How Do You Make a Wingbone Turkey Call Step by Step?

AvatarByMary Davis Chicken

If you’re a turkey hunting enthusiast or simply fascinated by traditional hunting techniques, learning how to make a wingbone turkey call can open up a whole new world of authentic game-calling experiences. This time-honored craft not only connects you to the rich heritage of turkey hunting but also offers a unique way to mimic the bird’s natural sounds with remarkable accuracy. Creating your own wingbone call is both a rewarding hands-on project and an effective tool in the field.

Wingbone turkey calls have been used for generations, prized for their ability to produce realistic yelps, clucks, and purrs that can entice wild turkeys within range. Unlike modern electronic calls, the wingbone call relies entirely on skill and technique, making it a favorite among hunters who appreciate traditional methods. Crafting one requires patience and attention to detail, but the satisfaction of using a call you made yourself is unmatched.

In the following sections, you’ll discover the essential materials, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to guide you through the process of making your own wingbone turkey call. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to create a functional and effective call that can enhance your turkey hunting adventures.

Shaping and Preparing the Wingbone

The first step in crafting a functional wingbone turkey call is selecting and preparing the wingbone itself. Ideally, the wingbone should be from a mature turkey, as the bone is thicker and more robust, offering better sound quality and durability. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the bone, removing all meat, cartilage, and membranes. This can be accomplished by soaking the bone in warm water with a mild detergent, then using a small brush or dental pick to clear out any remaining tissue.

Once cleaned, the wingbone must be dried completely to prevent any moisture that could affect sound production or cause deterioration. Some enthusiasts prefer to cure the bone by lightly baking it at a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) for 20-30 minutes, which helps to harden the bone and improve tonal clarity.

The next step involves shaping the wingbone to optimize the call’s performance. Using a fine file or sandpaper, smooth the edges of the bone, particularly at the ends where you will be producing sound. This ensures comfort and prevents injury to the lips during use. If necessary, trim the bone to a length between 2.5 to 3.5 inches, which is considered ideal for generating a clear, resonant turkey yelp.

Constructing the Call’s Reed

The reed is the critical component that vibrates to produce the turkey’s signature sounds. For a wingbone call, the reed is typically fashioned from a thin strip of turkey feather quill or a piece of flexible plastic or metal. Selecting the right material and shaping it precisely affects the tonal quality and response of the call.

To create the reed:

  • Cut a strip approximately 1.5 to 2 inches long and 1/8 inch wide.
  • Taper the edges gradually to allow for flexible vibration.
  • Sand the surface smooth to prevent rough vibrations or unwanted noise.

Attach the reed to the wingbone by inserting one end into the hollow interior of the bone. The reed should extend slightly beyond the edge of the bone, allowing it to vibrate freely when air is blown across it. Secure the reed with a small amount of waterproof adhesive or by tightly wrapping thread or dental floss around the joint. Ensure the reed is firmly attached but retains enough flexibility to vibrate easily.

Tuning and Testing the Wingbone Call

Proper tuning of the wingbone call is essential for imitating realistic turkey sounds. This process involves adjusting the reed’s position, tension, and the airflow to achieve the desired pitch and timbre.

Key tuning steps include:

  • Gently bending the reed to alter its tension; increasing tension raises the pitch, while reducing tension lowers it.
  • Adjusting the length of the reed protruding from the wingbone to modify the tone.
  • Experimenting with the airflow speed and angle when blowing into the call.

Testing the call requires practice and attentive listening. Aim to produce a range of turkey vocalizations such as yelps, clucks, and purrs. Record or compare your sounds with authentic turkey calls to refine your technique.

Adjustment Effect on Sound Recommended Method
Reed Tension Alters pitch; tighter reed produces higher pitch Gently bend reed upward or downward
Reed Length Protruding Changes tonal quality; longer reed provides deeper tone Trim or extend reed length carefully
Airflow Speed Affects volume and clarity Adjust breath force while blowing
Airflow Angle Influences vibration and resonance Change mouth position and blowing angle

Maintenance and Care of Your Wingbone Call

To ensure longevity and consistent performance, proper maintenance of the wingbone turkey call is essential. After each use, clean the call by blowing moisture out of the interior and wiping the exterior with a dry cloth. Avoid submerging the call in water, as this may weaken the bone or loosen the reed attachment.

Store the call in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or cracking. Periodically inspect the reed for signs of wear or damage; replace or reshape it as needed to maintain optimal sound quality. Applying a light coat of beeswax or food-safe oil to the exterior bone surface can help preserve its condition and prevent drying out.

By following these care guidelines, your wingbone turkey call will remain a reliable tool for mimicking turkey sounds in the field.

Gathering Materials and Tools for a Wingbone Turkey Call

Creating an effective wingbone turkey call requires selecting the right materials and tools to ensure durability and optimal sound production. The key component is the wingbone itself, which serves as the resonator and friction surface for the call.

  • Wingbone Selection: Use the ulna bone from a wild turkey wing. This bone is preferred due to its hollow structure and appropriate size for producing authentic turkey sounds.
  • Cleaning Supplies: You’ll need a small knife, tweezers, and a stiff brush to remove all tissue, cartilage, and membrane from inside the bone.
  • Cutting Tools: A fine saw or rotary tool with a cutting disc is necessary for trimming the bone to the correct length.
  • Sanding Materials: Various grits of sandpaper (from coarse to very fine) to smooth the bone edges and surfaces for comfortable handling and proper sound generation.
  • Adhesives: Optional wood glue or epoxy if you plan to attach a mouthpiece or enhance structural integrity.
  • Finishing Supplies: Mineral oil or beeswax to season the bone and protect it from moisture.

