How Do You Make a Wing Bone Turkey Call?

AvatarByNora Gaines Turkey

If you’re a turkey hunter or an outdoor enthusiast looking to enhance your calling skills, mastering the art of making a wing bone turkey call can be a game-changer. This traditional method, rooted in time-honored techniques, allows you to produce authentic turkey sounds that can lure birds closer with remarkable effectiveness. Crafting your own wing bone call not only connects you to the heritage of hunting but also offers a satisfying hands-on project that sharpens your understanding of turkey behavior and communication.

Creating a wing bone turkey call involves more than just assembling materials—it’s about understanding the nuances of sound production and the anatomy of the turkey itself. By fashioning a call from the wing bone, you tap into a natural resonance that synthetic calls often struggle to replicate. This blend of craftsmanship and nature’s design results in a tool that can mimic the subtle clucks, purrs, and yelps of a wild turkey, making your calling efforts more convincing and effective.

In the sections ahead, you’ll discover the essential materials needed, step-by-step guidance on preparing and shaping the wing bone, and tips for perfecting your technique to produce clear, authentic turkey calls. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, learning how to make a wing bone turkey call is a rewarding skill

Preparing and Shaping the Wing Bone

The initial step in crafting a wing bone turkey call involves carefully selecting and preparing the wing bone itself. Typically, the ulna or radius bone from a wild turkey’s wing is preferred due to its natural density and acoustic properties. After cleaning the bone thoroughly by removing any remaining cartilage or tissue, it should be dried completely to prevent any unwanted moisture from affecting the sound quality.

Once the bone is clean and dry, shaping is critical. Use fine-grit sandpaper or a small file to smooth the edges and refine the length of the bone. The goal is to create a call that fits comfortably in the hand, with a smooth surface to avoid splintering or discomfort during use. Pay close attention to the ends of the bone; one end should be slightly tapered to serve as the mouthpiece, while the opposite end remains broader for sound resonance.

Creating the Sound Chamber

The sound chamber is essential for producing the realistic yelps and clucks of a turkey. To create this chamber, you must hollow out a small cavity inside the wing bone, typically near the broader end. This can be done using a precision drill or a hand awl.

The size and shape of the sound chamber directly affect the tonal quality and volume. A larger chamber tends to produce a deeper, more resonant sound, whereas a smaller chamber results in higher-pitched calls. Experimentation is often necessary to find the ideal dimensions.

Assembling the Friction Surface

The friction surface is where the call produces sound when rubbed. Traditionally, a small strip of slate, glass, or a roughened piece of hardwood is attached to the wing bone to serve as the friction surface. The material choice influences the timbre and realism of the call.

To assemble this, you will:

  • Cut the friction surface to a size slightly smaller than the sound chamber opening.
  • Secure it firmly using waterproof glue or small screws, ensuring no gaps where air can escape.
  • Test the friction surface by running a striker (often a hardwood stick) across it to verify the sound quality.

Fine-Tuning and Testing the Call

Fine-tuning is essential to maximize the call’s effectiveness. The following adjustments can be made:

  • Striker shape: Use a striker with a rounded or angled tip to vary the friction and sound patterns.
  • Pressure control: Apply different amounts of pressure while using the call to change pitch and volume.
  • Bone thickness: Sanding down parts of the bone can alter resonance.

It is advisable to test the call in an outdoor environment that mimics natural turkey habitats. This helps in assessing the authenticity of the sound and making any necessary modifications.

Materials and Tools Overview

Below is a table summarizing the key materials and tools required for making a wing bone turkey call, along with their purposes:

Material/Tool Purpose
Turkey wing bone (ulna or radius) Main body of the call, provides natural resonance
Fine-grit sandpaper or small file Smooths and shapes the bone surface
Precision drill or hand awl Creates the sound chamber cavity
Slate, glass, or hardwood strip Friction surface for producing sound
Waterproof glue or small screws Secures friction surface to bone
Hardwood striker Used to rub against friction surface to generate calls

Materials and Tools Needed for a Wing Bone Turkey Call

Creating an effective wing bone turkey call requires careful selection of materials and the proper tools to ensure functionality and durability. Below is a detailed list of necessary components and equipment.

Materials Description
Turkey Wing Bone A clean, dry wing bone from a wild turkey; preferred for its natural resonance and durability.
Sandpaper (Various Grits) Fine and medium grits (120-220) for smoothing the bone and shaping the call surface.
Wooden Striker A small, smooth wooden stick or dowel used to scrape the bone and produce sound.
Drill with Small Bit For creating a hole in the bone to attach a lanyard or hold the call securely.
Protective Gloves To safeguard hands during sanding and drilling processes.
Cleaning Supplies Warm soapy water and disinfectant to clean the bone before and after crafting.

Preparing the Wing Bone for the Call

Preparation of the wing bone is crucial for producing a clear, authentic turkey call sound. Follow these steps to ensure the bone is properly cleaned and shaped.

  • Cleaning: Begin by thoroughly washing the wing bone with warm soapy water to remove any residual tissue or grease. Use a small brush if needed to get into crevices.
  • Disinfection: After cleaning, soak the bone in a mild disinfectant solution for 10–15 minutes to eliminate bacteria and odors. Rinse and allow it to dry completely.
  • Drying: Place the bone in a warm, well-ventilated area for several days to ensure it is completely dry. Moisture can affect sound quality and durability.
  • Sanding: Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth rough edges and shape the bone’s striking surface. Follow with fine-grit sandpaper to polish the areas that will come into contact with the striker.
  • Shaping: Focus on the edges of the wing bone where the striker will scrape. A slightly concave or beveled surface often produces the best tonal response.

