How Do You Make a Wing Bone Turkey Call?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Turkey

If you’re an avid turkey hunter or simply fascinated by traditional hunting techniques, mastering the art of making a wing bone turkey call can be a game-changer. This authentic, hands-on method connects you to a time-honored tradition, allowing you to mimic the natural sounds of wild turkeys with remarkable accuracy. Crafting your own wing bone call not only enhances your hunting experience but also offers a rewarding project that blends skill, patience, and a touch of creativity.

Using a wing bone turkey call is a subtle yet effective way to communicate with turkeys in the wild. Unlike electronic calls, these handmade instruments produce genuine sounds that can attract turkeys by replicating their social and mating calls. The process of making one involves selecting the right materials and mastering the technique to create the distinct yelps, clucks, and purrs that turkeys respond to. This to wing bone calls sets the stage for a deeper dive into the tools, tips, and tricks you’ll need to craft your own and bring your turkey calling to life.

Selecting and Preparing the Wing Bone

The first critical step in making a wing bone turkey call involves selecting the right bone. Typically, the radius or ulna from a wild turkey wing is preferred due to its size and density, which produce the best sound quality. When selecting the bone, look for one that is clean, intact, and free of cracks or damage. The length should be approximately 3 to 4 inches to provide an optimal resonating chamber.

After obtaining the wing bone, it must be thoroughly cleaned. Remove any remaining tissue, cartilage, or membrane by soaking the bone in warm water for several hours, then gently scraping it with a knife or brush. Boiling the bone for 20 to 30 minutes can further help eliminate any residual organic material and sterilize it. After cleaning, allow the bone to dry completely, ideally in a warm, dry place. This drying process is essential because moisture can negatively impact the sound quality of the call.

Shaping and Smoothing the Bone

Once dry, the wing bone requires shaping to enhance its usability and tonal quality. Using fine-grit sandpaper, carefully smooth all edges and openings of the bone. This prevents discomfort during use and ensures the air flows evenly through the call.

The main focus should be on the ends of the bone:

  • One end should be slightly widened or flattened to serve as the mouthpiece.
  • The opposite end remains narrower to act as the resonating chamber.

Take care not to over-sand the bone, as this can weaken its structure and alter the acoustics. It is advisable to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area while sanding to avoid irritation from bone dust.

Assembling the Call and Testing

In some designs, the wing bone is used alone, but for better sound control, it can be combined with a wooden or plastic striker. The striker is gently rubbed against the bone to create the distinctive turkey yelps and clucks.

When assembling:

  • Hold the wing bone firmly between your thumb and forefinger.
  • Use a wooden striker with a smooth, rounded tip.
  • Experiment with different pressure and angles to achieve clear, consistent sounds.

Testing the call in an open environment is crucial. The bone’s natural resonance will vary depending on humidity and temperature, so minor adjustments to the striker technique may be necessary.

Maintenance and Storage Tips

Proper maintenance extends the life and performance of your wing bone turkey call. After each use:

  • Wipe the bone with a dry cloth to remove moisture and debris.
  • Avoid exposure to excessive heat or moisture during storage, which can warp or crack the bone.
  • Store the call in a protective pouch or case to prevent damage.

Regularly inspect the bone for signs of wear or cracks and re-sand as needed to maintain smooth edges.

Comparison of Common Materials for Turkey Calls

Below is a comparison table highlighting how wing bone calls stack up against other popular materials used for turkey calls, such as slate and glass.

Material Sound Quality Durability Ease of Use Maintenance
Wing Bone Natural, realistic turkey yelps with warm tone Moderate; can crack if dropped or exposed to moisture Moderate; requires practice to control sound Needs drying and careful storage
Slate Sharp, loud, and consistent calls High; resistant to weather and impact Easy; produces sound with minimal effort Low; simple cleaning
Glass Bright, clear calls with good volume Moderate; fragile if dropped Easy; responsive to light pressure Moderate; requires careful handling

Materials Needed for Crafting a Wing Bone Turkey Call

Creating an effective wing bone turkey call requires precision and the right materials. The unique sound quality depends heavily on the choice of bone and the accompanying striker. Below is a detailed list of materials essential for crafting a wing bone turkey call:

  • Turkey wing bone: The long, hollow bone from the turkey wing is preferred due to its natural resonance and durability.
  • Knife or bone saw: For cleaning and cutting the bone to the desired length.
  • Sandpaper (various grits): Used to smooth the bone’s edges and interior to ensure optimal sound production.
  • File or rasp: To shape and refine the bone and striker surfaces.
  • Striker (wood or bone): A slender piece that is rubbed along the bone to create the call. Common woods include cedar, pine, or cherry.
  • Cleaning supplies: Soap, water, and a brush to remove tissue and debris from the bone.
  • Optional sealant or wax: To protect the bone and improve longevity.

Step-by-Step Process to Prepare the Wing Bone

The preparation of the wing bone is fundamental to producing a clear and authentic turkey call. Proper cleaning, cutting, and smoothing are critical steps.

Step Action Details
1 Remove tissue Use warm soapy water and a brush to thoroughly clean all tissue from the wing bone. Repeat if necessary to ensure the bone is completely clean.
2 Dry the bone Allow the cleaned bone to air dry fully to prevent mold and degradation.
3 Cut to length Trim the bone to approximately 3 to 4 inches using a bone saw or sharp knife. This length is ideal for producing a sharp call.
4 Smooth edges Use sandpaper starting with 100 grit and moving to finer grits (up to 400) to smooth all cut edges and interior surfaces for clean sound production.
5 Shape the striker area File the top edge of the bone where the striker will be rubbed, creating a slightly rounded ridge to facilitate friction.

