Saving turkey spurs is a fantastic way to memorialize your successful hunts, and savewhere.net is here to guide you through the process. By preserving these trophies, you’re not just keeping a part of the bird, but also the memories and stories of the hunt. Learn to manage finances, embrace money-saving ideas and explore different ways to save.
1. Why Should You Save Turkey Spurs?
Saving turkey spurs allows hunters to memorialize successful hunts without needing to mount the entire bird. It’s a compact way to preserve hunting memories.
Turkey spurs are more than just sharp protrusions on a bird’s legs; they’re badges of honor, telling tales of successful hunts, hard-won victories, and the hunter’s skill. Here’s why preserving them is so rewarding:
- A Tangible Connection to the Hunt: Holding a spur brings you right back to that moment, the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of a clean shot.
- Space-Saving Trophy: Unlike full mounts, spurs take up minimal space, perfect for apartments or those who prefer understated décor.
- Unique Display of Skill: A collection of spurs showcases your experience and dedication as a turkey hunter over the years.
- Conversation Starter: These small trophies spark curiosity and allow you to share your hunting stories with friends and family.
- Personalized Keepsake: You can create unique displays using spurs, incorporating them into jewelry, keychains, or shadow boxes, making them truly personal.
- Respect for the Harvest: Preserving the spurs is a way of honoring the animal and the experience, showing respect for the natural world.
- Tradition and Heritage: For many, saving spurs is a tradition passed down through generations, connecting them to their hunting heritage.
2. What Supplies Do You Need to Preserve Turkey Spurs?
To preserve turkey spurs, gather: turkey legs, a freezer, fine-tooth saw, vise or clamp, utility knife, nail, toothpick, borax, leather lace, and a hot glue gun.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown to ensure you’re fully prepared:
- Turkey Legs: These are your starting point, the source of the spurs you’ll be preserving. Handle with care!
- Freezer: Essential for preparing the legs and ensuring a clean cut.
- Fine-Tooth Saw: For making precise cuts above and below the spur.
- Vise or Clamp: To hold the leg securely in place while sawing.
- Utility Knife: For cleaning up any rough edges after sawing.
- Nail or Punch: To remove the shell’s primer from the empty hull (if you’re using one for display).
- Toothpick: Helps to remove bone marrow from the center of the bone.
- Ziplock Bags: For freezing and storing the legs and beard.
- Borax: A key ingredient for drying and preserving the spurs and beard.
- Leather Lace, Twine, or String: For stringing the spurs together for display. Choose the material that matches your desired aesthetic.
- Hot Glue Gun and Glue: For securing the lace and beard in the empty hull (if using).
- Empty Shotgun Shell (Optional): Adds a unique touch to the display, especially if it’s the shell you used during the hunt.
- Dish Soap: For cleaning the beard.
- Towel and Hair Dryer: For drying the beard.
- Gloves: To protect your hands during the process.
- Eye Protection: Safety first when using saws and knives!
- Work Surface: A clean and sturdy area to work on.
Having these items on hand will streamline the process and ensure your turkey spur preservation project is a success. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time with each step.
3. How Do You Prepare Turkey Spurs?
Start by removing the legs at the knee and freezing them for at least 24 hours for cleaner cuts. Use a fine-tooth saw to remove the spur section, about ¼” above and below the spur. Clean the leg section, removing bone marrow with a toothpick, and place in borax for a couple of weeks to dry and preserve.
To elaborate, here’s a detailed breakdown of each step:
- Remove the Legs: Using a sharp knife, carefully detach the turkey legs at the knee joint. Ensure a clean cut to avoid damaging the surrounding tissue.
- Freezing the Legs: Place the legs in a ziplock bag and freeze for at least 24 hours. Freezing helps to firm up the leg, making it easier to cut and reducing the risk of splintering. This step is highly recommended for cleaner, more precise cuts.
- Cutting the Spur Section: After freezing, use a fine-tooth saw to remove the section of the leg that contains the spur. Make your cuts approximately ¼ inch above and below the spur. This will give you enough bone to work with while preserving the natural look of the spur.
- Securing the Leg: Use a vise or clamp to hold the leg securely in place while you are sawing. This will prevent the leg from slipping and ensure a straight, clean cut. Be careful not to over-tighten the vise, as this could damage the spur.
- Cleaning Rough Edges: After sawing, use a utility knife to clean up any rough edges left by the saw. Carefully trim away any excess bone or tissue to create a smooth, clean surface.
- Removing Bone Marrow: Thoroughly clean the leg section under running water, making sure to remove all of the bone marrow from the center of the bone. Use a toothpick or a small brush to help dislodge any stubborn marrow. Removing the marrow is crucial for preventing decay and odor.
