Crafting Your Own Sound: A Guide to Making a Wing Bone Turkey Call

As a lifelong hunter and outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the art of turkey calling. While modern calls offer incredible realism, there’s something deeply satisfying about creating your own sound from natural materials. Today, I’m going to walk you through the process of making a wing bone turkey call – a traditional and effective method that connects you to the history of the hunt. This isn’t just about building a turkey wing bone call; it’s about understanding the nuances of turkey vocalizations and crafting a tool that allows you to mimic them. We’ll cover everything from sourcing materials to fine-tuning your handmade wingbone turkey call for optimal performance. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, learning how to make a wingbone turkey call is a rewarding experience.

Why Choose a Wing Bone Turkey Call?

Before we dive into the “how-to,” let’s talk about why you might choose to make a wing bone turkey call over purchasing a commercially made one. First, it’s a connection to tradition. For generations, hunters relied on these calls, crafted from readily available materials. Second, it’s incredibly rewarding to create something with your own hands that directly enhances your hunting experience. Third, a well-made turkey wing bone call can be just as effective as its modern counterparts, offering a unique and natural sound. Finally, it’s a cost-effective option, especially if you already harvest turkeys. According to the National Park Service, responsible hunting practices, including utilizing all parts of the animal, are encouraged where permitted.

The Unique Sound of a Natural Call

The sound produced by a wing bone yelper is different from that of a polycarbonate or acrylic call. It’s often described as raspier, more organic, and less “perfect.” This imperfection can actually be an advantage, as it can sound more realistic to wary turkeys. The tone is heavily influenced by the quality of the bone, the shape of the sound chamber, and the reed material used. Experimentation is key to finding the sweet spot for your call.

Sourcing Your Materials: The Foundation of a Great Call

The most crucial component, obviously, is the wing bone. You’ll need a turkey wing bone – ideally from a mature tom. Fresh bones are easier to work with, but properly cleaned and dried bones can also be used. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Turkey Wing Bones: Two bones are needed, one for the body and one for the tone board.
• Reed Material: Mylar, thin brass shim stock, or even a piece of thin leather can be used. Experiment to find what works best for you.
• Wedge: A small piece of hardwood (maple, oak, or walnut) to act as a wedge to hold the reed in place.
• Tools: A Dremel tool with various bits, a small saw, sandpaper (various grits), a drill, a file, and epoxy.

Remember to always check local regulations regarding the possession and use of animal parts. The USDA Forest Service provides information on hunting regulations in national forests.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Wing Bone Turkey Call

Let’s get to the crafting! This process requires patience and attention to detail. I’ll break it down into manageable steps.

1. Bone Preparation: If using fresh bones, remove all meat and tendons. Boil the bones for 30-45 minutes to further clean them. Allow them to dry completely.
2. Shaping the Body: Using a Dremel tool, carefully shape one of the wing bones into the body of the call. The goal is to create a hollow chamber with an opening at one end for blowing and a larger opening at the other for the tone board. Be careful not to remove too much material.
3. Creating the Tone Board: The second wing bone will become the tone board. This piece needs to be shaped to fit snugly into the larger opening of the body. Experiment with different angles and curves to influence the sound.
4. Cutting the Reed Slot: Carefully cut a small slot into the tone board using a Dremel or small saw. This slot will hold the reed. The length and width of the slot will affect the call’s tone.
5. Making the Reed: Cut a small piece of your chosen reed material. The size will vary depending on the material and desired sound. Start with a small piece and gradually increase the size until you achieve the desired tone.
6. Installing the Reed and Wedge: Insert the reed into the slot on the tone board. Use the hardwood wedge to secure the reed in place. The position of the wedge will also affect the sound.
7. Assembly and Testing: Insert the tone board into the body of the call. Test the call by blowing into the opening. Adjust the reed, wedge, and tone board until you achieve a satisfactory sound.
8. Fine-Tuning: This is where the real art comes in. Experiment with different reed lengths, wedge positions, and tone board angles to fine-tune the call’s sound. Practice making different turkey vocalizations – yelps, clucks, purrs, and cuts.

Wing Bone Turkey Call Designs: Exploring Variations

There are many variations on the basic wingbone turkey call design. Here are a few to consider:

• Single-Reed vs. Double-Reed: While most turkey wing bone calls use a single reed, you can experiment with a double-reed design for a different sound.
• Different Tone Board Shapes: The shape of the tone board significantly impacts the call’s tone. Try different curves and angles.
• Porting: Adding small holes (ports) to the body of the call can alter the sound and volume.
• Mouthpiece Design: Experiment with different mouthpiece shapes for comfort and control.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, your turkey bone call won’t sound quite right. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Call is too raspy: Try shortening the reed or adjusting the wedge position.
• Call is too high-pitched: Try lengthening the reed or increasing the angle of the tone board.
• Call won’t produce sound: Check the reed to ensure it’s properly seated and the slot isn’t blocked.

Maintaining Your Handmade Wingbone Turkey Call

Proper maintenance will ensure your wing bone call lasts for years. Keep the call clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. Periodically check the reed and wedge for wear and tear and replace them as needed. According to REI Expert Advice, regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for any hunting equipment.

Ethical Considerations and Leave No Trace

As hunters, we have a responsibility to practice ethical hunting and minimize our impact on the environment. Always follow all hunting regulations and obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Practice Leave No Trace principles – pack out everything you pack in, minimize campfire impacts, and respect wildlife. Leave No Trace provides comprehensive guidelines for responsible outdoor recreation.

Making a wing bone turkey call is more than just a craft; it’s a connection to the traditions of hunting and a way to enhance your experience in the great outdoors. With a little patience and practice, you can create a unique and effective call that will help you bring home the bird. Happy calling!