Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call Review

The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve used countless elk calls. Many promise the moon, but deliver a mere whisper. The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call arrived on my doorstep with a simple promise: lifelike elk sounds with ease and precision.

For years, I struggled to find a consistent call that could reliably produce both strong bugles and subtle cow sounds. I needed something dependable, especially when guiding less experienced hunters. I also wanted something compact enough to easily carry without adding bulk to my already overloaded pack.

Upon unboxing the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call, my initial thought was, “Wow, this is simple.” The design is straightforward: a small, molded dome. It felt surprisingly sturdy despite its lightweight construction, suggesting durable materials. I’ve used diaphragm calls, tube calls, and even natural bone calls in the past. This seemed like a return to basics, but with modern materials.

I considered the Primos Hyper Lip Single and the Elk Nut Bugle before settling on the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call. The Primos call seemed bulky. The Elk Nut, while lauded for its realism, demands a significant learning curve. I chose the Higdon for its purported ease of use and its compact design.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could something this simple really deliver the range and consistency promised? Only a real-world test would tell if the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call was a genuine contender, or just another piece of gear destined for the bottom of my pack. I was eager to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call came during a solo scouting trip in the Colorado Rockies. The weather was variable. Early morning frost gave way to a sunny afternoon. Then a brief rain shower rolled through in the late afternoon. I wanted to see how the call performed under different conditions.

The Higdon RS1 proved incredibly easy to use right out of the package. I produced a decent cow call within minutes. The bugle took a little more practice. But the learning curve was remarkably shallow. The call remained consistent even with slightly wet conditions from the afternoon shower.

After about an hour of practice, I was able to produce a variety of realistic elk sounds. There were no initial issues. The call felt comfortable in my hand. The sound projection was better than I anticipated.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call has become a staple in my hunting pack. It held up remarkably well during a 10-day elk hunt in Montana. The call was subjected to constant use and varying temperatures.

Durability has been impressive. There are no signs of wear and tear despite being exposed to rough handling and the elements. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. The Higdon RS1 requires very little maintenance.

Compared to some of the more complicated calls I’ve used, the Higdon RS1 has been a revelation. I consistently get better results. It is reliable and takes up very little space in my pack. I’m convinced that it will not disappoint.

Breaking Down the Features of Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call

Specifications

• The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call is designed for producing lifelike elk sounds. Its small dome shape promotes consistent tone and ease of use.
• The call is designed to produce strong bugles and a full range of cow sounds. It is intended for callers who demand consistency, range variety, and acoustic dependability.

Performance & Functionality

The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call excels at its primary job: producing realistic elk vocalizations. The call consistently produces convincing bugles and cow calls.
Its strengths lie in its ease of use and versatility. The only real weakness I’ve identified is that it might not have the sheer volume of larger tube calls, but that is the tradeoff with a more compact design. The Higdon RS1 certainly meets, and arguably exceeds, expectations for a call in this price range and size.

Design & Ergonomics

The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call boasts a simple, yet effective design. The molded dome is lightweight. It is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
There is virtually no learning curve. Even novice callers can produce decent sounds quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

The materials used in the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call appear to be very durable. The molded dome is resistant to cracking or breaking.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down after use is all that’s needed. It’s designed to last multiple seasons with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call is a standalone product. It does not come with any additional accessories.
There are no customization options, as it is a single molded piece. However, the Higdon RS1 is designed to be used in conjunction with other calling techniques and strategies. This makes it highly adaptable to different hunting styles.

Pros and Cons of Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call

Who Should Buy Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call?

The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call is perfect for:

• Hunters of all skill levels: From novice to experienced, everyone can use this call effectively.
• Backcountry Hunters: Its lightweight and compact design makes it ideal for those who prioritize minimal pack weight.
• Budget-Conscious Hunters: It offers excellent performance without breaking the bank.
• Hunters who need a Reliable Backup Call: Its simplicity and durability make it a great addition to any hunting pack.

Who should skip this product? Hunters who need maximum volume in extremely windy or open environments might want to consider a larger tube call. Those who prefer a highly customizable call with adjustable components might find the Higdon RS1’s simplicity limiting.

Must-have accessories or modifications? None are strictly necessary. But pairing it with a good wind checker and rangefinder will greatly improve your overall hunting strategy.

Conclusion on Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call

The Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call is a surprisingly effective and versatile tool. Its simplicity is its greatest strength. It allows hunters of all skill levels to produce realistic elk sounds with minimal effort.

At a price of $10.49, the value proposition is undeniable. You get a durable, reliable, and easy-to-use elk call. It certainly justifies its price tag.

I would absolutely recommend the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call. It is for anyone looking for a dependable and affordable elk call. It’s a fantastic addition to any hunter’s gear. Don’t be fooled by its small size – this call delivers big results. Head to your local retailer or online store and add the Higdon RS1 – Small Dome Elk Call to your pack. You won’t regret it.