10 Best Elk Calls of 2024 – The Ultimate Guide for Hunters

In 2024, you'll want the best elk calls to maximize your hunting success. Consider options like the versatile Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Long Ranger Elk Call Combo and the Phelps Game Calls All-American 3-Pack for varied vocalizations. The Rocky Mountain Bully Bull Extreme Elk Call provides realistic sounds, while the Primos Hunting Hoochie Pack Call effortlessly creates herd noises. Don't forget durability and ease of use when choosing your call. Each option boasts user ratings above 4.4 stars, ensuring quality. Stick around to explore the features that make these calls stand out from the rest.

Key Takeaways

• The Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Long Ranger Elk Call Combo offers versatility with loud and soft sounds, ideal for various hunting scenarios.
• Phelps Game Calls All-American 3-Pack Elk Call includes multiple diaphragm calls, designed for both novices and experts, ensuring a range of elk vocalizations.
• Rocky Mountain Bully Bull Extreme Elk Call is praised for its realistic sounds and is recommended for pairing with diaphragm mouth calls for enhanced effectiveness.
• Choose calls based on authenticity and durability, as these factors significantly influence success in attracting elk during hunting trips.

Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Long Ranger Elk Call Combo,Brown

For hunters seeking versatility, the Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Long Ranger Elk Call Combo offers an impressive ability to produce both loud, attention-grabbing calls and soft, enticing sounds that can draw in bull elk.

This combo features the Long Ranger Elk Call and the Fightn Cow Call, allowing you to adjust the tone easily with its adjustable band on the reeds.

You'll appreciate its aluminum construction and compact size, making it lightweight and easy to carry.

With a 1-year limited warranty, you can trust its durability.

Users rate it 4.3 out of 5 stars, praising its effectiveness, though many mention the importance of practice to master the sound.

Overall, it's a reliable choice for your elk hunting toolkit.

Best For: Hunters looking for a versatile and effective elk call that can produce a range of sounds for attracting bull elk.

Pros:

• Easy to adjust tone with the adjustable band on the reeds.
• Lightweight aluminum construction makes it portable for field use.

Cons:

• Requires practice to master the sound quality and technique.
• Some users report variations in sound quality.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007RAWQ08

Phelps Game Calls All-American 3-Pack Elk Call

Designed with input from RMEF World Champion elk callers, the Phelps Game Calls All-American 3-Pack Elk Call caters to both novice and experienced hunters seeking versatile and effective elk vocalizations. This set features three distinct diaphragm calls, each tailored for specific situations.

Jermaine Hodge's design offers simplicity, producing sounds from calves to large bulls.

Tony Gilbertson's call excels in loud location and challenge bugles, perfect for drawing in bulls.

Erik Berglund's thicker latex call is ideal for archery hunters, delivering authentic bugles and high-pitched calf calls.

Whether you're in the early season or the peak rut, this pack guarantees you'll have the tools necessary to communicate effectively with elk, enhancing your chances of a successful hunt.

Best For: Novice and experienced elk hunters seeking versatile, high-quality diaphragm calls for various hunting scenarios.

Pros:

• Versatile Designs: Each call is tailored for different elk vocalizations, suitable for various hunting situations.
• Expert Input: Developed with insights from RMEF World Champion elk callers, ensuring reliability and effectiveness.

Cons:

• Break-in Period: Some calls, like Tony Gilbertson's, may require a break-in period for optimal performance.
• Skill Level Variability: While designed for all skill levels, novice users may need practice to master the calls effectively.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D7349NC3

Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Boss Cow Elk Call

The Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Boss Cow Elk Call is an excellent choice for hunters seeking an effective and user-friendly tool to attract bulls during the hunting season.

Weighing only 0.06 kilograms and measuring 7.99 x 5 x 1.97 inches, it's lightweight and easy to carry. Made of durable plastic, this cow elk call comes with a lanyard for convenient access.

With a solid customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, users appreciate its sound quality and effectiveness in calling in bulls. However, some have reported issues with the lanyard attachment and a few durability concerns.

Overall, it ranks well in the category, making it a reliable addition to your hunting gear.

Best For: The Hunters Specialties Carltons Calls Boss Cow Elk Call is best for hunters looking for an effective and easy-to-use tool to attract elk during hunting season.

Pros:

• Easy to use and intuitive design for beginners and experienced hunters alike.
• High-quality sound that effectively attracts bulls.

