Bill..So glad to see you enjoying call making..and that looks good for your first. Experimenting is a lot of the fun (and frustration) and when it all works there is no better feeling. I've made a few turkey calls but some of the biggest thrills have been in the making of an all one piece horn howler (predator call) and my first duck call tone boards. A lathe has been one of the most satisfying purchases I have ever made (I really enjoy turning trumpets, etc.) and was the point of no return in my addiction and one of those things of which I have no regrets other than not having more time to work on box calls which I have also enjoyed making. I do most of my work on a wood lathe, but have been working hard this summer trying to set aside funds for a new metal lathe (South Bend is a good lathe but motor is tired) which might open an even bigger (bottomless pit) of addiction. Darrel Gibson was someone I talked with about how to make my lathe more precise (tail stock issues etc.) and I know there are other experienced machinists on here with good knowledge.
The main thing is to have fun, don't let it burn you out, and work safely. If you need help or are struggling, don't be afraid to ask. Someone will talk you out of it, (or talk you into it..LOL) or walk you through it. When you get frustrated, don't be afraid to walk away until you've had more time to calmly assess the situation. Some of my most creative works have been the result of a "failure"...one of which I am at the moment pondering...may just have to buy another piece of wood!
