If were talking about the yoke style calf raise device/machine, than yes that can be very misused. Most every gym have guy's who would load it up to 300-400lbs and do something that was akin to a combination of a 1/16 of an inch calf raise and 1/8th knee breaks. Which did nothing for the calves at all, and they wondered why no improvement. Best to lower the weight and do the exercise the correct way, going for reps and not weight used. (this calif machine/yoke can be a good exercise for working the traps, with hands free shoulder shrugs, something like the old Hise Shrugs..an excellent exercise. And no worry about the grip ever giving out)
Donny suggested probably one of the best, if not the best, calf movement around. That is the one legged calf raise, while holding a DB. Attention to a full stretch and being on the (mostly) two toes at the top position, as high as you can is the most important, for you want that full muscle contraction of the calves.. The weight does not have to be extreme at all, but the reps should be quick and powerful from the bottom position and powerful muscle contraction at the top position (as with the way sprinters perform their events, and they do possess some very impressive calves).
Something that has works for some men is an all day calf program. Every hour, two sets of one legged calf raises are done (some only do one set) , but you do not want to force the reps or ever go to a point of failure. Just insuring that the calves get a fairly good pump, every hour on the hour. Also attention to a full stretch. This brings in a fresh supply of blood (amino acids and other vital body chemicals) for the working muscles and the potential for cell growth. Old saying in BB'ing, from the 70's, more blood, more muscle. Usually any where from 6 to 10 hours during the specific day. Keep the calves warm during the resting periods, with a light heating element as lotions, cremes, wraps, etc. May want to do this type program once ever 2 to 3 weeks, can be hard on the CNS and full recovery for the next workout.
The above is similar to the all day arm routine, which may also work for some, if the correct way is approached. Meaning, as with the calves, avoid over working the muscle group each hour worked, don't really need a lot of heavy weight, just enough for a fairly good pump.. Again, this can be very demanding on the CNS ,if abused by a work overload. Most use DB concentration curls, Scott benches, incline DB curls (good movement), etc. Good Luck