I decided I wanted a new stand at the lease and chose to build one myself because I like having projects.
I've sat in lots of blinds so I had an idea of what I wanted. I knew my son would be joining me for some hunts in the future so I needed enough room for two, but not too big for when its just me.
Thus, I went with a 4x6 stand sitting on a 4x8 floor allowing for a 2' porch landing.
The floor was framed out with 2x6 PT with added blocking to tighten things up.
Then I cut 1/2" PT plywood to 4x6 and opted to use deck boards for the porch for better drainage. Plus the plywood can be used for shelves later.
Next I started framing out some walls. I put my shooting rail at 38". Angle braces really add a lot of lateral stability.
Here is where I mixed things up. I opted to use dog ear pickets to create a board on board facade. Never done sheathing like this before and I learned a few things to make this an easier process but it turned out alright and I think it adds some character. Plus, its fairly inexpensive.
Then I framed out and cut a simple door with strap hinges and gate latch that is lockable.
As for the windows, there are lots of opinions on them I have found. I wanted real windows so I could close things up on the windy days.
I made simple window frames from the dog ear and used Lexan polycarbonate. That stuff is not cheap but should last and won't yellow.
I preferred them to hinge up and inside so there is no shiny glare for the deer to see. Screen door latches or button latches work perfect for keeping the window up.
The whole stand was built in sections because I wasnt sure exactly where I would put it and some parts would be pretty tough to raise it completely assembled.
Had a few guys help me and it went pretty quick.
I also decided to angle the legs 15 degrees for added stability by cutting notched angles in the 4x4 where it attaches to the base. I would have used elevator brackets but they were no where to be found in B/CS and I ran out of time to have them shipped. With all of the cross bracing, the base is very sturdy.
I used spray foam to seal up the inside a bit as well for weather and bugs.
I still need to finish the rails around the porch and stairs, add some shelves and hooks, and I am going to tweak the roof a bit for better drainage, but she is up and ready to be hunted out of.
[This message has been edited by Bob_Ag (edited 3/11/2014 9:33a).]
I've sat in lots of blinds so I had an idea of what I wanted. I knew my son would be joining me for some hunts in the future so I needed enough room for two, but not too big for when its just me.
Thus, I went with a 4x6 stand sitting on a 4x8 floor allowing for a 2' porch landing.
The floor was framed out with 2x6 PT with added blocking to tighten things up.
Then I cut 1/2" PT plywood to 4x6 and opted to use deck boards for the porch for better drainage. Plus the plywood can be used for shelves later.
Next I started framing out some walls. I put my shooting rail at 38". Angle braces really add a lot of lateral stability.
Here is where I mixed things up. I opted to use dog ear pickets to create a board on board facade. Never done sheathing like this before and I learned a few things to make this an easier process but it turned out alright and I think it adds some character. Plus, its fairly inexpensive.
Then I framed out and cut a simple door with strap hinges and gate latch that is lockable.
As for the windows, there are lots of opinions on them I have found. I wanted real windows so I could close things up on the windy days.
I made simple window frames from the dog ear and used Lexan polycarbonate. That stuff is not cheap but should last and won't yellow.
I preferred them to hinge up and inside so there is no shiny glare for the deer to see. Screen door latches or button latches work perfect for keeping the window up.
The whole stand was built in sections because I wasnt sure exactly where I would put it and some parts would be pretty tough to raise it completely assembled.
Had a few guys help me and it went pretty quick.
I also decided to angle the legs 15 degrees for added stability by cutting notched angles in the 4x4 where it attaches to the base. I would have used elevator brackets but they were no where to be found in B/CS and I ran out of time to have them shipped. With all of the cross bracing, the base is very sturdy.
I used spray foam to seal up the inside a bit as well for weather and bugs.
I still need to finish the rails around the porch and stairs, add some shelves and hooks, and I am going to tweak the roof a bit for better drainage, but she is up and ready to be hunted out of.
[This message has been edited by Bob_Ag (edited 3/11/2014 9:33a).]