First Impressions of Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So
Elk hunting, for me, is more than a sport; it’s a primal connection to the land, a test of skill, and a communion with nature. The haunting bugle of a bull elk echoing through the crisp mountain air is a sound that quickens the pulse, and replicating that call effectively is paramount to success. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So, hoping it would elevate my calling game.
My old call, a single-reed diaphragm I’d used for years, was starting to lose its edge, and I was looking for something that offered a broader range of tones and increased realism. The Primos name is synonymous with quality hunting calls, so the Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw seemed like a promising upgrade. The promise of easy use thanks to the Sound Plate technology also intrigued me.
Upon receiving the Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So, I immediately noticed its compact design and the distinctive blue color of the frame. The construction felt solid, and the latex reeds appeared to be of good quality. The Sound Plate, a unique feature of this call, seemed like it would indeed simplify the process of proper mouth placement.
Compared to my older diaphragm call, the Outlaw felt more substantial and seemed to be designed with greater precision. I had considered other double-reed calls from Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls and Hunters Specialties, but the Primos call’s Sound Plate and reputation for producing high-pitch cow and calf sounds swayed my decision. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So to the Test
First Use Experience
I field-tested the Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So during the early archery season in the high country of Colorado. The weather was unpredictable, ranging from crisp, dry mornings to damp, misty afternoons.
Using the call took a little practice at first, but the Sound Plate really did make it easier to position the call correctly in my mouth. Within a few minutes, I was able to produce decent cow and calf calls. The sound carried well in the mountain air, even in the light wind. On my first calling sequence, I had a spike bull respond, confirming that the Outlaw could indeed attract elk.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of hunting with the Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So, I found it to be a reliable and effective tool. The latex reeds held up well to repeated use and exposure to moisture, showing no signs of degradation.
The call remained consistent in its performance, producing clear and realistic elk sounds even after being subjected to varying temperatures and humidity levels. Maintaining the call was simple; I just rinsed it with water after each use and allowed it to air dry. The Outlaw exceeded my expectations, offering a significant improvement over my previous calling setup in terms of both sound quality and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So
Specifications
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So is a double-reed diaphragm call designed for producing a range of elk vocalizations. It’s specifically designed to excel at high-pitch cow and calf sounds, which are crucial for attracting elk during various phases of the hunting season.
- Manufacturer: Primos Hunting
- Call Type: Diaphragm
- Intended Use: Elk, Bull/Calf/Cow Sounds
- Reed Type: Double Reed
- Color: Blue
These specifications are important because they define the call’s intended purpose and performance capabilities. The double-reed design allows for more complex and realistic sounds, while the Primos‘s focus on high-pitch calls is particularly effective for attracting cows and young bulls. The blue color is simply an aesthetic choice.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So performs admirably in its intended role, producing realistic and enticing elk vocalizations. Its ability to create high-pitch cow and calf sounds is exceptional, making it particularly effective during the pre-rut and early rut periods.
The Outlaw‘s strengths lie in its ease of use, thanks to the Sound Plate, and its ability to produce a wide range of realistic elk sounds. One minor weakness is that mastering the more subtle nuances of elk calling requires practice, but the call itself is not limiting. The call definitely met my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So features a user-friendly design that is comfortable to use for extended periods. The frame is lightweight and ergonomically shaped, conforming well to the roof of the mouth.
The Sound Plate, a key design element, ensures consistent and proper mouth placement, reducing the learning curve for novice callers. The build quality is excellent, with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting in harsh environments. There’s minimal learning curve due to the plate.
Durability & Maintenance
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So is built to last, with high-quality latex reeds and a robust frame. With proper care, the call should provide several seasons of reliable use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only rinsing with water and air drying after each use. I suspect the call will last for several years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is a self-contained calling device. There are no customization options available for this specific call, but Primos offers a wide range of other diaphragm calls with varying reed configurations and tonal characteristics.
This call is primarily designed to be used as is and is not really intended for customization. The call will still work well with any external amplifiers if needed.
Pros and Cons of Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So
Pros
- Ease of Use: The Sound Plate simplifies proper mouth placement, making it beginner-friendly.
- Realistic Sounds: Produces high-quality cow, calf, and spike bull bugles.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials to withstand harsh hunting conditions.
- Versatile: Can be used to create a range of elk vocalizations.
- Primos Quality: From a trusted manufacturer known for quality hunting calls.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering subtle calling techniques still requires practice.
- Limited Customization: No built-in options for customizing reed configuration.
Who Should Buy Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So?
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels, especially those looking for an easy-to-use and effective diaphragm call. It is also ideal for hunters who primarily target cows and young bulls or those who hunt in areas where high-pitch calls are particularly effective.
Hunters who prefer highly customizable calls or those who already have extensive experience with more complex diaphragm calls might find the Outlaw too basic. However, for most elk hunters, the Outlaw offers a great balance of performance and ease of use. Consider extra calls if you might damage the call in any way.
Conclusion on Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So
The Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So is an excellent diaphragm call that delivers on its promise of producing realistic elk sounds with minimal effort. The Sound Plate is a game-changer for beginners, and the call’s overall performance is impressive.
At $18.99, the price is more than justified for the value and performance it offers. I would definitely recommend the Primos 1653 Raghorn Ridge The Outlaw Diaphragm Call Double Reed Bull/Calf/Cow So to any elk hunter looking to improve their calling game. So grab one, practice your calls, and get ready to bring in that big bull!