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How Do I Shave the Reed on My Goose Call?

The reed -- a small piece made from Mylar -- is the most important component in tuning a goose call. It is held tight against a tone board, the component that has a channel for producing the sound. The angle and degree of pressure determines the quality of sound produced. By placing a razor blade under the reed, you can shave it down with a file while it is still in place. Following this procedure also allows you to test the tone as you shave.

Things You'll Need

Razor blade
Coarse file

Instructions

- 1
  Place the razor blade under the reed. This will separate it slightly from the tone board. It will also allow to you shave from the other side.
- 2
  Shave the tip end. Go back and forth over the reed with the file. While this is time consuming, using a file means that you are less likely to crack or break the reed compared with shaving the tip end with a knife. Keep in mind that the more material removed, the higher the sound and the easier the caller is to use. The less material removed, the deeper the tone will be. Shave the upper third portion of the reed to give it a higher pitched crack. Shave the lower portion of the reed for a lower pitched call.
- 3
  Pull the razor out and blow off any excess material that has accumulated from the shaving process.

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