Building a shooting bench doesn't have to break the bank. A repurposed cable spool offers a surprisingly sturdy and cost-effective solution, perfect for the budget-conscious shooter. This guide details how to transform a discarded cable spool into a reliable and comfortable shooting rest.
Why Choose a Cable Spool?
Cable spools, often discarded by utility companies, provide a readily available and robust base for a shooting bench. Their large diameter and heavy construction offer excellent stability, minimizing movement during shooting. This inherent stability is crucial for accurate shot placement, particularly at longer ranges. Furthermore, the cost is minimal – often free, if you can source one locally – making it a truly budget-friendly option.
Sourcing Your Spool
Finding a suitable cable spool often involves a bit of legwork. Try contacting local utility companies, construction sites, or even recycling centers. Look for a spool that's in relatively good condition, with minimal damage to the wood. Ideally, choose a spool with a diameter that's comfortable for your shooting position. Larger spools offer more stability, while smaller ones might be easier to transport.
Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Cable spool: The foundation of your project.
- Sandpaper: Various grits for smoothing the wood.
- Wood sealant/stain (optional): Protects the wood and enhances its appearance.
- Paint (optional): For adding color and protection.
- Wood screws: For attaching the shooting rest.
- Shooting rest: This could be a pre-made rest, or you can construct your own from scrap wood.
- Drill: With appropriate drill bits for screws.
- Measuring tape: For accurate measurements.
- Level: To ensure the bench is perfectly level.
- Safety glasses: Essential for protecting your eyes during the construction process.
Construction Process: Step-by-Step Guide
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Cleaning and Preparation: Thoroughly clean the cable spool, removing any dirt, debris, or loose wood fibers. Sand down any rough patches using progressively finer grits of sandpaper.
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Sealing and Finishing (Optional): Applying a wood sealant or stain protects the wood from the elements and enhances its durability. Allow ample drying time before proceeding to the next step. Painting the spool provides added protection and a personalized touch.
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Attaching the Shooting Rest: Carefully measure and mark the location for your shooting rest. Ensure the rest is securely attached using appropriate wood screws. The height of the rest should be comfortable for your shooting posture. Consider adding a small incline to the rest for added support.
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Leveling the Bench: Use a level to ensure the shooting bench is perfectly level before use. This is vital for accurate shooting. You can achieve this by adding shims underneath the spool if needed.
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Testing and Refinement: Once the bench is complete, test it out in a safe environment. Make any necessary adjustments to the shooting rest or the bench itself to ensure optimal comfort and stability.
Safety First
Remember to always practice safe firearm handling procedures. Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot, and always ensure a safe backstop is in place before shooting. Use appropriate hearing and eye protection.
Advanced Modifications
- Adding Legs: For increased stability and height adjustment, consider attaching sturdy legs to the spool.
- Storage Compartment: You can incorporate a storage compartment for ammunition or shooting accessories into the design.
- Carrying Handles: Adding handles to the spool makes transportation significantly easier.
Building a shooting bench from a cable spool is a rewarding project that combines practicality with cost-effectiveness. This DIY approach allows for customization based on individual needs and preferences, resulting in a unique and functional shooting solution. With a little effort and creativity, you can create a sturdy and reliable shooting bench for years of enjoyment.