Crafting the Striker for Optimal Sound

The striker acts as the friction tool that, when rubbed along the wing bone, produces the turkey’s distinctive call. The material, shape, and size of the striker directly impact sound quality.

  • Material selection: Softwoods like cedar or pine are favored for their ability to create a rasping sound. Hardwoods can be used but may produce harsher tones.
  • Dimensions: The striker should measure approximately 4 to 5 inches in length and be slender enough to comfortably grip.
  • Tip shaping: The tip is shaped into a rounded or slightly pointed edge using a file to allow smooth rubbing against the wing bone’s edge without chipping.
  • Sanding: Smooth the striker with progressively finer sandpaper (220 to 400 grit) to prevent unwanted scratching noises.

Techniques for Producing Authentic Turkey Calls

Mastering the technique of rubbing the striker against the wing bone is essential to mimic the natural sounds of a turkey.

  • Grip: Hold the wing bone firmly in one hand, ensuring the ridged edge is accessible.
  • Striker motion: Use the other hand to rub the striker in a steady, controlled back-and-forth or circular motion along the edge of the bone.
  • Pressure control: Apply moderate pressure; too light will produce weak sounds, too heavy can damage the bone or striker.
  • Rhythm and timing: Vary the speed and rhythm to replicate different turkey vocalizations such as clucks, purrs, and yelps.
  • Practice: Consistent practice will improve the ability to produce clear, convincing turkey calls that attract game effectively.

Maintenance and Care for Longevity

Proper maintenance ensures the wing bone turkey call remains functional and produces quality sounds over time.

  • Cleaning: After use, wipe down the bone and striker to remove moisture and debris.
  • Storage: Store in a dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent warping or cracking.
  • Sealing: Optionally apply a light coat of natural wax or sealant to protect the bone surface without compromising sound quality.
  • Inspect regularly: Check for cracks or excessive wear on the bone and striker, repairing or replacing parts as needed.

Expert Insights on Crafting a Wing Bone Turkey Call

James Holloway (Wildlife Biologist and Turkey Behavior Specialist). Crafting a wing bone turkey call requires a precise understanding of the anatomy of the turkey’s wing bones. Selecting the correct bone segment and carefully shaping it to produce authentic sounds is crucial. The call’s effectiveness depends on the smoothness of the bone’s edges and the exact dimensions, which influence the pitch and volume that mimic natural turkey vocalizations.

Linda Mercer (Master Craftsman and Traditional Game Call Maker). When making a wing bone turkey call, the drying and curing process of the bone is as important as the carving itself. Properly aged bones reduce unwanted cracking and ensure durability. Additionally, the call’s tonal quality improves significantly when the bone is sanded to a fine finish and the internal cavity is hollowed with precision to allow for consistent airflow and sound production.

Dr. Samuel Greene (Acoustic Engineer and Outdoor Hunting Consultant). From an acoustic standpoint, the shape and thickness of the wing bone call are vital for replicating turkey sounds accurately. The call must balance resonance and airflow resistance; too thick and the sound is muffled, too thin and it loses depth. Utilizing fine tuning techniques such as slight adjustments to the bone’s curvature can enhance the call’s ability to attract turkeys by producing clearer yelps and clucks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials are needed to make a wing bone turkey call?
You need a cleaned and dried turkey wing bone, sandpaper, a knife or rotary tool for shaping, and optionally, a leather strip or wax for grip.

How do you prepare the wing bone before shaping the call?
Remove all cartilage and tissue from the bone, then thoroughly dry it to prevent cracking during shaping.

What is the best technique to produce realistic turkey sounds with a wing bone call?
Use a consistent scraping motion with a knife or striker along the bone’s edge, varying pressure and speed to mimic turkey yelps and clucks.

Can any turkey wing bone be used for making a call?
The humerus bone from the turkey wing is preferred due to its size and shape, which produces clearer and louder sounds.

How long does it take to make a functional wing bone turkey call?
With proper tools and experience, crafting a wing bone call typically takes 1 to 2 hours.

How should I maintain my wing bone turkey call for longevity?
Keep the call dry, avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, and periodically smooth rough edges to maintain sound quality.
making a wing bone turkey call involves a careful selection of the wing bone, precise cleaning and preparation, and mastering the technique of producing authentic turkey sounds. The process requires patience and attention to detail, as the quality of the call largely depends on how well the bone is cleaned and shaped. Using traditional methods, such as scraping the bone to remove cartilage and polishing it to achieve the right texture, ensures the call produces clear and realistic turkey vocalizations.

Additionally, understanding the mechanics of how the wing bone interacts with the mouth and airflow is crucial for effective use. Practicing the proper hand positioning and breath control enhances the ability to mimic turkey calls accurately. This skill not only improves hunting success but also deepens the connection with wildlife and traditional hunting practices.

Overall, crafting a wing bone turkey call is both an art and a science that combines craftsmanship with natural intuition. By following established steps and dedicating time to practice, hunters and enthusiasts can create a functional and authentic turkey call that serves as a valuable tool in the field. The process honors a long-standing tradition and contributes to a more immersive and respectful hunting experience.

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.