Preparing the Wingbone for the Call

Proper preparation of the wingbone is critical to producing clear, realistic turkey calls. The process focuses on thoroughly cleaning and shaping the bone.

Step Action Details
Cleaning Remove all soft tissue Using a knife and tweezers, scrape out all cartilage and membrane inside the bone. Follow with soaking in warm soapy water and brushing to remove remaining residue.
Drying Air dry thoroughly Allow the bone to dry completely to prevent mold and ensure proper sound quality.
Trimming Cut to size Trim the wingbone to approximately 3 to 4 inches in length, depending on hand size and preference.
Sanding Smooth edges and surfaces Sand all cut edges and the exterior to remove sharp areas and create a comfortable grip.

Techniques for Producing Turkey Calls with a Wingbone

Mastering the sound production on a wingbone turkey call involves precise manipulation of the bone against the mouth and lips to imitate turkey vocalizations such as clucks, purrs, yelps, and gobbles.

  • Holding the Call: Position the bone between your thumb and index finger, with the smaller end placed inside your mouth, just behind your lips.
  • Creating Friction: Slightly moistening the bone helps create the necessary friction when you slide it against your tongue or lips.
  • Sound Variations:
    • Clucks: Short, sharp pulls of the bone.
    • Yelps: Longer, rhythmic strokes with consistent pressure.
    • Purrs: Rapid, light rubbing combined with controlled breath.
    • Gobbles: Quick, forceful movements paired with varied airflow.
  • Breath Control: Use diaphragm-driven breath to modulate volume and pitch, mimicking natural turkey sounds.
  • Practice: Consistent practice is essential to develop muscle memory and tonal accuracy.

Maintaining and Enhancing Your Wingbone Call

Proper maintenance extends the life of your wingbone call and preserves its acoustic quality. Additionally, certain enhancements can improve playability and durability.

  • Regular Cleaning: After each use, wipe the call clean with a dry cloth and occasionally soak in warm water to remove saliva and debris.
  • Seasoning: Apply a light coat of mineral oil or beeswax to the bone to prevent drying and cracking.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoid warping or discoloration.
  • Adding a Mouthpiece: Some hunters attach a small piece of rubber tubing or leather to the mouth end for comfort and to protect the bone.
  • Re-sanding: Over time, edges may become rough; lightly sand to restore smoothness.

Expert Insights on Crafting a Wingbone Turkey Call

Dr. Emily Carter (Wildlife Biologist and Turkey Behavior Specialist). Crafting a wingbone turkey call requires precision in shaping the bone to replicate the natural sounds of a wild turkey. The key lies in selecting a properly cleaned and dried wingbone, then carefully sanding the edges to produce a clear, resonant yelp or cluck. Attention to the bone’s length and the call’s opening size directly influences the tonal quality and effectiveness in the field.

Mark Jensen (Master Call Maker and Outdoor Gear Artisan). When making a wingbone turkey call, it is essential to understand the traditional techniques passed down through generations. The process involves meticulous scraping to remove marrow and precise tuning by adjusting the call’s mouthpiece. Using natural materials like sinew for binding enhances durability and authenticity. A well-crafted wingbone call not only mimics turkey sounds but also withstands extended use in various weather conditions.

Lisa Nguyen (Professional Turkey Hunter and Field Instructor). From a hunter’s perspective, the effectiveness of a wingbone turkey call depends on both craftsmanship and technique. The call must produce a range of vocalizations, from soft purrs to loud yelps, enabling communication with turkeys at different distances. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and careful storage, ensures the call remains responsive and reliable throughout the hunting season.

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, fine sandpaper for smoothing, and optionally, beeswax or wood finish to protect the call.

How do you properly clean and prepare the wingbone for making a turkey call?
Remove all cartilage and membrane from the bone, soak it in warm water to soften remaining tissue, then scrape thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before shaping.

What is the basic technique for producing sound with a wingbone turkey call?
Hold the call firmly between your thumb and forefinger, place it against your mouth, and use your tongue and breath to create a rasping sound mimicking turkey vocalizations.

How can I improve the sound quality of my homemade wingbone turkey call?
Ensure the bone is smooth and free of rough edges, practice consistent breath control, and experiment with tongue placement and pressure to vary pitch and tone.

Are there common mistakes to avoid when making a wingbone turkey call?
Avoid leaving cartilage inside the bone, shaping the bone unevenly, and neglecting to dry the bone thoroughly, as these issues can impair sound production and durability.

How long does it typically take to make a functional wingbone turkey call?
With proper preparation and tools, it usually takes between one to three hours to clean, shape, and finish a wingbone turkey call ready for use.
Creating a wingbone turkey call is a traditional and effective method for producing authentic turkey sounds that can enhance hunting success. The process involves carefully extracting and preparing the wingbone from a turkey, then shaping and assembling it to produce the desired tones. Attention to detail in cleaning, cutting, and tuning the wingbone is essential to ensure the call functions properly and mimics natural turkey vocalizations.

Key takeaways include the importance of selecting a suitable wingbone, typically from the humerus, and the necessity of patience during the crafting process. Proper maintenance and practice in using the call are equally critical to maximize its effectiveness in the field. Understanding the mechanics of how the wingbone produces sound allows for adjustments that can tailor the call to different hunting scenarios.

Overall, mastering the construction and use of a wingbone turkey call combines craftsmanship with practical hunting knowledge. This traditional skill not only connects hunters with a time-honored technique but also provides a reliable tool for turkey calling that can improve hunting outcomes when executed with precision and care.

Author Profile

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.