Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Elk Hunting Best Cow Call? Best Spike Call?

I like the reed types better but open to suggestions. I also like wood barrel ones but not a big issue. My main requirement is one that is almost fool proof as far as blowing off notes.

I like the Cow Girl. I don't think spikes are legal anywhere in Colorado ow days

Does a spike bugle or grunt sound different from that of a larger bull?
I always thought spikes tended toward being much less vocal than most other elk.

Spikes are like teens going through puberty and are higher pitched and scratchier than a big bull. Less of a bellow or roar on the bugle too. Probably in general they are less vocal as they are always getting their ass whupped but at times can make a lot of noise. Grunts are about the same maybe deeper the older the bull.

I am experimenting with calling Axis and Red Deer is why my interest in the spike call. Most reed or diaphragm calls can do the higher pitched spike sounds either with reed adjustment or manipulation.

I've used Herters bull elk whistles for great results on any elk...I used to know a guy that used a 30-06 cartridge...lol

I’ve never heard a spike bugle, per se. Heard them make a high pitched hoool sound. Usually, they hang with the lady folk, unless they’re a 2-3 year old tall spike. Then they act like another wanna be a player rag horn, running on the edge, being a nuisance. 😎

I found an axis call as the elk bugle couldn't make the scream sound of an axis. But a cow call works well for them.