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Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 25, 2005, 07:45 PM:
The call (or calls) I made them?
Does anybody, that doesn't have one now, want one?
It'd be neat to see some new pictures this year. ![[Smile]](smile.gif)
Krusty 
Posted by LionHo (Member # 233) on November 25, 2005, 11:37 PM:
One of those nice looking double-open-reed jobs that you used to post pics of over on PM? How much do you want for one of those pups?
LionHo
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 26, 2005, 09:54 PM:
LionHo,
Yes, calls of a similar design as the ones posted on PM, but my skills have improved some since then though. ![[Wink]](wink.gif)
I'm not really lookin' to make a sale here.
I tell ya what, pick a wood, and answer a couple questions;
Cherry, dogwood, holly, flame maple, spalted bigleaf maple, spalted birdseye sugar maple, mesquite (Texas), ****** plum, rhododendron, American walnut, English walnut, or zebrawood.
What's your favorite open reed production call, and what's your least favorite?
With the right answers, a call could go out as soon as Monday. ![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
As much as anything I just wondered if, once the "newness" of the doubled reed sound wore off, the calls were still seeing much field use.
Also I finally got an upgrade on my computer, so I should be able to (finally) access my website for a long overdue re-write/overhaul, and there's always room for more pictures.
Krusty
P.S. I guess part of it too, is the sucess my calls have is one of the things I use to keep on keepin' on (and I'm having trouble staying motivated, it's been a very wet, windy, and rainy fall).
Posted by Norm (Member # 240) on November 27, 2005, 08:02 AM:
Krusty,
I'll answer your questions, if you answer mine;
Mesquite wood, in a crit'r call pee-wee;
Now how much of a a donation is required, given you are not looking to make a sale...
Posted by Locohead (Member # 15) on November 27, 2005, 08:46 AM:
What is zebra wood? Sounds cool!
Yeah, what Norm' said. Let me know.
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 27, 2005, 10:32 AM:
Norm,
There is no requirement of a donation, but if you felt like you had to make one, Hunts of a Lifetime is the one I'd put the money in.
Does the Arizona type of mesquite grow around where you live?
I got some of it from Vic once, and it was some of the best looking and sounding wood I ever worked with. I could use some more (and could make you a call from it ).
Okay, now you didn't say which is your least favorite?
Locohead,
Zebrawood is an african wood. It has a yellowish heartwood, with contrasting dark bands of grain, that gives it a zebralike striping.
The wood is very expensive, but I got some scraps from a gunstock maker (for free).
Here's a few pictures of zebrawood calls;
I have another call similar to the third one pictured, nearly complete, say the word and it's yours.
Anyone with four critters, and a fifth on the way, well his money is no good here. Heck maybe YOU should be the recipient of the donations?
Krusty
Posted by Norm (Member # 240) on November 27, 2005, 11:01 AM:
What type of dimensions do you need on the mesquite wood?? do you want it green or from bulldozer piles?
Posted by LionHo (Member # 233) on November 27, 2005, 11:13 AM:
CritR Call Pee Wee is the commerical call that I like best too; I've called MANY a bobcat, grey fox, and coyote with... even a golden eagle or three. Pretty sure it has to do with the pitchiness, which probably has a lot to do with the density of the green plastic.
It outlasted a whole slew of closed-reed jobs, about which I could more easily fault-find. But come to think of it, I haven't used ANY other brand of open-reed call. Don't have the same affection for the Major's Magnum (though I recorded some good fawn and doe bleats from it, before I broke it experimenting with my own reeds). Do find I like the size and ergonomics of the CritR Call Standard better than the Pee-Wee but the sound is just not quite as pitchy at the top end.
So I suppose I'm not fussy about wood for the cosmetics, and don't much care about it except to ask which is the hardest wood that rings the best? (Highest pitched call you make!)
How about I'll send you a sonagram of the frequencies I can coax out of your call, and an archival-quality portrait of the next bobcat I call close with it--fair 'nuff trade, Krusty?
LionHo
[ November 27, 2005, 11:16 AM: Message edited by: LionHo ]
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 28, 2005, 07:09 PM:
Norm,
You know, I dunno which Vic sent me?
I guess some "down and dry" is the best way to go, as long as it's not really cracked, but I dunno how fast the bugs and rot get to it there?
Vic sent me a piece about the size of my forearm (with the bark on it), and there was a fair amount of calls in it.
LionHo,
I've got a pretty good idea what your looking for in a call, and I have a piece of "indigenous" plum that will be perfect for it.
You know what might make a better trade though?
If you can burn a CD, I could sure use one with some calling sounds (for 'cats).
And you are "the man" with the sounds after all.
Not that I wouldn't appreciate a good picture to add to my collection. I'd just never want to put the pressure of our deal onto your "gettin er done" out there in the field.
Krusty
[ November 28, 2005, 07:22 PM: Message edited by: Krustyklimber ]
Posted by LionHo (Member # 233) on November 28, 2005, 09:07 PM:
Sounds like a winner of a deal to me.
