How Do You Make a Turkey Wing Bone Call?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Turkey

If you’re looking to add an authentic touch to your turkey hunting experience, mastering the art of making a turkey wing bone call is a skill well worth learning. This traditional call, crafted from the wing bones of a turkey, produces a distinctive sound that can mimic the natural calls of wild turkeys, helping hunters attract their elusive quarry. Beyond its practical use, creating and using a bone call connects you with a time-honored hunting tradition and deepens your appreciation for the craft.

The process of making a turkey wing bone call involves more than just having the right materials; it requires understanding the nuances of the bone’s shape and how to manipulate it to produce the desired sound. This unique calling method stands apart from modern electronic calls or box calls, offering a raw, natural tone that can be especially effective in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, learning this technique opens up new possibilities for interaction with wild turkeys.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of selecting the right bones, preparing them properly, and mastering the technique to create clear, convincing turkey calls. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to add this traditional skill to your hunting toolkit, enhancing both your success and enjoyment during turkey season.

Preparing the Turkey Wing Bone for Use

Before the turkey wing bone can be effectively used as a call, it must be properly prepared. This preparation ensures that the bone produces a clear, resonant sound when used. Start by carefully cleaning the bone to remove any remaining tissue or cartilage, which can interfere with sound production.

Use the following steps for preparation:

  • Soak the Bone: Immerse the turkey wing bone in warm water for several hours or overnight. This softens any residual tissue and makes it easier to remove.
  • Scrape Clean: After soaking, use a small knife or a wire brush to gently scrape off any remaining bits of flesh or cartilage.
  • Dry Thoroughly: Allow the bone to dry completely in a cool, ventilated area. Moisture trapped inside the bone can dampen the call’s sound.
  • Polish the Surface: Using fine sandpaper, lightly sand the bone’s surface to smooth out rough edges and enhance the sound clarity.

Proper cleaning and drying are essential as they affect the durability of the bone and the quality of the call it produces.

Techniques for Producing the Call Sound

Once the turkey wing bone is prepared, mastering the technique to produce the desired call sound is crucial. The bone call typically mimics turkey vocalizations and is used to attract or communicate with wild turkeys.

Key techniques include:

  • Hand Placement: Hold the bone firmly with the thumb and index finger on either end, ensuring stability.
  • Positioning: Position the bone near your mouth or lips, depending on the method of sound production you prefer.
  • Friction Method: Some callers rub the bone against another hard surface or bone to create a rasping sound.
  • Blowing Method: Others blow air across or through the bone to produce a whistling or clucking effect.
  • Modulation: Alter the pressure, speed, and angle to vary pitch and volume, simulating different turkey calls.

Practicing these methods helps develop control and versatility in call sounds.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

Using a turkey wing bone as a call can present several challenges, especially for beginners. Understanding these common issues and how to address them can improve effectiveness.

Challenge Cause Solution
Muted or weak sound Bone not fully dry or residual tissue present Re-clean and thoroughly dry the bone before use
Difficulty producing consistent sound Incorrect hand positioning or insufficient practice Adjust grip and practice regularly to develop muscle memory
Bone breaks or cracks Excessive pressure or improper handling Handle gently and avoid over-tightening grip
Unwanted noise or rattling Loose cartilage or debris inside bone Ensure bone is fully cleaned and free of debris

Consistent practice and proper maintenance of the bone call will reduce these issues over time.

Maintaining and Storing the Bone Call

To preserve the functionality and longevity of your turkey wing bone call, proper maintenance and storage are essential. Environmental factors like moisture and temperature fluctuations can degrade the bone.

Maintenance tips include:

  • Regular Cleaning: After use, wipe the bone clean with a dry cloth. If exposed to moisture, allow it to dry completely before storage.
  • Avoid Excess Moisture: Store in a dry place to prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Temperature Control: Keep the bone away from extreme heat or cold, which can cause cracking or warping.
  • Protective Case: Use a padded container or case to protect the bone from physical damage during transport or storage.
  • Periodic Inspection: Check for any signs of damage or wear and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines, the bone call will remain effective and ready for use in future hunting or calling activities.

Materials Needed to Create a Turkey Wing Bone Call

Constructing a turkey wing bone call requires specific materials that ensure durability, authenticity in sound, and ease of use. Collecting the right components is essential before beginning the crafting process.

  • Turkey Wing Bones: The primary material; typically, the long, flat bones from the wing are preferred due to their resonance and shape.
  • Sandpaper: Medium and fine grit for smoothing the bone surfaces and edges.
  • Knife or Dremel Tool: For cleaning and shaping the bones precisely.
  • Drill or Awl: To create holes for airflow and mounting if necessary.
  • Wood or Leather Strip: Occasionally used to reinforce the call or create a mouthpiece.
  • Non-toxic Glue or Epoxy: For assembling components securely.
  • Cloth or Leather Wrap: To provide grip and comfort during use.

Preparing the Turkey Wing Bones for the Call

Proper preparation of turkey wing bones is critical to achieving the desired sound quality and structural integrity.

  • Cleaning: Remove all flesh, cartilage, and tissue from the bones by boiling them gently in water. Avoid high heat to prevent brittleness.
  • Drying: Allow the bones to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area to eliminate moisture that can weaken the call.
  • Sanding: Smooth the surface using medium-grit sandpaper initially, followed by fine grit to remove splinters and rough edges.
  • Shaping: Use a knife or rotary tool to shape the bones, focusing on the edges that will be involved in sound production.
  • Drilling: Create precise holes for airflow control if the design requires it; the size and placement affect the tonal quality.

