Sophia Delgado
There are many different types of turkey calls, and one of the most popular is the nail turkey call. This type of call is made by using a nail, typically a horseshoe nail, against a call surface such as a block of wood or slate to mimic turkey sounds. While some hunters opt for purchasing ready-made nail turkey calls, others prefer to make their own. This paragraph will discuss the process of creating a nail turkey call, from choosing the right materials to assembling the components, and provide tips on how to master the calling technique.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of call | Nail turkey call |
| Materials | Horseshoe nail, block of wood, slate, glue, sawdust, thread, leather, bone |
| Techniques | Friction, soft calling, whistling, purring, clucking, yelping |
| Design | Boxy, hollowed out, flat on one side, centre drilled out |
| Sound | Not very loud, realistic turkey sounds |
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What You'll Learn
Using a horseshoe nail
A horseshoe nail turkey call is a unique, two-piece friction call. It is made by using a horseshoe nail as a striker against a call surface. The nail is worked against a chunk of slate or limestone to produce a sound. Different types of wood and various sizes of calling surfaces create a variety of tones and pitches.
To make a horseshoe nail turkey call, you will need a horseshoe nail and a suitable call surface. The most commonly used call surface is slate, but limestone can also be used. The nail is used as a striker and is worked against the surface to produce a sound.
There are a few different ways to make a horseshoe nail turkey call. One way is to glue a piece of walnut to each side of the horseshoe nail and turn it into a turkey pot. The surface of the walnut can be dished out to the shape of a bowl, and the nail is driven through it to serve as the peg to rub against the call surface. Another way is to use a small ceramic car coaster as the call surface. The horseshoe nail is then used as a striker against the coaster to produce a sound.
It is important to note that the horseshoe nail should be made of metal, and the call surface should be made of a material that will create friction when the two are rubbed together. The horseshoe nail can be of varying lengths, depending on the desired sound and the size of the call surface.
The horseshoe nail turkey call is a unique and effective way to mimic the sounds of a turkey, including clucks, purrs, yelps, cutts, and kee kees. With the right materials and technique, you can create a variety of tones and pitches to sound like a real turkey.
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Choosing the right wood
When it comes to choosing the right wood for your nail turkey call, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to select a type of wood that is durable and can withstand the friction of the nail striker. Hardwoods, such as oak or maple, are often good choices due to their strength and ability to resist wear and tear. These woods can also provide a nice aesthetic appeal to your call.
Another factor to consider is the tone and sound quality you want to achieve. Different types of wood can produce varying pitches and tones. For example, a denser wood like walnut or cherry may create a deeper, richer sound, while a lighter wood like pine might result in higher-pitched tones. Experimenting with different types of wood can help you find the perfect sound for luring in those turkeys.
The size and shape of your wood block are also important considerations. You'll want to ensure that the wood is comfortable to hold and manoeuvre. A smaller, more compact block may be easier to handle, especially if you plan to carry it in your pocket while hunting. On the other hand, a larger block may provide more surface area for a more varied range of sounds.
In addition, the method of wood preparation and finishing can impact the performance of your nail turkey call. Properly sanding and smoothing the wood can ensure a comfortable grip and smooth striking surface for the nail. You may also want to consider treating the wood with a finish, such as oil or wax, to protect it from moisture and prolong its lifespan.
Lastly, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different types of wood. As mentioned, some hunters use leftover wood chunks or even horn for their calls. You can also combine different types of wood to create a unique look and sound. Remember, choosing the right wood for your nail turkey call is a personal preference, so have fun with the process and make it your own!
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Sanding and polishing
Sanding the Materials
Before assembling your nail turkey call, it's important to prepare the materials properly. In the case of wood, such as the buffalo horn and black limba in the example provided, sanding is essential to smooth out the surfaces and create a uniform finish. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper, around 80-grit, to remove any rough areas or imperfections. Progress through the grits, ending with a fine sandpaper, such as 400-grit, to achieve an even and smooth surface. This process ensures that your nail turkey call not only looks polished but also feels comfortable in your hand.
Sanding the Wing Bones
When creating a wing bone call, as mentioned in the sources, sanding and cleaning the wing bones is a tedious but crucial step. Use a Dremel tool with a proper bit to carefully clear out the cartilage from the inside of the larger bone, being cautious not to thin out the bone too much. This step not only improves the appearance of the call but also enhances the airflow, which is essential for producing the desired sounds. Follow up with a small saw and the Dremel to fine-tune the fit between the bones.
Polishing the Materials
Once the sanding process is complete, it's time to add the finishing touches with polishing. For wooden components, a polishing paste can be applied to bring out the natural beauty of the wood and enhance its colour and shine. Metal components, such as the horseshoe nail, can also be polished to a shine using metal polishes specifically designed for the type of metal used. This step adds a professional touch to your nail turkey call and protects the materials from the elements.