Say, did Leonard ever set anything up so that we find each other here on HM without posting our email address hanging out all buck nekkid so that we don't suddenly get blasted with yet another 50 spam messages a day, starting now?
Oh well, I've got 4 different mailboxes with a couple of them being "sacrificial".
So, Krusty, if you would, email me at Pupfish@starband.net and we can swap snailmail addresses and vital statistics and get this deal going.
LionHo
Posted by Andy L (Member # 642) on November 28, 2005, 09:30 PM:
Krusty,
I would be interested in a call. I have never had a handmade call of any type, other than mass produced stuff....
Im not picky. Pick me one out, let me know how much and lets do it.
That is if the offer is good.....
Andy
Posted by Leonard (Member # 2) on November 28, 2005, 09:49 PM:
LionHo, I assure you, any use of your email address is voluntary, on your part and at your risk. I (HM) don't use it for any purpose, whatsoever. Some message boards don't allow email displays due to their own insecurity issues. Here, I'm sure you are aware that if you don't want it known, it's your option. That's the extent of our "in house" buck nekked technical set up. Slick, eh?
K, you should charge decent money, once you field test each hand crafted, custom made, one of a kind, game call.
Good hunting. LB
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 28, 2005, 11:26 PM:
LionHo,
Will do.
Andy,
I can see never having the need for a custom predator call, but I can see never needing a beautiful rifle too.
The desire to own a beautiful rifle, or a call, often gets ahold of me (personally) though.
Do you mind if I ask what would make you change your mind now? You've been calling a long time haven't you?
Not picky I can deal with, vague is a little harder... favorite and least favorite calls? Pick a wood?
It helps me figure out what to build.
Leonard,
I should, but I don't.
Just how much is "decent money"?
What would the parameters be, for a proper field test? ![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
Krusty
Posted by LionHo (Member # 233) on November 29, 2005, 08:36 AM:
Sorry Leonard, didn't mean that to sound like any kind of slur, as it must've. I want you to know that I implicitly trust that you wouldn't do anything untoward with my email.
What I was babbling aloud about was my paranoid belief that ANY valid email addy that appears intact on a webpage anywhere these days, is likely to soon get plucked by one of the many bots or spiders that scan the web for such things.
But then, I'd forgotten (because my browser logs me on automatically), and just now remembered, that you set this board up to require a P/W to access the threads and not just reply to them, din'cha?
Well, then, seems I've answered my own question. Profuse apologies all around.
LionHo
Posted by Leonard (Member # 2) on November 29, 2005, 10:25 AM:
decent? If you looked at what a Brass Rhino costs, or maybe a slydog or a Predatr and tried to wedge into a comfortable slot, based on tonal quality, cost of materials and workmanship.
As far as a field test. I have in my posession a Krusty call that was passed around at the campout. (not mine) The only person able to make it work (a little) was Gerald Stewart. I think it has something to do with the geometry of the mouthpiece? Too much curve, perhaps?
A little more testing before sending it off would have been helpful. Helpful, in a friendly way, as I'm attempting to do, here.
LH, anybody can access these pages, you only need an email address to receive your personal password for posting messages on the board as a unique individual. Thereafter, you can log on with your password from anywhere in the world. Many people and machines look at everything on HM, every day without registering and posting privilages. And, no I didn't take offense at your comments, I'm only interested in accuracy.
Good hunting. LB
Posted by Andy L (Member # 642) on November 29, 2005, 10:56 AM:
Krusty,
Yeah, I have been calling for quite a while. I hesitate to say a long time because some of these guys have been calling longer than I have been alive. But, longer than most folks.
Im the first to admit Im no Cal Taylor, Quinton Waggoner or Blaine Eddy. Never have been and never will be. Im a weekend warrior. Not even that anymore. Too much work to do. Dont hunt a percentage what I used to. Not for the lack of longing though.... Just necessity and desire to not have to do it the rest of my life. I have been hunting every day for the last few months, but only a couple hours one morning was for furry creatures. The rest has been for outlaws. Pretty pitiful, I shouldnt even consider myself a coyote hunter anymore, but these boards at least I can log on from my office or laptop from time to time and keep up a bit.
As for the call, I have never had a custom call or custom rifle. I have had a couple rifles built, but they werent for pretty. They are workhorses. Very good at what they are made for, but not pretty in the least. Same with calls. I have some good calls. Just nothing pretty. Just workhorses.
Let me think about it a bit. Hell, I probably wont get to use one much anyway.
Thanks for the reply.
Andy
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 29, 2005, 12:51 PM:
Leonard,
Basing my pricing on the work of someone else, who doesn't use methods of manufacture similar to mine, proved very difficult.
Basing it on "quality" is tough too, especially when we can't agree on the level of quality (of my work or theirs).
And, because I am frugal, and never bought a single piece of wood, basing it on material costs alone wouldn't be fair either.
I'd be very interested to see the call you mention.
It's too bad that the owner didn't take advantage of the warranty the call came with;
ALL CALLS ARE UNDER CONDITIONAL WARRANTY...
