Wingbone Turkey Call

This is one of the oldest turkey calls and is still in use today. The sound is unique and somehow mesmerizes wild turkeys. With a little practice, you can make yelps and clucks using the bones from another wild turkey and call in both spring gobblers and fall flocks. Be sure to follow your state and local hunting regulations.

Step 1: Materials

You will need:

-first three bones from a turkey's wing (preferably a wild tom, jake or adult hen)
-super glue
-thread
-hacksaw or dremel
-sandpaper and pocket knife

Step 2: Cut Bones to Length

Cut the bones to desired length - longer for a 2 segment call, or shorter for a 3 piece. If you only use two segments, a larger bird works better and you can omit the largest bone. Make sure that all 3 bones will fit together. You can use sandpaper to file the ends so they fit in place.

Remove the stuff from the inside of the largest bone with a knife or screwdriver. Be very careful not to break the outside layer of bone.

The flattened end of the smallest bone is the mouthpiece. You can sand this down for a smoother finish.

Step 3: Glue Bones Together

Use super glue gel to fit the bones together. If one bone won't fit well into the other, you can cut it shorter and/or sand the edges of the smaller bone so it will fit.

You want a snug fit, but don't force it. The bones will easily crack if forced.

Step 4: Wrap the Joints

Use thread to tightly wrap the joints. If you have a really large or uneven gap, you can fill in a little with hot glue.

Once the wraps are complete, coat all the threading in super glue so it won't unravel.

Let the glue dry and don't blame me for gluing your fingers to something!

At this point you can add a lanyard - attach a string, rope, para cord etc to the middle section of the call. Wear it around your neck in the woods.

Step 5: How to Use the Call

This is a suction type call, meaning you don't blow through it. It sounds best when both of your hands are cupped around the trumpet end of the call. Wrap your thumb and index finger from one hand around the trumpet and then cup your other hand over the first and vary how wide you open your hands for different tones.

To call, place the mouthpiece between your lips - you may prefer the center of your lips, or off to one side.

Make kissing sounds through the call - it will sound bad at first, but with practice, you will be able to separate the high and low notes.

A yelp is a quick suction that goes from high to low rapidly. Yelps are repeated several times.

Clucks are a much shorter staccato sound, often softer than a yelp as well. Play around with where the mouthpiece goes, how tight or loose your mouth is, how fast or slow you make the suction, etc. you will eventually get a feel for each sound the call can make.

Good luck in the woods - turkeys love this call!