Shaping the Piece for a Necklace
Once the spur sections are cut free, the bone tube running through the center is what makes a necklace possible. That hollow channel, when cleaned out, is wide enough to thread a leather cord or paracord through. Some hunters use a thin drill bit to open the channel slightly and ensure clean passage for the cord. Others use a coat hanger or thin wire to push through any remaining material inside the bone. The result is a natural bead with a sharp, curved spike extending from it. Strung on leather rope, a pair of turkey spurs makes a striking necklace that weighs almost nothing and requires zero synthetic materials. The leather softens over time and the spurs develop a patina, giving the piece a look that improves with age.
Cutting for Width — Getting the Right Profile
One of the most useful adjustments a hunter can make is varying where exactly they cut along the leg. The leg bone of a turkey is not uniform in diameter — it tapers as it descends toward the foot, and the bone is thicker closer to the body of the bird. Cutting higher up produces a wider, more substantial piece of bone surrounding the spur. Cutting lower gives a narrower, more delicate profile. This decision affects how the finished piece looks and how easily the cord threads through. For a necklace where both spurs need to match, taking a moment to plan the cuts on both legs before starting prevents mismatched pieces. For wall mounts or display panels, wider cuts tend to look more impressive and hold fasteners more securely.
Beyond the Necklace — Other Uses for Turkey Spurs
A necklace is the most common use, but it is far from the only option. Turkey spurs can be incorporated into panel mounts alongside the fan and beard, completing the full trophy display in a way that single-piece mounts cannot. Some hunters wire or epoxy the spur sections directly onto a piece of driftwood or cedar, creating a rustic wall piece that takes up almost no space. Others attach them to hat bands, keychain rings, or zipper pulls on hunting packs. Hanging a pair of spurs from a rearview mirror has become a recognizable tradition in turkey-hunting country — a small, durable reminder of a specific morning in the woods that does not fade or break down the way paper or fabric mementos do.