IF YOU HAVE ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE SOUND, LET ME KNOW
I WILL BE GLAD TO HANDLE YOUR CONCERNS,
AND WILL REPAIR OR REPLACE YOUR CALL,
I PROMISE
(*The only condition to the warranty is that "you did not break the finish of the call, in an attempt to modify it")
This has even included a 200% buy-back, in the past, I'll gladly refund the cost of the call and shipping, or whatever it takes to make it right..
Somehow I think that person decided instead to get their money's worth by raking me over the coals in "public", I hope you all had a good time.
Either way, the warranty STILL stands.
You say it was not your call, do you have the same issues with it? Does it "work"?
Does the fact that it was FREE affect your opinion at all?
Part of the problem a call maker faces, and I've seen Mr. Cronk mention it too, is that we often have gained the ability to get a bad call to make a pretty good sound.
I can easily "work around" a problem with a call (often without even noticing it), and that may be the case with "the mystery call".
I probably believed I had tested the call thoroughly, when I shipped it.
I have built a couple hundred calls, and this is only the second one I have ever heard the owner was less than happy with.
I certainly wasn't trying to rip anyone off. ![[Roll Eyes]](rolleyes.gif)
Andy,
That's too bad you feel "less than" these other PEOPLE.
I don't!
Q has killed thousands of coyotes, he's still an ass.
I haven't killed any, and I am still an ass.
Pesonally I am glad I'm me (most days).
Contrary to what you might believe from Leonard's post, I built my calls first and foremost to BE workhorses. If they held any beauty that was a by-product of the wood's own beauty, not my skills or intent.
Yeah , think it over, if you decide that you want a call to use, you just let me know.
Offer stands.
Krusty
Posted by Leonard (Member # 2) on November 29, 2005, 01:51 PM:
K, I don't think anybody "raked you over the coals" or was mean spirited in opinion or evaluation, or spent a great deal of time on it. Nobody's perfect, ya know? I'm glad you warned against me attempting a solution, because I'm fairly sure of what it needs to be a lot more user friendly. In fact, that's why I accepted the assignment.
If you can't price by the amount of work invested, or cost of materials, or sound quality, just pick a number and see if it $ells . I can promise you this; the most most important job of any CEO in the business world is to price his product correctly.
Good hunting. LB
PS, by the way, that Zebra Wood call is very nicely done.
[ November 29, 2005, 01:52 PM: Message edited by: Leonard ]
Posted by timbertoes (Member # 604) on November 29, 2005, 01:51 PM:
funny how some people can use a call immmediatly, and others cant. and how some calls just flat out are hard to use.
My particular double reed K. Krier (non-round call) is no problem to use. I can get 3 sounds from it.
One day, as a calling partner and I were driving to a spot, he discovered a new open reed call I made. (and pilfered it too) He could not play it worth a darn. I grab it from him and play the heck out of it. distress, squeaks, barks, howls, the whole bit. Of course I gave him heck for not being able to play my "worlds most easy to use call" LOL.
Even some of the store bought calls, where I have seen posts about folks having problems with them, I find no problem using them. Sure it may take a few minutes or 10, to discover a calls range but thats to be expected.
Krusty, I am sorry, I keep yours on the shelf mostly. It is the one call I have that I simply cannot bear to have something happen to it! I have broken the toneboard on my #2 collectible call from willketchum, lost my (best) TTebbe Howler and lost several others less signifcant (my making) in the past.
But, you know I will just have to be careful and take it out this coming weekend, and I will try my best to get a critter photo as a result.
Posted by timbertoes (Member # 604) on November 29, 2005, 01:57 PM:
HEY KRUSTY. You strike again...
My call-stealing buddy just called, made his first turned open reed call on a new to him, used lathe, and he was playing the call over the phone.
He was using his K Krier reed material. the boy done good, and made a nice sounding call, esp for dem ol bobcats.
Posted by Leonard (Member # 2) on November 29, 2005, 02:00 PM:
I hear ya, TT. One thing that has always mystified me is the number of people that can't use a diaphragm call. On the other hand, judging by the vast experience of those in attendance, in using this particular call, there seems to be a little problem. In my opinion, it requires way too much effort to get it working, leaves me breathless, in short order. Another thing I can agree with, the execution is excellent, Krusty makes a nice looking call.
Good hunting. LB
Posted by timbertoes (Member # 604) on November 29, 2005, 02:20 PM:
LOL, I cant figure those things out!! but i do have a "appliance" for upper chompers. maybe thats what makes them hard for me to use. hmmm. maybe I should get a call reed molded in, next time I get some new ones. ![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
Since I am a relativly inexperienced caller, I have to rely on the sounds of store bought calls as a guide. and on the help of some local hunters who have been calling a good long time.
Lately I have learned to use open reed calls a "little differently" with regards to bite pressure/upper lip pressure, and have gotten good results. for my call making, I am using as many different "methods" of blowing/biting etc, as I can think of.
