How to Make a Diaphragm Turkey Call

While there are many ways to make a good turkey call, using a diaphragm can be very beneficial on the field. Hunters who often hunt alone may opt to use a diaphragm when calling in their game, because unlike a box call, it allows you to remain undetected by the turkeys. You can take aim and shoot without the movement caused by mounting your gun after calling them in close enough with other calling methods. Follow the steps below to make a diaphragm turkey call.

Things You'll Need

• Diaphragm

Instructions

1. Select your diaphragm. There are many types of diaphragms that vary in tone and number of reeds. While one is no better than the next, your personal preferences may be different from those of other hunters.

2. Hold the diaphragm in front of you. If you have chosen a multireed diaphragm, one of the latex reeds will appear to be shorter. If this reed is visible from the top of the diaphragm, turn it over so that this reed is on the bottom. If you have chosen a single-reed diaphragm, the diaphragm can be placed in your mouth on either side, or in accordance with the direction of the diaphragm’s arch. The open end of the horseshoe should be facing away from you.

3. Place the diaphragm on the roof of your mouth, with the open end facing out. If you have a multireed diaphragm, you should be able to feel the small bump on the horseshoe with your tongue. Become familiar with the process of removing and reinserting the diaphragm into your mouth. In situations of low lighting, or other conditions while hunting, you shouldn’t have to think twice before using or removing the device. It is important for the process to become like second nature.

4. Apply pressure to the diaphragm on the roof of your mouth with your tongue. Gently blow air through the space between the reed and your tongue. Vary the pressure applied by your tongue to the diaphragm until the reed produces sound. Once you can consistently produce noise, you can change the pitch of the tone by changing the pressure you put on the diaphragm with your tongue. The ability to create a change in tone will allow you to make a turkey call with your diaphragm in combination with the air you push through the reed.

5. Practice! Start by saying the word “Pluck” through your diaphragm. It may take a while, so don’t get frustrated if you cannot make a diaphragm turkey call right away. Just keep practicing.

Tips & Warnings

• Store your diaphragm in a cool, dry place. This protects the latex reeds and will increase the life of your diaphragm.

• Diaphragms can be trimmed to fit the size of your mouth, and the aluminum can be bent slightly for comfort.

• Avoid overcalling in the field, especially for novice diaphragm callers, because this could result in a sour note.