RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK Review

First Thoughts on the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent over a decade in the field, relying on my gear to perform. When it comes to elk hunting, having the right calls can be the difference between a successful hunt and a disappointing one. That’s why the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK caught my eye.

My typical need is reliable, versatile elk calls that can cover different scenarios, from coaxing in a timid cow to challenging an aggressive bull. Upon unboxing the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK, I immediately noticed the compact design and the clear labeling of each call: Black Magic, Reaper, and Spellbound. The calls felt well-constructed, a promising start for a product at this price point of $23.99.

Compared to other diaphragm call sets I’ve used, such as the Primos Hyper Lip Single and the Bugling Bull Game Calls – Terminator, the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK stood out for its targeted approach. Instead of offering generic “elk sounds,” RMHC specifically designates each call for a unique vocalization. I was cautiously optimistic.

Initial impressions were positive, with a hint of excitement to test these calls in the field. I was hoping that the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK would provide me with the versatility and realism needed to effectively communicate with elk during different phases of the rut. Only time and testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK to the Test

First Use Experience

I put the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK to the test during the early season elk hunt in the high country of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. The altitude was around 10,000 feet, and the weather fluctuated between crisp mornings and warm afternoons. My strategy was to use the Black Magic to imitate cow mews and chirps, hoping to locate a herd, transitioning to the Reaper for aggressive bugles if I encountered a satellite bull.

The Black Magic call was surprisingly easy to use straight out of the package, producing realistic cow sounds with minimal effort. The Reaper took a little more practice to get the aggressive bugles just right, but after about an hour of experimenting, I was able to create the challenging sound profile needed to attract attention. The Spellbound call was the most nuanced.

After the first day, I experienced some initial frustration with the Reaper, which required a lot of breath control to avoid squeaking. By the third day, my breath control had improved and the squeaking had decreased.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of hunting across various terrains, the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK held up reasonably well. There was some visible wear on the reeds of the Black Magic call, likely due to the frequency of use for cow calls. Cleaning the calls after each hunting session proved essential to maintain consistent sound quality and prevent moisture buildup.

Compared to my previous experiences with higher-end diaphragm calls, the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK performed admirably for the price. While the higher-end calls may offer slightly more nuanced tones, the RMHC pack delivered sufficient realism and versatility to effectively call in elk. I would consider them effective for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK

Specifications

The RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK includes three distinct diaphragm elk calls:

• Black Magic: Designed to imitate the sounds of a frustrated bull, cow mews, and chirps. It utilizes a thinner reed for higher-pitched, softer calls.
• Reaper: Engineered for aggressive bugles from challenging bulls and estrus whines of a cow in heat. Its thicker reed provides the raspiness needed for aggressive vocalizations.
• Spellbound: Crafted to challenge bulls, creating realistic display bugles. It aims for a balanced tone between aggression and realism.

These specifications are crucial because they allow a hunter to adapt to different elk behaviors and scenarios. The ability to switch between cow calls, aggressive bugles, and display bugles significantly increases the chances of successfully calling in an elk. The diaphragm design of these calls allows for hands-free operation, a huge advantage when you’re drawing your bow.

Performance & Functionality

The RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK performs its intended job quite well, offering a spectrum of elk vocalizations. The Black Magic effectively drew in a few cows and calves with its realistic mews, while the Reaper sparked interest from a distant satellite bull, though I was unable to close the distance. The Spellbound call worked well to keep the bull interested once I moved in closer.

The calls are easy to use once you’ve spent some time getting familiar with them. One area needing improvement is call durability.

The RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK largely meets my expectations, especially considering its affordable price. Seasoned hunters and beginners alike will appreciate the value.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK is decent for the price, with the diaphragms securely attached to the frames. The calls are lightweight, allowing for comfortable carry in a call lanyard or pocket. The shape and size of the diaphragms are ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the mouth without causing excessive fatigue during prolonged calling sessions.

The calls are generally user-friendly, although beginners may require some practice to master the different vocalizations. It took me about an hour to get comfortable.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK should last at least one to two hunting seasons, potentially longer with meticulous maintenance. Cleaning the calls after each use is essential to remove saliva and prevent mold growth. Replacing the diaphragms when they show signs of wear will maintain optimal sound quality.

The calls are relatively easy to maintain, requiring only rinsing with water and air-drying. The individual reeds are not designed to be user-replaced.

Accessories and Customization Options

The RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK comes as a complete set of three calls, and no additional accessories are included. Customization options are limited, as these are diaphragm calls designed for a specific purpose. They are universally compatible with most call lanyards and storage cases.

Pros and Cons of RMHC #142 GTP ELK CALL 3 PACK