Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call Review

Why the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call Caught My Eye

As someone who’s spent over a decade navigating the nuances of gear across everything from bone-chilling expeditions to meticulous lab setups, I’ve developed a keen eye for equipment that promises authenticity and delivers on its word. My recent pursuit led me to the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call, a small but potentially critical piece of kit for anyone serious about elk calling. I was on the hunt for a diaphragm call that could produce a full spectrum of sounds, from subtle cow chirps to robust bugles, without the harshness that can spook wary animals. The promise of a durable, long-lasting design was particularly appealing, as I’ve had my fair share of reeds swell and lose their crispness after only a few outings.

My journey to this particular call began after a particularly frustrating season where my go-to calls simply failed to produce the nuanced tones I needed. It felt like every attempt to mimic a calf’s distress call sounded more like a strangled crow, and even my more assertive bugles lacked the authentic resonance to draw a mature bull. I considered a few other well-known brands, but none seemed to offer the specific combination of reed material and design that the Blue Double Reed boasted. There was an immediate sense of practical curiosity, a feeling that this might just be the reliable workhorse I’d been searching for.

Real-World Testing: Putting the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this diaphragm call took place not in the backcountry just yet, but in the controlled environment of my workshop and then, more importantly, out in a quiet meadow near elk country. I started by practicing a range of sounds without a blind, focusing on the tactile feel of the call against my palate and the ease with which I could manipulate it. The Infinity Latex felt promising right out of the package – firm yet pliable, suggesting it wouldn’t easily deform or become overly sticky.

The transition from workshop practice to actual field use was surprisingly smooth. Even with a light dew on the grass and a cool morning breeze, the call performed consistently. I found that producing softer cow calls and calf mews was remarkably intuitive; the reeds seemed to vibrate readily without requiring excessive air pressure. Even my first attempts at bugles, while needing refinement, felt more controlled and less strained than with some other double-reed designs I’ve used previously. There were no immediate issues or unexpected quirks; it simply worked as intended.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several weeks, this diaphragm call became a staple in my field bag. I used it during scouting trips, practice sessions, and eventually, during a dedicated elk hunt. It endured being packed and unpacked multiple times, occasionally getting jostled around, and even a brief encounter with some light rain. Throughout this period, the performance remained remarkably consistent.

Crucially, there have been no signs of significant wear and tear. The Infinity Latex has held its shape and flexibility, showing no evidence of stiffness or cracking, which is a common failure point for lesser reeds. Cleaning has been straightforward; a quick rinse with water and a gentle shake is usually all that’s needed, followed by air drying before storing it back in its protective case. Compared to some other diaphragm calls that have become useless after just a few days of heavy use due to moisture absorption, this model has demonstrated a superior level of durability.

Breaking Down the Features of the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call

Specifications

The Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call is designed with simplicity and effectiveness in mind. Its core construction features Infinity Latex, a material marketed for its resistance to moisture absorption. This is a critical detail because humidity and saliva can cause latex reeds to swell, alter pitch, and ultimately degrade their performance over time.

This double-reed configuration is a standard and popular choice for elk hunters, aiming to provide a balance between ease of use and versatility. The “Blue” in the name refers to the color of the call’s material, which is a visual cue for the specific model. The country of origin is the USA, often a benchmark for quality manufacturing in hunting equipment. The fact that it’s designed to produce a range of sounds, from cow calls to bugles, without intimidating smaller bulls, speaks to its intended sonic profile.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any elk diaphragm call is to accurately replicate the vocalizations of elk. In this regard, the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call performs admirably. It excels at producing soft, consistent cow and calf sounds. These are essential for attracting bulls, especially those that are hesitant or already engaged with other members of a herd.

Where this call truly shines, however, is in its ability to create a full spectrum of sounds. The double-reed setup allows for a good range of pitch and volume control. I found I could transition from a delicate mew to a more robust bugle with relative ease. The Infinity Latex material contributes to a clear, sharp tone without the unpleasant rasp that can sometimes plague other calls. Its performance seems to exceed that of many budget-friendly options, offering a more nuanced and realistic elk vocalization.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this diaphragm call is straightforward, prioritizing functionality over flashy aesthetics. It’s a standard horseshoe-shaped diaphragm that rests comfortably in the mouth. The Infinity Latex itself has a pleasant texture that doesn’t feel overly sticky or abrasive against the tongue.

The double-reed configuration is set up in a way that requires a moderate amount of air pressure, making it accessible for intermediate callers. There’s a slight learning curve, as with any diaphragm call, but it’s not steep. The flexibility of the latex allows for easy adjustment with the tongue to alter pitch and tone, a crucial aspect for mimicking natural elk sounds. The material also seems to resist sticking to the roof of the mouth, which can be a common annoyance with some latex calls.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a standout feature of this particular call. The Infinity Latex material is clearly designed for longevity. After weeks of regular use, it shows no signs of fraying, losing its elasticity, or developing that characteristic “blown-out” sound that lesser calls acquire.

Maintenance is minimal, which is ideal for hunters who need reliable gear in the field. A simple rinse with clean water after use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functional. Storing it in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, will further prolong its life. I’ve encountered diaphragm calls that degrade rapidly due to moisture, becoming unusable after a short period, but this model has consistently held its performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call is a single-item product and doesn’t come with additional accessories or extensive customization options in the traditional sense. Its design is meant to be used as is, and the customization comes from the caller’s skill in manipulating the reeds with their tongue and airflow. The primary focus is on the quality and performance of the call itself.

There are no interchangeable parts or add-ons provided. However, the inherent design allows for a degree of personalization through the user’s technique. For instance, varying air pressure, tongue placement, and lip seal can all significantly alter the sounds produced, effectively customizing the output for different elk vocalizations.

Pros and Cons of the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call

Who Should Buy the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call?

This diaphragm call is an excellent choice for intermediate to experienced elk hunters who are looking for a reliable, versatile, and durable calling tool. It’s particularly well-suited for those who understand the importance of nuanced vocalizations and need a call that can produce a full spectrum of sounds without spooking animals. If you’re someone who values equipment that performs consistently season after season without degrading, this call should be high on your list.

Beginners might find a slight learning curve with any diaphragm call, but this model’s ease of use makes it a more forgiving option than some single-reed alternatives. Those who need sterile, single-use medical-grade equipment or are looking for a very specialized, niche sound might consider other options. For anyone focused on realistic elk communication in a hunting scenario, this call is a solid investment. It would pair well with a good elk grunt tube for adding depth to bugles, but on its own, it’s a highly capable tool.

Conclusion on the Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call

The Hunters Specialties Super Blue Double Reed Elk Diaphragm Call stands out as a remarkably effective and durable piece of elk hunting equipment. Its performance across a range of elk vocalizations is impressive, delivering authentic sounds that are crucial for successful calling. The use of Infinity Latex not only contributes to its clear tone but also ensures a level of longevity that many other calls simply cannot match.

Considering its price point, this diaphragm call offers exceptional value. It delivers professional-level performance without requiring a significant financial outlay. I would confidently recommend this call to any serious elk hunter looking for a reliable, versatile, and long-lasting diaphragm. It’s a testament to functional design and quality materials, proving that sometimes, the simplest tools are the most effective.