- Borax Preservation: Place the cleaned leg section in a ziplock bag filled with borax. Ensure that the entire section is covered in borax. The borax will absorb moisture and help to dry and preserve the spur. Leave the leg section in the borax for a couple of weeks, or until it is completely dry.
By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that your turkey spurs are properly prepared for long-lasting preservation.
3.1. Why is Borax Important?
Borax acts as a desiccant, drawing out moisture and preventing bacterial growth that leads to decay.
3.2. What Are the Alternatives to Borax?
Alternatives include salt, alum, or commercial taxidermy preservatives, though borax is widely accessible and effective.
3.3. How Long Should the Spurs Sit in Borax?
Spurs should sit in borax for approximately two to three weeks to ensure they are completely dried and preserved.
4. How to Prepare the Turkey Beard
To prepare the turkey beard, find its base, pull the skin tight, and remove it with a sharp knife. Wash with dish soap, rinse, and dry with a towel and hairdryer. Place the base in borax for a couple of weeks to dry and preserve.
Here are some extra tips:
- Locate the Base: Carefully find the base of the beard on the turkey. Gently pull to tighten the skin around the beard. Plucking a few feathers around the beard can provide a better view of the base and ensure a cleaner cut.
- Remove the Beard: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the base of the beard to remove it from the turkey. Make sure to cut close to the skin to preserve as much of the beard’s length as possible.
- Washing the Beard: If the beard is dirty, wash it in warm water with dish soap. Gently massage the beard to remove any dirt or debris. Rinse it thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.
- Drying the Beard: Pat the beard dry with a towel to remove excess water. Use a hairdryer on a low setting to finish drying the beard, fluffing it as you go. This will help to restore the beard’s natural appearance.
- Freezing for Later: If you don’t have time to preserve the beard right away, place it in a ziplock bag with the legs and put it in the freezer. Freezing will prevent the beard from decaying until you are ready to preserve it.
- Borax Preservation: Place the base of the beard in borax for a couple of weeks to dry and preserve. Make sure the entire base is covered in borax to ensure thorough drying and preservation.
4.1. Can I Use Salt Instead of Borax for the Beard?
While salt can be used, borax is more effective at preventing bacterial growth and ensuring complete drying.
4.2. How Do I Clean a Particularly Dirty Beard?
For a very dirty beard, consider using a mild detergent and a soft brush to gently scrub away debris before rinsing and drying.
4.3. What If the Beard Starts to Smell?
If the beard develops an odor, reapply fresh borax and ensure it’s completely covered. The smell indicates incomplete drying.
5. How to Prep the Shotgun Shell
Prep the shotgun shell by cutting the plastic portion at the edge of the brass and removing the shell’s primer with a nail and hammer. This adds a personal touch to your display, especially if you use the shell from your successful hunt.
- Cut the Plastic Portion: Using a saw or utility knife, carefully cut the plastic portion of an empty hull at the edge of the brass. This will separate the brass base from the plastic casing.
- Remove the Shell’s Primer: Place the nail or punch on the inside face of the primer. Gently tap with a hammer to push the primer out. Ensure the brass is placed on a surface with a hole to allow the primer to be pushed through. A ¾” wide ring made from the plastic part of the hull can work well for this purpose.
5.1. Is Using the Shotgun Shell Necessary?
No, the shotgun shell is optional but adds a unique, personal touch to the display, connecting it directly to the hunt.
5.2. What if I Don’t Have the Exact Shell?
Any empty shotgun shell can be used, or you can skip this step altogether and focus solely on the spurs and beard.
5.3. How Can I Polish the Brass for a Better Look?
Use a brass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and salt to polish the brass shell for a shiny, more appealing finish.
6. How Do You Assemble the Turkey Spurs Display?
To assemble the display, tie a loop in the leather lace, thread the spurs onto the lace followed by the brass, and secure with hot glue. Insert the beard into the end of the brass and fill with hot glue to hold it in place.
For a more comprehensive understanding, consider the following steps:
- Tie a Loop: Begin by tying a loop in the leather lace. This loop will be used to hang the finished display. The lace can be substituted with twine or string depending on the look you are after.
- Thread the Spurs: Thread the spurs onto the lace, positioning them in the order you prefer. Consider arranging them by size or color for a visually appealing display.
- Add the Brass: After the spurs, thread the brass onto the lace. The brass will serve as a decorative element and a connector between the spurs and the beard.
- Secure with Hot Glue: Once the brass is in place, add a dab of hot glue on the inside of the brass to hold the lace in place. This will prevent the spurs and brass from sliding around on the lace.
- Insert the Beard: Insert the base of the beard into the end of the brass. Ensure that the beard is securely positioned and that the base is fully inserted into the brass.
- Fill with Hot Glue: Fill the remaining space in the brass with hot glue to hold the beard in place. This will create a strong, durable connection between the beard and the rest of the display.
