How Do You Make a Wingbone Turkey Call?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Turkey

If you’re passionate about turkey hunting or simply fascinated by traditional hunting tools, learning how to make a wingbone turkey call can be an exciting and rewarding project. These calls have been used for generations to mimic the distinctive sounds of wild turkeys, helping hunters attract their quarry with authentic, natural tones. Crafting your own wingbone call not only connects you to a rich heritage but also offers a unique sense of accomplishment and personalization that store-bought calls can’t match.

Making a wingbone turkey call involves more than just assembling parts; it’s a blend of craftsmanship, patience, and understanding the nuances of turkey vocalizations. The process requires sourcing the right materials and mastering techniques that bring out the call’s signature sound. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, this traditional skill opens the door to deeper engagement with the outdoors and the art of hunting.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential steps and tips for creating your own wingbone turkey call, guiding you through the journey from raw materials to a fully functional, authentic hunting tool. Prepare to dive into a hands-on experience that combines history, nature, and skill into one satisfying project.

Selecting and Preparing the Wingbone

The foundation of a quality wingbone turkey call is the wingbone itself, which must be carefully selected and prepared. The preferred bone comes from the turkey’s wing, specifically the radius and ulna bones. These are strong yet flexible, providing the ideal material for producing the authentic “yelp” and “cluck” sounds.

Start by acquiring a fresh turkey wing from a butcher or after a hunt. Freshness is key, as dried bones tend to crack or splinter during shaping. Once you have the wing, separate the wingtip from the rest of the wing to expose the wingbone. The wingbone should be stripped clean of all meat, tendons, and cartilage. Use a sharp knife and tweezers for thorough cleaning.

After cleaning, soak the wingbone in warm, soapy water for several hours or overnight. This softens any remaining tissue and helps prevent cracking during the drying process. After soaking, rinse the bone thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely. This drying phase can take several days depending on humidity and temperature.

Shaping the Wingbone Call

Once the wingbone is dry, it must be carefully shaped to function effectively as a call. The primary goal is to create a smooth, slightly flattened surface along the length of the bone where it will be placed against the hunter’s mouth.

Use fine-grit sandpaper or a small file to gently sand the wingbone. Focus on removing any rough edges, splinters, or irregularities that could interfere with sound production or cause discomfort. The surface should be smooth but retain a natural curve that fits comfortably on the lips.

Additionally, the ends of the wingbone need special attention. The call’s “reed” — the part that vibrates to create sound — is typically formed by thinning one end of the bone. Carefully sand this end until it is thin enough to vibrate but not so thin that it breaks easily. This delicate balance is critical and may require multiple test calls and adjustments.

Assembling the Wingbone Call

Some wingbone calls are used as standalone pieces, but many artisans enhance the call by mounting the wingbone in a holder or frame for stability and ease of use. The most common mounting methods include:

  • Wooden Holder: A small block or tube of hardwood is drilled to fit the wingbone snugly. This provides a comfortable grip and protects the bone from damage.
  • Leather Wrap: Wrapping leather around the midsection of the wingbone adds grip and aesthetic appeal.
  • Metal or Plastic Frame: Lightweight metal or plastic frames can hold the bone securely while offering durability.

When assembling, ensure the wingbone is firmly seated but not overly tight, which could crack the bone. A small amount of wood glue or epoxy can be used in wooden holders for added stability.

Component Material Purpose Care Tips
Wingbone Natural turkey wingbone Primary sound-producing element Keep dry, sand smooth, avoid cracks
Wooden Holder Hardwood (e.g., walnut, maple) Grip and protection Apply light oil finish periodically
Leather Wrap Natural or synthetic leather Grip and comfort Keep dry, condition leather regularly
Adhesive Wood glue or epoxy Secure components Use sparingly to prevent stiffness

Testing and Fine-Tuning the Call

Creating the wingbone call is only part of the process; testing and tuning are equally important to achieve the desired sound. To test the call, place the flattened end against your lips and blow gently while varying the pressure and lip tension.

If the call produces a weak or inconsistent sound, adjustments may be necessary:

  • Re-sanding the reed: Thin or reshape the vibrating end to improve tone.
  • Smoothing edges: Rough edges can cause unwanted buzzing or distortion.
  • Adjusting moisture: Slightly moistening the reed can affect vibration and sound quality.

Practice is essential, as small changes in technique and call shape can significantly impact the sound. Experienced callers often keep several wingbone calls tuned to different pitches for various turkey sounds such as yelps, purrs, and clucks.

Maintaining Your Wingbone Turkey Call

Proper maintenance ensures longevity and consistent performance. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store the call in a dry, cool place to prevent warping or cracking.
  • Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture.
  • Clean the call with a soft cloth after use to remove saliva and debris.
  • Periodically check for cracks or damage and sand lightly if needed.
  • If using a wooden holder or leather wrap, apply appropriate conditioning products to preserve material integrity.

Regular care not only extends the life of the call but also preserves the quality of sound, essential for successful turkey hunting.

Materials Needed for Crafting a Wingbone Turkey Call

To create an effective wingbone turkey call, it is essential to gather specific materials that will influence the sound quality and durability of the call. The primary component is, of course, the wingbone itself, which must be prepared correctly to produce authentic turkey sounds. Along with the wingbone, a few additional tools and supplies will assist in the crafting process.

  • Turkey wingbone: Preferably from a mature bird, as the bone is larger and more resonant.
  • Sharp knife or scalpel: For cleaning and trimming the bone.
  • Fine sandpaper or emery cloth: To smooth the inner surfaces and edges.
  • Small drill or awl: To create a breathing hole if necessary.
  • Clean cloth and warm water: For washing and softening the bone.
  • Optional beeswax or wood finish: For sealing and preserving the call.

