The Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist for over a decade, I’ve handled and tested countless pieces of equipment. Elk hunting, in particular, demands specialized tools. That’s what led me to the Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed.
I’d been searching for a diaphragm call that could consistently produce high-pitch cow and calf sounds with minimal effort. My go-to calls were starting to lose their edge, and I needed a reliable replacement that wouldn’t break the bank. The Primos name carries weight in the hunting world, and the “Preacher’s” promise of ease of use and accurate calling piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the medium frame of the call. It felt comfortable in my hand, and the trimmable tape was a welcome feature. The build quality seemed solid for a call in this price range, with the diaphragm material appearing durable and well-seated.
I had been considering the Rocky Mountain Game Calls Bully Bull Extreme and the Bugling Bull Game Calls Palate Plate. However, the Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed’s competitive price and emphasis on cow and calf sounds swayed my decision. I was excited to get out in the field and see if it lived up to the hype, hoping it wouldn’t be another disappointing diaphragm call relegated to the bottom of my pack.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed came during a late-season elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was typical for that time of year: cold and occasionally snowy. I primarily used it in areas with thick timber and limited visibility, perfect for mimicking lost calves.
The call was surprisingly easy to use right out of the package. The 16-degree sound plate angle seemed to position itself perfectly, allowing me to produce convincing cow and calf sounds with minimal effort. I did experience some initial moisture buildup on the reed, which slightly affected the sound, but this was easily remedied by briefly drying the call against my leg.
My biggest surprise was how responsive the call was, even in the cold. I was able to create subtle variations in tone and volume, adding realism to my calls. A young spike bull even responded to my calling, giving me a clear shot at 75 yards!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed has held up remarkably well. The diaphragm material hasn’t shown any signs of tearing or stretching, and the tape remains securely attached. Cleaning the call is straightforward.
I simply rinse it with warm water after each use and allow it to air dry. Compared to some other diaphragm calls I’ve used, which often require frequent adjustments and replacements, the Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed has proven to be a reliable and low-maintenance option. It certainly outperforms some of the cheaper calls I’ve used in the past, providing consistent sound quality and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed
Specifications
The Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed is a mouth call designed for elk hunting. It features a double reed configuration optimized for high-pitch cow and calf sounds. The call boasts a medium-sized frame with trimmable tape, allowing for a customized fit, especially for hunters with smaller palates.
The sound plate is set at a 16-degree angle, designed to automatically position the call for optimal cow, calf, and spike bull vocalizations. This angled design contributes significantly to the ease of use and the realistic sound production.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed excels at producing realistic cow and calf elk sounds. Its consistent tone and ease of use make it a valuable tool for any elk hunter. Its primary strength lies in its ability to accurately mimic the high-pitched vocalizations that attract elk.
While primarily designed for cow and calf calls, it can also produce decent spike bull bugles with practice. The call meets and even exceeds my expectations for a diaphragm call in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The call’s medium-frame design fits comfortably in the mouth. The trimmable tape allows for a secure and customized fit, ensuring consistent sound quality. The build quality feels solid, with durable materials that can withstand repeated use in the field.
The angled sound plate is a thoughtful design element that significantly reduces the learning curve for new users. It is undeniably user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The diaphragm material is surprisingly durable. With proper care, it should last for at least a full hunting season, if not longer. Maintaining the call is simple.
Rinsing with warm water and allowing it to air dry is sufficient for most situations. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing, as this can damage the reeds.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its trimmable tape allows for a degree of customization. This is critical for hunters with varied palate sizes.
While no specific modifications are necessary, some hunters may choose to use different types of tape for a more personalized fit. It is also compatible with Primos call cases.
Pros and Cons of Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed
Pros
- Easy to use, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced elk hunters.
- Produces realistic high-pitch cow and calf sounds.
- Affordable price point.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Trimmable tape allows for a customized fit.
Cons
- May require occasional drying due to moisture buildup on the reed.
- Limited versatility compared to calls that can produce a wider range of elk vocalizations.
Who Should Buy Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed?
The Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels. This is especially true for those who primarily focus on attracting elk with cow and calf calls. It’s also ideal for hunters who want a reliable and affordable diaphragm call.
Those who need a single call to produce a wide range of elk vocalizations, including mature bull bugles, might want to consider a more versatile option. No must-have accessories are needed, but a call case can help protect it from damage.
Conclusion on Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed
The Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed is an excellent value for the money. It offers impressive performance, durability, and ease of use at an affordable price. The price is absolutely justified.
I would definitely recommend it to any elk hunter looking to add a reliable cow and calf call to their arsenal. It’s a simple, effective tool that can significantly increase your chances of success in the field. So, grab a Primos Raghorn Ridge The Preacher Diaphragm Call Double Reed, head out to the elk woods, and start calling in those bulls!