Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call Review

Getting Up Close with the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call is a compact mouth call designed to replicate the complex vocalizations of elk, specifically the “estrus cow” and “herd bull” sounds. Crafted by Primos Hunting, this double-reed call promises ease of use with its unique sound plate design that automatically positions it for optimal acoustics. I picked this call up seeking a more efficient way to produce realistic elk vocalizations without the steep learning curve often associated with diaphragm calls. My previous experiences with other calls, while sometimes successful, often left me fumbling for the right angle or struggling to achieve the raspy tones necessary to fool wary bulls.

My initial impression upon unboxing this Primos call was one of sturdy simplicity. The material felt pliable yet resilient, and the “Y” cut on the second reed immediately caught my eye as a potential key to its claimed sound capabilities. I’d been looking at a few other brands, some offering single reeds or different cut designs, but the dual-reed system and the promise of an integrated sound plate angled for ease of use tipped the scales. My immediate feeling was a practical curiosity—would this call deliver on its straightforward claims, or would it be another piece of gear that looked good on paper but underperformed in the field?

Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for this Primos call was primarily the rolling hills and dense timber country of western Montana during the early elk rut. I spent significant time practicing in my truck, in my garage, and out in the field before even considering using it on a hunt. The initial attempts to produce sounds were surprisingly straightforward; the call naturally settled into a comfortable position against my palate. This ease of use was a stark contrast to some other calls I’ve wrestled with, where finding the “sweet spot” felt like a full-time job.

Even with my initial inexperience with this specific design, I was able to produce a decent range of sounds. The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call produced a passable cow chirp and even a somewhat raspy bugle with minimal effort. However, I did notice that achieving truly distinct herd bull sounds, especially those with a lot of depth and gravel, required more practice and breath control than I initially anticipated. The thin latex reeds responded well to variations in pressure, allowing for some tonal changes, but pushing too hard resulted in airy, less effective noises.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a couple of elk seasons, this double-reed call became a consistent part of my hunting pack. It endured days of being stuffed into a pocket, occasional drops onto soft duff, and exposure to morning dew without any noticeable degradation in its performance. The latex reeds remained pliable, and the frame maintained its shape, which I attribute to the Primos Hunting manufacturing standards.

Compared to some of the more budget-friendly, generic calls I’ve used in the past, this model demonstrated superior durability and consistency. Those cheaper calls often warped or became stiff after prolonged exposure to the elements, significantly impacting their sound quality. The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call, while not a premium, hand-tuned instrument, held up admirably for its price point. Maintenance was minimal; a gentle rinse with water and a careful pat dry were all that was needed, and it stored easily back in its protective packaging.

Breaking Down the Features of Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call

Specifications

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call is constructed with two thin latex reeds, a critical component for its sound-producing capabilities. The defining feature is the “Y” cut in the second reed, a design choice intended to create a specific rasp and tone necessary for mimicking mature elk vocalizations. This call also boasts a unique 30-degree angle of the sound plate, which the manufacturer states is engineered to automatically position the call correctly for ease of use and optimal sound projection. The material used is primarily latex, known for its flexibility and responsiveness in game calls.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the sounds this call can produce and how easy it is for the user to achieve them. The double-reed setup, combined with the specific “Y” cut, aims to replicate the complex harmonics and rasp of elk sounds more effectively than a single reed. The pre-angled sound plate is a significant design consideration, particularly for hunters who might be less experienced with mouth calls, as it simplifies the learning curve and encourages proper placement, leading to clearer and more consistent calls.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary job—making elk sounds—the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call performs quite well, especially for its accessible price point. It excels at producing convincing cow calls, from soft chirps to more insistent mews, which are essential for locating bulls or drawing in cows. The estrus cow sounds are particularly well-reproduced, thanks to the combination of the double reeds and the Y-cut, offering a good level of realism that has, in my experience, elicited responses from bulls.