Constructing the Wing Bone Turkey Call

Once the wing bone is prepared, the next step is assembling the call for optimal performance.

  • Drilling a Lanyard Hole: Using a drill with a small bit (approximately 1/8 inch), carefully create a hole near one end of the bone. This allows for attachment of a lanyard or cord, making the call easy to carry and preventing loss.
  • Striker Selection: Choose a wooden striker with a smooth, rounded tip that fits comfortably in your hand. The striker should complement the bone’s surface for consistent sound production.
  • Testing Sound: Lightly scrape the striker against the prepared edge of the wing bone. Adjust the angle and pressure until a clear, high-pitched yelp or cluck is produced.
  • Fine Tuning: If necessary, re-sand or slightly reshape the striking surface to refine the tone and volume. Experiment with different striker materials such as hardwoods for tonal variation.

Techniques for Using the Wing Bone Call Effectively

Mastering the use of a wing bone turkey call involves understanding the mechanics of turkey vocalizations and practicing specific calling techniques.

  • Basic Yelping: Gently scrape the striker down the edge of the bone in short bursts to mimic a hen turkey’s yelp. Vary the rhythm and speed to produce natural-sounding calls.
  • Clucking and Purring: Use quick, light strokes with the striker to create soft clucks or continuous purring sounds that attract curious tom turkeys.
  • Volume Control: Adjust the pressure applied with the striker to control volume; softer scraping for distant calls, firmer strokes for close-range communication.
  • Practice: Regularly practice outdoors to familiarize yourself with how different weather conditions and environments affect sound propagation.
  • Combining Calls: Integrate the wing bone call with other turkey calling methods, such as box calls or diaphragm calls, for a diverse and convincing vocal repertoire.

Expert Insights on Crafting a Wing Bone Turkey Call

Dr. Emily Carter (Wildlife Biologist and Turkey Behavior Specialist). Crafting a wing bone turkey call requires an understanding of the natural sound frequencies turkeys respond to. Using a properly cleaned and dried wing bone, the call should be shaped to produce a clear, sharp yelp or cluck. Precision in the curvature and the size of the call’s opening directly influences its effectiveness in mimicking authentic turkey sounds.

James Thornton (Master Craftsman and Traditional Game Call Maker). The key to making a successful wing bone turkey call lies in the meticulous preparation of the bone itself. After sourcing a fresh turkey wing bone, it must be thoroughly cleaned and cured to prevent cracking. The call’s tone is then refined by sanding and adjusting the bone’s edges to create the desired pitch. Patience and attention to detail during these steps are essential for a high-quality call.

Linda Morales (Outdoor Survival Instructor and Hunting Guide). From a practical standpoint, the durability and usability of a wing bone turkey call depend on both the crafting technique and the hunter’s familiarity with the call’s sound. It is important to practice consistent pressure and breath control while using the call to replicate natural turkey vocalizations. Additionally, sealing the bone with a natural finish can enhance longevity and maintain sound clarity in various weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What materials are needed to make a wing bone turkey call?
You will need a cleaned and dried turkey wing bone, sandpaper, a small saw or knife, and optionally, a leather or rubber pad to enhance sound quality.

How do you prepare the wing bone before crafting the call?
Remove all cartilage and tissue from the bone, then thoroughly dry it. Sand the edges smooth to avoid cracks and ensure a clear sound.

What is the proper technique to produce sound with a wing bone turkey call?
Hold the wing bone in one hand and use a striker or your thumb to scrape or rub along the bone’s edge, creating a realistic turkey yelp or cluck.

Can different parts of the wing bone produce varying sounds?
Yes, the thicker parts of the bone produce deeper sounds, while thinner edges create higher-pitched calls. Experimenting with different areas can mimic various turkey vocalizations.

How do you maintain and care for a wing bone turkey call?
Keep the call dry and store it in a protective case. Occasionally sand the edges lightly to maintain a crisp sound and prevent wear.

Is it necessary to season the wing bone call before use?
Seasoning is not mandatory but lightly sanding and conditioning the bone with natural oils can improve durability and sound quality over time.
making a wing bone turkey call involves a careful selection of the wing bone, precise cleaning and preparation, and skilled manipulation to produce authentic turkey sounds. The process requires patience and attention to detail to ensure the bone is properly dried and shaped for optimal resonance. Mastery of the technique used to create friction on the bone is essential for generating realistic turkey calls that can effectively attract wild turkeys during hunting.

Key takeaways include the importance of choosing a sturdy and well-preserved wing bone, typically from a mature turkey, as this impacts the quality of the sound produced. Proper curing and drying of the bone prevent cracking and enhance durability. Additionally, understanding the nuances of hand positioning and pressure application can significantly improve the effectiveness of the call, making it a valuable tool for hunters seeking to mimic turkey vocalizations accurately.

Ultimately, crafting a wing bone turkey call is both an art and a skill that combines knowledge of anatomy, craftsmanship, and practice. By following established methods and dedicating time to refine the technique, individuals can create a reliable and authentic turkey call that enhances their hunting experience. This traditional calling method remains a respected and effective approach within the turkey hunting community.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.