First Thoughts on the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE
The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE promises big sounds in a small package, a claim that immediately piqued my interest. As an experienced elk hunter, I’ve lugged around my fair share of bulky bugle tubes, always searching for that perfect balance of sound quality and portability. The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE aims to deliver both, and I’m eager to see if it lives up to the hype.
I’ve been increasingly frustrated with the cumbersome nature of my current bugle tube. I wanted something that wouldn’t weigh me down during long hikes and demanding hunts. I was drawn to the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE because of its advertised compact size and impressive volume.
Unboxing the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE, I was immediately struck by its size and weight. It felt incredibly light, yet the aluminum tube gave it a sense of solid construction. The water-resistant padded cover was a nice touch, suggesting attention to detail and practicality.
Compared to my Primos Hyper Lip Single, which offers excellent volume, and my diaphragm call alone, which is highly portable but lacks projection, the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE felt like it could bridge the gap. I had also considered the Rocky Mountain Hunting Calls Wapiti Whacker, but the advertised smaller size of the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE ultimately swayed my decision. Initial impressions were positive; I was excited to get it out in the field and put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE came during an early-season scouting trip in the Colorado Rockies. The conditions were typical for that time of year: crisp mornings giving way to warmer afternoons, with occasional light rain showers. I focused on assessing sound projection and ease of use while navigating dense timber and open meadows.
Using the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE was surprisingly straightforward, even with gloved hands. The V.E.T.T. system mouthpiece felt comfortable and required minimal air to produce a decent bugle. The real test came with the volume. The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE produced a remarkably loud and clear sound that carried well across the open meadows, exceeding my expectations for such a small tube.
I didn’t experience any major issues, although it took a few minutes to find the sweet spot for producing the most realistic elk sounds. The padded cover proved useful in preventing unwanted noise as I moved through the brush.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE on various scouting and hunting trips, I can confidently say it’s a reliable piece of gear. It has held up well to being tossed in my pack, exposed to rain, and generally subjected to the rigors of mountain hunting. The aluminum tube hasn’t shown any signs of dents or damage.
The padded cover shows minor wear, but it continues to effectively dampen sound. Cleaning is simple. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Compared to my previous experience with larger tubes that were prone to collecting moisture and requiring more thorough cleaning, the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE is a breeze to maintain. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of both portability and sound quality.
Breaking Down the Features of RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE
Specifications
The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE boasts some impressive specs for its size. Weighing in at a mere 9 ounces, it’s incredibly lightweight. The all-aluminum tube contributes to its durable construction.
The V.E.T.T. system mouthpiece features a 1 1/2″ mouth opening and a narrow throat. This design reduces the amount of air required to create optimal back pressure and produce clear, high-pitched bugles. The water-resistant padded cover is another key feature. It eliminates unwanted sound and insulates against cold temperatures.
These specifications directly translate to a user-friendly and effective elk calling experience. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry. The V.E.T.T. system makes it easier to produce realistic elk sounds. The padded cover makes it quieter to move through the woods.
Performance & Functionality
The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE excels at projecting clear, high-pitched elk sounds. Its compact size doesn’t compromise its ability to create authentic bugles. It accurately replicates the sounds needed to attract elk.
The strength of the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE lies in its ability to combine portability and performance. A weakness is that experienced callers may miss the deeper, richer tones of larger tubes. Overall, it exceeds expectations for its size.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE is impressive. The aluminum tube feels sturdy. The padded cover is well-stitched and durable.
It’s user-friendly and requires minimal practice to produce a decent sound. However, mastering realistic elk vocalizations takes time and dedication, regardless of the tube used.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum tube and padded cover appear to be durable. The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE should last for many seasons with proper care.
Cleaning is straightforward and requires only a damp cloth. There are no intricate parts to disassemble or maintain, making it a low-maintenance piece of gear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE comes with a water-resistant padded cover. Customization options are limited, primarily focused on different mouthpieces for the V.E.T.T. system.
It’s generally compatible with most diaphragm calls from other brands, allowing users to create a customized calling system.
Pros and Cons of RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight and compact for easy packing.
- All-aluminum tube produces high-quality, crisp elk sounds.
- V.E.T.T. system mouthpiece requires less air and creates optimal back pressure.
- Water-resistant padded cover eliminates unwanted noise and insulates against cold.
- Easy to use and maintain.
Cons
- Smaller size may lack the deeper tones of larger bugle tubes.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE?
The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE is perfect for elk hunters who prioritize portability and ease of use without sacrificing sound quality. It’s ideal for backpack hunters, those covering long distances, or anyone looking to minimize weight in their pack. New elk hunters who are learning to call will also appreciate it.
Hunters seeking the absolute deepest, most resonant bugle sounds might prefer a larger tube. Those who require extensive customization options should also consider other models. A must-have accessory is a high-quality diaphragm call to complement the tube’s capabilities.
Conclusion on RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE
The RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE delivers on its promise of big sounds in a small package. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and user-friendly features make it a standout product in the elk hunting market.
At $51.99, the price is justified considering the performance and portability it offers. I would definitely recommend the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE to any elk hunter looking to lighten their load without compromising their calling ability. If you are looking for a compact, effective, and easy-to-use bugle tube, give the RMHC ELK BUGLE TUBE LITTLE a try.