6.1. What Are Some Creative Ways to Display the Spurs?
Creative display options include shadow boxes, keychains, necklaces, or incorporating them into knife handles for a personalized touch.
6.2. Can I Use Epoxy Instead of Hot Glue?
Yes, epoxy provides a stronger, more permanent bond, but hot glue is easier to use and sufficient for most displays.
6.3. How Do I Protect the Display from Damage?
Protect the display by keeping it in a dry environment, away from direct sunlight, and consider applying a sealant for added protection.
7. What Are the Benefits of This DIY Preservation Method?
This DIY method is simple, requires minimal time, keeps display space to a minimum, and provides a personal memento of your hunt.
Here’s an expanded look at the advantages:
- Simplicity: This method is straightforward and easy to follow, even for those with no prior taxidermy experience. The steps are simple and require minimal skill.
- Minimal Time Investment: Unlike professional taxidermy, which can take weeks or months, this DIY method can be completed in a matter of hours, spread out over a couple of weeks for drying time.
- Space-Saving: This method allows you to preserve the memory of your hunt without taking up a lot of space. Spurs and beards are small and easy to store or display.
- Personal Memento: This DIY method allows you to create a personal memento of your hunt. By using the shotgun shell from the hunt and arranging the spurs and beard in a way that is meaningful to you, you can create a unique and lasting reminder of your experience.
- Cost-Effective: This DIY method is much more cost-effective than professional taxidermy. The materials needed are inexpensive and readily available.
- Customization: This DIY method allows for a high degree of customization. You can choose the materials, arrangement, and display method that best suit your personal style and preferences.
- Sense of Accomplishment: Completing this DIY project can give you a sense of accomplishment. You have taken the raw materials from your hunt and transformed them into a beautiful and lasting memento.
- Conversation Starter: A turkey spur display is a great conversation starter. It is a unique and interesting object that is sure to spark curiosity and allow you to share your hunting stories with others.
- Respect for the Harvest: This DIY method is a way of honoring the animal and the experience of the hunt. By preserving the spurs and beard, you are showing respect for the natural world and the tradition of hunting.
8. How Does Freezing Help in the Preservation Process?
Freezing the legs hardens the tissue, making it easier to make clean, precise cuts with less splintering, essential for a neat final product.
Delving deeper into the benefits:
- Hardens the Tissue: Freezing the turkey legs causes the tissue to harden, which makes it easier to cut through with a saw or knife. This is especially helpful when cutting close to the spur, as it reduces the risk of damaging the spur or creating jagged edges.
- Reduces Splintering: When cutting through bone, there is always a risk of splintering. Freezing the legs helps to minimize this risk by making the bone more brittle and less likely to splinter.
- Preserves the Integrity of the Spur: Freezing the legs helps to preserve the integrity of the spur by preventing it from drying out or becoming brittle. This is important for maintaining the spur’s natural shape and color.
- Prevents Decay: Freezing the legs also helps to prevent decay by slowing down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. This is especially important if you are not able to preserve the spurs right away.
- Easier Handling: Frozen legs are easier to handle than fresh legs, as they are less slippery and more rigid. This makes it easier to hold the legs in place while cutting and reduces the risk of injury.
- Cleaner Cuts: Overall, freezing the legs results in cleaner, more precise cuts. This is essential for creating a professional-looking finished product.
- Maintains Color and Texture: Freezing helps maintain the natural color and texture of the spur, preventing discoloration or degradation that can occur over time.
- Reduces Odor: Freezing helps to minimize any unpleasant odors that may be associated with the legs, making the preservation process more pleasant.
8.1. Can I Skip the Freezing Step?
While you can skip freezing, it’s highly recommended for cleaner cuts. If skipped, ensure your tools are extra sharp to minimize tearing.
8.2. How Long Can I Freeze the Legs Before Preserving?
You can freeze the legs indefinitely, but it’s best to preserve them within a few months to maintain their quality.
8.3. Will Freezing Affect the Color of the Spurs?
No, freezing will not significantly affect the color of the spurs. However, avoid freezer burn by wrapping the legs tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
9. What Type of Glue Is Best for Assembly?
Hot glue is recommended for its ease of use and quick drying time, but epoxy can offer a more permanent hold for lasting durability.
Here are some reasons for choosing hot glue:
- Ease of Use: Hot glue is very easy to use. Simply plug in the glue gun, wait for it to heat up, and apply the glue to the desired area.
- Quick Drying Time: Hot glue dries very quickly, which allows you to complete your project in a short amount of time.
- Versatility: Hot glue can be used to bond a variety of materials, including leather, bone, and metal.
- Accessibility: Hot glue guns and glue sticks are readily available at most craft stores and hardware stores.
- Inexpensive: Hot glue is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of glue.
- Removable: Hot glue can be removed relatively easily if necessary. This is helpful if you need to make adjustments to your project or if you want to disassemble it at a later date.
