How to Make a Paracord Turkey Tote – A Simple DIY Hunting Accessory

As a turkey hunter having a convenient way to carry your harvested bird out of the woods is essential. Traditional options like using your vest or backpack can be cumbersome. A dedicated turkey tote offers an easier method for transporting your prized gobbler. With some basic paracord skills, you can create a customized turkey tote yourself for just a few dollars.

Why Make a Paracord Turkey Tote?

Shouldering your bulky vest loaded down with a weighty tom turkey can be tiresome Fitting a large bird into a backpack is often a struggle too. Dangling the turkey from your belt or gripping its feet as you hike out isn’t very practical either A purpose-built tote provides these key benefits

• Even weight distribution using an over-the-shoulder carry strap.

• Keeps the bird contained and protected during transport.

• Allows easy access to the turkey for showing off your harvest.

• Prevents feathers and debris from contacting your clothing.

• Provides a convenient hand-carry option for shorter distances.

• Lets you securely attach game bags, tags, and other accessories.

• Can match your personal style with customizable color patterns.

Materials Needed

Paracord turkey totes are simple and inexpensive to make. You’ll need:

• Paracord: Around 15-20 feet of 550 lb test paracord for a standard tote. Can use a single color or multiple colors.

• Key rings or carabiners: Two metal rings sized to fit the paracord – usually 1-1.5 inches wide. Keychain rings work well.

• Scissors: For cutting the paracord to length.

• Lighter: For sealing paracord ends to prevent fraying.

Optional items include decorative beads to accessorize the tote and clips or snaps to attach bags or tags.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Follow these steps to create your own paracord turkey tote:

1. Cut an 8-10 foot center section of paracord for the main carry strap. Seal the cut ends with a lighter.

2. Fold the cord in half to make a loop and attach one key ring about 1-2 inches down from the looped end.

3. Use a lark’s head knot to secure the second key ring to the opposite end of the carry strap.

4. Take one loose end and make a 4-5 foot section. Use a cobra stitch to create a decorative cross pattern covering the length of the cord.

5. Repeat step 4 with the remaining loose end.

6. Attach one cross stitched cord to each key ring using lark’s head knots.

7. Trim and seal the four loose ends, adding beads or other accents if desired.

Your custom paracord turkey tote is complete! The process takes about 30-60 minutes for beginners but moves faster with practice. Now let’s look at carrying and storing tips.

How to Use Your Paracord Turkey Tote

Once you’ve humanely harvested your bird, here are some recommendations for utilizing your paracord tote:

• Carefully loop the tote around the turkey’s feet to keep the wings contained.

• Position the shoulder strap so the turkey hangs evenly at your side.

• Consider padding the tote’s rings or clips with tape or foam to prevent feather damage.

• Attach game bags to the tote rings to cover and protect the bird during transport.

• Use clips or carabiners on the tote rings to securely connect tags and paperwork.

• Adjust the carry strap to switch between over the shoulder and hand-held carrying.

• Wind up cross stitch cords and fasten with rubber bands for compact storage.

• Hang the tote by the shoulder strap when not in use to prevent tangling.

Customizing and Caring for Your Paracord Tote

Personalize your paracord tote with these creative ideas:

• Use camo, blaze orange, or solid black/brown paracord for different hunting scenarios.

• Vary the cord widths for visual interest – combine 550 and 750 lbs test.

• Weave in complementary colored cords for unique patterns.

• Adorn the tote with skull beads, turkey foot charms, or mini chalk calls.

• Add small sheathed knives or clippers to the tote rings for easy access.

• Affix hook-backed patches with your name, license info, or logo.

• Maintain the tote by hand washing with mild detergent and allowing to fully air dry.

Your homemade paracord turkey tote will provide years of service. Making additional totes to give as gifts for fellow hunters can be a fun weekend project too. With a little practice, you’ll be able to tie a turkey tote almost as fast as you can set up a turkey blind!