There are various pieces of equipment that falconers must have in order to train and work with their birds successfully. While there are many pre-made options available for purchase, some falconers like myself prefer to make their own equipment. This not only saves money but also allows for customization to fit the specific needs of individual birds. In this guide, I will discuss how to make some of the essential DIY falconry equipment.
How to make falconry equipment?
Making falconry equipment is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right materials and some basic hands on knowledge, you can easily create your own equipment for your feathered companion. Some common DIY falconry equipment includes jesses, anklets, leashes, hoods, and perches. Let’s take a look:
How to make falconry jesses?
Jesses are straps that are used to secure the bird’s legs and allow it to be tethered to a perch or glove. To make jesses, you will need leather strips, needles, waxed thread, and a leather punch. The first step is to cut two strips of leather, one longer than the other. The longer strip will be used for the anklet, and the shorter one will be used for the jess. Next, punch two holes in each strip near one end. Then, fold the ends of the strips over on themselves to create a loop and stitch them together with waxed thread. Finally, attach a swivel snap or D-ring to the longer strip for attachment to the anklet.
How to make a Falcon hood?
To make a falcon hood, gather a piece of soft leather and measure it to fit snugly over your falcon’s head. The hood serves as a crucial tool in falconry, providing comfort and protection to your bird.
I used the following steps when making Falconry Hoods:
- Materials: Gather leather, thread, needles, scissors, measuring tape, and buckles/straps.
- Measurements: Measure the falcon’s head for circumference and length.
- Pattern: Create or find a hood pattern based on measurements.
- Cutting: Cut leather according to the pattern.
- Assembly: Sew pieces together securely, adding buckles/straps as needed.
- Shaping: Wet and mould the leather to fit the falcon’s head.
- Drying: Let the hood dry completely in shape.
- Testing: Test the fit on the falcon and make adjustments as needed.
How to make a falconry leash?
A falconry leash is used to control the bird’s movements while out in the field. To make a DIY falconry leash, you will need a leather strip, D-ring, and swivel snap. Cut the leather strip to your desired length and punch holes at each end. Attach a D-ring to one end and a swivel snap to the other. This will allow you to attach the leash to your bird’s jesses and then to your glove. Be sure to test the strength of your leash before using it with your bird.
How to make a falconry lure?
I found a simple and effective way to make a falconry lure. To make this lure, you’ll need a few supplies: a small piece of leather, some feathers, and a sturdy string.
Start by cutting the leather into a small rectangular shape. Then, attach the feathers to one end of the leather using a strong adhesive or by sewing them on. Next, attach a string to the other end of the leather, making sure it’s secure. Once your lure is complete, you can use it to train your falcon by swinging it through the air, mimicking the movement of prey. This homemade lure is a great way to engage your falcon’s hunting instincts and strengthen your bond with them.
How to customize falconry gloves
Customizing your gloves not only adds a touch of style but also helps you serve your bird better.
Here are three easy ways to customize your falconry gloves:
– Embroider your initials or a small design onto the gloves to make them unique and easily identifiable.
– Attach small Velcro patches to the glove fingers, allowing you to easily switch between different-sized jesses for different birds.
– Sew on a small pocket on the back of the glove to hold treats or small tools like a small knife or whistle.
Making falconry bells
To make falconry bells, gather the necessary materials and follow these simple steps. Falconry bells are essential for tracking your falcon’s movements and ensuring its safety. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make your own falconry bells:
| Materials Needed | Steps |
| Brass or copper tubing | Cut the tubing into small sections, approximately 1 inch in length. |
| Small metal clappers | Insert a clapper into each section of tubing. |
| Leather strips or nylon cord | Attach the bells to your falcon’s equipment using leather strips or nylon cord. |
| Pliers | Use pliers to secure the bells in place, ensuring they won’t come loose during flight. |
| Hammer | Gently tap the bells to adjust the sound and ensure they ring clearly. |
These are just a few examples of the DIY falconry equipment you can easily make at home. By making your own equipment, you not only save money but also gain a deeper appreciation for your equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Any Type of Material to Make Falconry Equipment, or Are There Specific Materials That Are Recommended?
- I recommend using specific materials for making falconry equipment. While you may be tempted to use any type of material, it’s important to prioritize safety and effectiveness by using recommended materials.
How Long Does It Typically Take to Make Falconry Equipment, and Is It a Difficult Process?
- Making falconry equipment can be a time-consuming process, but with patience and regular practice, it becomes easier. It typically takes a few hours to create basic equipment, and more complex pieces may require additional time and skill.
Are There Any Specific Safety Precautions I Should Take When Using Homemade Falconry Equipment?
- When using homemade falconry equipment, it’s important to prioritize safety. Take precautions such as inspecting the equipment for any damage or defects, ensuring proper fit, and using protective gear for both yourself and the bird.