Introduction
DIY target stands provide hunters with a cost-effect way to save money on purchasing ready made target stands and increases their shooting accuracy at the same time. By making your own targets you can customize the design of your stand to fit the specific needs of any hunting terrain. Whether you’re shooting at ground level, elevated, or a moving target, following some simple steps can turn into an enjoyable project for all skill levels.
This guide will outline some basic information on building target stands like materials needed, construction techniques and tips on usage. Following these instructions will create a sturdy platform that holds your ammunition as safely and securely as possible while taking into consideration the challenges of outdoor shooting. Whether it’s design or difficulty in assembly, this guide has all the information to get you from start to finish with success!
- Materials Needed:
- Construction Techniques:
- Tips on Usage:
Materials and Tools Needed
Building a DIY target stand for hunting can be a rewarding experience. In order to do it correctly, you need to make sure you have all the right materials and tools. A basic target stand can be built with just a few pieces of wood, some bolts, and screws. Other items such as saws, drills, and sandpaper can help you customize your stand and make it more durable.
Let’s take a look at the supplies you will need to successfully build your own target stand:
Wood
Wood is often the material of choice for DIY target stands, primarily because wood is sturdy, relatively easy to work with and lightweight. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may select from a variety of wood materials. Some popular options include:
- Plywood: Plywood is a great option for DIY target stand projects as it tends to be less expensive and provides an adequate level of stiffness, strength and durability.
- Pressure Treated Lumber: Pressure treated lumber is another common type of wood used for target stand projects due to its resistance to pests, rot, water and temperature variations.
- Cedar: Cedar has good durability and natural insect repellant qualities that make it an ideal choice for hunters who will be using their target stands outdoors.
- Oak: Oak is also resistant to rot but can require more maintenance than other types of woods. However, its “old rustic” look can make for a handsome finished product.
Nails
When it comes to nails, you might want to assign them the most important role in the entire stand building project. The wrong nail can mean that your entire stand won’t survive a strong gust of wind or holding up against any extreme weather conditions that may occur during hunting season.
It is essential to use a type of corrosion resistant nail as all types of nails are affected by water and moisture. Galvanized and stainless steel nails are a great choice because they have built-in corrosion resistance, so they’ll last longer than plain steel ones in wet or humid environments. Make sure that you choose galvanized nails with a minimum 8d (2 1/2-inch) size, so they have the necessary strength for this type of project.
Keep in mind that when you are driving sharpened nails through wood, be sure to wear safety goggles and heavy gloves for protection against splintering parts flying off as you drive the nails in. You should also lubricate the nail points with mechanical lubricant like beeswax or soap, so it goes through the wood easier without splitting it. In order to secure your target stand’s stability make sure all screws, brackets, and nailed connections are tight once completed for ultimate durability and longevity throughout hunting season.
Saw
When building your own target stand for hunting, a saw will be an essential tool that you will need to make precise and accurate cuts in the material of your choice. It is important to use the right type of saw so that you can make clean cuts with minimal effort and minimize errors.
The type of saw used will depend on the materials needed for the project and how precise or intricate the design is. For basic projects, such as an archery target stand, a hand saw or miter saw may be used. For more complicated projects, such as rifle targets, jigsaws may be necessary to create angled cuts in thicker pieces of wood. If metal materials need to be cut then a circular saw or hacksaw could be utilized depending on the size of the piece being cut. A band saw may also come in handy if small parts are needed to be cut with precision from large pieces of metal bars or pipes.
Hammer
The hammer is a versatile tool used in many DIY projects. For a target stand project, it can be used to secure nails and other fasteners into the wood. Make sure to select the correct size and weight of hammer for your project – something that is too heavy may cause damage to the wood, while something too light may not be able to drive in the nails fully.
In addition, make sure you have an assortment of nails and 3-inch screws on hand, as these will likely be needed during installation of the target stand frame. While screws are preferable since they are more secure then nails and won’t work their way loose over time, if using nails make sure they are long enough to penetrate through both pieces being jointed together and avoid using rusty or bent nails which could potentially cause structural integrity problems down the line.
