Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call Review

Testing the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call: What You Need to Know

For years, the quest to accurately mimic the nuanced vocalizations of elk has been a cornerstone of successful hunting. The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call caught my eye because it promised a simpler, more intuitive approach to this challenging art. As a seasoned gear specialist with over a decade of real-world application across diverse environments, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that genuinely enhances performance. The core of this call’s design lies in its innovative “Sound Plate” technology, coupled with a double-reed system featuring a distinctive ‘V’ cut, engineered to reproduce the complex sounds of cow and herd bulls. My own journey led me to this particular call after frustrating experiences with other calls that demanded an almost surgical precision in mouth placement, often leading to a strained and unnatural sound. While I briefly considered more complex diaphragm calls with intricate reed configurations, the promise of ease-of-use and the specific sound profile of this Primos model was too compelling to ignore. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of simple, functional utility; the material felt durable enough, and the pre-set angle of the sound plate suggested thoughtful design.

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

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this Primos call took place in a rather unconventional setting for elk calls: my backyard and a nearby park, simulating different levels of background noise and distance. I focused on replicating basic cow calls and then graduated to attempting herd bull sounds, paying close attention to the feedback from the call itself. The Sound Plate definitely lived up to its name; it immediately provided a consistent anchor point in my mouth, requiring far less fiddling than traditional diaphragm calls. This ease of use was a significant departure from previous experiences where I’d spend precious minutes just trying to get the call seated correctly before a potential encounter.

The angle of the plate, set at a 30-degree angle, felt natural and facilitated a direct air channel. I noticed that producing a soft, subtle cow “mew” was remarkably straightforward, almost requiring minimal effort. Transitioning to the more aggressive herd bull sounds, like chuckles and growls, proved slightly more nuanced. The ‘V’ cut in the bottom reed was instrumental here, introducing a necessary rasp that often eludes less specialized calls. There were a few moments where I produced a slightly choked sound, but this was more a reflection of my breath control and pressure adjustments, which are always part of learning any new vocalization tool.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of practice and bringing it along on a couple of scouting trips in early autumn, the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call has held up admirably. I’ve used it during prolonged practice sessions, exposed it to mild dew and the occasional puff of dust from dry ground, and it has consistently performed. The latex reeds, while thin as specified, have shown no signs of premature cracking or deformation, which is a common failure point in lesser quality calls.

Cleaning has been a simple rinse with water and allowing it to air dry, a process that takes mere moments. Storing it in its original packaging or a dedicated call pouch keeps it protected. Compared to other double-reed calls I’ve used over the years, this model’s primary advantage remains its integrated sound plate. While some premium, custom calls might offer a slightly richer tone or greater complexity, they often come with a steeper learning curve and a significantly higher price tag. For its intended purpose and price point, the durability and consistent performance of this Primos call are excellent.

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

Specifications

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call is constructed from Latex for the reeds, a standard but effective material for game calls. This material choice contributes to its ability to produce the specific sounds required for both cow and bull elk. The call features two thin latex reeds, a common configuration for versatility.

Crucially, the bottom reed boasts a “V” cut, a significant design element designed to introduce rasp. The entire unit is integrated with a Sound Plate that automatically positions the call, with its angle set at 30 degrees. This specific angle is engineered to provide an optimal mouth seal and air direction for elk vocalizations. The call is designed for both Bull and Cow elk sounds, making it a dual-purpose tool for hunters. Priced at a very accessible $14.95, it represents a cost-effective entry point into dedicated elk calling.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call is to reproduce authentic elk sounds, and for the most part, it succeeds remarkably well. The ease of use is its standout strength, thanks to the Sound Plate. This feature alone removes a significant barrier to entry for novice callers and streamlines the process for experienced hunters. Producing accurate cow mews and calf distress calls is exceptionally easy; the thin reeds respond readily to light pressure and airflow, creating a clear, high-pitched sound.

