As a seasoned hunter and outdoor writer, I’ve spent years perfecting my turkey calling game. There’s something incredibly satisfying about coaxing a tom into range with a sound you created. Learning how to make a turkey call isn’t just a cost-saving measure; it’s a connection to the tradition of hunting and a way to customize your sound. This guide will walk you through several methods, from crafting a sophisticated slate turkey call to building a simple, effective pill bottle turkey call. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including materials, techniques, and even a look at variations like the popular Primos Wingbone Yelper.
Why Make Your Own Turkey Calls?
Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s discuss the “why.” Commercial turkey calls are excellent, but making your own offers several advantages:
- Cost Savings: High-quality calls can be expensive. DIY options significantly reduce the financial investment.
- Customization: You can tailor the sound to your preferences and the specific hunting conditions.
- Skill Development: The process itself enhances your understanding of how turkey calls work and the nuances of turkey vocalizations.
- Satisfaction: There’s a unique pride in harvesting a bird with a call you built with your own hands.
Understanding Turkey Call Types
Different calls mimic different turkey sounds. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
- Slate Calls: These are versatile and produce a wide range of sounds, from soft purrs and clucks to loud yelps and cuts. They’re a great all-around choice.
- Glass Calls: Known for their high-pitched, crisp sounds, glass calls excel at cutting and yelping. They require more finesse to operate.
- Crystal Calls: Similar to glass, but even more responsive and capable of producing incredibly realistic sounds. They are also more fragile.
- Box Calls: Easy to use and produce a loud, raspy sound. Ideal for long-distance calling.
- Diaphragm Calls: Held in the mouth, these calls offer hands-free operation and require significant practice to master.
- Pill Bottle Calls: A simple, budget-friendly option for beginners.
Making a Slate Turkey Call: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s start with a classic: the slate turkey call. This is a rewarding project that yields a highly effective hunting tool.
Materials You’ll Need
- Slate (approximately 3” x 4” – available at lapidary supply stores)
- Acrylic or Wood Pot (the base of the call)
- Striking Surface (typically maple, but other hardwoods work)
- Sandpaper (various grits, including what grit sandpaper for glass turkey call surfaces – 220, 400, 600, and 1200 grit are good starting points)
- Epoxy or Adhesive
- Lathe (optional, for shaping the pot)
- Drill
Construction Process
- Prepare the Pot: If using wood, turn the pot on a lathe to create a smooth, rounded shape. Drill a hole in the center for sound transmission. Acrylic pots can be purchased pre-made.
- Prepare the Slate: Cut the slate to fit snugly inside the pot. Sand the edges smooth to prevent chipping.
- Prepare the Striking Surface: Shape the striking surface into a comfortable peg. Sand it progressively with finer grits of sandpaper to create a smooth, consistent surface.
- Assemble the Call: Apply a small amount of epoxy to the bottom of the slate and carefully place it inside the pot. Allow the epoxy to cure completely.
- Tune the Call: This is where the magic happens. Experiment with the angle and pressure of the striking surface to achieve the desired sound. Slight adjustments to the slate’s position can also affect the tone.
For detailed instructions and visual aids, check out resources from The National Wild Turkey Federation. They often have workshops and tutorials.
Creating a Glass Turkey Call: A More Delicate Approach
Making slate turkey calls is a good starting point, but a glass call offers a different sonic profile. The process is similar, but requires extra care due to the fragility of glass.
Key Differences from Slate Call Construction
- Glass Selection: Use a high-quality, tempered glass specifically designed for turkey calls.
- Sanding: Use extremely fine grit sandpaper (1200 grit and higher) to avoid scratching the glass.
- Adhesive: Choose an adhesive specifically formulated for bonding glass to wood or acrylic.
- Handling: Handle the glass with extreme care throughout the entire process.
The tuning process for a glass call is more sensitive than for a slate call. Small adjustments can have a significant impact on the sound. Refer to REI Expert Advice for tips on tuning your call.
The DIY Option: Building a Pill Bottle Turkey Call
Looking for a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to get started? A pill bottle turkey call is the answer. This is a great project for beginners and a useful backup call to have in your vest.
Materials Needed
- Empty Pill Bottle (plastic)
- Thin Sheet of Mylar (from a potato chip bag or similar)
- Rubber Band
- Scissors
- Tape
Construction Steps
- Prepare the Bottle: Clean and dry the pill bottle thoroughly.
- Cut the Mylar: Cut a piece of mylar slightly larger than the opening of the pill bottle.
- Secure the Mylar: Stretch the mylar tightly over the opening of the bottle and secure it with a rubber band.
- Tape the Edges: Reinforce the rubber band with tape to prevent it from slipping.
- Create the Sound: Blow across the mylar surface to produce a turkey yelp. Adjust the tension of the mylar by stretching or loosening the rubber band to change the pitch.
While not as realistic as a slate or glass call, a pill bottle call can be surprisingly effective, especially for close-range calling. You can find numerous video tutorials on YouTube demonstrating this technique.
Exploring Advanced Options: The Primos Wingbone Yelper and Beyond
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can explore more advanced call designs. The Primos Wingbone Yelper is a popular choice, known for its realistic sound and ease of use. It’s a diaphragm call, meaning it’s held in the mouth, requiring practice to operate effectively. Other options include trumpet calls, which are relatively simple to make using PVC pipe and a mouthpiece.
Resources for Turkey Call Blueprints
Finding turkey call blueprints can be a great way to learn about different designs and construction techniques. Here are a few resources:
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (for ethical hunting practices)
- Online forums dedicated to turkey hunting (search for “turkey call building forum”)
- DIY hunting websites and blogs
Ethical Considerations and Hunting Regulations
Before heading out to hunt, always check your state’s hunting regulations regarding the use of artificial calls. It’s also crucial to practice ethical hunting principles, including respecting wildlife and following Leave No Trace principles (leavenotrace.org). The USDA Forest Service and National Park Service websites provide information on hunting regulations in national forests and parks.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to make turkey calls is a rewarding experience that can enhance your hunting success and deepen your connection to the outdoors. Whether you choose to craft a sophisticated slate call or a simple pill bottle call, the key is to experiment, practice, and have fun. Remember to prioritize safety, ethical hunting practices, and respect for the natural world. Happy calling!