First Thoughts on the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL
The RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL enters a crowded market of elk calls, promising to deliver authentic elk sounds at a budget-friendly price of $9.49. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’m always skeptical of deeply discounted gear, but also open to finding hidden gems. This call claims to be able to produce the sounds needed to bring in a bull, but can it truly stand up to the challenges of real-world elk hunting?
My elk hunting over the years has shown me that a reliable call is paramount; a blown call can spook an elk, and a poorly made call can ruin a hunt. I was seeking a backup call, something lightweight and easily packable, that I could use in a pinch or loan to a hunting partner who’s just starting out. At this price point, the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL seemed worth investigating.
Upon first inspection, the call is surprisingly compact and lightweight. The materials feel, well, inexpensive, but not necessarily flimsy. I was immediately curious how the sound quality would compare to my diaphragm calls and higher-end tube calls, like those from Bugling Bull Game Calls. Unlike other, more complex calls with adjustable reeds, this one appears remarkably simple in its design. My first thought was: can something this simple really mimic the nuanced sounds of a mature bull elk?
The Primos Hoochie Mama Elk Call and Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Bully Bull Extreme Elk Call are popular choices, and I chose the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL for its sheer simplicity and price, thinking it might be a good entry-level option for someone new to elk hunting. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. I was curious if the sound quality would live up to the expectations of even a novice elk hunter, and I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL to a local forested area that sees some elk activity, although not during hunting season. The weather was mild and dry, perfect for testing sound projection and clarity without the added challenges of extreme conditions.
The initial attempts to produce a realistic elk bugle were less than impressive. It took some practice to find the right air pressure and mouth position to avoid squeaks and flat tones. The sound projection was limited; I struggled to get the call to carry beyond 100 yards effectively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of practice and experimentation, I was able to produce a more convincing, albeit still somewhat generic, elk bugle with the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL. It’s definitely not as nuanced or expressive as my diaphragm calls.
The RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL has held up reasonably well, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. The simple design makes cleaning and maintenance a breeze. However, compared to my high-end calls, this one feels disposable, lacking the robust construction and refined sound quality I’ve come to rely on.
Breaking Down the Features of RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL
Specifications
The technical specifications of the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL are sparse, likely due to its basic design. There is no listed caliber, weight, or magazine capacity, as it is a call, not a firearm. The call is constructed primarily of molded plastic, contributing to its lightweight and affordable price.
The defining “feature” is its ability to produce elk sounds using a simple air-driven reed system. The design lacks adjustability, meaning the user’s technique is the primary factor in determining the quality and variety of calls produced. This simplicity can be a benefit for beginners but a limitation for experienced callers.
Performance & Functionality
The RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL performs its basic function – producing elk-like sounds – adequately. However, it lacks the dynamic range and tonal complexity needed to truly mimic the nuances of a mature bull’s bugle or a cow’s estrus whine.
Its strength lies in its simplicity; it’s easy to learn the basics. The weakness is the limited range of sounds and the lack of projection. It only meets expectations if those expectations are set very low.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is commensurate with the price point. The plastic feels somewhat cheap, but the call is lightweight and easy to handle.
It’s reasonably user-friendly, requiring minimal setup. It does necessitate a learning curve to master consistent, realistic sounds.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the plastic construction, the RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL is unlikely to withstand extreme abuse. However, it should last for several seasons with proper care.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove moisture and debris. Repair is unlikely; replacement is the more probable course of action should it fail.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL comes with no accessories and offers no customization options. Its design is fixed and unchangeable. It is a stand-alone product intended for immediate, basic use.
It’s unlikely to be compatible with accessories designed for more advanced elk calls. The simplicity that makes it affordable also limits its versatility.
Pros and Cons of RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL
Pros
- Affordable price makes it an accessible entry-level option.
- Lightweight and compact design is easy to pack and carry.
- Simple design allows for quick learning of basic elk calls.
- Easy to maintain due to the minimal number of parts.
- Good backup call for beginners.
Cons
- Limited sound quality and projection compared to higher-end calls.
- Plastic construction feels cheap and may not be exceptionally durable.
- Lacks versatility to create realistic Elk sounds.
Who Should Buy RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL?
Perfect for: Beginner elk hunters looking for an affordable way to start learning basic calling techniques. Also suitable as a backup call for experienced hunters, or for youth hunters who are just getting started and may lose or break more expensive equipment.
Who should skip this product? Experienced elk hunters seeking realistic and nuanced calls. Those serious about consistently calling in mature bulls should invest in higher-quality, more versatile options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Given the lack of customization, the primary “accessory” is practice. A good instructional video or mentorship from an experienced caller is highly recommended.
Conclusion on RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL
The RMHC #106 HERD MASTER ELK CALL offers a very basic entry point into the world of elk calling. Its simplicity and low price make it an attractive option for beginners, but experienced hunters will likely find it lacking in sound quality and versatility.
The price is definitely justified for what it is – a disposable, entry-level call. The value proposition is that it allows someone curious about elk hunting to try out calling without a significant financial investment.
I would recommend it with reservations, specifically to absolute beginners who understand its limitations. For those serious about elk hunting, I’d suggest viewing this as a temporary stepping stone towards higher-quality calls and dedicated practice. It is functional, but you’ll eventually need a better tool to consistently bring in the big bulls.