Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One Review

Getting Started with the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One

When you’re out in the field, sound is your most crucial tool, especially when trying to attract game or communicate across distances. For years, I’ve relied on a variety of calls, each meticulously chosen for specific scenarios. However, the need for a versatile, all-in-one solution became apparent during a recent multi-day expedition where limited pack space was a major concern. That’s when the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One caught my eye. This call promises to cover a significant range of vocalizations, from the high-pitched distress of a jackrabbit to the softer coaxing sounds of a cottontail.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction. The green polycarbonate shell feels robust, not at all flimsy like some plastic calls I’ve encountered. It has a reassuring heft without being overly heavy, a critical balance for extended carrying. I had considered a simpler, single-purpose call or perhaps a multi-part system with interchangeable reeds, but the allure of a single, integrated unit that could switch between calls on the fly was too strong to ignore.

The first real impression was one of focused engineering. It’s not just a collection of parts; it feels like a deliberate design intended for practical use in demanding environments. The twistable mouthpiece for call selection immediately struck me as an elegant solution to a common problem. My immediate reaction was a quiet nod of satisfaction, a sense of anticipation for putting this compact device to the test in some challenging situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field tests with the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One took place in a dense woodland known for its jackrabbit population, followed by an open field frequented by cottontails. I spent a good hour in my workshop beforehand, familiarizing myself with the twist mechanism and practicing each of the three distinct sounds. The transition between the jackrabbit, cottontail, and coaxer calls was remarkably smooth; a simple twist of the mouthpiece shifted the internal configuration with a satisfying click.

The jackrabbit call, designed for long-range projection, produced a surprisingly loud and piercing tone. It carried well over the rustling leaves and distant wind, effectively mimicking the distress cries that can draw attention. Moving to the cottontail setting, the sound became softer and more varied, suitable for medium-range engagement. I found myself using this setting more often, as it offered a good balance of audibility and realism. Finally, the close-range coaxer call was subtle, intended for those moments when the target is already aware of your presence.

Conditions varied from crisp autumn mornings with a light dew to sunnier, warmer afternoons. The polycarbonate construction seemed to handle the temperature fluctuations without any noticeable degradation in sound quality. The call remained dry even with light moisture, a testament to its weatherproof design. While the mechanism was intuitive after a brief practice session, I did notice that aggressive twisting without proper grip could lead to accidental slips, though this became less of an issue with familiarity.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including early morning hunts and late afternoon scouting trips, the Lohman Circe has proven itself to be a reliable companion. The twist mechanism for changing calls continues to function flawlessly, with no signs of stiffness or wear. I’ve deliberately subjected it to minor impacts, dropping it from waist height onto soft earth and even once onto a hard-packed dirt trail, and it has emerged unscathed, with no cracks or functional issues.

The sound quality has remained consistent, which is a critical factor for any calling device. I haven’t noticed any degradation in the sharpness of the jackrabbit distress, the varied tones of the cottontail, or the subtle nuances of the coaxer. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For more thorough cleaning, a blast of compressed air into the mouthpiece and around the twist mechanism can dislodge any debris.

Compared to previous single-purpose calls or more complex multi-reed systems I’ve used, this three-in-one unit offers a significant advantage in terms of convenience and portability. While some high-end, specialized calls might offer marginally superior tonal range or volume in their specific niche, the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One delivers excellent all-around performance across its intended applications. It strikes an impressive balance between capability and practicality, making it a valuable addition to my gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One

Specifications

The Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One is constructed from durable polycarbonate, a material chosen for its strength, light weight, and resistance to the elements. This robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, from varying temperatures to accidental drops. The defining feature is its “Three Calls In One” functionality, capable of producing distinct sounds for long-range jackrabbit, medium-range cottontail, and close-range coaxer calls.

This multi-call capability is achieved through a clever twistable mouthpiece. By rotating the top section, you can quickly and efficiently switch between the three internal sound-producing configurations. The call is also described as weatherproof and hand-tuned, which suggests a level of attention to detail in its manufacturing process. While specific dimensions or weight are not provided, its feel in hand suggests it’s designed for comfortable carrying over long periods.

The manufacturer, Lohman, has clearly aimed for a versatile and user-friendly design. The green color is practical for outdoor environments, offering good camouflage. The additional features listed for long-range, mid-range, and close-in calling highlight its intended purpose of covering a broad spectrum of hunting or observation scenarios. The species specificity (Jackrabbit) for one setting, coupled with the general cottontail and coaxer modes, makes it a targeted tool for predators and varmint hunters.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One is to produce realistic and effective animal distress and contact sounds, and it performs this task admirably across its intended range. The long-range jackrabbit call is particularly impressive; it emits a piercing, sustained wail that I found carried an exceptional distance, cutting through ambient noise effectively. This is crucial for situations where you need to attract attention from a significant distance.

The medium-range cottontail call offers a more varied and slightly softer sound profile. It’s adept at mimicking the sharp chirps and distress calls associated with cottontails, creating a more nuanced soundscape that can draw in curious predators. Transitioning to the close-range coaxer call provides a subtle, softer tone. This is ideal for drawing in animals that are already aware of your presence or have approached but are hesitant.

