable for various hunting scenarios and stages of the rut.
The material is a durable, impact-resistant plastic, chosen for its ability to withstand the rigors of outdoor use without degrading. The overall design is compact and ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the hand for extended calling sessions. While specific dimensions aren’t provided, it’s sized appropriately for easy manipulation and carrying.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, the Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call performs admirably. The open double-reed setup produces a robust, carrying sound that effectively mimics a cow elk’s louder vocalizations. This feature is excellent for making contact or generating a response from a distance.
The real star, however, is the Tone Converter™. This mechanism allows for a surprising amount of nuance. With practice, one can achieve soft, almost breathy sounds that are perfect for drawing a curious bull in closer. It effectively bridges the gap between a simple bugle and a full cow call, offering a more realistic and complex vocalization.
Its main strength lies in this dual capability: loud, clear calls from the double-reed, and subtle, nuanced calls from the Tone Converter™. The only minor drawback I’ve encountered is that achieving the absolute softest calf mews requires a very delicate touch and significant practice with the Tone Converter™. However, for its intended purpose of luring in bulls, it more than meets expectations, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call is practical and user-focused. The plastic construction feels sturdy and durable, capable of handling the occasional bump or drop in the field. The finish is typically a matte camouflage or earth tone, which is beneficial for maintaining stealth.
Ergonomically, the call is comfortable to hold. Its shape allows for a secure grip, preventing it from slipping, even when my hands were cold or slightly sweaty. The placement of the mouth opening and the Tone Converter™ control is well-thought-out, allowing for easy adjustment and sound production without needing to look down at the device. This is crucial when a bull is approaching and every second counts.
The markings for the Tone Converter™ are generally clear and easy to read, even in low light conditions. The physical interaction with the converter is smooth, allowing for quick changes in sound. Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and ease of use in a hunting context.
Durability & Maintenance
This game call is built for durability. The Primos Hunting brand is known for producing gear that can withstand the demands of the outdoors, and this call is no exception. The plastic housing is resilient to impacts and weather.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. After use, a quick rinse with water to remove any debris or saliva, followed by air drying, is usually sufficient. It’s important to ensure the reeds are clean and free of obstructions for optimal performance. Unlike some wooden calls that can swell or crack, or delicate diaphragm calls that can lose their shape, this model is quite forgiving.
Potential failure points are minimal. The reeds are the most likely component to eventually wear out, but this is a natural process for any reed-based call. Given its robust construction, I anticipate a long service life from this unit.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call typically comes as a standalone unit, with no specific accessories included in the package. Its primary customization comes from the Tone Converter™ itself, which allows for significant variation in sound output by adjusting its position.
While there aren’t external accessories to add, the internal reed setup is fixed, meaning you cannot swap out different reed configurations directly. However, the Tone Converter™ offers enough versatility that additional reed sets are generally not needed for its intended purpose. It is designed to be a complete package for producing a range of cow and calf elk sounds.
Pros and Cons of Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call
Pros
- Versatile Sound Range: The combination of the open double-reed and the Tone Converter™ allows for a wide spectrum of elk vocalizations, from loud cow calls to subtle matriarchal sounds.
- Tone Converter™ Innovation: This feature provides exceptional control over nuance, making it easier to mimic realistic cow and calf sounds that can entice wary bulls.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust plastic, this call is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and accidental drops.
- Ease of Use: It is relatively easy to operate, with a comfortable grip and straightforward adjustment mechanism for the Tone Converter™.
- Effective for Luring Bulls: Its ability to produce realistic and varied sounds has proven effective in drawing elk closer, especially in the critical stages of the hunt.
Cons
- Learning Curve for Subtlety: Mastering the absolute softest calf mews with the Tone Converter™ can require significant practice and a delicate touch.
- No User-Replaceable Reeds: While durable, the reeds are not designed to be user-replaced, meaning the entire call might need replacing if the reeds eventually wear out beyond repair.
Who Should Buy Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call?
This game call is ideally suited for elk hunters who are serious about mimicking cow and calf vocalizations. It’s a great choice for those who find their current calls lack the necessary range for subtle communication or who want to add more realism to their calling sequences. Intermediate to experienced elk hunters will likely get the most out of its nuanced capabilities, but determined beginners can also benefit from its versatility.
Hunters who prioritize durability and ease of maintenance will also find this call a strong contender. It’s a robust piece of gear that doesn’t require meticulous care, making it a reliable companion in the backcountry. Those looking for a single call that can produce a variety of essential elk sounds without being overly complex would do well to consider it.
However, individuals who are strictly looking for a simple, single-tone bugle tube or those who prefer exclusively natural materials for their calls might want to explore other options. This call is specifically designed for the cow and calf vocalizations, and while it’s effective, its core strength lies in that specific sound profile. For enhancing its use, practicing consistently with the Tone Converter™ is key, and perhaps investing in a good elk calling instructional DVD or online course could further amplify its effectiveness.
Conclusion on Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call
The Primos Hunting Hyper Lip Double w/Converter Game Call is a testament to thoughtful design meeting practical application in the field. It successfully combines the robust durability expected from a Primos product with a surprising level of sonic versatility, particularly through its innovative Tone Converter™. The ability to transition from a loud, attention-grabbing cow call to subtle, nuanced vocalizations makes it a potent tool for any elk hunter aiming to bring game closer.
Considering its price point, the value proposition is strong. It offers a level of control and realism that often comes with more expensive or specialized calls, all within a package that is built to last. While mastering the most delicate sounds may require some dedication, the fundamental functionality is accessible and effective.
I would confidently recommend this call to any elk hunter looking to enhance their calling repertoire, especially those focused on cow and calf sounds. It’s a well-made, versatile, and effective tool that can make a real difference in the woods. If you’re in the market for a reliable and adaptable elk call, the Hyper Lip Double w/Converter is definitely worth considering.