- Safe: Hot glue is generally safe to use, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- No Strong Odor: Hot glue does not have a strong odor, which makes it more pleasant to work with than some other types of glue.
- Good for Small Projects: Hot glue is ideal for small projects like assembling a turkey spur display.
9.1. Is Super Glue a Viable Option?
Super glue can be used, but it dries very quickly and can be difficult to work with. It may also damage the materials.
9.2. How Do I Prevent the Glue from Being Visible?
Apply the glue sparingly and strategically, ensuring it’s hidden within the joints and not exposed on the surface.
9.3. Can I Use Wood Glue?
Wood glue is not recommended as it’s designed for porous materials and won’t bond well with bone or metal.
10. How to Maintain Your Preserved Turkey Spurs
To maintain your preserved turkey spurs, keep them in a dry place away from direct sunlight, and occasionally dust them with a soft cloth.
For a more in-depth understanding:
- Keep in a Dry Place: Moisture can cause the spurs and beard to deteriorate over time. Store your display in a dry place, away from humidity and moisture.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the colors of the spurs and beard, and can also cause the glue to weaken. Keep your display out of direct sunlight.
- Dust Regularly: Dust can accumulate on the spurs and beard, making them look dull and dirty. Dust your display regularly with a soft cloth or brush to keep it looking its best.
- Handle with Care: The spurs and beard are delicate and can be easily damaged. Handle your display with care to avoid breaking or damaging the components.
- Protect from Pests: Pests such as moths and beetles can damage the spurs and beard. Protect your display from pests by storing it in a sealed container or by using pest control products.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage the spurs and beard. Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean your display.
- Inspect Regularly: Inspect your display regularly for signs of damage or deterioration. If you notice any problems, take steps to repair them as soon as possible.
- Consider a Display Case: A display case can protect your spurs from dust, moisture, and pests. It can also make your display look more professional.
- Apply a Sealant: Consider applying a sealant to your spurs and beard to protect them from the elements. This can help to prevent fading, cracking, and other types of damage.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your preserved turkey spurs will last for many years to come.
10.1. Can I Apply a Varnish or Sealant?
Yes, a clear, matte sealant can protect the spurs from moisture and UV damage, but test it on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor them.
10.2. How Often Should I Dust the Display?
Dust the display as needed, typically every few weeks, to prevent buildup and maintain its appearance.
10.3. What Should I Do If I Notice Mold?
If you notice mold, gently clean the affected area with a soft brush and a diluted solution of vinegar and water. Ensure it dries completely afterward.
Preserving turkey spurs is a rewarding way to keep the memories of your successful hunts alive. With these tips from savewhere.net, you’ll be able to create lasting mementos that you can proudly display for years to come.
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FAQ: How to Save Turkey Spurs
1. What is the best way to clean turkey spurs before preserving them?
The best way to clean turkey spurs before preserving them is to use running water and a toothpick to remove any bone marrow or debris. Ensure they are thoroughly cleaned to prevent decay.
2. Can I use regular table salt instead of borax to preserve turkey spurs?
While you can use regular table salt, borax is more effective due to its superior desiccant properties and ability to prevent bacterial growth.
3. How long do turkey spurs need to dry before they are fully preserved?
Turkey spurs need to dry for approximately two to three weeks in borax to ensure they are fully preserved. The drying time may vary depending on the humidity levels.
4. Is it necessary to freeze the turkey legs before removing the spurs?
Freezing the turkey legs is not strictly necessary, but it is highly recommended. Freezing hardens the tissue, making it easier to cut cleanly and reducing the risk of splintering.
5. What type of saw is best for cutting the spurs off the turkey legs?
A fine-tooth saw is best for cutting the spurs off the turkey legs. This type of saw provides a clean, precise cut without damaging the spur.
6. How can I prevent the turkey beard from smelling bad during the preservation process?
To prevent the turkey beard from smelling bad during the preservation process, thoroughly clean it with dish soap and water, dry it completely with a hairdryer, and then place it in borax for several weeks.
7. What is the purpose of using an empty shotgun shell in the turkey spur display?
Using an empty shotgun shell in the turkey spur display adds a unique, personal touch. It connects the display directly to the hunt, especially if it’s the shell used to harvest the turkey.
8. How do I attach the turkey beard to the shotgun shell in the display?
Attach the turkey beard to the shotgun shell by inserting the base of the beard into the end of the shell and filling the space with hot glue to hold it securely in place.
9. What are some creative ways to display preserved turkey spurs?
Creative ways to display preserved turkey spurs include shadow boxes, keychains, necklaces, or incorporating them into knife handles for a personalized touch.
10. How do I protect my preserved turkey spurs from damage over time?
Protect your preserved turkey spurs by keeping them in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Occasionally dust them with a soft cloth and consider applying a sealant for added protection.
