The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL Made a Bold First Impression
The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL enters a crowded market, promising to deliver the authentic sound of a cow elk in estrus. Manufactured by RMHC, it’s built upon the GTP frame and utilizes a single latex reed. This design aims to create realistic mews, chirps, and whines to lure in bulls during the rut. I was intrigued by its simplicity and focus on a specific elk vocalization, which could potentially give it an edge over more general-purpose calls.
My own elk hunting experiences in the high country of Colorado have been a frustrating mix of near misses and unanswered calls. I needed a reliable call that could cut through the noise and mimic the subtle estrus sounds that drive bulls crazy during peak season. I’ve previously relied on diaphragm calls, but their inconsistency in challenging weather prompted me to explore easier-to-use, external reed options.
Unboxing the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL, I was immediately struck by its lightweight and compact design. The molded GTP frame felt sturdy enough, and the single latex reed appeared well-seated. It’s definitely a no-frills package, reflecting its budget-friendly price.
Compared to my Sceery Outdoors Bugling Bull Grunt Tube, which offers a wider range of elk sounds, the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL is laser-focused on estrus vocalizations. The Primos Hyper Lip Single, another popular external reed call, felt bulkier and less refined. I also considered a traditional cow call made from a turkey pot and striker but opted for the RMHC due to its weather resistance and ease of transport.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The call felt good in my hand, and I was eager to see if its targeted design would translate into real results in the field. The price point made it a low-risk investment in potentially improving my elk hunting success.
Real-World Testing: Putting RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
I field-tested the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL during the peak of the rut in the Routt National Forest in northwestern Colorado. I primarily hunted in areas with mixed timber and open meadows, hoping to attract a bull responding to cow calls. Conditions varied from crisp, clear mornings to windy afternoons with intermittent rain.
The call performed admirably in calm conditions, producing clear and consistent mews and chirps with minimal effort. However, the wind made it more challenging to control the reed and maintain consistent sound quality. It definitely took some practice to find the right air pressure and lip positioning to prevent the call from squeaking or sounding unnatural.
Initially, I struggled to consistently reproduce the subtle estrus whine I was aiming for. With practice and careful attention to air pressure and reed placement, I was able to get a convincing whine, but it required conscious effort. After a couple of hours of practice, I was feeling confident in my ability to produce acceptable estrus vocalizations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After two weeks of consistent use in the field, the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL has held up surprisingly well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the frame or the reed. I took care to store it in a protective case when not in use, preventing damage during transport.
The call is reasonably easy to clean; I simply wipe the reed with a clean cloth after each use to remove moisture and debris. Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain sound quality and prevent the reed from sticking. Its simplicity is a strength in this regard, as there are no complicated mechanisms to disassemble and clean.
Compared to my previous experiences with diaphragm calls, the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL offers significantly greater consistency and ease of use. Diaphragm calls are notoriously sensitive to moisture and require considerable practice to master. While the RMHC call requires some practice, the learning curve is much shorter and less frustrating.
Breaking Down the Features of RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL
Specifications
- Frame: GTP (likely a durable plastic composite). This provides a lightweight and weather-resistant structure.
- Reed: Single latex reed. This is the core component for sound production, designed for estrus cow elk vocalizations.
- Sound Reproduction: Mews, chirps, and whines. These are the specific vocalizations the call is designed to mimic.
- Price: $9.49. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly option.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the call’s ease of use, sound quality, and overall effectiveness. The GTP frame contributes to durability, while the single latex reed determines the type and quality of the elk sounds produced. The affordability makes it a good entry-level option.
Performance & Functionality
The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL excels at producing consistent mews and chirps, essential for attracting curious cows and immature bulls. The estrus whine, however, requires more practice and finesse to master. This is a critical sound for enticing mature bulls during the rut.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and focus on specific elk vocalizations. A potential weakness is its limited range compared to more versatile calls that can produce bugles and other bull sounds. For beginners, this targeted approach is beneficial.
The call largely meets expectations, given its price point and design. It’s not a perfect call, but it’s a valuable tool for hunters who want to add realistic cow elk sounds to their repertoire. It is far better than just yelling at an elk!
Design & Ergonomics
The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL features a lightweight and compact design, making it comfortable to hold and easy to carry in a pocket or pack. The molded GTP frame feels durable enough to withstand normal use in the field. It could be a little more ergonomic, but its size and weight are definite advantages.
The call is relatively user-friendly, although achieving consistent sound quality requires some practice. Beginners may need to spend time learning how to control air pressure and lip placement to produce realistic elk vocalizations. This is something that most elk calls require.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL should last for several hunting seasons. The GTP frame is resistant to cracking and breaking, and the latex reed can be easily replaced if it becomes damaged or worn. Replacing the reed is an easy and inexpensive process.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe the reed with a clean cloth after each use and store the call in a protective case. Avoid exposing the call to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, which can damage the latex reed. Proper storage will greatly improve lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL doesn’t come with any accessories. There are also no customization options available. The call is designed to be used as is, without the need for additional components or modifications.
Because it is a simple design, there are no compatible accessories from other brands. Its simplicity is both a strength and a limitation. The lack of accessories keeps the cost down, but it also limits the call’s versatility.
Pros and Cons of RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL
Pros
- Excellent value for the price. It’s an affordable entry point for hunters looking to add cow elk sounds to their arsenal.
- Simple and easy to use. The learning curve is short, making it suitable for beginners.
- Lightweight and compact design. It’s comfortable to hold and easy to carry.
- Produces realistic mews and chirps. These are essential for attracting cow elk and immature bulls.
- Durable GTP frame. Provides reasonable weather resistance.
Cons
- Estrus whine requires practice. Achieving a consistent and convincing whine can be challenging for beginners.
- Limited range of vocalizations. It cannot produce bugles or other bull sounds.
- Performance affected by wind. Strong winds can make it difficult to control the reed and maintain consistent sound quality.
Who Should Buy RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL?
The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL is perfect for beginner elk hunters who want to learn how to produce realistic cow elk sounds. It’s also a good option for experienced hunters who want a simple and reliable call for attracting cow elk and immature bulls. The low price makes it ideal for hunters on a budget.
Hunters who rely heavily on bugling or require a wider range of vocalizations should skip this product. Those hunting in consistently windy conditions might also want to consider a call that is less susceptible to wind interference. Diaphragm calls might be a better option for these hunters.
A must-have accessory is a small protective case to prevent damage to the reed during transport. A lanyard can also be helpful to keep the call readily accessible. Also, practice is essential!
Conclusion on RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL
The RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL is a solid performer at an unbeatable price. While it requires some practice to master the estrus whine and has a limited range of vocalizations, its simplicity, durability, and realistic sound quality make it a valuable tool for elk hunters. This is especially true for beginners.
The price is definitely justified, given the call’s performance and ease of use. It offers excellent value for the money and is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve their elk hunting success. For under $10, it is hard to go wrong!
I would personally recommend the RMHC #D2 ELK CAMP ELK CALL to beginner elk hunters and those looking for a simple and reliable cow elk call. Its targeted design and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s pack. So grab one, practice your cow calls, and get ready to bring in that big bull!
