For bugling you basically have 2 options: The kind of bugle that has a built in reed, or a hollowed bugle tube that you use a diaphragm reed for the pitch/ sound and the tube just amplifies it.
Cow calling you can use a Hootchie Mama which is a hand held squeeze plunger type call, an external cow call that you put to your mouth and blow into or the diaphragm which is a reed you have in your mouth.
Personally I like the diaphragm reed because the SAME reed can be used to do cow calls and then you put the bugle to your mouth and start ripping bugles, so the same reed will do both. Side note is some prefer a different cow calling diaphragm reed to a diaphragm they prefer to use for bugles.
It's a good idea to have external cow calls because they can be louder (useful for windy days etc.) and an external call will sound different then the diaphragm so now you can portray multiple cows or have another option the elk might prefer. The diaphragm reeds come in 2 sizes: 1/2" and 5/8". Try both, but more then likely the 1/2" size will be the one that fits the best. Try different brands too.
The Elknut app has a feature that lets you record your sounds and then compare to the real elk. Also states what each sound represents, how to make the sound yourself, when to use the sound and what to do when YOU hear the sound in the woods.
LAST THING: IF YOU DON'T PRACTICE, YOU WON'T CALL. Being out there and the moment presents itself and you aren't confident with your calling, you won't even try...
