So you harvested your first turkey, or maybe your 50th. In any case, you may share my belief that a wild turkey is much more than just its breasts, feathers, frighteningly loud turkey calls, and untamed animal habits. I personally detest wasting anything, and some might even think that I hoard my hunting “firsts.” I am aware that I might be able to use the animal items I have saved at some point in the future.
I killed my first wild turkey in upstate Pennsylvania back in May. Before I knew it, it was over, and I was determined to make the most of every aspect of this magnificent bird. I knew I was saving as much meat as possible. I used the tail and wings to complete a mount after removing as many feathers from the body as I could for crafting. I had no idea that I would be using the bird’s wing bones to make a wild turkey call!
A friend of mine who belongs to the United Bowhunters of Pennsylvania organization—of which I am also a member—made the suggestion for the wild turkey call. I was immediately drawn in after he shared a picture of his call. I just did a fast search for YouTube videos. The turkey bone call is made using a very easy method that has been around since the earliest Native Americans. My own preference for macerating meat plays a part in the process, and the instructions have been updated to use more contemporary tools.
I plan on personalizing my call in the near future. Please share yours in a comment at Miss Pursuit if you have made one or have not!
The distinctive sound of a turkey slate call is an essential tool for any turkey hunter, mimicking the soft clucking and purring of a hen turkey. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of how to make a turkey slate call complete with a detailed step-by-step process and a helpful video tutorial.
Materials You’ll Need
- Slate: The heart of your turkey slate call is the slate itself. Choose a piece of high-quality slate that is smooth, free of cracks, and has a consistent thickness.
- Soundboard: The soundboard is the base onto which the slate is mounted. It can be made from various materials, such as wood, acrylic, or even a piece of an old vinyl record.
- Adhesive: Choose a strong adhesive that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Epoxy or construction adhesive are good options.
- Clamps: Clamps will be necessary to hold the slate and soundboard together while the adhesive dries.
- Sandpaper: Fine-grit sandpaper will be used to smooth the edges of the slate and soundboard.
- Optional materials: You may also want to consider using a backing material, such as cork or felt, to help reduce noise and improve the sound quality of your call.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the slate: Cut the slate to the desired size and shape. A common size for turkey slate calls is 3 inches by 4 inches, but you can adjust this based on your preference. Use sandpaper to smooth the edges of the slate.
- Prepare the soundboard: Cut the soundboard to the same size as the slate. If you’re using a backing material, cut it to the same size as well and adhere it to the soundboard using adhesive.
- Attach the slate to the soundboard: Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the back of the slate and carefully position it on the soundboard. Make sure the slate is centered and flush with the edges of the soundboard.
- Clamp the slate and soundboard together: Use clamps to secure the slate and soundboard together while the adhesive dries. Allow the adhesive to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Finish the call: Once the adhesive has dried, remove the clamps and sand any rough edges. You can also add a decorative finish to your call, such as paint or stain.
Video Tutorial
For a more visual guide on how to make a turkey slate call, check out this helpful video tutorial:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jm5Mvnp5yqw
Tips for Making a Great Turkey Slate Call
- Choose high-quality materials: The quality of your materials will significantly impact the sound of your call. Use a smooth, crack-free slate and a sturdy soundboard.
- Experiment with different slate sizes and shapes: The size and shape of the slate can affect the pitch and tone of the call. Experiment with different options to find what works best for you.
- Practice your calling technique: The key to using a turkey slate call effectively is to practice your calling technique. Start by making soft clucks and purrs, and gradually increase the volume and intensity as you become more comfortable.
- Be patient: Learning to use a turkey slate call takes time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Keep practicing, and you’ll eventually master the art of calling in turkeys.
With these instructions and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating your very own turkey slate call. Remember, the key to success lies in using high-quality materials, practicing your calling technique, and being patient So, grab your tools, follow these steps, and get ready to experience the thrill of calling in turkeys with your handcrafted slate call
Making a Turkey Call – Woodturning
How do you make a turkey call from a pill bottle?
Fit the cap over the bottle and stretch the latex square tightly over the hole you just cut, leaving ¼ inch gap on the flat part of the half-circle. Use a rubber band to fix it in place. You now have your very own pill bottle turkey call. To use, hold the cap with the latex to your mouth and blow.
How do you make a turkey call?
How to make a turkey call using parts of the last turkey you harvested. Turkey wings. Sharp skinning knife. Cooking pot. Water. Dawn dishwashing soap. Borax. Wire brush. Hack saw. Screwdriver. Epoxy glue. Superglue. Thread. Remove the wings from the turkey, followed by skinning feather and flesh removal. This requires a very sharp knife.
How do you make a call with slate?
Hold the shell and the slate together until the glue is dry. 7) Get an acrylic or wooden striker. (Note: Bruce Holley likes to glue one piece of slate inside the shell and a second one to the outside. This gives him two sounds. It’s also more work, and your call will work well with the single slate.)
How do you make a turkey call without back tension?
Turn the jig on its side and take the frame and bend it on the metal side. Turn the jig upright. Remove the paper and crimp the frame so it will easily slip over the latex. Crimp the frame closed over the latex. Remove the tension from the clamps and remove the latex. You now have a turkey call without back tension.