Drill
Drilling holes in a variety of materials is a common task for many types of projects. A drill is an essential tool for most DIYers, so it’s important to understand how to use this powerful device correctly and safely. To drill correctly, you will need to choose the right size and type of drill bit. Additionally, selecting the best speed and pressure settings can help ensure a successful outcome. In some cases, you may also want to invest in specialty tools or other accessories that can make your job even easier. Here’s an overview of how to operate a drill safely and effectively:
Safety Precautions:
- Wear eye protection at all times while using drills or drill bits
- Securely hold the workpiece with both hands while drilling
- Be aware of any obstructions behind your workpiece
- Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry when working with power tools
Choosing Bits: When selecting a bit for your project, make sure you choose one that has the correct shank size for your particular drill chuck; most standard chucks hold 1/4 inch diameter shank bits. Additionally, select bits that are size specific for your material; some materials require carbide-tipped drill bits for effective results.
Adjusting Speed Control: Adjusting speeds on power drills helps ensure safe operation and accurate results when drilling into various materials. Set your speed control based on the material you are drilling into; slower speeds cut softer materials such as wood, while higher speeds work better with metal or hard plastics. When adjusting speeds make sure you look down at the chuck itself (where the bit connects) as this will indicate whether or not it is spinning fast enough by examining its movement in relation to friction against the edge of your work surface. Make sure you don’t push too hard which could cause the bit to jam or break off in your workpiece!
Paint
Paint is a necessary component of many DIY target stand projects. It is used to seal and protect the target stand’s components from the elements. Additionally, paint can also give your finished product a colorful and interesting look.
When choosing a type of paint to use for your project, there are several factors to consider. Depending on the application, you will want to select either an oil-based or water-based paint. Oil-based paints generally adhere better and offer the most protection against moisture and weather damage, but require special clean-up with solvents like turpentine or mineral spirits. Water based paints are easier clean up with soap and water but do not offer as much protection from moisture damage as oil based paints.
Additionally, you will want to consider the type of finish you desire for your finish – gloss, semi-gloss, flat or satin. Some paints may be available in a range of these finishes for additional customization options for your project. Be sure read manufacturer’s recommendations and purchase enough paint before starting any project so you can use the same batch throughout the entire job!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Building a target stand for practice shooting can be a fun project and a great way to save money on range fees. Whether you’re a first-time hunter or a veteran sharpshooter, having a safe, sturdy target stand is essential. In this article, we provide step-by-step instructions on how to build a target stand at home. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and get to work!
Building a Simple Target Stand
Constructing a target stand for a shooting or archery range can make it easier to take aim and fire. It will also add an extra bit of stability while you shoot. This simple target stand is easy and affordable to build, perfect for a beginner’s DIY project. Once you gather all your materials, you’ll need around two hours to complete the project.
Before picking up any supplies, it’s important to choose what type of target stand you want to build—either single-post or double-post targets stands are common. This tutorial will focus on how to construct a single-post target stand; however, the same principles apply when building the double-post variation.
Materials:
- 1″x15″x60″ pine board
- 3/4″ plywood—enough for silhouette target
- 2-4 2×4 pressure treated lumber boards each 8 feet long
- 6 three inch screws
- Drill and drill bits
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Hammer & 12 5/8″ nails
- Tape measure and pencil
Instructions:
- First cut the pine board into six 30″ pieces using either a circular saw or jigsaw.
