Building a shooting bench doesn't have to break the bank. With a little ingenuity and readily available materials, you can craft a sturdy and reliable shooting bench using repurposed wood spools. This DIY project is perfect for the budget-conscious shooter who values stability and accuracy without sacrificing quality. This guide will walk you through the process, from gathering materials to the final touches, ensuring you have a solid shooting platform for years to come.
Why Choose a Wood Spool Shooting Bench?
Wood spools, often discarded by industrial operations, offer a surprisingly robust and cost-effective solution for building a shooting bench. Their inherent strength and cylindrical shape provide excellent stability, crucial for accurate shooting. Furthermore, the readily available nature of these spools makes this project environmentally friendly and budget-friendly.
Materials You'll Need:
- Several large-diameter wood spools: The number will depend on the desired length and width of your bench. Aim for spools with a diameter of at least 8 inches for optimal stability. Look for spools in good condition, free from significant cracks or damage.
- Strong wood glue: Opt for a high-quality exterior wood glue for durability and weather resistance.
- Heavy-duty screws: Use screws long enough to securely fasten the spools together. Consider galvanized screws for increased resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Wooden planks (optional): For added comfort and a more finished look, you can add a top layer of wooden planks. Choose planks thick enough to support the weight of your rifle and gear.
- Sandpaper: To smooth any rough edges and surfaces.
- Wood stain or paint (optional): To protect the wood and enhance the aesthetic appeal.
- Measuring tape and level: For precise measurements and ensuring a level surface.
- Drill with appropriate drill bits: For pre-drilling holes before screwing the spools together.
Step-by-Step Construction Guide:
1. Preparing the Spools:
Clean the spools thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or loose wood fibers. Sand down any rough edges or splinters to ensure a smooth surface.
2. Assembling the Base:
Lay out the spools in the desired configuration for your bench. Apply a generous amount of wood glue to the mating surfaces of the spools. Clamp the spools together tightly, ensuring they are aligned correctly. Once the glue has set (according to the manufacturer's instructions), reinforce the joints by driving screws through the spools.
3. Adding the Top (Optional):
If using wooden planks, measure and cut the planks to fit the top of the spool base. Apply wood glue and screw the planks securely to the top of the spool assembly. Sand down any excess wood or imperfections.
4. Finishing Touches:
Sand the entire bench to ensure a smooth surface. Apply wood stain or paint if desired to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Allow ample drying time before use.
Tips for Success:
- Spool Selection: Choose spools that are consistent in size and diameter for a more stable and level bench.
- Glue Application: Use a generous amount of wood glue to ensure strong joints.
- Screw Placement: Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Leveling: Use a level to ensure your bench is level before adding the top planks.
Beyond the Basics: Adding Extra Features
Once you have your basic shooting bench, consider adding these upgrades:
- Resting Supports: Construct simple rests for your rifle using additional wood scraps or metal brackets.
- Bag Holders: Sew or purchase simple pouches to hold your shooting bags securely.
- Sandbags for Stability: Using sandbags on top of the bench adds significant stability.
Conclusion:
Building a wood spool shooting bench is a rewarding project that combines practicality with cost-effectiveness. This guide provides a foundation for creating a stable and reliable shooting platform perfect for honing your marksmanship skills without exceeding your budget. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling techniques, and enjoy your new DIY shooting bench!