BTW, Krusty, I think your calls would be priced in the range of $35 to $50, perhaps higher. cant say I am really qualified to make the judgement
Posted by Alaskan Yoter (Member # 169) on November 29, 2005, 02:23 PM:
Does anybody, that doesn't have one now, want one?
Uhmmm. Okay!!!
I have always dreamed of owning anoth....opps, I mean a Krusty Krier. The ones I have.....seen are super, easy to use and sound good.
Posted by timbertoes (Member # 604) on November 29, 2005, 02:24 PM:
Yes, I have made a few calls that took much to air to make them work. darn thing about them, the overall "build" did not seem so different than the ones that did uhm, "seem" to work !!
Both K.K. and I use the same air channel size....since he was the one who taught me to how
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 29, 2005, 03:44 PM:
Leonard,
While I may not have been "raked over the coals", with the panel of judges you had assembled, I somehow doubt the call got an OBJECTIVE review.
I never really expected it to be a mean spirited thing, more likely you all got a good laugh, AND a few jabs, which we all do at my expense from time to time.
I guess it's the way you "dropped it on me" like that, and I took it the wrong way.
Because I wasn't there, I can ONLY imagine how that went.
I don't mind you makng an attempt to "fix" the call, and it doesn't necessarily mean the warranty has to be be void.
I just think I should have been made aware that there was a problem, been given a chance to remedy the problem myself, and not have to answer it in the open forums, this way.
If the call is an early model, I would rather trade them for a brand new call, because it has many more things that have been improved upon, than just the toneboard.
That's part of why I asked if the calls ARE being used, I'd like to make sure everyone is happy.
I don't wanna be CEO, I don't wanna be a salesman, and partially because of calls like this mystery call, I don't even wanna take money (I might just have to refund) for calls anymore either.
You wanna be any of these, or the R&D department, be my guest.
Making calls is enjoyable, for me, being in the business of selling calls is not.
TT,
No need to apologize, on the one hand I understand.
That you keep it safe because it IS what it is, as opposed to because it looks like it looks, is fully acceptable. (*and a huge compliment)
I have only lost one call, so far, a small non-typical antler tip call with a rodent squeaker in it. I lost it three different times too, before it took.
I am glad the reed material helped your friend, that's one of the other things I like being able to share.
Leonard,
You guys are posting while I try to reply...
I cannot even close my mouth with a diaphram call in it (high gag response).
This "mystery call" baffles me even more now?
"Too much effort to get it working, leaves you breathless", these are not characteristics I'd ordinarily attach to my calls?
Is the air channel squared in the bottom? Does the reed band have a "keeper groove"? Is the wood a buttery off white, maybe with some dark colors mixed through?
There are several solutions to these "drivabilty issues", before removal of material is necessary.
AKY,
You already got a pile of em, do you use any of them?
TT,
I am sure I didn't teach you how, I might have helped you understand the "langauge" of call making, but you had it more figure out than lots of others I have helped.
You and I both brought an understanding of fluid dynamics, from our previous dealings with racing engines, that gave us a big headstart.
Krusty
Posted by Leonard (Member # 2) on November 29, 2005, 04:12 PM:
You got a fair trial from a stellar crowd of experts as you will ever hope to see, if been there and done that, means anything? I don't think they all knew who made the call? You are a little too paranoid these days. Just be glad Lance wasn't there.
Good hunting. LB
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 29, 2005, 07:29 PM:
"You got a fair trial from a stellar crowd of experts as you will ever hope to see".
I guess I can't ask for any better than that.
But is it actually paranoid, for me to believe I'd be the brunt of a few jokes or jabs, at the campout? Why not about my calls?
I probably just picked the wrong time, and subject, where I was being made fun of, eh?
It's too bad (if) they weren't able to test some of my other work.
Either way, objectively or with predjudice, I'd rather be judged on my best work not my worst.
I am left really wondering about this call, which one it is, of what style/generation, lexan mylar or polyvinyl reed, whether it's still in the same condition as when it left here, has the sound reed been damaged (possibly from the dimple in the top reed), who it was made for, how much did they pay for it?
Talk about makin' a guy feel paranoid.
If you want to fix it, go for it. Do you need any reed materials?
If it does or doesn't fix, I'll step up now and offer to replace the thing.
I have warrantied a call chewed up by a dog, and one lost in the woods, why not one that didn't work right in the first place?
At least with Lance, I know he hates me, there's no guessing on my part.
Most of the rest of you... I dunno, from day to day, where I stand.
Krusty
Posted by timbertoes (Member # 604) on November 29, 2005, 07:40 PM:
just wanted to say that my willketchum call broke, cause my truck has a small glovebox, and I am 99.999763% sure I broke it myself....
I sure understand about early designs and trials.
Up until about 4 weeks ago, I had no good places to call, to test my calls. and surprise, the ones I sent out for testing or sold, I rarely get any feedback.
tonight I was on the phone with a new customer, with a completed "#2" toneboard in it, and you know as I played the call for him, I just up and said "let me make another one". LOL.
