Elk Diaphragm Care

[kyarcher]

I'm new to using diaphragm calls (Rocky Mountain) for elk calling.  What is the proper method for caring/storing the calls after each use while practicing, while in the field, and at the end of the season.  Thanks

 

[DTP]

I keep mine in areas where they can't get exposed to high temps.
I used to leave them in my truck so I could practice them going too and from work. However the summer heat would weaken the latex.




That's partially why you will hear some call makers recommend to order the calls during the winter or in the cooler months. Because if you order them in the summer they are subject to the heat during shipment and could show up with weakened latex.

 

[cohunter14]

I'll also throw out there to try to dry your calls before storing them. You don't have to dry them off with a towel or anything, you can simply let them air dry, but I've heard of people putting them into a case or storing them somewhere while still wet and the call ends up with mold on it.

 

[Elk101 Admin]

Few different methods for me.


1.Rocky Mountain Diaphragm carrying case:
http://www.elk101store.com/rocky-mountain-diaphram-call-carrying-case

2. Took a buddies old chew can and poked a bunch of holes (for breathing).

3. Primos clear plastic call case. (broke bc its plastic and fragile but effective)

4. Side hip pouch of my Exo Pack with paper towels in it.

 

[buglelk]

Hey guys!


There are 3 things that are bad for diaphragm elk calls:


1. Heat
2. Saliva
3. Direct exposure to sunlight


The best way to care for a diaphragm elk call after use is get as much moisture off it as possible, then store it in a breathable case (allows it to dry completely and keeps it from exposure to sunlight) in a cool place (i.e., not the dash of your truck).


Following this simple routine for care of your diaphragm elk call will ensure that you get the most life out of the call as possible.


Thanks!

 

[nclonghunter]

Since saliva is bad I would think washing in water first or maybe wiping it with an alcohol cleanser first if that is okay.....before drying.

 

[kyarcher]

Thanks for the information everyone.  Is it OK to soak them in mouthwash for a few minutes?  I've done this with my turkey calls, but didn't know if it would have any adverse affect on the elk calls.

 

[WW]

I keep mine in one of those little squeeze change purses. And at the end of the season, I keep them in my desk drawer. I think the key thing is to keep them in a dark place where they can also dry out.

 

[joegiglianm@gmail.com]

I use both the Primo's clear case and rubber change purse case. The only thing about the Primo's case is you have to know how to stack them so they don't rattle. I modify the case with some small drill holes to help with moisture.
The change purse works good, no rattling, but can only carry a couple of calls and they can stay damp longer.
In the off-season I keep my calls in our refrigerator in their cases. You know, in that one high door butter shelf that keeps them out of my wife's vision..lol.

 

[acattoni]

Going to be keeping it in the pocket of the AGC. Keep t covered and out of the elements.

 

[patch1010]

I keep mine in the net side pouches of my bino cover.

 

[sdgardiner]

I agree with buglelk! Keep them dry and out of sunlight. I dry mine with a paper towel then place in a sandwich Ziploc with a half slice of bread and store in the fridge. The bread absorbs the rest of the moisture.

 

[sdgardiner]

In the field, I keep them in a black plastic case in my chest pocket.

 

[Stoneman]

In the field they are kept where I can access them fast and easy.  Someone once told me arrows are cheap when you are hunting...  Same goes for calls.  After the season or during the off season in between practice, I wash them off with tap water, let dry, and put in the refrig on the door shelf.  Nothing lasts forever but this will prolong the life of your diaphragm calls.