The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve grown accustomed to evaluating gear through a critical lens, looking for performance, reliability, and genuine value. The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL landed on my radar as a seemingly simple piece of kit, promising realistic cow/calf mews and chirps from an ultra-compact design. I was particularly interested in its potential for attracting elk in heavily pressured areas where traditional bugles might spook more than they attract.
I needed a call that was easily packable, reliable, and capable of producing subtle yet convincing cow calls. This was crucial for late-season hunts where elk are call-shy. The claims of ease of use for all skill levels also piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL’s size. It truly lives up to the “ultra-compact” description. The open reed design appeared straightforward, constructed of durable plastic. The build quality seemed solid for such an affordable call.
Compared to diaphragm calls or larger tube calls, the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL seemed almost too simplistic. I picked it over larger, more complex calls primarily due to its packability and the promise of ease of use. I also chose it because I wanted to experiment with a different calling style. Diaphragm calls can be challenging to master.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I appreciated the compact design and apparent durability, but I reserved judgment until I could test its sound quality and effectiveness in the field. The price of $16.99 made it a low-risk experiment.
Real-World Testing: Putting RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL took place during a late-season elk hunt in the high country of Colorado. The weather was cold and dry, with a slight breeze – conditions that can impact sound projection. I used the call in a series of setups, alternating between open meadows and timbered areas.
The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL proved remarkably easy to use right out of the package. I was able to produce convincing cow mews and chirps with minimal practice. The volume was indeed perfect for medium to short distances, as advertised. I found it especially effective in the timber, where subtle calls are more likely to pique an elk’s interest without causing alarm.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight tendency for the reed to stick when wet from condensation in my breath. This was easily remedied by drying the reed before each calling sequence. Other than that, the call performed flawlessly during the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across multiple hunting trips and scouting sessions, the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the plastic body or reed. This suggests good durability for a call in this price range.
Cleaning and maintaining the call is simple. I rinsed it with water and allowed it to air dry after each use. I also occasionally used a cotton swab to clean the reed.
In comparison to my previous experiences with diaphragm calls, the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL is significantly easier to use and maintain. It may not offer the same range of tones as a diaphragm call, but its simplicity and reliability make it a valuable addition to my elk hunting arsenal. The compact design also means it’s always with me.
Breaking Down the Features of RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL
Specifications
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Type: Open reed cow call. This is a simple, time-tested design.
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Material: Durable plastic construction. This makes it lightweight and weather resistant.
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Size: Ultra-compact design for easy carry. The compact size allows for convenient storage in a pocket or pack.
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Sound: Realistic cow/calf mews and chirps. This simulates natural elk communication.
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Range: Medium to short distance calling. This prevents spooking animals further away.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL’s ease of use, portability, and effectiveness in close-range calling situations. The plastic construction ensures durability without adding unnecessary weight. Its compact nature is incredibly useful.
Performance & Functionality
The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL performs its primary function of producing realistic cow/calf sounds exceptionally well. The tone is convincing and easy to control. It works best at medium to short distances.
The call’s strengths lie in its simplicity, ease of use, and compact design. Its weakness is its limited range compared to larger bugles or diaphragm calls. It meets expectations for a close-range cow call.
Design & Ergonomics
The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL features a straightforward design. The plastic body is comfortable to hold. There is virtually no learning curve.
It’s easy to pick up and use effectively within minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable plastic construction suggests that the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL will last for several seasons with proper care. Maintaining it is incredibly easy. Regular rinsing and occasional cleaning of the reed are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL does not come with any accessories and offers limited customization options, which is typical for a call of this type. This is not a big deal. The call is self-contained and ready to use out of the box. No extra accessories are truly needed.
It is compatible with standard lanyards for easy carry.
Pros and Cons of RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL
Pros
- Easy to use, even for beginners.
- Produces realistic cow/calf sounds.
- Ultra-compact and lightweight for easy carry.
- Durable plastic construction.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Limited range compared to larger calls.
- Reed may stick when wet.
Who Should Buy RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL?
The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL is perfect for:
- Elk hunters seeking a simple and effective close-range cow call.
- Beginner hunters who are new to elk calling.
- Hunters who need a lightweight and packable call for backcountry hunts.
Who should skip this product? Hunters who primarily hunt in open areas and require a long-range bugle or those who prefer more advanced diaphragm calls.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A simple lanyard for easy carry is the only recommended accessory.
Conclusion on RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL
The RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL is a surprisingly effective and user-friendly tool for attracting elk at close range. Its simplicity, durability, and compact design make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced hunters. Its affordability is a huge draw.
The price of $16.99 is more than justified. This is considering the call’s performance and ease of use.
I would definitely recommend the RMHC LIL FLIRT COW CALL to anyone looking for a reliable and packable close-range cow call. It is a valuable addition to any elk hunter’s arsenal. Try it out! You won’t be disappointed.