Because I had been field testing, succesfully with my "#1" toneboard ( you have one Krusty), and I just knew I owed the new customer the best I thought I had.
Interestingly, the "#2" toneboard makes for a pretty decent Howler and Barker. If i knew what I had made at the time, I should just called it a howler. But hey, thats me, "Mr. Learning all the time." I like to Bark and Howl, but I dont know how to do it in a manner that gets the coyote coming in. time will tell. Every stand that does not produce, I end it with Barks and Howls, to see what happens.
I recall thinking that RASP was the key. I dont particularly think that anymore!! the #2 toneboard has so much rasp capability, some people told me it did Buck grunts. HMMMMM.
Well being a newbie at call making should give you old hands a good laugh, and heck I like that too.
all I can say is, calling wild animals is very very "cool".
Posted by scruffy (Member # 725) on November 30, 2005, 06:30 AM:
Krusty, I don't have any of your calls, but I do have a pack of reed material you sent me. This fall has been crazy and I haven't used it yet, the stump I had big plans for was a bust. However, the low temps are dropping in the teens tonight through the rest of the week so I'll be in the basement keeping the wood burner well fed and will cut a chunk off a piece of firewood (walnut, oak, hedge, locust) and try making a call or two. I don't have a lathe so I'll be using the dremel. Initially I plan to model/dimention the tone board similar to the "2b1" tone boards of which I have one to measure and go from there. My antler call I made was dementioned after the tallyho and came out really nice, so I'll continue with modelling after an established call until I know what I'm doing.
When I get the new wood call done I'll post some pics. The smell of oak dust has to be better than antler dust!!! I plan to make it a "working call", nothing fancy, oil finish in and out, likely a matte appearance. Once the first one is done who knows where it will go from there.
edit, actually, I have a few closed reed calls I don't use, maybe I'll make a closed reed call first to complement my open reed antler call. Hmmmm. The wheels in my head are turning, LOL....
later,
scruffy
[ November 30, 2005, 06:45 AM: Message edited by: scruffy ]
Posted by Andy L (Member # 642) on November 30, 2005, 07:54 AM:
Krusty,
I wasnt implying that your calls arent workhorses... I know that guns and calls can be pretty and functional at the same time. Two of the rifles I had built and still use are not pretty though. I built a 223AI that started life as a Rem 700ADL in 222. After using that action, screwing on a sporter weight 223AI bbl, a synthetic stock and box off a 700 BDL, truing, pillar bedding and a good trigger job, I got a semi-custom workhorse that is probably the best coyote calling gun I have ever or will ever have. Since all the parts were left over used stuff, even the bbl, its not pretty or what most folks want, but it is a shooter for a sporter weight, light, fast handling and kills coyotes wonderfully with minimal pelt damage, loaded with 52gr Amax and some H335, for a 22 cal anyway. I played with the 17Rem and now have a 204 Ruger too, both fine rounds, but Im not sure theres anything better than that 223AI from my experience with many calibers. Thats my opinion, not one formed by anyone.
I also wanted a deer rifle, just for whitetail deer. I bought a 25-06, matte finshed, sporter weight, synthetic stock, Rem 700ADL on sale for just over $300 new. Took it to the smith, had it Ackly Improved, trued the action (yeah, it was off out of the factory), did a trigger job, pillar bedded it and its one of the finest, light, easy handling deer rifles I could think of. Again nothing fancy. But its damn sure a fine deer rifle.
Same with my calls. I used a WR Predation. I know there are alot of nicer calls with better features, but for a MP3 call, its been reliable, clear sounding (after I got rid of their sounds and got my own), plenty of volume and does a fantastic job for a weekender like me and not over priced. I got some decent mouth calls, such as a Red Desert Howler, a Weems Replica, that handy little JS plastic call with the button you bite on and a few others. Nothing custom, but all good producers.
Now maybe you know more of what I was meaning. Sorry for the long post, but I havent had time to post anything for quite a while and guess I jumped on the chance. LOL.
I would like a good single open reed thats fairly easy to use. Easy to move up and down the reed to change pitches. Maybe be able to do some barks as well as distress. As for the wood, I honestly dont know enough about wood to make an intelligent decision.
Use your imagination, Im actually, contrary to popular belief, very easy to get along with. Shoot me an idea and a price and Ill say yea or nay. Cant get much simpler than that.
Thanks
Andy
Posted by TRnCO (Member # 690) on November 30, 2005, 05:04 PM:
Hmmmm, for what ever reason, I still don't have a KK call in my collection. So, KK, if you'd be up for it, I'd trade ya.
I haven't gotten a lot of feed back on my calls either. I guess I figure it as a "No news is good news" kind of thing!
Posted by TheHuntedOne (Member # 623) on November 30, 2005, 07:55 PM:
I'll give you some feed back
That little horn call is the darndest thing. It looks just perfect and the sound is really loud for a small call. I am going to put it to the test here in a week or so when the deer hunters go home.