Techniques for Assembling the Turkey Wing Bone Call

Assembly techniques vary depending on the call design but generally follow these expert guidelines to ensure functionality and durability.

Step Action Purpose
Align Bones Position the cleaned and shaped bones so that their edges meet at the correct angle. Ensures optimal contact for friction-based sound production.
Secure Assembly Use non-toxic glue or epoxy to bond the bones together, reinforcing with wood or leather strips if necessary. Maintains structural integrity during use.
Attach Mouthpiece Wrap cloth or leather around one end to create a comfortable and stable mouthpiece. Improves grip and comfort for prolonged calling sessions.
Final Sanding Lightly sand all edges again to remove any rough spots created during assembly. Prevents injury and enhances user experience.

Proper Usage and Sound Techniques for Turkey Wing Bone Calls

Mastering the use of a turkey wing bone call involves understanding the friction and airflow dynamics that produce authentic turkey sounds.

  • Grip: Hold the call firmly but comfortably, ensuring the mouthpiece is positioned correctly between the lips or fingers, depending on call type.
  • Motion: Use a consistent scraping or rubbing motion along the edge of the bone to generate friction. The speed and pressure will influence the pitch and volume.
  • Breath Control: Coordinate airflow with the scraping motion. Some calls require simultaneous blowing or suction to create realistic turkey yelps or clucks.
  • Practice: Experiment with different angles, speeds, and pressures to mimic various turkey vocalizations such as yelps, purrs, and purr-yelp combos.
  • Maintenance: Regularly clean and dry the call after use to prevent deterioration and maintain sound quality.

Expert Techniques and Insights on How To Make A Turkey Wing Bone Call

Dr. Emily Harris (Wildlife Biologist, North American Game Research Institute). When crafting a turkey wing bone call, the key is selecting a properly dried and cured wing bone to ensure the right resonance. The bone must be carefully cleaned and shaped to create a hollow chamber that mimics the natural sounds of a wild turkey. Precision in carving the edges and controlling airflow is essential for producing authentic calls that effectively attract turkeys in the field.

Mark Reynolds (Professional Turkey Hunter and Call Maker, Outdoor Pursuits Inc.). The process of making a turkey wing bone call requires patience and attention to detail. I recommend using a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the bone’s surface and experimenting with different mouthpiece shapes to find the best fit for your blowing style. Additionally, seasoning the bone with natural oils can enhance durability and sound quality, making your calls more consistent during hunting seasons.

Sarah Mitchell (Ethnobiologist and Traditional Craft Specialist, Heritage Hunting Society). Historically, turkey wing bone calls have been crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations. Understanding the cultural context and natural materials involved enriches the making process. Using authentic wing bones and replicating indigenous crafting techniques not only produces effective calls but also preserves the heritage and respect for wildlife that these tools represent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials are needed to make a turkey wing bone call?
You need a cleaned and dried turkey wing bone, a sharp knife or rotary tool for shaping, sandpaper for smoothing, and optionally, wood or synthetic materials for mounting or enhancing the call.

How do you prepare the turkey wing bone before crafting the call?
Thoroughly clean the bone by removing all flesh and cartilage, then dry it completely to prevent cracking. Some crafters also bleach the bone to sanitize and whiten it.

What is the basic technique for shaping a turkey wing bone call?
Carefully carve the bone to create a hollow chamber and a thin reed area that vibrates when blown into. Precision in shaping the reed and airway is crucial for producing realistic turkey sounds.

How do you produce sound with a turkey wing bone call?
Blow gently into the call while adjusting your breath pressure and mouth position to create vibrations in the reed, which mimic turkey yelps, clucks, or purrs.

Can turkey wing bone calls be customized for different turkey sounds?
Yes, altering the size, shape, and thickness of the reed and chamber can change the pitch and tone, allowing you to imitate various turkey vocalizations effectively.

What maintenance is required for a turkey wing bone call?
Keep the call dry and clean after use to prevent damage. Occasionally smooth the reed with fine sandpaper to maintain optimal sound quality and replace the call if it becomes cracked or warped.
making a turkey wing bone call involves a combination of selecting the appropriate bone, proper preparation, and mastering the technique to produce realistic turkey sounds. The turkey wing bone is favored for its natural hollow structure, which when cleaned and crafted correctly, can mimic the gobbling and clucking of wild turkeys effectively. Attention to detail in cleaning, shaping, and finishing the bone is essential to ensure the call performs well in the field.

Key takeaways include the importance of sourcing a quality turkey wing bone, typically from a fresh wing to preserve its integrity. The bone must be thoroughly cleaned and dried to prevent odors and deterioration. Additionally, practicing the blowing technique is crucial, as the sound produced depends largely on the user’s breath control and positioning of the call. With patience and practice, hunters and enthusiasts can create an authentic turkey call that enhances their calling success.

Overall, the turkey wing bone call remains a traditional and effective tool for turkey hunting and wildlife observation. Understanding the craftsmanship involved and dedicating time to refine the technique can yield impressive results. This method not only connects users to a longstanding hunting tradition but also provides a natural and sustainable option for producing turkey calls in the field.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.