- Measure 10 inches in from each end ,and mark with pencil at 15 inch sections — two marks per piece of wood in total
- Securely attach each piece of wood together by drilling 3 screws evenly spaced at each join ensuring that they are flush against each other forming one six foot long pole
- Mark at four 7inch sections from one end with the pencil
- At these 7 inch sections place nail and bend over on inside of pole
- Cut two 2×4 pressure treated boards into four 18 inch length boards and two 48 inch length boards
- Take 4 screws evenly spaced ( 8 inches apart) drill around perimeter ( use pre drilled holes)of two 48in 2X4s attaching them perpendicularly next to bent nails
- Take 4 short ( 18 in) lengths of 2×4′s lining angles hammered down facing outward,attaching them beneath previous step
- Measure area between angle pieces fitting silhouette target with additional measurements as space allows
- Hammer nails along edge of silhouette fitting within clearance created by angle boards
- Place marked pole in desired area leaning silhouette toward intended standpoint allowing 3–6 feet clearance around base
- Place last four screw perpendicular into pressure treated baseboard directly into ground for extra rigidity
Building a Multi-Level Target Stand
If you’re an avid shooter, then having a multi-level target stand is a great way to practice your aim. Building your own target stand is a simple task and requires minimal materials and tools. With some basic instructions, you’ll have your own customized target stand in no time.
Materials Needed:
- 4x lumber pieces (2 base pieces, 2 side supports)
- 6x screws
- A hammer
- 2x eye hooks
- 2x small eye screws
Instructions:
- Step one is to assemble the base of the stand. Measure out two equal lengths of 4x lumber for the base and secure them together with six screws in an “I” shape. This will be the foundation for your target stand. Place this section on saw horses or any other firm, level surface before starting assembly.
- Cut one piece of 4x lumber into two sections at 16 inches apiece (this will provide support for the sides). Attach these two sections between the bottom pieces using six more screws; this will form an “X” shape with further structural support to hold up your targets later on.
- To connect the sides of the structure to hang targets from, nail in two eye hooks on either side at roughly 30 inches apart so that they are roughly ½ inch down from each side of the top edge when measured against each other (the total length between both eye hooks should be 60 inches).
- Just below these eye hooks, attach two smaller eyebolts securely in place with tiny drill bits so that there are enough threads to hold targets when hung from them safely – make sure both nuts are tightened against each eyebolt once secured in place properly.
- Use rope or wire cables through each set of eye hooks and eyebolts to hang your desired targets onto their respective levels and you now have yourself a sturdy multi-level target stand constructed!
Building a Portable Target Stand
Building a portable target stand is an easy, DIY project for hunting hobbyists. It not only offers you the convenience of taking your target stand with you wherever your hunt takes you but also allows you to practice with a wide range of targets and set up in any desired location. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can craft your own portable target stand quickly and easily.
Materials:
- Four 72 inch 2x2s
- Four 24 inch 2x2s
- Twenty 1¼ inch wood screws
- One 4×8 piece of ¼ inch plywood
- A drill/driver with Phillips bit plus a 5/16 inch spade bit (for pilot holes)
- Sandpaper
Step 1: Measure and cut your 2×2 pieces. Cut the four 72” 2x2s into three 24” pieces each, and the four 24” 2x2s into twenty 4” pieces each.
Step 2: Create four “X” frames by assembling two 24” pieces perpendicularly so that their ends overlap by 4 inches at the centerpoint where they cross. Use two of the small 4’ pieces to run perpendicular to this point, one at each end, using five screws for each side (or drill three pilot holes first before attaching screws). Repeat for remaining frames so that you have four total X frames.
Step 3: Attach a frame to each corner of the plywood sheet by inserting several screws through pre-drilled pilot holes in both directions into both sides of each frame. You should have four assemblies when finished (one in each corner).
Step 4: The four short sides remaining open on your X frames should be facing outward, allowing them to hold stakes or other supports which will serve as legs for when needed. Sliding them up or down can allow adjustments in height or looping fabric ties through them can hold removable legs as desired if necessary.
Step 5: Sand any rough edges on all parts until they are smooth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways to build a target stand. The most important factor to consider when constructing your target stand is safety. Be sure to use durable materials that can withstand the elements and are sturdy enough to hold your target in place while still slightly bending or breaking in the case of an errant arrow or bullet. Consider incorporating dampening elements such as rubber padding or energy-absorbing gels into your design as an extra precaution against accidental contact with arrows or bullets. Finally, be sure to choose materials that won’t corrode in contact with water, dirt or other outdoor grimy offenders for a longer lasting target stand solution.
With these safety tips and project ideas, you can be sure of having hours of safe shooting fun!