Honestly it is the neatest little call. I have no idea how you do what you do with that horn, but it sure works.
Thanks again
Al
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on November 30, 2005, 10:23 PM:
Scruffy,
The smell of antler being worked makes me wanna puke.
Some woods aren't much better either, some are.
But even the hardest of hardwoods is a piece of cake to work, compared to antler.
Andy,
My apologies, I didn't mean to say you thought anything of my work.
You haven't seen or tested it firsthand (to my knowledge), so even if you had implied that, it would have carried no weight with me.
At the time I posted that, I thought Leonard had made that implication.
Dude, you took a perfectly good Duece and made some kinda... hopped-up 2-freakin'-23... dang!?! (tongue in cheek)
Hey, what'd you do with the take-off barrel?
I don't understand why your rifles, which sound well built, and fully functional, wouldn't be beautiful?
I see (poetic, philisophical, and astetic) beauty in that "ultimate functionality".
After all beauty is, as beauty does.
You never need apologize to me, for a long post, I have written some of the "windiest and wordiest of novellas" myself.
Sometimes that's what it takes, to get your point across.
Sounds like what you'd like, is what I used to call an "Ultra-Mag Howler". That's what the first picture of the zebrawood calls is.
If you'd like a larger, or smaller, or just different call, lemme know... that IS why they call them custom calls, and I get a lot of enjoyment/pride from making exactly what you pictured.
Apperantly I am not up on "popular belief", and I tend to like everybody anyways (unless they REALLY don't want me to).
I'll dig around in my wood boxes, and see which piece wants to go to your house, then I'll try to find the call hiding inside.
TR,
Yeah, I'm not sure the exact reason why either, but everytime we try to set up a deal, it falls through.
Like Al, from the first time I saw one, your lil cow tip calls have totally captivated me.
I am not going to let the chance slip by, this time.
Dealio... you're on the list!
I don't want to get too far out ahead of myself, this is quite a few orders for me.
I'll get in touch with you, by e-mail, for the rest of the negotiations.
Al,
Nice to see you, sir.
Krusty
P.S. I don't want anybody to send me anything, until they recieve their call, the scheduling for "the big change" in my life has been bumped up a month or more sooner.
If I should "drop of the radar" for awhile, I don't want to be left owing anybody, for anything.
[ November 30, 2005, 10:26 PM: Message edited by: Krustyklimber ]
Posted by Andy L (Member # 642) on December 01, 2005, 04:07 AM:
Thanks Krusty....
They arent hideous rifles. Just not pretty. Synthetic, matte, scratches, wear marks on the little gun, stuff like that. Not exotic wood and stainless. Not heavy bbl, which everyone seems to think is the only ones that will shoot. Which btw, may be true for bench guns, but suck in the field, IMHO.
Anyway, that call sounds fine. Im gonna be gone a few days and may or may not be checkin in. At least I think Im gonna be gone. I never know from one minute to the next it seems. Supposed to be going to Boise ID after a guy. If you wanna shoot me a price, plaughlin001@charter.net will get me personally. I should be able to get laptop service from time to time at the least.
Thanks again.
Andy
PS, I imagine that 222 bbl is still at the gunsmiths. But, I doubt you want it. I got it on a bond and took it up and after close inspection, he said it was "alligatored". The stock was junk. But the action was good and I only allowed the guy $150 on the thing and it had a good, old, Leupold 6x on top. He had a used 223bbl that he said was a shooter, had some wear marks, but a shooter. He also had the BDL stock and box out of another one he tore down for a pretty rifle. So, I had him ream out the 223 bbl to AI, use my action, use the stock he had laying there and the box to make it BDL and put it together.
Not exactly the way most "custom" rifles come together or look. But its damn sure a fine shooter.
[ December 01, 2005, 04:59 AM: Message edited by: Andy L ]
Posted by TRnCO (Member # 690) on December 01, 2005, 04:51 PM:
Ahhhh geeee Al, blush blush!! That little call you got was nothin' to make!
KK, let me know what you'd like to have, open reed, enclosed reed, la-de-dah.....give me an idea anyways!
Posted by TheHuntedOne (Member # 623) on December 01, 2005, 07:29 PM:
That'll cost you 20 busks and a 6 pack
I may be easy but I aint cheap.
Al
Posted by TRnCO (Member # 690) on December 03, 2005, 05:31 AM:
chex in the mail!
Posted by NASA (Member # 177) on December 03, 2005, 04:55 PM:
I have at least one call made by the guys in this thread. Every one of them looks and works perfectly. Except one. A very old one. I even took it over to TR's to see if he could get it to work. Changed out reeds and nothing seemed to work. But I won't toss this call for anything. It's just too beautiful to look at. It's one of Krusty's very early models. I sent him a check for $30 for it and never took him up on his "refund" when it didn't work as advertised. That's because I felt it's artistic value wasn't diminished at all. It is simply doomed to a life on the shelf instead of hanging on my lanyard. That's my Krusty Krier story.
