Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum Review

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum Made a Bold First Impression

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve blown into my fair share of elk calls. Many have promised the moon, but delivered only a faint whimper. So, when the Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum arrived, I approached them with a healthy dose of skepticism, coupled with a sliver of hope for finally finding a reliable and versatile set.

My quest for a dependable elk call set stemmed from countless frustrating hunts where my calls fell short. Either the tone was off, they were difficult to control in the field, or they simply lacked the range to mimic the nuances of elk communication effectively. The Higdon set promised a solution with its diverse range of calls in one package.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the apparent quality of the diaphragms. They felt robust and well-constructed, a stark contrast to some of the flimsier calls I’ve encountered. The different colors designated each call, making for easy identification, and a welcome change to fumbling in the dark with identical calls.

I’ve used Primos and Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls extensively in the past. While both offer decent options, neither provided the all-in-one versatility that the Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum seemed to promise. I chose this set hoping for a broader range of vocalizations and a more nuanced control over my calls.

Initially, I was excited and intrigued by the Higdon set. The promise of realistic cow elk sounds from the “Single Lady”, advanced tonal range from the “Black Ice”, and versatile bull and cow calls from the “Stratum” piqued my interest and left me eager to put them to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test took place in the rugged mountains of Western Montana, during the peak of the elk rut. I specifically targeted areas with known elk activity, ranging from open meadows to dense timber. The conditions were typical for the region – cool mornings, warm afternoons, and occasional light rain.

The Single Lady immediately proved its worth by producing incredibly realistic and sweet cow elk sounds. Elk responded positively to this call, and it proved to be very effective for attracting cows and calves. The “Black Ice,” however, required more practice and control, but its advanced tonal range showed great potential.

The non-domed design of the “Black Ice” and “Stratum” calls presented a slight learning curve. These calls require more precise mouth positioning and air control compared to domed calls. Despite the initial challenge, the resulting sounds were undeniably richer and more realistic than those of domed calls.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of intensive use, the Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum demonstrated impressive durability. They maintained their shape and tone, even after repeated exposure to moisture and temperature fluctuations. Consistent moisture control is still important, but the materials withstood the rigors of the field.

The diaphragms showed no signs of cracking or fraying, which is a common issue with lesser-quality calls. Minimal maintenance was required, primarily involving rinsing the calls with water and storing them in a dry environment when not in use. The durability is a notable plus for serious hunters.

Compared to previous experiences with other brands, the Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum exceeded my expectations in terms of tonal range and realism. The versatility of having three distinct calls in one pack provided a significant advantage in adapting to varying hunting scenarios. It’s a welcome upgrade to my usual loadout.

Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum

Specifications

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum comprises three distinct diaphragm calls designed to mimic a wide array of elk vocalizations. The set includes the “Single Lady”, “Black Ice”, and “Stratum” calls. Each call features a unique diaphragm configuration and frame design, allowing for varied tones and pitches.

The Higdon calls utilize a non-dome chassis. This design enhances acoustic realism but requires more advanced calling techniques. The materials are high-quality latex and tape, engineered to withstand moisture and maintain consistent performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum excels in its ability to produce realistic elk sounds, with each call offering a specific tonal range. The “Single Lady” is exceptional for mimicking sweet and smooth cow and calf sounds. The “Black Ice” provides superior acoustic realism and tonal range for advanced callers.

The “Stratum” call produces remarkable bull and cow sounds, although, like the “Black Ice,” it requires practice due to its non-domed chassis. The primary strength of the Higdon set lies in its versatility. While the “Black Ice” and “Stratum” require a bit of practice, they quickly become valuable tools for experienced callers.

The “Black Ice” and “Stratum” calls would benefit from more user-friendly designs. While the non-dome design offers superior sound quality, it also presents a steeper learning curve for novice callers. With a little practice, the sounds this call produces will literally blow you away.

Design & Ergonomics

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum features a compact and lightweight design. This design makes them easy to carry and use in the field. The materials used are durable and comfortable against the roof of the mouth.

The non-domed chassis of the “Black Ice” and “Stratum” calls can present an ergonomic challenge for some users. The larger frame requires more precise mouth positioning and air control. The “Single Lady” call is more user-friendly and suitable for beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-quality materials used in the Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum ensure long-lasting durability. With proper care, these calls can withstand the rigors of repeated use in various weather conditions. The latex diaphragms are resistant to cracking and fraying.

Minimal maintenance is required. Simple rinsing with water and proper storage is typically sufficient to keep the calls in optimal condition. Regular inspection for wear and tear can extend the lifespan of the diaphragms.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum set does not include any additional accessories beyond the three calls themselves. There are no specific customization options available. The calls are designed to be used as-is, with each offering a distinct tonal range.

The calls are compatible with standard diaphragm call cases and storage solutions. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of the latex diaphragms. While customization is limited, the diversity of the three calls provides ample flexibility.

Pros and Cons of Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum

Who Should Buy Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum?

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum is perfect for elk hunters of all skill levels. Beginners will find the “Single Lady” call easy to use and highly effective for attracting cows and calves. Experienced callers will appreciate the advanced tonal range and realistic sounds of the “Black Ice” and “Stratum” calls.

Novice callers who are not willing to invest time in mastering the non-domed designs should skip this product. These hunters may find domed calls more user-friendly and less frustrating to learn. It is important to practice extensively before heading into the field.

A diaphragm call case or storage solution is a must-have accessory for this set. Proper storage protects the diaphragms from damage and extends their lifespan. It is also beneficial to have a mouth call sanitizer spray for maintaining hygiene, although simple rinsing with water will suffice for short term use.

Conclusion on Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum

The Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum offers exceptional value and versatility for elk hunters. The price of $26.49 is more than justified given the quality of the materials and the realistic sounds produced by these calls. This set provides a comprehensive solution for mimicking a wide range of elk vocalizations.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Higdon Origin Series Diaphragm Elk Mouth Calls Singe Lady Black Ice Stratum to any serious elk hunter. The combination of the user-friendly “Single Lady” call and the advanced capabilities of the “Black Ice” and “Stratum” calls make this set a valuable addition to any hunter’s arsenal. Don’t head into the elk woods without this set; grab one now and experience the difference firsthand!