Final Assembly and Polishing
After sanding and polishing the individual components, it's time to assemble your nail turkey call. Follow the assembly instructions specific to your design, ensuring a tight fit between the parts. Once assembled, give your nail turkey call a final once-over with a light sanding, if needed, to smooth out any glue joints or imperfections that may have occurred during assembly. Finish by applying a coat of clear nail polish to the thread areas, as mentioned in the sources, to secure the threads and add a subtle shine.
By following these sanding and polishing instructions, you will create a nail turkey call that is not only functional but also visually appealing. Remember to take your time and pay attention to the details, as these steps will contribute to the overall quality and durability of your finished product.
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Adding decorations
Decorating your nail turkey call is a fun way to personalise your creation and make it stand out. Here are some ideas and tips to get you started:
Choosing a Design
Begin by deciding on a theme or concept for your decorations. You can go for a natural, rustic look or opt for something more playful and colourful. Consider incorporating turkey-themed elements such as feathers, tracks, or other motifs associated with the bird. Alternatively, you can keep it simple and elegant with minimal decorations.
Painting and Drawing
Use paint or markers to add colour and design to your call. You can choose colours that blend with the natural hues of the materials used, or go for contrasting shades that pop. Try using thin Sharpie pens, as suggested by Ernie Callendrelli, to draw directly onto the wingbone. You can inscribe the year, a description of the hunt, your signature, or any other artwork you desire.
Wood Burning and Carving
If you're feeling adventurous, you can try wood burning or carving techniques to create intricate designs and textures on the wooden parts of your call. Carving can also help improve the functionality of your call by ensuring proper airflow. Be careful not to damage the structural integrity of the wood, and always test on a small area first.
Adding Accessories
Consider using accessories such as leather straps, beads, or other decorative items to enhance the appearance of your call. You can wrap leather or colourful threads around the connecting points to hide glue and add a stylish touch. You can also use UV fly-tying epoxy or superglue to secure the threads and prevent them from unraveling.
Incorporating Found Objects
Look for unique found objects or materials to incorporate into your design. For example, you can use leftover wood chunks, horns, or even horseshoe nails to create a one-of-a-kind call. These objects can add character and a personal touch to your creation.
Remember, there is no right or wrong way to decorate your nail turkey call. Let your creativity flow and enjoy the process of making your call unique to you. Happy crafting!
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Mastering the call
First, choose the type of nail turkey call you want to make. There are various styles and shapes, but the common element is the horseshoe nail, which acts as a striker against a call surface. You can create a box call by using a block of wood and a piece of slate, or you could opt for a more creative design. Consider factors such as maintenance, convenience, storage, and transport when choosing your design.
Once you have decided on the design, gather the necessary materials. For a simple box call, you will need a block of wood, a piece of slate, and a horseshoe nail. If you want to get more creative, you can experiment with different materials for the call surface, such as ceramic, copper, titanium, or crystal (purified glass). Each material will produce a unique pitch, tone, and volume, so choose according to your preferences.
Now, let's assemble your nail turkey call. If you're making a box call, flatten one side of the block of wood and drill a hole in the centre for the nail. Ensure the slate is securely attached to the wood, creating a smooth surface for the nail to strike against. You can decorate your call with carvings, engravings, or paint to make it more personal.
To master the art of calling, start by familiarizing yourself with the sounds made by turkeys. Listen to their cadence and pitch, and focus on mimicking their soft calls. Practice producing soft, subtle whines, whistles, purring, clucking, and yelping. With time and dedication, you'll be able to create beautiful friction calling music that will attract gobblers.
Finally, don't be discouraged if your initial attempts don't sound perfect. Turkey calling is a skill that takes time and patience to develop. Experiment with different striking techniques, angles, and pressures to find the sweet spot that produces the desired sounds. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with each attempt, you'll be one step closer to mastering the nail turkey call.
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Frequently asked questions
Nail turkey calls are used to mimic turkey sounds to lure in toms. They are usually made with a horseshoe nail and a block of wood or a piece of slate.
You will need a horseshoe nail, a block of wood, and a piece of slate. You can also use a chunk of osage, walnut, aluminium, or glass.
First, glue the nail to the block of wood or slate. Then, use a sander to flatten one side of the nail. Finally, drill a hole in the centre of the wood or slate to create the sound chamber.
Hold the nail in your off hand or put it in your pocket while you call in a turkey with a turkey call. Rub the nail against the block of wood or slate to create turkey vocalizations.
Listen to turkeys and mimic their cadence, pitch, and soft calling. Practice producing soft, subtle whines, whistles, purring, clucking, and yelping.