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on December 03, 2005, 06:17 PM:
NASA,
Your choice... $30 or a new call?
My records show you purchased three calls, seperately, for $20 each, and that you were pretty well satisfied with each of them.
(*I could be mistaken, but why bother quibbling over $10... $30 it is)
Look inside the bell, (some of) my early calls had a number pencilled in, then sealed over.
If I am not mistaken one of them should be D7 and another D10 (the seventh and tenth distress calls I ever made).
If there is a problem with one of them, I'd bet it is a "decreasing radius" on the toneboard.
In other words it starts out pretty flat at the backstop, curving slowly down towards the tip, getting "tighter" as it goes, not staying a constant arc.
Anyone who bought one of my early calls (one with a tapered bell (inside), not a "one stepped chamber") can send me a copy of the cancelled check or the money order reciept along with a phot/description of the call, and I'll refund your money.
If you send back the call, I'll send you a "new generation" one, of your choosing.
Krusty
P.S. NASA, Since you value the non-functional call as folk art you can keep it, you're entitled to a refund or replacement either way.
Posted by NASA (Member # 177) on December 03, 2005, 06:59 PM:
Krusty, I'm not the meticulous record keeper you are, after all it was at least 4-5 years ago. I WAG's the price, only remembering ballpark at best. That piece of wood is an artwork, to me. I won't give it up for anything. I don't want any money back either. Afterall, I've had it for 5 years, lol.
I have one with simply a "K" inside the barrel. It has begun to loose the high end notes. Undoubtly, I've worn out the reed. The problem call is marked with "KK1" inside the barrel. If I had another, it must have gotten lost in the field over the years. I take a fanny pac with about 10 calls, then pick the best 3 for the stand to wear around my neck. In a days calling, I may go through all 10, depending on the area.
This wasn't a criticism Jeff, just a response to your question in the begining of the thread.
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on December 03, 2005, 09:54 PM:
NASA,
I only kept really good records at the beginning.
The call marked KK1 would be the second distress call I ever made (I still have the first one).
To the best of my recollection/records, I started making calls around May of 2003, so you have had them awhile.
The call with the "dead" reeds can be handled one of a few ways.
You can send me the call, I'll re-install a set of reeds on it (make any other improvements it/I cannot live without), and send it back. Turn-around time on something like this is usually around 7-10 days (or faster).
I could send you reed materials, and talk you through the process yourself.
Or like I said before, I'd most rather just replace the call because there's too many design featues (on the early calls) which have been greatly improved or added (and you can set it on the shelf with your other artwork).
Sorry to hear you lost one, but stuff happens, eh? None of the three had provisions for a lanyard, so it did make them easier to loose. ![[Frown]](frown.gif)
I never thought you were being critical, in a negative way, and I do appreciate the feedback (no matter how many years down the road).
Say the word, and I'd be glad to warranty all three of em.
Krusty
Posted by NASA (Member # 177) on December 04, 2005, 12:12 AM:
Quote, "I haven't gotten a lot of feed back on my calls either." TR, you know how I feel about your calls.
Krusty, I think I still have your number. I'll call you.
[ December 04, 2005, 12:14 AM: Message edited by: NASA ]
Posted by Locohead (Member # 15) on December 05, 2005, 07:10 AM:
hey krusty,
May I still???? I'd feel honorified. I've been out of town for a week So I just now read your offer. Please me your email or phone number. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on December 05, 2005, 07:50 PM:
Locohead,
Yes you may.
For the longest time I tried to give you a call, I'd be just as honorfied.
In fact, as each of the critters get's their huntin' license (or gets of huntin' age if'n that's all they needs), I'll make thems what wants one, a call too.
As soon as you asked about zebrawood, the lil call I have started said it wanted to live at your house.
I'll let you know when I need your shipping address.
TR,
I haven't forgotten you, I just have been racking my brain trying to pick which of your calls I want. There's so many good choices, and reasons why each choice would be an asset to my bag of calls.
You got any idea what you want? 
Krusty
Posted by TRnCO (Member # 690) on December 05, 2005, 08:34 PM:
An open reed call made from wood with a KK and date marked on it somewhere would be just fine!! I like a sound something like Tally Ho or Thumper, not necassarily great for coyote sounds, more for distress sounds, like a jack in distress!! I'm easy!
NASA, I know you've got a soft spot for my calls, or ya just need to learn to say "enough already"
[ December 05, 2005, 08:36 PM: Message edited by: TRnCO ]
Posted by Andy L (Member # 642) on December 05, 2005, 08:53 PM:
Krusty,
The one in the pic looks great to me. Just make one up when you got time and please put your name, intials or whatever you do on it, in case I want to get more custom calls, and let me know.
Lookin forward to it and thanks in advance.
Andy
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on December 17, 2005, 11:30 PM:
Well I have been workin' on calls when I can, I've got a lot of iron in the fire right now though.
LionHo,
Your call is well under way, since you were first to inquire, I doubt I'll beat Santa to your house but I do hope to beat the New Year.