Its main strength lies in its versatility. Being able to switch between these three distinct sound profiles with a simple twist is a significant advantage over carrying multiple single-purpose calls. The hand-tuned nature seems to contribute to the authenticity of the sounds. However, while functional, the transition can sometimes feel a bit mechanical; a very slight delay or a missed click could occur if not twisted with deliberate intent. This is a minor point but worth noting for those demanding instantaneous changes.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One prioritizes functionality and durability, which I appreciate. The polycarbonate construction feels solid and well-made, providing confidence that it can withstand a fair amount of abuse in the field. The green color is understated and blends well with natural surroundings. The overall shape is ergonomic, fitting comfortably in the palm of my hand, making it easy to grip and operate.

The twistable mouthpiece is the central design element for usability. It’s intuitively placed and reasonably easy to manipulate, even with gloves on, though extremely thick gloves might present a slight challenge. The tactile feedback when changing settings is adequate, usually a definite click that confirms the selection. The surface of the call has a slightly textured finish that aids in grip, preventing it from slipping out of sweaty hands.

While the design is effective, there’s a certain utilitarian feel to it. It’s not a call that’s meant to be aesthetically groundbreaking; its beauty lies in its practical application. Some might prefer a more natural material or a less “plasticky” feel, but for its intended purpose and price point, the polycarbonate build is entirely appropriate and contributes to its overall robustness. The simplicity of the design means there are few parts to break or malfunction.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One appears to be built for longevity, especially considering its polycarbonate construction and weatherproof design. After weeks of consistent use in various outdoor conditions, there are no visible signs of wear and tear. The surfaces remain unmarred, the twist mechanism is still smooth and responsive, and the internal components, as far as I can tell, are holding up perfectly.

Maintenance is straightforward, a significant plus for any piece of field equipment. Cleaning typically involves a quick wipe down with a cloth to remove dirt or moisture. For more thorough cleaning, a small brush can be used to dislodge any debris that might accumulate around the mouthpiece or the twisting mechanism. I haven’t encountered any situations where specialized cleaning or maintenance was required.

Given its robust build, I anticipate this call will last for a considerable amount of time under normal use. There are no obvious points of failure; the primary mechanism is simple and resilient. Unlike some calls that rely on delicate reeds or intricate mechanisms, the Circe’s integrated design inherently offers greater durability. It’s a tool built to perform reliably without fuss.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One is a self-contained unit with no specific accessories included in its standard packaging. It doesn’t come with interchangeable reeds, different tips, or any other add-ons. This is in line with its “three calls in one” design philosophy, aiming to be a complete solution without the need for additional parts.

Similarly, there are no significant customization options available for this particular model. You cannot swap out components or modify its core functionality beyond the intended three sound settings. This lack of customization is not necessarily a drawback, as it contributes to the call’s simplicity and durability. However, for users who prefer to fine-tune their calls or experiment with different tonal qualities, this might be seen as a limitation. Its strength lies in its fixed, factory-tuned sound profiles.

Pros and Cons of Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One

Who Should Buy Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One?

The Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One is an excellent choice for varmint hunters, predator callers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a versatile and reliable calling device without the bulk of carrying multiple single-purpose calls. It is particularly well-suited for those who value portability and durability in their gear, such as backpackers or hunters operating in challenging terrains. If you frequently target jackrabbits and cottontails, or if you need a reliable coaxer for drawing in wary animals, this call will serve you very well.

Conversely, experienced callers who demand absolute tonal control and the ability to finely adjust every nuance of a call might find this unit a bit too prescriptive. Those focused on extremely specialized calling techniques for species not covered by the three modes might need to look elsewhere. If you require sterile, medical-grade equipment or highly technical acoustic devices, this particular call is not designed for such purposes.

For maximizing its utility, I’d recommend pairing it with a quality camouflage pattern to blend into your surroundings. A lightweight binocular and a good pair of rangefinding binoculars would also complement its use, allowing you to spot potential targets drawn by the calls.

Conclusion on Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One

The Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One stands out as a remarkably practical and effective tool for its intended purpose. Its ability to seamlessly switch between three distinct, authentic-sounding calls — from the piercing distress of a jackrabbit to the subtler coaxing of a cottontail — makes it an invaluable asset for any hunter or outdoor enthusiast focused on predator or varmint calling. The polycarbonate construction ensures it can handle the rigors of the wild, and the weatherproof design means you can rely on it in various conditions.

Considering its price point of around $32.29, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. You’re essentially getting three specialized calls in one durable, easy-to-use package. While it lacks the deep customization options found in more expensive, single-function calls, its inherent versatility and robust design more than compensate for this.

I would highly recommend the Lohman Circe, Three Calls In One to anyone looking for a dependable, multi-functional call that won’t break the bank or weigh down their pack. It’s a smart buy for those who prioritize practicality and performance in their field gear. This call delivers on its promise, offering a tangible advantage in attracting game without unnecessary complexity.