The raspy herd bull sounds are achievable but require a bit more finesse. While the call has the capacity for rasp, it doesn’t possess the deep, guttural quality of some more advanced, custom calls that can cost significantly more. It’s certainly capable of producing bugles that will get attention, but truly mimicking a dominant, mature bull might demand significant practice and breath control from the user. It meets expectations for general elk calling and is more than adequate for most hunting scenarios, though serious competitive callers might seek a higher-fidelity option.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Primos call focuses heavily on user-friendliness, a key selling point. The 30-degree angle of the sound plate is not just a number; it genuinely makes a difference in how comfortably the call sits in the mouth and how naturally it aligns for calling. This engineered angle reduces the amount of contortion or precise maneuvering typically required with flat-backed calls, making it easier to achieve a good seal and consistent airflow.

The two thin latex reeds with a Y cut in the bottom reed are precisely shaped, and upon inspection, they appear to be uniformly cut and placed. This attention to detail in the manufacturing of the reeds is vital for consistent sound production. While the overall construction is simple—just reeds held within a frame—the ergonomic advantage of the angled sound plate is its most significant design feature, offering a more forgiving experience for hunters of all skill levels.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call is reasonably durable for a latex diaphragm call. The latex itself has proven to be resilient, resisting nicks and tears that can quickly render other calls useless. I haven’t experienced any issues with the reeds becoming permanently warped or losing their elasticity, even after being compressed and used in varying temperatures.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple, which is a major plus for any piece of hunting gear. After use, a quick rinse under cool water to remove saliva and debris is usually sufficient. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals or excessive heat, which could damage the latex. Storing it in its original packaging or a small case prevents it from getting crushed or snagged by other items in a pack. Given that it’s made of latex, it’s a consumable item in the long run, but for its price, the longevity I’ve experienced feels quite good.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call comes as a standalone item; there are no additional accessories included in the packaging. This is typical for most mouth calls, as they are designed to be self-contained units. There are no inherent customization options for the call itself, as its structure and components are fixed at the manufacturing stage.

While not an accessory for the call, I found that a small, protective case or a designated pocket within a game bag or vest is essential for keeping it clean and preventing damage when not in use. This isn’t a specific endorsement of a Primos-branded accessory, but rather a practical recommendation for any user to prolong the life and maintain the performance of this type of call.

Pros and Cons of Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call

Who Should Buy Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call?

This game call is an excellent choice for novice hunters or anyone new to using mouth calls for elk. Its primary appeal lies in its ease of use, specifically designed to help beginners produce decent elk sounds without an overwhelming learning curve. It’s also a great option for experienced hunters looking for a reliable, no-frills call that can effectively produce cow and calf sounds on a budget.

Conversely, individuals who are already highly proficient with diaphragm calls and are seeking the absolute peak in nuanced, complex bull elk vocalizations might want to consider more specialized, higher-end options. Those who absolutely cannot tolerate any potential for airy or less-than-perfect bull sounds, especially in competitive calling scenarios, might also want to explore other avenues. For most backcountry elk hunters, however, this model offers a fantastic balance of performance and simplicity. A simple lanyard or a dedicated pocket in a vest is highly recommended to keep it secure and readily accessible.

Conclusion on Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Hyper Plate Double Game Call delivers on its promise of making elk calling more accessible. Its standout feature, the 30-degree angled sound plate, genuinely simplifies the process of getting a good seal and producing quality sounds, particularly for those less experienced with diaphragm calls. The two thin latex reeds with the “Y” cut are adept at producing believable cow and calf vocalizations, which are invaluable for locating elk or initiating a response.

For its very affordable price of $14.89, the value proposition is strong. While it may not satisfy the most demanding expert seeking the ultimate herd bull rasp, it provides more than enough capability for the average hunter to have a successful and engaging experience in the field. I would certainly recommend this call, especially to anyone looking to add a reliable and easy-to-use elk call to their gear without breaking the bank. It’s a solid, functional piece of equipment that bridges the gap between basic calls and complex, high-cost alternatives.