Ya know it figures, since you guys mentioned the Pee wee I have not been able to find one anywhere (it's been a long time since I test drove one).
Locohead,
I have your call pretty much done, a bit of tuning on the reed and toneboard (Leonard's comment about "properly field testing" them has me a bit on edge, and I am probably being hyper-critical now), and the finish.
Both of the calls I pictured in this thread have a hand rubbed teak oil finish, without a "protective" topcoat.
These, like a rifle, will require a wipe down with oil once a year or so.
Or if you'd like I can go over it with a coat of polyurethane.
It's your call, so, you make the call.
I'll need your shipping info. krustykriers@yahoo.com
TR,
I have a call here that you might like, someday I'll have to keep a nice call for myself (and had planned to with this one), but I can always make myself another one (I always say that, but never do ).
It's a call I posted before;
It's a spalted rhododendron wood call, with a hand rubbed teak oil finish, and a double stacked Lexan reedset.
If you want it, let me know, I'll see if I can't put some form of chicken scratch on it, to show I made it for you.
Norm,
Have you found any mesquite? I do have a piece of Texas mequite, but I liked the stuff I got from Arizona more.
Leonard,
I guess you aren't going to tell me what this "mystery call" is?
I've been racking my brain, trying to figure just which call or calls I didn't thoroughly test, or wasn't fully satisfied with the results of.
There's a few, and maybe product recall is in order? Cal, Keekee, Vic, and one local guy, all have a call I wasn't fully thrilled with when it left here. I'd gladly pay for shipping, both ways, for an opportunity to make it right.
I probably should make an apology too. I didn't really even know who was at this campout (or around at that particular moment), when I made my comment.
I usually have the facts in hand, when I go off.
I was also mistaken on who "Tom" was, and once I figured out it wasn't NASA it narrowed down the list of calls it could be (by three).
Who is Tom (that was at the campout)?
For a long time, my final quality control measure was to hand my nephew (he was 5 when he got the job) a call, and see if he could run up and down the scales with it.
"So easy a child can use it" I'd say, and wash it up for shipping.
He wasn't always around, and still hasn't mastered testing howlers, so it isn't a 100% effective method.
Krusty
Posted by TRnCO (Member # 690) on December 18, 2005, 08:43 AM:
That call looks real good from a distance Krusty, so put my name on it, or better yet, put your name on it with a date and you still need to let me know what design and sound you'd like from me in trade!! I've got a few calls that are finished, BUT if none of them suite you, I can and will build one that will! Thanks!
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on December 18, 2005, 06:48 PM:
TR,
I'll put "Krusty Kriers 2005" inside the bell chamber, and send it your way.
Do me a favor, and save me the trouble of digging around to find your shipping address, e-mail it to me again, please?
Should I add any reed materials to the package? I've got some .020" lexan, and polyvinyl, now (and plenty of what I ordinarily stock).
When you get this call, and decide if it looks good enough (from 2000 miles closer), just pick out the call you think "wants to live at my house" and send it.
There's no way I could ever actually choose just one, anyways, and I know I'd be more than happy with whatever I get.
Krusty
Posted by TheHuntedOne (Member # 623) on December 18, 2005, 10:20 PM:
I have to wonder if the wooden toneboards on your calls are not usceptible to warping or otherwise deforming with use. Even dry wood soaked in water will expand and then contract. I wonder if heavy use, or storage in certain places can have an effect on them?
If that happened, the call would be toast.
An other thing to consider, is if the wood was not completely dry when you made the call, it also could have deformed the toneboard.
I would not be too hard on myself Krusty. I doubt the call left your shop in poor condition. Lots can happen to a call. The mere fact that you offer to fix it at your cost is testiment to you commitment to the end user.
Al
THO Game Calls
[ December 19, 2005, 05:23 AM: Message edited by: TheHuntedOne ]
Posted by LionHo (Member # 233) on December 19, 2005, 10:09 AM:
Hey Krusty,
You've got mail
LionHo
Posted by Krustyklimber (Member # 72) on December 19, 2005, 06:39 PM:
Al,
I seal my calls completely, inside and out, and always have.
So, I doubt it's a moisture "getting in" problem.
The odds are against warpage/moisture being an issue, since this is one of very few calls with a "problem", but I can't absolutely rule it out either.
If I am discussing the "mystery call", and what could be wrong with it, I am just guessing (since I don't know what call it is, what wood, what reed material, nothin'). ![[Confused]](confused.gif)
Could be anything.
Thanks, for the post, and at least attempting to help, though.
How 'bout you, you need any reed materials?
LionHo,
I guess I better go check my mail.
Krusty
Posted by TheHuntedOne (Member # 623) on December 20, 2005, 09:21 AM:
Nope Krusty, I am all set on the reed materials.
I have about 20 calls to ship today and tomorrow and then we are closed until the beginning of January.
Time do a little hunting and finally clean the shop.
Al
THO Game Calls
Posted by TRnCO (Member # 690) on December 20, 2005, 02:49 PM:
KK, did ya get my Email?
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