Cons:

• Some users have experienced issues with the lanyard attachment.
• There are concerns regarding the overall durability of the product.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011758DLE

Primos Hunting Bull Horn Elk Call Support Shelf

Hunters seeking a versatile and user-friendly call will appreciate the Primos Hunting Bull Horn Elk Call Support Shelf, featuring an expandable hose that adjusts from 7 to 24 inches for varied tones.

This call includes a patented Support Shelf mouthpiece, allowing you to produce accurate bugles and cow calls with ease. The blue Snap-On Reed maintains lasting tension, ensuring you get realistic sounds every time.

Its compact design, weighing only 0.09 kg, makes it easy to carry in the field. Plus, the protective cap serves as storage for extra reeds, which is handy since they can easily get lost.

With positive reviews highlighting its effectiveness for beginners, this call's functionality and portability make it a top choice for elk hunters.

Best For: Elk hunters looking for a compact, effective, and user-friendly calling solution.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry during hunts.
• Expandable hose allows for a range of tones, enhancing versatility in calls.

Cons:

• Some users report difficulty producing lower pitch sounds for mature bulls.
• Reeds may be prone to loss, necessitating the purchase of additional components.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000L1YMRA

Rocky Mountain Bully Bull Extreme Elk Call

For those seeking a lightweight yet powerful elk call, the Rocky Mountain Bully Bull Extreme Elk Call delivers realistic sounds that can attract bulls effectively.

Weighing only 1.5 lbs, this call is designed with a user-friendly approach, making it easy to carry on your hunting trips.

It produces thunderous elk sounds, including amplified cow calls, light bugles, and aggressive herd bull bugles.

Many users report that its realism surpasses other options on the market, enhancing your chances of a successful hunt.

Pair it with diaphragm mouth calls for even better results.

With a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, it's clear that this elk call is a favorite among hunters looking to up their game.

Best For: Hunters seeking a lightweight and realistic elk call to enhance their calling effectiveness during hunts.

Pros:

• Produces realistic and thunderous elk sounds, improving calling success.
• Lightweight design makes it easy to carry during hunting trips.

Cons:

• Some users prefer a larger end for better sound projection.
• Carrying may require additional straps for convenience.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HY4M8XM

Enchantress Elk Slayer Push Button Call Collection Bundle

Looking for an elk call that's easy to use and delivers lifelike sounds? The Enchantress Elk Slayer Push Button Call Collection Bundle is just what you need.

This system produces realistic cow sounds and bugles with a simple push of a button, making it accessible for hunters of all ages.

Weighing only 0.54 kilograms and made from durable aluminum, it's lightweight and portable.

It even includes a bugle tube, strap, and a replacement reed to keep you in action.

With a stellar 5.0-star rating from users, you'll find it effective in attracting elk.

Plus, it's designed for quick setup and easy maintenance, ensuring you can focus on your hunt without any hassle.

Best For: The Enchantress Elk Slayer is best for hunters of all ages seeking an easy-to-use and effective elk calling solution.

Pros:

• User-Friendly: Simple push-button operation requires no prior experience or diaphragm usage.
• High-Quality Sound: Produces realistic cow sounds and bugles, attracting elk effectively.

Cons:

• Reed Longevity: Replacement reeds need to be changed every 2 to 4 weeks, requiring periodic maintenance.
• Limited Color Options: Available only in black, which may not appeal to all users.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CX3K4C59

Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call

Designed with versatility in mind, the Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call lets you effectively mimic a range of elk sounds, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced callers.

This pack includes the Mini Sonic Dome Double, Sonic Dome Single, and Sonic Dome Triple, all crafted from high-quality synthetic materials for durability.

Weighing just 0.06 pounds, it's lightweight and easy to carry.

Users appreciate its sound quality and ease of use, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

While some find a learning curve with certain calls, practicing with lighter tongue pressure can enhance your skills.

Overall, this pack offers great value, making it a worthy addition to your hunting gear.

Best For: The Primos Hunting Elk 3-Pack Call is best for both novice and experienced hunters looking to effectively mimic elk sounds during hunting seasons.

Pros:

• Sound Quality: Users report high-quality sound reproduction that effectively mimics a variety of elk calls.
• Durability: Made from high-quality synthetic materials, ensuring long-lasting use in the field.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Some users experience difficulty mastering certain calls, requiring practice to achieve desired results.
• Size and Fit Issues: A few customers noted that some calls may not fit comfortably, impacting usability.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003U5WBKO

Primos Hunting Hoochie Pack Call

The Primos Hunting Hoochie Pack Call stands out as an excellent choice for both novice and experienced hunters seeking to create realistic herd sounds with ease.

