Call Builder Getting Started

[Gobble Nole]

I ordered a jig from Feather Ridge and have been looking at the different suppliers.  Pioneer seems to be the go to for materials as well as Brookside. 

Could someone please narrow down the types of latex, frames, and tape to try and get started with.  It seems a tad overwhelming as I looked around.  Anyway, I am looking to make calls for myself and my son, I will order some youth materials as well.  I am assuming small frame with adhesive, tape to match, and then an assortment of latex thicknesses. 

I will take any recommendations that you have...

[Upfold99]

Which jig did you get? If you purchased a jig that stamps the frame, you will need a different base plate for the youth frames. The standard base plate that Thad uses is for small crowned frames.

Use the adhesive frames and get multiple types of latex from .0025 - .004.

Thad can get you headed in the right direction.

[GobbleNut]

Which jig did you get? If you purchased a jig that stamps the frame, you will need a different base plate for the youth frames. The standard base plate that Thad uses is for small crowned frames.
Use the adhesive frames and get multiple types of latex from .0025 - .004.

Two recommendations based on my experience: 
Regarding the frame sizes:  start with the "SCA" (small crowned adhesive...from Pioneer) first to see if those will work for both you and your son.  The "MCA" frames are a bit bigger and seem a bit bulky to me,...and your son may not need to use the youth frames. 

Latex choices:  we all like different stuff, but many of us seem to recommend the .004 yellow from Pioneer.  I would also stick with the .0025 to .004 recommendation to start with.  Heavier latex (for me personally) is somewhat harder to work with and get good sounds out of.

[Gobble Nole]

I purchased the less expensive jig that corrects to the same tension each call.  I believe it is machined aluminum black.  I did not order the press as it seems like a big investment right off the bat.  I went into Pioneers website and got some basic materials to get started with.  We will see what happens, I will post pictures of the calls and maybe a sound file if I get something that works well. 

What about the amount of tension to apply to the reeds?  I understand the back tension is a personal choice and varies for everyone. 

[Firemt04]

I purchased the less expensive jig that corrects to the same tension each call.  I believe it is machined aluminum black.  I did not order the press as it seems like a big investment right off the bat.  I went into Pioneers website and got some basic materials to get started with.  We will see what happens, I will post pictures of the calls and maybe a sound file if I get something that works well. 

What about the amount of tension to apply to the reeds?  I understand the back tension is a personal choice and varies for everyone.

I purchased the same jig recently and am also new to making my own mouth calls. The tension is all personal preference. I have "wasted" a lot of material and am still trying to find the tension and reed combo I like. It gets frustrating at times, but is still fun, and I know when I find MY perfect combo it will all be worth it. Good luck.

[SCGobbler]

You can also get in touch with Dead End Game Calls.  They sell frames and latex as well.