My name is Ryan "DucBoy" Torbett. I started my tutelage in 2010 under master carver Roe "DucMan" Terry in Chincoteague, Virginia, preceded by his mentor Delbert “Cigar” Daisey and Doug Jester Jr. While stationed in a waterfowl enthusiast’s paradise, DucMan showed me the many nuances of selecting the perfect block of wood to then carve, sculpt, and paint it, resulting in a functional decorative or working decoy. Over the coming years, I spent every available minute with him developing my skills and became fascinated with the art of decoy making. I had the distinct privilege of earning the name "DucBoy" from Roe in 2011 and have since then been carving under this moniker. It wasn’t long before my abilities and love of carving progressed and was searched out by collectors to carve a decoy hand crafted by the only student DucMan has ever taught. 2019 I earned my first Blue Ribbons in Harlequin and Coot Contemporary Gunners in the World Decoy championships Open Division.

 

I strive to carry on the traditional techniques of decoy carving by using a hatchet to create the bodies, and draw and long knives to enhance the details. I use very little power tools and refrain from airbrushing while making these decoys. Although it may be a tedious method, I feel it is the best way to carry on this fast vanishing art.

 

My primary focus is in Semi-Decorative working decoys that serve a dual purpose in a hunting rig or on a display shelf. My diverse range of decoys include custom full-sized Goose and Pelicans, Brant, matching pair of Mallards, Teal, Goldeneyes, Ruddy duck, Old Squaw, Scoter, Harlequin, Hooded Mergansers, Wood Ducks, Puffins, Ptarmigan as well as many varieties of shorebirds such as Dunlin, Plovers, Phalarope, Oyster Catcher, Egret and Yellowlegs. All birds are hand carved using either Eastern Cottonwood, aged White Cedar or Basswood making a light bird that will stand the test of time. I do accept custom orders of new species upon request, however these birds usually take more time to create. Most birds are done within 2-3 weeks of the order depending on size, detail and complication of paint design. Gunning birds and other waterfowl decoys are hollow bodies upon request with keel added extra. I can accept cash, check, credit card or PayPal for payment.

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