This versatile elk cow and calf call is designed for tough environments, making it reliable for any hunting situation. Weighing only 0.01 ounces and measuring 2 x 5.5 x 9.25 inches, it's lightweight and easy to handle.

Users appreciate its simple operation, allowing you to produce herd talk with one call in each hand.

With a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, it's clear that many value its sound quality and effectiveness.

While some note the duration of calls could be longer, the overall consensus is that the Hoochie Pack Call is a solid investment for your hunting gear.

Best For: The Primos Hunting Hoochie Pack Call is best for both novice and experienced hunters looking to effectively mimic elk herd sounds in various environments.

Pros:

• Easy to use, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned hunters alike.
• Lightweight and compact design for convenient handling and transport.

Cons:

• Some users reported that call durations are shorter than desired.
• Shipping and packaging experiences may vary, with occasional delays and damages.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003NGZI96

Primos Hunting Elk Select 4 Call with Case

For hunters seeking versatility in elk calling, the Primos Hunting Elk Select 4 Call with Case offers a range of sounds that cater to both novice and experienced callers alike.

This model features four distinct plates, allowing you to mimic cow, calf, and bull sounds effectively. Users appreciate its ease of use, making it a popular choice across various states like Arizona and Washington.

Weighing just 0.03 kilograms, it's lightweight and easy to carry. Though some feedback suggests the case could be better designed, the overall performance remains strong with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

At around $20, it's a solid investment for enhancing your elk calling techniques.

Best For: Hunters looking for a versatile and user-friendly elk calling solution that caters to both novice and experienced callers.

Pros:

• Easy to use for all skill levels, making it accessible for novice hunters.
• Lightweight design (0.03 kg) allows for convenient transport during hunts.

Cons:

• Some users feel the price around $20 may not be justified compared to other options.
• Feedback suggests that the case design could be improved to better accommodate all calls.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0019SOS1E

Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls 142 GTP Series Elk Diaphragm Calls (Pack of 3)

Offering exceptional sound quality and ease of use, the Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls 142 GTP Series is perfect for both beginners and seasoned hunters looking to enhance their elk calling skills.

This pack of three diaphragm calls—Black Magic, Reaper, and Spellbound—delivers crisp mews, chirps, and bugles with minimal air pressure.

Weighing only 0.019 pounds, they're lightweight and easy to handle.

Users rate these calls 4.6 out of 5 stars, highlighting their sound quality and user-friendliness.

However, some have reported durability concerns, such as glue deterioration after prolonged use.

Despite this, many find them preferable to other brands for sound.

If you're serious about elk hunting, these calls are a solid addition to your gear.

Best For: The Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls 142 GTP Series is best for both beginner and experienced hunters looking to improve their elk calling techniques.

Pros:

• High sound quality with crisp mews, chirps, and bugles.
• Lightweight and easy to handle, enhancing user experience.

Cons:

• Some durability issues reported, including glue deterioration over time.
• Weak latex on specific models may lead to material separation.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PXTHVZM

Factors to Consider When Choosing Elk Calls

When choosing elk calls, you've got to take into account several key factors to guarantee success in the field.

Think about the type of call that fits your style, how authentic the sound is, and your own skill level.

Also, don't forget to weigh durability, maintenance needs, and the overall value for your budget.

Call Type Importance

Choosing the right elk call is essential, as different types can dramatically influence your success in communicating with elk. When selecting a call, consider your experience level and the specific situations you might encounter.

Diaphragm calls are perfect for skilled callers who want versatility. These calls can produce a variety of sounds, from cow mews to aggressive bugles, allowing for a nuanced approach to elk communication.

If you're a beginner or need something straightforward, push-button calls are your best bet. They require no prior experience and are incredibly easy to use, making them great for quick responses in the field.

On the other hand, tube calls, especially those with expandable hoses, can generate loud, realistic sounds, making them ideal for reaching distant elk.

Sound Authenticity Factors

Selecting an elk call with sound authenticity in mind can make a significant difference in your hunting success, as realistic vocalizations are key to attracting elk.

When choosing your call, consider its ability to produce a range of tones. A good call should mimic everything from high-pitched calf sounds to deep bull bugles, helping you replicate the natural communication of elk more convincingly.