When it comes to simulating the sounds of a herd bull, the “V” cut in the bottom reed is absolutely vital. This feature introduces the necessary rasp and grit required for believable chuckles, grunts, and even some of the harsher tones of a rutting bull. While it might not replicate the full, resonant power of a mature bull’s bugle that some high-end, multi-reed calls can achieve, it certainly produces a convincing and effective raspy herd bull sound. This makes it an excellent tool for drawing attention and initiating a response, particularly in situations where subtle, broken sounds are more appropriate than a full-blown bugle.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call is centered around its innovative Sound Plate. This integrated component is molded to provide a comfortable and consistent fit within the mouth. The 30-degree angle is ergonomically sound, allowing for a natural placement without excessive jaw strain, even during extended calling sessions.

The construction is straightforward: two latex reeds secured by a frame, with the distinctive ‘V’ cut on the lower reed. The overall build feels robust for its price point. While the materials are standard, the integration of the Sound Plate elevates its usability beyond basic diaphragm calls. The compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket or call pouch. There’s virtually no learning curve in terms of placement, which is a huge ergonomic win. The only aspect that requires adjustment is breath control and pressure to achieve the desired vocalization, a fundamental skill for any caller.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call demonstrates good durability for its intended use and price. The Latex reeds are sufficiently resilient, showing minimal signs of wear after repeated use and practice. I haven’t encountered any issues with them fraying or losing their elasticity prematurely.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple; a quick rinse under cool water after each use is usually sufficient to remove any moisture or debris. Allowing it to air dry completely before storage is key to prolonging the life of the reeds. Unlike some more complex calls that might require special cleaning tools or lubricants, this model is remarkably low-maintenance. The integrated Sound Plate design also means there are fewer small parts to worry about losing or breaking. Potential failure points would likely revolve around the latex reeds eventually degrading over extended periods of heavy use, but this is a common characteristic of all latex calls.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call comes as a self-contained unit with no additional accessories. Its design is focused on simplicity and direct application, meaning there are no interchangeable parts or complex attachments. This is largely a positive aspect, contributing to its ease of use and affordability.

There are no explicit customization options available for this specific model; the reeds, V-cut, and Sound Plate are fixed as manufactured. However, for those looking to experiment further, Primos Hunting offers other models within their Sound Plate series that might feature different reed configurations or sound profiles, offering a path to explore variations without straying from the core design. This particular model is built to perform its intended function right out of the package.

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

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

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call is an ideal choice for novice elk hunters who are looking to learn how to call effectively without the steep learning curve often associated with traditional diaphragm calls. It’s also perfect for experienced hunters who want a reliable, easy-to-use backup call or a primary tool for situations where quick, accurate calling is paramount. If you find yourself struggling with mouth placement or achieving consistent tones with other calls, this model will likely provide a welcome relief.

Conversely, highly experienced elk callers seeking to master every minute variation of a bull’s bugle or requiring the absolute highest fidelity in complex, multi-layered vocalizations might find this call slightly limiting compared to custom, multi-reed setups. However, for most hunting scenarios where drawing attention and eliciting a response are the goals, this call is more than sufficient. Essential accessories are minimal; a dedicated call pouch or even a pocket is sufficient for protection.

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

The Primos Hunting Sound Plate Series Imperial Plate Double Game Call stands out as a remarkably effective and user-friendly tool for anyone looking to improve their elk calling capabilities. The integration of the Sound Plate is a game-changer, simplifying the process of achieving consistent, accurate sounds. Its ability to produce convincing cow and herd bull calls, thanks to the “V” cut reed, makes it a valuable asset in the field.

Considering its modest price of $14.95, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. It delivers performance that often rivals calls costing significantly more, especially for the average hunter. For those who are new to elk calling or looking for a reliable, no-fuss option, I would highly recommend this model. It’s a practical, well-designed piece of equipment that genuinely makes the challenging task of elk calling more accessible and enjoyable.