When you shoot a longbeard, you want to show off its beard. Try this easy at-home project to create a beard display.
A fellow hunter gave me a Schrade Turkey Tracks folding knife as a gift. Because it was ornate and did not lock, it wasn’t safe or practical to use as a utility knife. So, I didn’t know what to do with it for some time. Then I got the idea to incorporate it into a display for my turkey beards. I’ve detailed my process for creating it so you too can display your prized beards. If you want to use this exact knife, you might be able to purchase it on eBay. Otherwise, I’ve provided a link to a beautiful knife from Wild Turkey Handmade that you can use.
Purchase the Essentials
You will need these items regardless of the type of knife you use.
Step 1: Rout the Wood
Center the knife near the center, top of the wood innkeeper’s sign. Trace the outline of the knife’s handle. It should be slightly wider than the handle. Measure the depth of the knife handle and add another 1/8 of an inch. Set the depth of the router’s blade. Carefully remove the portion of the wood inside the outline with the router. We suggest a Skil router for the job. It’s reliable and affordable. Be sure to wear both eye and ear protection.
Step 2: Drill Dowl Holes
Determine the number of wood dowl pins you want for your display. Measure to determine their even placement across the bottom of the display and make a mark for each pin. It’s best to use a drill press to ensure the holes are not crooked. You can do it by hand with a drill if you have a steady hand and keen eyesight. I made the holes of my display 1/4 inch deep. Again, wear your eye protection.
Step 3: Sand the Wood
Lightly sand the wood with a fine grit sanding block to remove any sharp edges, especially around the routed area and peg holes. Sanding also helps prepare the wood for staining.
Step 4: Insert the Pins
Apply a very small amount of Elmer’s wood glue to the inside of a pin hole. Insert a pin and lightly tap with a hammer to set. Wipe away any excess glue. Add the remaining pins.
Step 5: Apply the Stain
Use a small cotton rag (I prefer a cut portion of t-shirt) to apply your chosen Minwax wood stain color. The color pictured is Gunstock. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Allow the stain to dry according to the directions. Apply as many coats of stain as needed to achieve your desired depth of color. I applied three coats to the front and one coat to the back of the wood.
Step 6: Apply the Polyurethane
Use a small foam brush to carefully apply your chosen varnish according to the directions. I applied two coats of Varathane Water-Based Polyurethane (semi-gloss). Be sure to lightly sand the wood with the sanding block between coats and remove the dust with a tack cloth.
Step 7: Attach the Knife
Apply E600 adhesive to the area of routed wood and a bit to the knife handle itself. Be sure to follow the package directions. Also, do not apply too much so it’s squishing out from around the knife. Remove any excess adhesive with a cotton swab. Allow to dry according to product instructions.
Step 8: Attach Picture Hangers
We prefer sawtooth picture hangers that attach with screws. On the back, draw a horizontal, even line 1 inch from the top. Next, measure 2 inches from the top of each side and make a mark. This is where you will attach your hangers. Trace the holes with a pencil. Using a drill with a bit slightly smaller than the screw’s diameter, drill shallow pilot holes to make attaching the screws easier. Be careful not to go too deep.
Step 9: Display the Beards
There are different methods for hanging beards. Search the internet for suggestions. I used leather cord for mine.
Become a Better Turkey Hunter
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