Look for adjustable features, like reeds and mouthpiece designs, that allow you to modify the sound output. This flexibility is essential since elk vocalizations vary with the seasons and specific situations.

The materials used in the call's construction also play an important role in sound fidelity. High-quality plastics and aluminum typically provide better resonance than their lower-grade counterparts.

Lastly, don't underestimate the power of user feedback. Checking ratings and reviews can give you valuable insights into how well a call performs regarding sound authenticity.

Experienced hunters often share their success stories, helping you make an informed decision based on the realism of the calls they've used. Prioritizing these factors will enhance your chances of drawing in those elusive elk.

User Skill Level

User skill level often dictates the type of elk call you should consider, as beginners usually benefit from simpler designs while seasoned hunters may seek more sophisticated options. If you're just starting out, look for calls that emphasize user-friendliness and intuitive operation. These options allow you to effectively communicate with elk without needing extensive practice, making them perfect for honing your skills.

As you gain experience, you might want to explore intermediate and advanced calls. These calls typically offer a wider range of sounds and greater control over pitch and tone, enabling you to mimic elk more realistically. However, they require more skill and practice to master, so be prepared to invest time in familiarizing yourself with their nuances.

Some elk calls are developed by champion callers, tailored to various skill levels, enhancing your hunting effectiveness. Regardless of your experience level, remember that practice is key. Many users report increased success in attracting elk after becoming familiar with their chosen calls, so don't underestimate the value of dedicated practice.

Choose a call that matches your skill level, and you'll improve your chances of a successful hunt.

Durability and Maintenance

Understanding the durability and maintenance of elk calls is just as important as recognizing your skill level, as it directly affects their performance and longevity during your hunting trips.

When you're selecting elk calls, pay close attention to the materials used in their construction. Plastic and synthetic options can differ greatly in durability compared to aluminum calls, which tend to be more resilient in tough conditions.

Regular maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your calls. Make sure to clean them after each use and store them properly. Exposure to sun and moisture can degrade materials quickly, so avoid leaving them out in the elements.

If you're using diaphragm calls, handle them with care to prevent glue deterioration and material separation, which can compromise sound quality.

Additionally, consider the longevity of replacement reeds, as they typically last between 2 to 4 weeks. Always have backups on hand for those extended hunting trips.

User feedback often points out that some calls perform better in rugged conditions, so it's wise to choose models that have proven durability over time.

Price and Value Comparison

When you're comparing elk calls, it's important to evaluate their price alongside the value they offer concerning performance and durability.

Prices for elk calls can range considerably, from around $20 to over $50. While a lower price might seem attractive, consider whether the call meets your needs regarding sound authenticity and ease of use. User ratings typically range from 4.3 to 5.0 stars, reflecting satisfaction and effectiveness in the field.

Durability is another critical factor; materials like plastic may be lighter but less robust than aluminum options. Think about how often you'll be using the call and whether you want to invest in something that will last longer.

Additionally, check for user feedback on features that matter most to you, as this can greatly influence the perceived value of the call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Use Elk Calls?

The best time to use elk calls is during the rut, typically from late September to early October. You'll attract bulls by mimicking their sounds, increasing your chances of a successful hunt during this peak season.

How Do I Maintain and Clean My Elk Calls?

When it comes to keeping your elk calls in top shape, a stitch in time saves nine. Regularly clean them with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and store in a dry place to guarantee longevity.

Can I Use Elk Calls in Other Hunting Situations?

Yes, you can use elk calls in other hunting situations. They effectively mimic various animal sounds, attracting predators or other game. Experimenting with different calls can enhance your chances of success in diverse hunting scenarios.

Are Electronic Elk Calls More Effective Than Manual Ones?

When it comes to effectiveness, you'll find electronic elk calls often pull in more attention than manual ones, as they mimic realistic sounds. However, it's wise to have both in your hunting arsenal.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Elk Calls?

When using elk calls, avoid overcalling, mismatching sounds to the season, and calling too loudly. Also, don't forget to practice regularly; it'll help you sound more natural and increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

In the thrilling world of elk hunting, choosing the right call can make all the difference.

Whether you prefer the powerful resonance of the Bull Horn or the subtle sounds of the Boss Cow, each call offers unique advantages.

As you initiate your hunting adventure, remember to reflect on your skill level and style.

With the perfect call in hand, you're set for success in the stunning wilderness.

So, gear up, get out, and go for that glorious elk!