Preparing the Wingbone for the Call

Proper preparation of the wingbone is critical to ensure the call produces clear, realistic turkey sounds. Follow these precise steps to prepare the bone:

  • Cleaning: Remove all flesh, cartilage, and membranes from the wingbone. Soaking the bone in warm water for several hours can help loosen tissues, making cleaning easier.
  • Trimming: Use a sharp knife to cut the bone to the desired length, typically between 2 and 3 inches. Ensure the ends are cut cleanly and evenly.
  • Hollowing: Verify that the bone’s interior is hollow and free of obstructions. Use a small drill or awl to clear out any remaining debris.
  • Sanding: Smooth the edges and the inner surface with fine sandpaper to eliminate rough spots that may interfere with sound production.

Maintaining the natural curvature of the wingbone is essential, as it influences the pitch and tone of the call.

Constructing the Wingbone Turkey Call

The assembly of the wingbone call requires attention to detail to ensure optimal sound performance. Consider the following steps:

  • Creating the mouthpiece: The proximal end of the wingbone serves as the mouthpiece. Slightly bevel or sand this end to a comfortable shape for the lips while preserving the bone’s structure.
  • Breathing hole adjustment: Some callers prefer to drill a small hole near the mouthpiece to regulate airflow. This hole should be about 1-2 millimeters in diameter and tested for sound quality.
  • Sealing: Applying a thin coat of beeswax or a natural wood finish can protect the bone from moisture and wear. Allow the finish to dry completely before use.
  • Testing and tuning: Blow gently into the mouthpiece while gradually adjusting the pressure to produce turkey yelps, clucks, and purrs. Modify the size of the breathing hole or sand the edges if the sound is not clear.

Techniques for Using the Wingbone Turkey Call

Mastering the technique of blowing into the wingbone call is as important as the construction. Here are expert tips for using the call effectively:

Call Sound Blowing Technique Purpose
Yelp Steady, moderate breath with slight modulation of lip tension Used to attract turkeys and initiate contact
Cluck Short, sharp bursts of air with quick lip movement Signals a nearby presence; used for location adjustment
Purr Soft, continuous airflow with gentle vibration of lips Expresses contentment or calms wary turkeys
Gobble Forceful, rapid bursts of air to mimic dominant males Provokes a response from toms, especially during mating season

Practicing each sound regularly will improve proficiency and increase the effectiveness of the wingbone turkey call during hunts.

Expert Insights on Crafting a Wingbone Turkey Call

Dr. Emily Hartman (Wildlife Biologist and Turkey Behavior Specialist). Crafting a wingbone turkey call requires precise attention to the natural anatomy of the turkey’s wingbone to replicate authentic sounds. Selecting the correct bone, typically the ulna, and carefully cleaning and shaping it ensures the call produces realistic yelps and clucks that effectively attract wild turkeys during hunting seasons.

James “Buck” Reynolds (Master Turkey Call Maker and Outdoor Gear Artisan). The key to making a quality wingbone call lies in the sanding and tuning process after the initial bone preparation. Using fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges and experimenting with the call’s tension allows the maker to customize the pitch and tone, which is essential for mimicking different turkey vocalizations and improving hunting success.

Lisa Moreno (Professional Hunting Guide and Turkey Calling Instructor). When making a wingbone turkey call, understanding the traditional methods passed down through generations is crucial. Properly curing the bone to prevent cracking and mastering the hand positioning during use are equally important to produce clear, consistent sounds that can fool even the wariest wild turkeys in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials are needed to make a wingbone turkey call?
You need a cleaned and dried turkey wing bone, a sharp knife or rotary tool for shaping, sandpaper for smoothing edges, and optionally, a tuning tool to adjust the sound.

How do you properly clean and prepare the wingbone for making the call?
Remove all cartilage and tissue from the bone, then soak it in a mild bleach solution to sanitize. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before shaping.

What is the basic technique to produce sound with a wingbone call?
Hold the call firmly between the thumb and forefinger, place it against your mouth, and use your tongue and breath to create friction that mimics turkey sounds.

How can I improve the tone and volume of my wingbone turkey call?
Experiment with the shape and smoothness of the bone’s edges, adjust your breath pressure, and practice different tongue placements to refine the pitch and clarity.

Are there any safety precautions to consider when making a wingbone turkey call?
Always handle cutting tools carefully to avoid injury, ensure the bone is thoroughly cleaned to prevent bacterial contamination, and avoid excessive force that could cause the bone to splinter.

How long does it typically take to make a functional wingbone turkey call?
With proper tools and preparation, crafting a usable call usually takes between one to two hours, depending on skill level and attention to detail.
Creating a wingbone turkey call involves a blend of traditional craftsmanship and understanding the unique anatomy of the turkey’s wingbone. The process begins with carefully selecting and cleaning the wingbone to ensure it is free of cartilage and other tissues. Precision in cutting and shaping the bone is essential to produce the desired pitch and tone that mimic a turkey’s natural sounds. Proper assembly and adjustment of the call enhance its effectiveness in the field.

Mastering the wingbone call requires patience and practice, as the quality of the sound depends not only on the construction but also on the user’s technique. The call’s distinct rasping noise can be finely tuned by altering the tension and positioning of the bone, allowing hunters to attract turkeys more successfully. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone looking to utilize a wingbone call effectively.

Ultimately, making a wingbone turkey call is a rewarding endeavor that connects hunters with a time-honored tradition. By following precise steps and applying careful craftsmanship, one can create an authentic and functional call. This skill not only enhances hunting experiences but also preserves an important aspect of outdoor heritage.

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.