RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL Review

Table of Contents

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL Made a Bold First Impression

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL, a diaphragm call from RMHC (Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls), arrives promising to be a vital tool for any elk hunter. This small, unassuming package holds the potential to transform a quiet forest into a symphony of elk sounds, bringing bulls running. My journey to this specific call was born out of frustration with other, more complicated calls that consistently failed in crucial moments.

Years of chasing elk in the rugged Rocky Mountains have taught me the importance of simplicity and reliability. I needed a diaphragm call that was easy to use, produced realistic sounds, and wouldn’t break the bank. I’ve tried everything from tube calls to external reed calls, but the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL piqued my interest with its GTP (guessing tone plate) design, simplicity, and focused intent on elk calls. Compared to calls from Primos or ElkNut, the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL‘s single diaphragm design and purported ease of use stood out.

Upon receiving the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL, my initial impression was one of understated confidence. The call itself is a simple, thin piece of material, seemingly fragile, yet exuding the potential for powerful, evocative sounds. The GTP diaphragm looked well-constructed and ready to be placed. I was eager to test if it could deliver on its promise of realistic elk vocalizations.

Real-World Testing: Putting RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL to the test during a scouting trip in the high country of Colorado’s Flat Tops Wilderness. The early season weather was unpredictable, with warm days turning into chilly, damp evenings. I wanted to see how this call would perform in varying conditions and whether I could consistently produce realistic elk sounds.

Initially, I struggled to get a clean, consistent sound. This was to be expected with any diaphragm call. After about an hour of practice, mimicking cow calls and bugles, I started to find the sweet spot. The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL produced surprisingly realistic sounds, even when my mouth was dry from the arid mountain air.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL both during scouting and the early archery season, I’ve become increasingly impressed with its durability and reliability. Despite being a relatively thin diaphragm call, it has held up remarkably well. I’ve stored it in my call case, protected from the elements, and it shows no signs of wear and tear.

Cleaning is simple; just rinse it with water and let it air dry. Compared to some of my other diaphragm calls that require specialized cleaning solutions, the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is exceptionally low-maintenance. Its consistent performance and ease of care far exceed my expectations, especially considering its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL

Specifications

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is a diaphragm-style elk call designed for ease of use and realistic sound production. Its key features include:

GTP Diaphragm: This is a single latex reed, pre-stretched and designed to produce a range of elk vocalizations with minimal effort. This diaphragm’s thickness is standard and made for easy sound inflection.
Lightweight Design: Made from thin latex, the call is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The frame is made from a thin, flexible material.
Compact Size: The call is small and easily fits in a pocket or call lanyard. This makes it ideal for mobile hunting situations.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the call’s usability and effectiveness. The GTP Diaphragm design is crucial for producing realistic elk sounds with minimal practice. The lightweight and compact size enhance comfort and portability, allowing hunters to keep the call readily accessible without adding bulk or weight.

Performance & Functionality

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL performs admirably, delivering a range of realistic elk vocalizations. With practice, I was able to produce convincing cow calls, calf mews, and even some basic bull bugles. Its strength lies in its ability to create clear and distinct tones, mimicking the natural sounds of elk in their environment.

The primary weakness lies in its limited range compared to multi-reed calls. While it excels at cow calls and softer sounds, achieving deep, resonant bugles requires more skill and practice. It meets my expectations for a simple, reliable diaphragm call, but it doesn’t exceed them in terms of versatility.

Design & Ergonomics

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL features a basic, functional design. The materials used are adequate for its intended purpose, and the call is comfortable to wear in the mouth. The slim profile minimizes bulk and irritation.

There is a slight learning curve associated with any diaphragm call. However, the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is relatively easy to learn, making it a good option for beginners. Novice callers can achieve decent results with a reasonable amount of practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is reasonably durable. It should last through multiple hunting seasons with proper care. Regular cleaning and storage in a protective case will significantly extend its lifespan.

Maintenance is straightforward. Simply rinse the call with water after each use and allow it to air dry completely. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is a standalone product and does not come with any specific accessories. The call is universal. It is not specifically designed for use with any specific modification.

Because of its popularity, the diaphragm frame can be replaced with common frames. These are easily found and make the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL a good buy.

Pros and Cons of RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL

Pros

Realistic Elk Sounds: The GTP diaphragm produces convincing cow calls and calf mews.
Ease of Use: Relatively easy to learn, even for beginners.
Affordable Price: At $9.49, it’s an excellent value for the money.
Durable Construction: Holds up well with proper care.
Lightweight and Compact: Comfortable to wear and easy to carry.

Cons

Limited Range: Not ideal for producing deep, resonant bugles.
Single Reed Design: Lacks the versatility of multi-reed calls.

Who Should Buy RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL?

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is perfect for beginner elk hunters looking for an affordable and easy-to-use diaphragm call. It’s also a good option for experienced hunters who want a reliable backup call or specialize in cow calling. Survivalists would also be able to use this call to successfully attract elks, and it packs light, which is a major benefit.

Hunters seeking a call that can produce a wide range of elk vocalizations, particularly those focused on aggressive bull bugles, should consider other options. Someone expecting a professional or competition level elk calling experience may find this option lacking in diversity. Must-have accessories would include a call case to protect the diaphragm and a lanyard for easy access.

Conclusion on RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL

The RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL is a solid, reliable diaphragm call that delivers realistic elk sounds at an unbeatable price. While it may not be the most versatile call on the market, its ease of use and consistent performance make it an excellent choice for beginners and cow-calling specialists. At $9.49, the price is absolutely justified, and I would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a simple, effective elk call.

Give the RMHC #135 SPELLBOUND ELK CALL a try and experience the thrill of calling in a bull elk with your own voice! Add this tool to your kit and see your next hunt become more successful!